Education is a key driver of economic empowerment, but many graduates struggle with outstanding student debt, preventing them from moving forward with their careers. In response to this challenge, the Eastern Cape Office of the Premier, in collaboration with MERSETA, has introduced a R70 million student debt relief fund for eligible graduates.
If you are a South African citizen between the ages of 18 and 35, residing in the Eastern Cape, and have completed studies in a MERSETA-related field, this initiative provides an opportunity to clear your student debt.
Understanding the Student Debt Relief Initiative
The initiative aims to assist graduates who have completed their studies but are struggling with outstanding student debt. This program covers graduates from the following institutions:
- Nelson Mandela University
- Rhodes University
- University of Fort Hare
- TVET Colleges in the Eastern Cape (Ingwe, Ikhala, BCC, EMCOL, King Hintsa, KSD, PE College, or Lovedale)
By applying for this opportunity, eligible graduates can have their student debt cleared, allowing them to pursue career opportunities without financial constraints.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the debt relief initiative, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Reside in the Eastern Cape
- Have completed a qualification in a MERSETA-related field
- Have outstanding student debt at one of the participating institutions
This program is available only to those who have completed their studies. Students who are still studying are not eligible.
Eligible Qualifications
The initiative focuses on priority skills that contribute to South Africa’s economic development. These include:
Engineering & Technical Fields
- Operations Management
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Sciences
- Electronic Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Mechatronics
- Process Engineering
- Metallurgy
Business & Information Technology
- Financial Accounting
- Human Resources
- Supply Chain Management
- Marketing
- Information Technology
Graduates who hold a qualification in any of these fields and have outstanding student debt are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
The closing date for applications is 28 February 2025. Applicants must ensure that all required documents are submitted before the deadline.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- A clear copy of their ID
- A Learner Agreement Form
- A Completion Letter (signed and stamped by their institution)
- A Certificate or Academic Record showing the qualification obtained and the date of completion
Applications must be submitted to the relevant contact person at the applicant’s institution.
Contact Information
Graduates can seek assistance with their applications from the following representatives:
| Institution | Contact Person | Email Address | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ikhala TVET College | Z. Ntantiso | Zoliswa.Ntantiso@ikhala.edu.za | 0437049251 |
| Ingwe TVET College | Z. Nongongo | znongogo@ingwecollege.edu.za | 0664757479 |
| King Hintsa TVET College | V. Swelini | viwes@kinghintsacollege.edu.za | 0793851008 |
| BCC | S. Sixabayi | ssixabayi@khc.edu.za | 0821817159 |
| BCC | O. Kwababana | OKwababana@bccollege.co.za | 0438080170 |
| BCC | M. Dweba | mdweba@bccollege.co.za | 0438080170 |
| Lovedale College | T. Mehlio | Thoneka.Mehlio@lovedale.org.za | 0827588917 |
| KSD | T. Dauwua | tuletu.njengele@lovedale.org.za | 0475051040 |
| KSD | S. Ngwadla | tdauwua@ksdtvet.edu.za | 0475051040 |
| EMCOL | T. Tungu | sngwadla@ksdtvet.edu.za | 096592076 |
| PE College | M. Joseph | tungu@emcol.co.za | 093881073 |
| Nelson Mandela University | F. Abdulla | Fazlur.Abdulla@mandela.ac.za | 0415042765 |
| Rhodes University | E. Walters | e.walters@ru.ac.za | 0466038248 |
| University of Fort Hare | S. Adams | SAdams@ufh.ac.za | 0437047255 |
Why This Initiative is Important
1. Reducing Financial Burden on Graduates
Many graduates enter the job market with significant student debt, making it difficult to focus on career opportunities. This initiative helps ease that burden.
2. Improving Employment Prospects
With student debt cleared, graduates can focus on securing employment, further studies, or entrepreneurship without financial worries.
3. Supporting Economic Growth
By reducing debt, the initiative enables more skilled professionals to contribute to the economy, benefiting both individuals and the broader society.
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The Eastern Cape Student Debt Relief Initiative presents a unique opportunity for young graduates to eliminate their student debt and move forward with their careers. With R70 million allocated for this program, many graduates stand to benefit from financial relief.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, apply before 28 February 2025. Clearing your student debt is an important step towards financial independence and career growth.
For more details, contact your institution’s representative or share this information with others who might qualify.