Johannesburg – Buti Manamela, the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, in collaboration with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), initiated an application drive at multiple locations throughout Johannesburg.

On Sunday, December 8, 2024, this initiative was designed to encourage prospective beneficiaries to complete their NSFAS applications ahead of the upcoming deadline on December 15, 2024.

The NSFAS drive was an essential final push to engage as many eligible young individuals as possible, ensuring they do not miss the opportunity for financial support in furthering their education.

Deputy Minister Buti Manamela stated, “The aim is to raise awareness… and I must say, we have garnered an excellent response.”

He added, “As of now, over 60% of applications from new students looking to enroll in the forthcoming academic year have received approval.”

Deputy Minister Manamela stressed that there are no fees associated with applying for NSFAS.

“Applying is free,” he emphasized.

Deputy Minister Manamela spoke at Grace Bible Church in Pimville, Soweto, urging potential beneficiaries to ensure their NSFAS applications are submitted prior to the deadline in December 2024.

During his visit to the San Kopano Resources Centre in Alexandra, the Deputy Minister once more urged potential beneficiaries to complete their NSFAS applications before the deadline.

At Diepsloot Mall in Diepsloot, he reiterated the significance of applying for NSFAS financial aid for education at universities or TVET colleges.

Additionally, during his stop at Jabulani Mall in Jabulani, Soweto, the Deputy Minister continued to encourage potential beneficiaries to submit their NSFAS applications before the deadline.

*All images courtesy of GCIS: Siyabulela Duda