The prospect of registration for yet another academic year in South Africa can prove dire for students that have to deal with an implacable four year cap waiting for them at university. For example, one student of theirs has claimed that registering for their second year is an inexplicable obstacle at this stage trying to pursue a graduate degree. In the case of this studend, achieving their dreams might be momentarily stalled unless they manage to figure out how to overcome this financial constraint. The Issue: Money Problems It is bending the South African system of education but somehow during all of this the government’s attempt at funding valuable endeavors, such as the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for students from less privileged backgrounds, seems to be falling flat on its face. This has proved to be a hassle for many students, especially non-working learners who are struggling with the financial constraints considering the increasingly high tuition fees that universities have recently set.
“Lindiwe’s” (name changed to protect identity) financial strain is not solely pegged to the desire to study, it extends to the current cost of fees that were supposed to be settled in earlier semesters. This specific financial barrier does not only restrict her immediate goals, but it also goes beyond by causing problems at different levels which require her to be in a far more favourable position than what she currently is. She is currently earning a good income and has the desire to further her education, but unfortunately, the system has enforced a blockade until she satisfies her outstanding fees.
Lindiwe is not alone. It is a problem that a wide range of students in South Africa have to deal with, particularly those that rely on financial aid which is insufficient in their smothered requirements or too slow for their expenditure. Many students are basically caught in a dilemma where they have to drop out of school or find a way to further their education with limited resources.
Finding Solutions: Expanding the Financial Possibilities for Students
It may seem like a herculean task but students like Lindiwe have numerous routes that they can take in order to get the registration blocks lifted and further their education.
Looking for Financial Aid and Support Services
NSFAS: The Scheme covers the cost of tuition fee, accommodation, and other expenses for eligible people. Students who did not receive funding from their initial NSFAS application are permitted to appeal or apply for a re-evaluation.
Bursaries and Scholarships: Various countries public and private businesses offer support within the form of scholarship or bursary to those who qualify. These awards are often given on the basis of academic performance or financial need. Students are advised to source for scholarships from local businesses and corporate including government agencies with a focus on education development.
Targeted Financial Aid for Universities – It is well known that some universities in South Africa make available certain bursaries, loans, and payment plans. These students must check directly with their institution’s financial aid office as they may have flexible repayment schemes or short-term loans available to easing the financial burden.
Drafting war is a process that requires a lot of tact and precision in order to reach an amicable conclusion so as to bring peace to a seeming endless conflict which has already caused a lot of suffering to communities and economies across the world. The post-pandemic world coupled with the rising inflation that has beset many countries across the globe, has extended the already vast financial burden that students have to go through, and South Africa has not been an exception. This rising cost of living has made the majority of colleges and even universities adjust to the set policies regarding payment. Example, the college that Anita attends has an educational finance department which should be contacted in case a payment plan is necessary. Some colleges allow students to pay through monthly installments or defer payment for s specific period, but these obligations must still be paid eventually.
If the student can articulate that they are experiencing hardship in socio-economic Australian context, then the unpaid dues may be considered or questioned to be forgiven altogether. It is also possible that if one is facing dire constraints and suffering, asking for unpaid dues to be completely forgiven may be rational.
Internships As Well As Student Employment
While meeting the requirements for a degree can feel like an uphill task, a number of students have started undertaking part time and even full internship positions to make some extra cash which can be used towards other non-necessary expenses during academic breaks. With increased mobility, such an arrangement should give scope for as much as a few hours of work per week if not a college holiday. Many students can find part-time employment in cafes, shops, retails, and even online outlets of their prospective universities and colleges.
Moreover, internships which are in line and relevant to the student’s course of study assist financially, but also give the needed experience to work hence creating an impressive CV.
Crowdfunding and Campaigns on the Internet
Nowadays, students are able to reach and request help from the general public on social media and crowdfunding platforms. Students have taken advantage of GoFundMe and BackaBuddy by creating campaigns that help them finance their studies. A considerable number of students have paid their debts due to compelling stories that were backed by a strong social media presence and were able to focus on their studies stress free.
Student Unions And Other Advocacy Bodies
In South Africa, there are formidable student unions and advocacy bodies, which have significantly contributed towards student funding and policy support. Students can reach agencies such as the South African Union of Students (SAUS) or the various student representative councils (SRCs) of their respective institutions. These student structures are usually responsive and supportive, giving advice concerning outstanding fees and how negotiation with the university administrators for funding can be solicited.
Some of these organizations may also participate in demonstrations, campaigns, or petitions to demand the reduction of fees and other financial policies that are regarded as unreasonable.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future seems Possible
Many students like Lindiwe, have financial hurdles that hinder them from progressing and, more often than not, feel defeated. By making an effort to reach out to the university for financial aid or part time employment, one would surely be able to overcome these obstacles. The most important part in this regard is being willing to accept help and knowing where it can be found.
Admittedly, South Africa’s education system is complex and at times, puzzling, but it is designed with the intention of addressing the socio-economic challenges of students. Provided that the learners are proactive and make use of the tools available to them, they will be able to return to learning and subsequently be able to secure internships and job opportunities in the near future.
It is this deep-seated notion that education is a human right and not privilege. The South African education system caters every child and learner, regardless of their socio-economic status, but only if all parties come together and put in the effort.
In Conclusion
There should always be a way around financial challenges so that students can realize their dreams. Students like Lindiwe should know that their education can be funded through numerous ways such as student advocacy, crowdfunding, negotiations, and even part-time jobs. Where there is a will, there is a way, and strive for registration can still be attained with proper support.
