Public-benefit organisation Feenix’s #BeTheSolution campaign has stepped in to assist students with funding after the National Student Financial Aid Scheme cut off R13.7-billion in higher education budget.
Feenix has been the support structure for students struggling to finance their education. This is in response to the #FeesMustFall movement that swept across the country in 2017.
Funding is distributed through its skills development bursary programme with business, as well as a crowdfunding platform.
The organisation has raised R172-million to date, assisting 3 934 students nationwide.
Cara-Jean Petersen, CEO of Feenix, said South Africans should not fold hands in anticipation that a miracle will end the education funding crisis.
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He said a hefty budget cut could mean that at least 87 712 students would be left unfunded in 2024, and predicts the number to reach 120 000 in the next academic year.
Higher education crisis
“Our students are in a crisis and we need to be a part of the solution,” said Petersen.
“With drastic government cuts to the funding of tertiary education and a youth unemployment rate sitting at 43.4%, we cannot afford to stand idly and hope this goes away.
“We need to be proactive in coming together and connecting tertiary students in need with financial support, so they can continue striving towards achieving their educational goals.”
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He said while it is necessary to raise money and help students pay off their debts, it is equally important to make them employable to curb the rising unemployment rate.
“With more students educated and graduated, we can start rebuilding our workforce with talented young people committed to creating a healthier society in South African.
“Yes, tuition fees are the biggest need, but students also need mentorship and counselling.
“There are also practical day-to-day things they need such as food vouchers, job shadow opportunities, or even the use of a laptop, so they can submit their assignments after hours,” he said.
