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Funza Lushaka

The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is a government initiative in South Africa designed to address the national shortage of teachers in critical subjects.

By providing funding for teaching studies, the programme seeks to empower aspiring educators and ensure quality education in underserved communities.

If you’re considering a career in teaching, the Funza Lushaka bursary could be the stepping stone you need.

What is the Funza Lushaka Bursary?

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is a fully funded programme that supports students pursuing teaching qualifications.

The bursary covers essential expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, books, and a monthly stipend.

It aims to attract talented individuals into the teaching profession, especially in areas like mathematics, science, and technology, which are in high demand in South Africa.

By accepting the bursary, you agree to teach in a government school for the same number of years you were funded.

Who Qualifies for the Funza Lushaka Bursary?

To qualify, you must meet specific criteria:

  1. Academic Requirements:
    • A minimum of 50% in Grade 12 for home language and first additional language.
    • Adequate performance in subjects you intend to teach.
  2. South African Citizenship:
    • Only South African citizens with a valid ID are eligible.
  3. Admission to a Teaching Programme:
    • You must have been accepted into a recognized university for a teaching degree or PGCE.

The programme also prioritizes applicants willing to teach in rural or disadvantaged schools.

How Do You Apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary?

Applying is a straightforward process:

  1. Visit the Official Funza Lushaka Website
  2. Register and Log In:
    • Create an account or log in if you already have one.
  3. Complete the Application Form:
    • Fill out the form with accurate and up-to-date information.
  4. Submit Required Documents:
    • Include certified copies of your ID, academic records, and proof of university acceptance.
  5. Submit and Wait for Feedback:
    • After submission, the application status will be communicated to you.

Applications open at the start of the academic year, so ensure you apply on time.

What Does the Funza Lushaka Bursary Cover?

The bursary provides comprehensive financial support, including:

  1. Tuition Fees: Covers full academic fees for the year.
  2. Accommodation: University-provided or private accommodation costs.
  3. Study Materials: Funds for textbooks and other necessary resources.
  4. Living Allowance: Monthly stipend for personal expenses.

This support ensures you can focus fully on your studies without financial worries.

Can You Apply for the Bursary More Than Once?

Yes, the Funza Lushaka Bursary can be renewed annually.

However, you must meet these conditions:

  1. Academic Performance:
    • Maintain satisfactory progress in your studies.
  2. Renewal Application:
    • Submit a renewal application before the deadline.
  3. Teaching Commitment:
    • Demonstrate commitment to the teaching profession.

What Happens After Completing Your Studies?

Once you complete your qualification, you are required to:

  1. Serve the Teaching Obligation:
    • Teach at a government school for the duration of the funding received.
  2. Placement Process:
    • The Department of Basic Education (DBE) will assist in placing you in a school.
  3. Contractual Agreement:
    • Fulfill the terms of the bursary agreement to avoid repayment.

Failing to meet these obligations may result in having to repay the bursary funds.

What Are the Critical Subjects Supported by Funza Lushaka?

The bursary prioritizes critical subjects to address the skills gap in education.

These include:

  1. Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy
  2. Physical Science
  3. Life Sciences
  4. Agricultural Science
  5. Languages (African, English, and others)
  6. Technology and IT
  7. Economics and Accounting

By focusing on these subjects, you can significantly contribute to the development of South Africa’s education system.

How Does the Funza Lushaka Bursary Benefit You?

Choosing Funza Lushaka has several advantages:

  1. Debt-Free Education: Graduate without the burden of student loans.
  2. Guaranteed Employment: Secure a teaching job post-graduation.
  3. Nation Building: Play a role in improving education for future generations.

Can You Transfer the Funza Lushaka Bursary to Another Field?

No, the bursary is strictly for teaching qualifications.

If you change your course, the bursary will be withdrawn, and you may need to repay the funds.

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