More than 78 bursary holders of the North West Office of the Premier bursary scheme some of whom were studying Medicine and Quantity Surveying are expected to complete their studies this year as confirmed by institutions of high learning across South Africa this year.
The Office of the Premier has in recent years issued 199 bursaries to deserving learners most of whom would not have been in position to pursue their studies at institution of high learning.
Acting Director General (DG), Abe Tlaletsi told learners at the preliminary meeting held in Mmabatho Civic Centre earlier this week that the province is in high need of skilled workers. He encouraged all learners who are completing to plough back into the province.
The purpose of the preliminary meeting was to pave way for the main meeting with MEC for Finance, Louisa Mabe and MEC for Education, Raymond Elisha. The meeting sought to develop close relationship with bursary holders and also update new information on their profiles. It also sought to understand concerns of bursary holders and also make them understand the terms of their bursary contract.
Earlier the Executive Council (Exco) resolved that the Bursary policy should be reviewed. The Acting DG Tlaletsi explained that the office will no longer issue bursaries to learners who are completing this year due to various complains that the bursary scheme does not adequately respond to the scarce skills in the province.
The proposal to write off outstanding debt for previous bursary holders some of whom have passed away, some of whom could not be absorbed into the public service, some are poverty-stricken. It was submitted by the Office of the Premier to the Provincial Department of Finance for them to check compliance with treasury prescripts.
The recommendation of the department on how to deal with provision of audit evidence to support bursaries of R11, 3 million is expected to be tabled in the first Exco in the New Year for consideration.
One bursary holder, Frank Lakey, from Danville has just completed his Medicine qualifications at University of Free State. He said even though the bursary has paid all this fees, some minor mistakes must be corrected should the office continue with the bursary scheme.
“I am very excited that the Office of the Premier has assisted me to pay for my fees. I’m now educated and ready for employment,” he said. Citing challenges, Frank listed late payment and less allowance on meals.
He said he will be doing an internship at the Mafikeng Provincial Hospital next year.
Enquiries: Lesiba Moses Kgwele
Tel: 018 391 0420
Cell: 083 629 1987
Fax: 018 381 0328
E-mail:LKgwele@nwpg.gov.za
North West Office of the Premier engages bursary holders in review process
Province
