R12m in bursaries from EC roads and public works

THE Eastern Cape department of roads and public works has set aside more money to help poor students in the coming year – but is offering only half the number of last year’s tertiary education bursaries.

A total of R12-million will be awarded to 25 deserving students who want to study architecture, construction, health and safety management, town and regional planning, landscape architecture, property management, real estate and property valuation, interior design, and health, safety and environmental management.

This is an increase from last year’s R8.5-million that the department gave to 50 deserving matriculants but had no means to further their studies.

Department spokesman Mphumzi Zuzile said the bursaries were a way of contributing towards the reconstruction and development of South African society.

“For the 2018 academic year, the department has set aside R12-million to cover tuition fees, prescribed books, accommodation and meals,” he said.

“The purpose of the bursary is to address skills shortages in the department, raise the quality of skills development throughout the province and promote both economic growth and employment.

“Currently there are 320 bursary holders with 25 students set to complete their studies this year,” Zuzile said.

To qualify for the bursary, applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old, an Eastern Cape resident and from a previously disadvantaged background.

They must have excelled academically or demonstrate potential in Grade 12 and must not be beneficiaries of any other bursary scheme.

Application forms are available from the department’s website or at any of its six district offices. Applications close on January 15. —