The Funza Lushaka Bursary: Everything You Need To Know

Are you looking to further your education but don’t have the means to do so? Well, I’ve got some good news for you – the Funza Lushaka Bursary might be just what you need! This bursary is an incredible opportunity for those who want to pursue a career in teaching. In this article, I’m going to tell you everything that you need to know about the Funza Lushaka Bursary and how it can help you achieve your educational goals.

The Funza Lushaka Bursary was created by the South African Department of Basic Education (DBE) as part of their efforts to improve teacher training and development in South Africa. It provides financial support for students who wish to study towards a full qualification at any public university or college in South Africa. The bursaries cover tuition fees, textbooks, and accommodation costs up to a maximum amount per year.

So if you’re interested in pursuing tertiary education in teaching, then make sure to read on and find out more about the Funza Lushaka Bursary – it could be just what you need to get ahead!

Table of Contents

Overview Of The Program – Funzalushaka Bursary

The Funza Lushaka bursary is an incredible opportunity for students to pursue their dreams of becoming teachers. It offers financial support and covers the costs of tuition, registration fees, textbooks, accommodation, and meals. This bursary provides a great opportunity for young South Africans who want to become qualified educators in public schools.

In order to apply for this bursary program, you must meet certain requirements. Firstly, applicants must have been accepted into a Bachelor of Education (BEd); Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Senior Phase and FET teaching; at any university in South Africa recognized by the Department of Higher Education & Training (DHET). Secondly, all applicants must provide proof that they are financially needy; such as documents showing family income or recent pay slips. Finally, prospective candidates need to submit certified copies of their academic transcripts from high school onwards.

Applying for the Funza Lushaka Bursary can be daunting but with preparation, it should be straightforward. By gathering the necessary paperwork beforehand and making sure you meet all the criteria listed above, you can make your application process go smoothly.

Funzalushaka Bursary Requirements

Now that you have an overview of the Funza Lushaka bursary and understand what is required in order to apply, let’s dive into the specifics. Before submitting your application you must make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria and collect the necessary documents.

The first requirement for applicants is proof of financial need, which can be demonstrated by providing recent pay slips or a letter from your household head detailing family income.

Before you can apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, there are a few eligibility requirements that must be met.

You must be a South African citizen
You must have a valid South African ID number
You must be 30 years old or younger, if applying for the first time
You must have been accepted to study towards a BEd degree or PGCE programme, specialising in at least 2 of the priority subject areas (extended programmes are not covered)
You must have been accepted to study at a public university in South Africa
You must have a strong academic record
You must be willing to teach at any school, as selected by the Provincial Education Department (PED) You must NOT be a Higher Education Institution employees (or a spouse, dependent or child of a Higher Education Institution employee)
You must be committed and passionate about a career in teaching, including having an interest in working with youth; enthusiasm for teaching; and be willing and ready to face challenges with integrity You must NOT have any other teaching qualifications
You must NOT have a criminal record
You must NOT have any charges of misconduct
You must NOT have been dismissed from work

First time university entrants must also meet the following criteria:

You must have passed Matric with an exemption, endorsement or bachelor degree admission You must have achieved a minimum of level 4 in Matric for 2 subjects you intend on specialising to teach Students who will specialise in Foundation Phase: you must have achieved a minimum level 2 pass for Mathematics OR a minimum level 4 pass for Mathematical Literacy AND a minimum of level 4 pass for your Home Language in Matric
Students who will specialise in Intermediate Phase: you must have achieved a minimum level 4 pass for Mathematics AND a minimum of level 4 pass for your Home Language AND/OR a minimum level 4 pass for Science AND a minimum of level 4 pass for your Home Language in Matric
Students who will specialise in teaching Technology subjects (including CAT, IT, and other Technical stream subjects), who did not pass these subjects in Matric: you must have achieved a minimum level 4 pass for Mathematics or Technical Mathematics in Matric

Note: if the tertiary institution’s entry requirements are higher than the bursary requirement, or vice versa, the higher requirement will apply.

New students currently at university must also meet the following criteria:

You must have passed all subjects in the previous year of tertiary study
You must have achieved a minimum overall average of 55% for all subjects studied in the previous year of tertiary study
You must have achieved a minimum overall average of 66.6% for subjects related to the teaching area of specialisation in the previous year of tertiary study

New students enrolling for PGCE must also meet the following criteria:

You must have completed a qualification that allows admission into the PGCE programme You must be studying towards the PGCE for Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching (SPFET) (Grade 7 to Grade 12)
You must have 2 priority subjects, with 1 module successfully completed at third year level, and 1 module successfully completed at second year level
You must have sufficient modules in the priority subjects in order to qualify to teach it as a subject at school

In addition to these requirements, there are terms and conditions associated with this bursary that must be adhered to if awarded.

Having gone through all the information needed and understanding what is expected when applying, it’s time to learn more about how to go through the actual application process… …and submit a successful application.

Application Process

Having now gone through all the requirements and terms associated with Funza Lushaka bursary, let’s take a look at how you can apply for this funding.

The application process for the Funza Lushaka program is straightforward and accessible to all eligible candidates. Interested applicants must first ensure that they meet the program’s minimum requirements, which include being a South African citizen, having a strong academic record, and having a genuine interest in pursuing a teaching career in a critical subject.

To apply, prospective candidates must complete an online application form available on the Funza Lushaka website at http://www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za/Home. The application form requires candidates to provide personal information, academic transcripts, and a motivation statement outlining why they want to pursue a teaching career and how they plan to make a positive impact in the classroom.

The Funza Lushaka program offers a unique opportunity for students who are passionate about teaching and want to make a difference in their communities. With the support of the bursary, successful candidates can complete their studies without worrying about financial constraints and embark on a fulfilling teaching career that positively impacts the lives of learners.

Types Of Awards Offered

Have you ever wondered how much money is available through the Funza Lushaka bursary? Well, Institutions have different cost structures, so the total value of a bursary differs from institution to institution. Funza Lushaka bursaries should cover essential expenses. But also depending on your circumstances and academic achievements and also there is a range of awards available to you. The amount that can be awarded varies from R7200, up to as much as R15 000 per year for full-time study or R600 per month.

The award may also cover other costs associated with studying such as travel expenses or living allowance if needed. Additionally, students may be eligible for additional funding throughout their studies depending on their progress reports and results. All these details about what kind of awards are available can be found on the official Funza Lushaka website where applicants have access to all relevant information.

TIP: Make sure to read through every detail carefully so that you know exactly what type of award you’re entitled to in order to make the most out of this opportunity!

Funza Lushaka Terms And Conditions

Before you can receive a Funza Lushaka bursary, there are certain terms and conditions that must be met. Firstly, applicants must meet the minimum entry requirements for their chosen qualification at an accredited educational institution in South Africa. It is also important to read through the full list of guidelines provided on the official website before applying as not all qualifications may qualify for funding.

In addition to meeting academic criteria, potential recipients should familiarise themselves with the financial assistance provided by this scheme. According to the funzalushaka link, students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement will have access to additional funding which could help cover tuition fees or other educational expenses. Furthermore, any student needing further support beyond what’s available from the Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme can download a funza lushaka requirements PDF containing more information about how they might be able to obtain extra financial aid.

Benefits To Students

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a glowing beacon of hope for financially strained students who are looking to pursue their dreams. Achieving financial freedom through the bursary scheme can be likened to the sun breaking through the clouds on a stormy day, bringing with it warmth and clarity.

This life-changing opportunity provides numerous benefits to those fortunate enough to receive it. One such benefit is that all course fees, including tuition and registration costs, will be fully covered by the Department of Basic Education after submitting your application online at https://www.eservices.gov.za/. This means recipients don’t need to worry about how they are going to pay for their studies – easing some of the stress associated with higher education. Furthermore, successful applicants will also receive an allowance for textbooks or other related materials as well as monthly stipends which can go towards living expenses during study periods.

There’s no doubt that this incredible support system offered by Funza Lushaka has enabled countless numbers of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to gain access to higher learning opportunities in South Africa – something that would have been impossible without this kind of assistance.

Approved Institutions And Courses

To be eligible for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, applicants must study full-time at an approved institution and pursue a course related to teaching (Bachelor of Education (BEd); Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Senior Phase and FET teaching;). The Department of Basic Education has identified various higher education institutions across South Africa that are recognized as being eligible under this scheme – including universities, Tvet colleges and private providers. Here’s an overview of what you can expect:

A list of accredited universities offering undergraduate or postgraduate qualifications in the field of teacher education;
A selection of Tvet Colleges providing Programmes appropriate to those wanting to teach at primary school level;
Private Providers who have been authorized by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) to offer courses in Teaching.

When deciding on which route to take for your studies, it is important that you do some research beforehand so as to ensure that you select one from the approved list. This will allow you access to all the benefits associated with receiving a bursary from Funza Lushaka. Remember – knowledge is power!

The bursary programme is designed to boost recruitment into teaching, in priority subject areas. In most cases, Faculty or School of Education staff will be able to assist students with the Funza Lushaka priority subjects to determine a student’s teaching priority subjects guided by the Funza Lushaka Policy.

What are the national priority subject areas?

Foundation Phase (i.e. Grades R-3): Foundation Phase (with preference for South African Indigenous Languages) Neurodevelopment Needs, Braille, SASL.

Intermediate and Senior Phase (i.e. Grades 4-9): Preference will be given for a teaching major in TWO of the following: Languages, Mathematics, and Natural Science & Technology
FET phase (i.e. Grades 10-12): Preference will be given for a teaching major in TWO of the following: Accounting; Agricultural Sciences; Agricultural Technology; Civil Technology; Computer Applications Technology; Electrical Technology; Engineering Graphics and Design; Geography; Information Technology; Life Sciences; Mathematics; Mechanical Technology; Physical Sciences, Languages,Maritime studies, Coding and Robitics, Technical Mathematics and Technical Science.

Other Costs Covered By The Bursary

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is not only helpful for reimbursing study fees; it also provides assistance with other costs. This includes transport to and from your place of learning, as well as accommodation if you are studying away from home. You can even apply for help with purchasing textbooks or equipment that may be required by the institution where you’re studying.

In order to receive reimbursement for these additional costs, you will need to submit further documentation in addition to those already mentioned above. However, this process should still be relatively straightforward and involve sending an email with all relevant information – including your name, ID number, and address – to the same designated address at the Department of Basic Education (DBE). Once again, within four weeks after submission you should receive confirmation that your application has been successful.

Now armed with a better understanding of what exactly the Funza Lushaka bursary covers, let’s take a look at some useful links to resources and further information on how best to make use of this beneficial programme.

Links To Resources And Further Information

With a better understanding of what the Funza Lushaka bursary covers, let’s take a look at some useful links to resources and further information on how best to make use of this beneficial programme.

The official website for the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is an excellent starting point – you can access it here: http://www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za/. This site contains lots of important information about the bursary, including instructions on how to apply and check your application status.

You may also find answers to any questions or queries you have by getting in touch with the DBE directly via email – their address is inquiries.funzalushaka@dbe.gov.za

Alternatively if you would prefer to speak directly to someone, there are plenty of contact details available for all provincial education departments which can be found here: http://www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za/Home

No matter which method you choose for contacting them, it is always worth keeping records of when and where you sent your inquiries so that if necessary, you could follow up on them later down the line. With these helpful resources at your fingertips, now we can move on to looking into how to appeal a decision made on an application…

Contact Details For Enquiries

When seeking information regarding your Funza Lushaka bursary application, there are a few contact options available. One of the quickest and most direct methods is to e-mail the Department of Basic Education (DBE) at inquiries.funzalushaka@dbe.gov.za This email address is monitored regularly and you should expect an answer within 48 hours.

Those who prefer speaking directly with someone over the phone at 012 357 3000 can reach out to their provincial education department for assistance. The official website has all relevant contact information listed – http://www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za/Home .

Finally, if you have any additional questions or concerns about your Funza Lushaka Bursary application process, feel free to visit one of the DBE offices located throughout South Africa. Here you will find staff members on hand ready to help with whatever queries may arise during this journey toward success!

Frequently Asked Questions

Roles and responsibilities

2. How are roles and responsibilities for the Funza Lushaka programme separated?

This is a national programme which is administered each public higher education institution (HEI). It is funded by National Treasury and managed by the Department of Basic Education (DBE).

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) financially administers the programme on behalf of DBE through the Student Financial Aid office at each HEI.

Provincial Co-ordinators implement district and community based teacher recruitment programmes in collaboration with – district co-coordinators. Provincial Co-ordinators respond to queries from applicants in their respective provinces and districts and assist them to apply online for the bursary. Provincial Co-ordinators manage the provincial selections of the district recruited applicants.

Selected students must meet the admission criteria of the academic programme at the HEI to which they apply, and must meet the national selection criteria for the Funza Lushaka bursary. Selection of bursars is undertaken at each HEI in accordance with the selection criteria and the funds allocated to each HEI.

Once qualified, bursary recipients are placed by a provincial education department.

Applications and eligibility

3. Who is eligible to apply?

Any academically gifted, young –

learners, currently in Grade 12;
graduates below the age of 30 who want to complete a teaching qualification or enrol for a PGCE;
people below the age of 30 who want to make a career change and become teachers; and
unemployed people below the age of 30 who want to become teachers.

4. How does a student apply?

Prospective bursars must first gain admission at a higher education institution (HEI). Applications may be submitted online at www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za .

5. Where can prospective students find out more about the bursary programme?

Information on the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme can be accessed from www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za and www.education.gov.za .
Student Financial Aid offices will give details of financial matters, service obligations, etc.
Staff in the Faculty or School of Education at HEIs will provide information on teaching as a profession, academic programmes and an individual’s eligibility for admission.

6. How does an institution determine whether a student’s academic programme complies with the
selection criterion?

7. What are the national priority subject areas?

Foundation Phase (i.e. Grades R-3): Foundation Phase (with preference for South African Indigenous Languages) Neurodevelopment Needs, Braille, SASL.

8. What programmes will be funded?

Bachelor of Education (BEd);
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Senior Phase and FET teaching;

9. Are there official quotas for the distribution of bursaries by programme, year of study or priority area ?

Yes, the distribution by programme will be determined by the Department of Basic Education depending on identified priorities subject areas annually.

10. Are first-year students eligible?

Yes, first-year students in the appropriate programmes are eligible for the bursary.

11. Are Advanced Certificate in Education (ACE) students eligible?

No. Bursaries are available only to unqualified, initial teacher education students.

12. Are distance education and part-time students eligible for a bursary?

Yes, provided they are eligible in all other respects and complete the qualification within the minimum stipulated time.

13. Are recipients of other bursaries eligible to apply for a Funza Lushaka bursary?

Yes, but a student who has been offered both a Funza Lushaka Bursary and another bursary must choose to decline the other bursary.

Selection matters

14. Who sits on a Funza Lushaka bursary selection committee?

The composition of the selection committee is stipulated in the Funza Lushaka Policy and must include academic members of the Faculty or School of Education, a representative of the relevant provincial education department (PED), a representative of the financial aid office and an official/officials representing the DBE.

15. What selection criteria should be applied?

The selection criteria are stipulated in the Funza Lushaka Policy. The following is a summary:

The bursary is only awarded to South African citizens with a valid South African ID number.
Allocation of Funza Lushaka bursaries to Higher Education Institution employees, their spouse and their dependents/children is not permissible.
Bursary applicants must already have been accepted into a either BEd or PGCE qualification at an accredited public University.
The applicant must also meet the national selection criteria for the Funza Lushaka bursary.
The bursary will only be awarded if two of the priority area subjects are included as a specialisation in the teaching qualification.
The applicant should demonstrate good academic ability.
The applicant must show commitment to a teaching career, which includes: interest in working with
young people; enthusiasm for a professional career in teaching; readiness to face and surmount difficult challenges with integrity.

Please note that you are responsible for paying your registration fee, while awaiting for the outcome of the bursary application

16. Will late applications be considered?

No, late applications for a bursary will not be considered.

Money matters

17. Are HEIs being allocated a specific number of bursaries or a specific allocation of funds for
bursaries?

Yes. HEIs receive bursary funding from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Each HEI will disburse bursary funding in accordance with its cost structure.

18. Are more funding available than those initially allocated to an
institution for a particular academic year?

No. However, If institutions are unable to use all the funds allocated to them, the balance will be redistributed to institutions that requires more funding. This will only be done after the end of the normal registration period.

19. How much is a Funza Lushaka bursary worth?

Institutions have different cost structures, so the total value of a bursary differs from institution to institution.
Funza Lushaka bursaries should cover essential expenses.

20. What does the bursary cover?

Expenses covered may include tuition fees, accommodation including meals, books and learning materials, and if possible a small allowance for monthly living expenses. The allocation to any individual student is capped at a specific value. Where the HEI charges more than the capped value the bursars will have to top up from own funds. Applicants are therefore encouraged to apply at HEIs with the most affordable rates.

21. May a student accept a bursary for fewer than the number of years required to complete a
programme?

Yes. However, the student would have to avail himself/herself for placement immediately after qualifying.

22. Can a student accept less per annum than the total amount on offer?

Yes. However, the recipient’s service obligations remain a full year of service for every year for which he/she
has received a bursary.

23. Can a student who has another bursary receive a Funza Lushaka bursary?

No.

24. Can a student receive a bursary for an extra year of study?

Yes. Funding for an additional year of study (i.e. 5^th year) ) is not automatic and will be considered on a case by case basis. In cases where support is provided for an additional year, the service obligation for the student is extended by a year. Any additional time required will be at the recipient’s own cost. The additional year of study is only applicable to bursary holders following the Bachelor of Education. .

25. Who pays for costs incurred over and above the allocated bursary amount?

The bursary holder.

26. Is the bursary renewable?

Yes, A Funza Lushaka bursary holder is required to re-apply for the bursary annually before the end of November. The bursary is awarded for one academic year at a time upon proof of academic progress.

27. How will a student’s accomodation and living expenditure be paid?

In accordance with the HEIs normal practices.

Funza Lushaka bursary agreement

28. Must the recipient of a bursary receive a copy of the bursary agreement?

Yes. The agreement must be explained to the bursar before he/she signs it,and a signed copy must then be
given to the recipient.

29. For how many years will the recipient of a bursary be required to teach?

Funza Lushaka bursary holders will be required to teach one year for every year for which they have received a bursary. Each year of service shall repay one full-time year of bursary-assisted studies.

30. If a student migrates from an NSFAS loan to a Funza Lushaka bursary, will the years pertaining
to the NSFAS loan become part of the service contract?

No. The NSFAS loan and the bursary have different conditions.

31. Must the bursary be repaid?

No. However, the bursary may have to be repaid if the recipient fails to make academic progress; registers for a course of study that is not in a designated priority area; fails to apply for a teaching post with a PED at a public school, fails to follow the stipulated processes; fails to take up a teaching post with a PED at a public school; leaves a teaching post with a PED before the end of the contracted service period; or otherwise fails to meet a requirement of the bursary agreement

32. How much must be repaid?

The recipient will be required to repay the full amount of the bursary received in terms of the programme, with
accrued interest.

33. Will interest have to be paid on the amount owing?

Yes. Interest shall be compounded monthly at the rate of interest determined by NSFAS from time to time.

34. Who determines the placement of newly qualified teachers in terms of the programme?

Qualified recipients of bursaries will be placed by the PEDs to teach in a public school. Offers of employment will be made, subject to the Employment of Educators Act, 1998, and the South African Schools Act, 1996, as amended as well as the SACE Act.

35. Are Funza Lushaka bursary recipients eligible for school governing body (SGB) posts at public
schools?

No. A bursar may only accept a school governing body (SGB) post after the bursar has fulfilled his/her
contractual obligations to a PED.

36. Are Funza Lushaka bursary recipients able to take a “gap year” or proceed to complete further
studies immediately after qualifying?

No. Students are required to accept a teaching post immediately after qualifying – an extension will not be granted to a qualifying student even for further studies.

37. Are foreign students eligible for a Funza Lushaka bursary?

No, NSFAS will not enter into a contract with a foreign student or a student that holds a temporary resident
permit.

Conclusion

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a great opportunity for students to get the financial support they need to pursue their studies. But there are still some questions that remain unanswered, such as whether or not there’s an age limit and what kind of assistance is available for postgraduate studies?

One thing we can be sure of however, is that this bursary provides immense value to those who take advantage of it. It covers tuition fees, books and accommodation costs – all of which can help ease the burden of studying when funds are tight.

So if you’re looking for financial assistance with your studies, make sure you don’t miss out on applying for the Funza Lushaka Bursary! With its generous benefits and long-term career prospects, it could be just the answer you’ve been searching for.