J Mananiso

The ANC has committed itself to continue strengthening measures that will improve access to higher education to achieve free higher education for the poor and “missing middle”.

In this regard, it commends the government’s bold step of setting aside an amount of R3.8 billion to support the “missing middle” students, including students currently not supported by NSFAS bursary and funding policy.

Thus, the scheme stands to be of benefit to the category of students who come from families who have a total income of more than R350 000 but not more than R600 000 per annum. 31 884 “missing middle students are expected to be assisted by the scheme.

In addition, students can apply for loans in the first, second, or third year of study to continue to be funded through the loan scheme. Students are expected to get an average of 60% pass rate and the loan will cover tuition, learning material, and accommodation; However, students who obtain 70% or above on average and within the prescribed time will get a 50% reduction on loans on request.

The ANC commends this intervention and believes that this further step will enable the doors of learning to be open to all.

I ANC iyabuya