If you’re a young South African with a passion for teaching, the Funza Lushaka Bursary could be the opportunity you’ve been searching for. This initiative, funded by National Treasury and managed by the Department of Basic Education (DBE), is designed to support students financially while encouraging them to enter the teaching profession. The Funza Lushaka Bursary helps aspiring teachers, particularly in high-demand subjects, to qualify and contribute to South Africa’s public education system.
Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Funza Lushaka Bursary and how it can support your path to becoming a qualified teacher.
What is the Funza Lushaka Bursary?
The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a multi-year programme aimed at inspiring young South Africans to pursue teaching as a career. It provides financial assistance to students enrolled in teaching programmes at public universities, with the goal of addressing teacher shortages in priority subjects. Upon completion of their studies, Funza Lushaka Bursary recipients are required to teach at a public school for the same number of years they received the bursary. For example, if you receive funding for three years, you will be obligated to teach for three years.
Objectives of the Funza Lushaka Bursary
The Funza Lushaka Bursary has three key objectives:
- Promoting Teaching as a Career: The bursary helps to promote teaching as a rewarding and viable career choice for academically talented students.
- Addressing Shortages in Priority Subjects: The programme aims to recruit and train teachers in critical subject areas where there is a shortage of qualified professionals.
- Improving the Quality of Education: By funding future teachers, the Funza Lushaka Bursary aims to improve the quality of education in South Africa’s public schools.
Who Manages the Funza Lushaka Bursary?
While the Funza Lushaka Bursary is a national programme, its successful implementation involves several stakeholders:
- Department of Basic Education (DBE): The DBE oversees the overall management of the bursary programme, ensuring it aligns with the country’s education objectives.
- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS): NSFAS administers the Funza Lushaka Bursary funds through the Student Financial Aid offices at higher education institutions.
- Provincial and District Co-ordinators: These coordinators manage recruitment at the district level and assist applicants in the bursary application process.
Eligibility Criteria for the Funza Lushaka Bursary
To apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, you must meet the following requirements:
- Academic Performance: You must have a solid academic record, especially in the subjects you plan to teach.
- South African Citizenship: The Funza Lushaka Bursary is only open to South African citizens with a valid ID.
- Acceptance at a Public University: You need to be accepted into a Bachelor of Education (BEd) or Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) programme at an accredited public university.
- Interest in Teaching: You should show a genuine commitment to teaching and working with young learners.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be under the age of 30.
Priority Subjects for the Funza Lushaka Bursary
The Funza Lushaka Bursary focuses on specific subject areas where there is a critical need for qualified teachers. These subjects are categorised into different phases:
- Foundation Phase (Grades R-3): Specialising in teaching South African Indigenous Languages, learners with neurodevelopmental needs, Braille, and South African Sign Language (SASL).
- Intermediate and Senior Phase (Grades 4-9): Emphasising Mathematics, Natural Science, Technology, and Languages.
- Further Education and Training (FET) Phase (Grades 10-12): Critical subjects include Mathematics, Accounting, Agricultural Sciences, Engineering Graphics and Design, Information Technology, Life Sciences, and Physical Sciences.
By focusing on these subjects, the Funza Lushaka Bursary aims to ensure that public schools have highly qualified teachers in areas where they are needed most.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
The bursary provides comprehensive financial support that can cover the following expenses:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees at your chosen institution.
- Accommodation and Meals: If applicable, the bursary may cover accommodation and meal costs.
- Books and Study Materials: Support for purchasing required textbooks and learning resources.
- Living Allowance: A small monthly stipend may be provided to assist with living expenses.
It’s important to note that the bursary amount is capped. If your institution’s fees exceed this cap, you will be responsible for paying the difference.
How to Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary
To apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, follow these steps:
- Get Admitted: Secure your admission to a BEd or PGCE programme at a recognised public university.
- Apply Online: Visit the official website and complete the online application.
- Contact the Student Financial Aid Office: After submitting your application, reach out to your university’s Student Financial Aid office for more details on the funding process and your obligations.
Important Considerations
- You are responsible for paying your registration fees while awaiting the outcome of your bursary application.
- Late applications are not accepted, so make sure to apply before the deadline.
Service Obligations for Funza Lushaka Bursary Recipients
Upon completing your studies, you are required to teach at a public school for the same number of years you received the bursary. For example, if you received funding for four years, you must teach for four years. If you fail to meet this service obligation, you may be required to repay the bursary with interest.
What Happens After You Qualify?
Once you have completed your qualification, the Provincial Education Departments (PEDs) will place you in a teaching position. Bursary recipients are not eligible for School Governing Body (SGB) posts at public schools until they have fulfilled their service obligations to the PED.
Renewal of the Funza Lushaka Bursary
The bursary is awarded for one academic year at a time. To continue receiving funding, you must reapply each year and provide proof of your academic progress. Remember to submit your renewal application before the end of November.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can first-year students apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary?
A: Yes, first-year students enrolled in eligible programmes are welcome to apply.
Q: Are part-time and distance learning students eligible?
A: Yes, part-time and distance learning students are eligible as long as they meet the programme’s other requirements and complete their qualification within the stipulated timeframe.
Q: Can I switch from an NSFAS loan to the Funza Lushaka Bursary?
A: Yes, but the service obligations for NSFAS loans and the Funza Lushaka Bursary are separate. Time served under NSFAS does not count towards your Funza Lushaka service obligation.
Q: Are foreign students eligible?
A: No, only South African citizens are eligible for the Funza Lushaka Bursary.
Q: What if I want to continue my studies after qualifying?
A: You must complete your service obligation before pursuing further studies. The programme does not allow for gap years or immediate further studies after qualifying.
The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a fantastic opportunity for aspiring teachers who want to make a difference in South Africa’s education system while receiving financial support. By focusing on critical subject areas and providing comprehensive funding, the Funza Lushaka Bursary ensures that more young South Africans can pursue their teaching careers and help shape the future of the country’s education system.
