Social grant beneficiaries will no longer be means tested to qualify for financial aid
Matriculants who are currently receiving a social grant and are accepted in institutions of higher learning will no longer go through a means test to qualify for financial aid from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) - youth attending the Social Development youth camp currently underway in Kimberley heard today.
NSFAS Project Manager, Mr Xolani Gobela announced at the youth camp that children living in Child and Youth Headed Households will also be exempted from the means test. "This decision comes after extensive work between NSFAS and government Departments to make sure that there is a smooth process for social grant beneficiaries," said Gobelo.
This supports the National Development Plan (NDP) Vision 2030 of creating an inclusive social protection system that addresses all areas of vulnerability and is responsive to the needs, realities, conditions and livelihoods of those who are most at risk.
This year; 188 687 learners who sat for their matric examinations receive a social grant. 173 085 are receiving Child Support Grant, 14 926 receive Foster Child Grant and 676 of them, a disability grant.
It is estimated that about 56 958 of social grant recipient are attending Quintile 4 and 5 schools.
NSFAS was initiated by government to offer tertiary education financial assistance to South African students whose parents or guardians cannot afford tertiary education.
Although application for financial assistance with NSFAS closed at the end of November; learners had an opportunity to apply at the youth camp so that their applications can be processed. Those who qualify for assistance; will then be notified of the outcome of their applications in January next year.
Youth in attendance of the camp had an opportunity to ask questions so they can be able to have access to education despite their poor living conditions.
The National Youth Camp is taking place under the theme, “#40YearsOn – Youth Still Moving South Africa forward.” and it will be officially closed by the Minister of Social Development, Ms Bathabile Dlamini on Monday, 12 December.
Media inquiries may be forwarded to:
Lumka Oliphant
Cell: 083 484 8067
E-mail: lumkao@dsd.gov.za
