Sanral brings bursaries drive to Alexandria
Hard-working pupils from several schools told to apply
The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (Sanral) has encouraged high school pupils from Alexandria in the Eastern Cape to apply for its scholarships and bursaries programmes before the closing date at the end of September.
Sanral’s visit followed a career day organised by Alexandria High School alumna Dr Neziswa Titi recently.
Sanral hosted about 200 Grade 11 and 12 pupils from Alexandria High, Ukhanyo Senior Secondary and Nompucuko Combined School at its Bursary and Scholarship Drive in Alexandria.
Welekazi Ndika, Sanral Southern Region’s stakeholder coordinator, said: “We have made a deliberate effort at Sanral to ensure that learners from previously disadvantaged communities, like yourselves are equipped with the necessary information needed to gain access to the opportunities we offer.”
Councillor Asanda Nyumka, representing the mayor of Ndlambe Local Municipality, said: “You are the future leaders of the country and our communities.
“Study very hard to meet the minimum requirements of this bursary and make use of everything that is shared with you.”
Encouraging pupils, Alexandria High deputy principal Jayshree Rajkaran said: “No matter where you come from, you can set the foundation for your family to be great. Learn from other people’s experiences and work hard to improve yourselves and your communities.”
Referring to Titi’s initiative earlier this year, she said: “Alexandria’s learners really have been put on the map.”
Ukhanyo Senior Secondary principal Mtutuzeli Jonas said: “You must grab this opportunity with both hands. For you to succeed, you must work hard.
“You have a bright future ahead of you. I see in you, future professionals and leaders. Discipline is key.”
Anesipho Zweni, a Nompucuko Grade 12 pupil said she wanted to be a teacher or a lawyer.
“I want learners in lower grades to know that they must study hard. If they want to change the situation at home, they must work hard to do so,” said Zweni.
Sindiswa Dili, a Grade 12 Alexandria pupil said: “Before I only knew Sanral built roads. I am happy to
know about the bursary programme and will gladly share the information with others.”
Sanral scholarships are available to all Grade 8 to 12 pupil who are South African citizens, irrespective of their subject choices. The requirement is an aggregate of 60%, and is also based on financial need.
New policy provisions from Sanral have allowed the roads agency to extend awards to students outside of civil engineering.
Funding for external bursaries for the 2023 academic year is for full-time studies in civil engineering, electronic engineering, procurement and supply chain management, human resources and environmental science.
A 70% matric pass is required. Applications close on September 30 and are available on the Sanral website,