The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is a multi-year initiative aimed at promoting teaching as a profession in South Africa. The programme is designed to provide financial assistance to selected students who wish to complete a teaching qualification in identified subject priority areas. This bursary is awarded to South African citizens with a valid South African ID number who demonstrate good academic ability and are 30 years or younger.
For those who are interested in applying for the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme, it is important to have a clear understanding of the programme’s requirements and benefits. To help with this, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide answers to all your burning questions. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme, including information on eligibility, application requirements, and selection criteria.
Understanding Funza Lushaka Bursary
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is a multi-year programme aimed at promoting teaching as a profession in South Africa. The bursaries are awarded to selected students to complete a teaching qualification in identified subject priority areas.
To qualify for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, applicants must be South African citizens with a valid South African ID number. They should demonstrate good academic ability and be 30 years or younger. The bursary is only awarded for one academic year and is not automatically re-awarded every year. Therefore, applicants must reapply for funding for the following academic year, depending on their academic progress.
The bursaries cover the cost of tuition, accommodation, meals, and books. They also provide a small allowance for monthly living expenses. In return for receiving the bursary, recipients are required to teach at a public school for the same number of years that they received the bursary.
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is managed by the Department of Basic Education in partnership with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). The programme aims to address the shortage of qualified teachers in South Africa, especially in priority subject areas such as mathematics, science, and technology.
To apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, applicants must register and apply on the e-Gov portal at www.eservices.gov.za. The application process involves providing personal information, academic records, and other supporting documents.
In summary, the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is a valuable opportunity for South African students to pursue a teaching career in priority subject areas. The bursary covers the cost of tuition, accommodation, meals, and books, and provides a small allowance for monthly living expenses. In return, recipients are required to teach at a public school for the same number of years that they received the bursary.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen with a valid South African ID number.
- Must have completed matric or currently be in their final year of grade 12.
- Must demonstrate good academic ability.
- Must be studying towards a teaching qualification at a recognised South African university.
- Must be 30 years or younger to apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary.
It is important to note that allocation of Funza Lushaka bursaries to Higher Education Institution employees, their spouse and their dependents/children is not permissible.
Applicants must also be aware that the bursary is awarded based on a number of selection criteria, including academic performance, financial need, and the availability of funds. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee that an applicant will receive the bursary.
In addition, applicants must be willing to teach at a public school for the same number of years that they received the bursary. Failure to do so will result in the bursary being converted into a loan that must be repaid.
Overall, the eligibility criteria for the Funza Lushaka Bursary are designed to ensure that the bursary is awarded to deserving candidates who are committed to pursuing a career in teaching and making a positive impact in South African schools.
Application Process
To apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, prospective bursars must first gain admission at a higher education institution (HEI). Once admitted, applicants may submit their application online at www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za.
To access, register and apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary, applicants must follow these 9 easy steps:
- Open the e-Gov portal at www.eservices.gov.za
- Register by providing personal information, including a valid ID number and password.
- Login with the provided ID number and password.
- Complete all the required fields on the application form.
- Upload all the required supporting documents, including certified copies of ID, academic records, and proof of admission to an HEI.
- Submit the application form.
- Print a copy of the completed application form for your records.
- Wait for feedback on your application status.
- If approved, sign the bursary agreement form and return it to the address provided.
It is important to note that all first-time applicants must be 30 years or younger to apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary. Additionally, applicants with a criminal record, charged of misconduct, or dismissed from work are not eligible to apply for this bursary.
By following these simple steps, applicants can easily apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary and take a step towards fulfilling their dreams of becoming a qualified teacher.
The Teaching Profession
Teaching is a noble profession that requires dedication, passion, and commitment. It is a career that involves imparting knowledge, skills, and values to learners in a structured and organised manner. To become a teacher, one needs to have a teaching qualification that is recognised by the relevant authorities.
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is aimed at promoting teaching as a profession by providing bursaries to selected students to complete a teaching qualification in identified subject priority areas. The programme is designed to encourage more people to pursue teaching as a career and to address the shortage of qualified teachers in South Africa.
Teaching qualifications are offered at various levels, including diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate certificates. These qualifications are designed to equip teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach effectively and to manage classrooms in a professional manner.
The teaching profession is a challenging and rewarding career that requires continuous professional development. Teachers need to keep up-to-date with the latest teaching methodologies, technologies, and trends in education to ensure that they provide quality education to their learners.
In conclusion, teaching is a profession that requires passion, dedication, and commitment. The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme aims to promote teaching as a profession by providing bursaries to selected students to complete a teaching qualification in identified subject priority areas. Teaching qualifications are offered at various levels and are designed to equip teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach effectively and manage classrooms professionally.
Programme Details
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is a multi-year initiative aimed at promoting teaching as a profession in South Africa. The programme provides bursaries to selected students to complete a teaching qualification in identified subject priority areas. The bursaries cover tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly allowance for living expenses.
The programme is open to South African citizens who wish to pursue a teaching career in public schools. Applicants must be accepted into an undergraduate or postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE) programme at a recognized public university. The bursary is awarded for one academic year at a time and is renewable for the duration of the qualification, provided that the bursar passes all modules.
The programme seeks to address the shortage of qualified teachers in mathematics, science, and technology in different phases by providing bursaries to prospective teachers. The number of bursary awards varies from year to year, depending on the available budget. For the 2023 academic year, applications for new bursars will open on 17/10/2022 and close on 16/01/2023. Re-applications for existing or returning bursars will close on 30/11/2022.
The following table provides an overview of the eligibility criteria for the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme:
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | South African citizen |
| Academic Qualification | Acceptance into an undergraduate or PGCE programme at a recognized public university |
| Age | 30 years or younger |
| Priority Subjects | Mathematics, Science, and Technology |
| Employment | Not employed as a teacher |
| Prior Qualification | Not have completed a prior teaching qualification |
The programme does not fund extended programmes, and allocation of bursaries to higher education institution employees, their spouses, and dependents/children is not permissible. The bursary recipient must complete their qualification within the stipulated time frame and teach at a public school in South Africa for the same duration as the bursary was received.
Overall, the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme provides an excellent opportunity for eligible South African citizens to pursue a teaching career and contribute to addressing the shortage of qualified teachers in the country.
Funding and Expenses
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme covers most of the essential expenses incurred by the bursary recipients. The expenses covered include tuition fees, accommodation, meals, books, learning materials, teaching practice, and, if possible, a small allowance for monthly living expenses.
The bursary covers the cost of tuition fees at a South African university. However, it is important to note that some recipients may qualify for fee-free funding at universities. Despite this, the demand for Funza Lushaka bursaries is expected to remain unchanged as students prefer this bursary because they are guaranteed a work placement offer after qualifying.
In addition to tuition fees, the bursary covers the cost of accommodation, including meals, for bursary recipients. This is an essential expense as it ensures that bursary recipients have a safe and comfortable place to stay while they complete their studies.
The bursary also covers the cost of books and learning materials, which are essential for students to complete their studies successfully. This is a significant expense, and the fact that it is covered by the bursary is a significant benefit for bursary recipients.
Finally, the bursary provides a small allowance for monthly living expenses where possible. This allowance is intended to help cover the cost of day-to-day expenses, such as transport and other essentials.
Overall, the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme covers most of the essential expenses incurred by bursary recipients. This ensures that students can focus on their studies without worrying about the financial burden of completing a teaching qualification.
Selection and Placement
The selection and placement process for the Funza Lushaka bursary is a critical step in ensuring that the right candidates are chosen for the programme. The provincial education department (PED) is responsible for managing the selection and placement process, and it is done in accordance with the national selection criteria.
Selected students must meet the admission criteria of the academic programme at the higher education institution (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.
The selection criteria include the following:
- The bursary is only awarded to South African citizens with a valid South African ID number.
- The applicant should demonstrate good academic ability.
- Applicants should be 30 years and below to qualify for the Funza Lushaka Bursary.
- Applicants must be committed to a teaching career, which includes a willingness to teach at any public school in South Africa.
- Successful applicants will be placed at a PED in their province of origin.
- The applicant’s academic qualifications, work experience, and other factors may be considered.
The selection process involves the following steps:
- Applicants must apply online via the e-Gov portal at www.eservices.gov.za.
- The PED will shortlist applicants based on the national selection criteria.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview at the PED.
- Successful applicants will be placed at a PED in their province of origin.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection for the bursary. The selection process is highly competitive, and only the best candidates are chosen. Successful applicants will be notified via email or SMS.
In conclusion, the selection and placement process for the Funza Lushaka bursary is rigorous and competitive. Applicants must meet the national selection criteria and be committed to a teaching career. The PED manages the selection and placement process, and successful applicants will be placed at a PED in their province of origin.
Terms and Conditions
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme has certain terms and conditions that recipients must adhere to in order to maintain their eligibility for the bursary. These terms and conditions are designed to ensure that recipients fulfil their obligations and maintain a high level of academic performance.
To be eligible for the bursary, applicants must be South African citizens with a valid South African ID number. They should also demonstrate good academic ability, and be 30 years old or younger. Recipients who fail to meet these requirements may be dismissed from the programme and may be required to repay the bursary.
Recipients are required to sign a bursary agreement form and a statement of obligations and responsibilities. This document outlines the terms and conditions of the bursary, including the recipient’s obligations, the duration of the bursary, and the consequences of misconduct or failure to meet obligations.
Recipients are also required to declare any other bursaries, scholarships, or financial assistance that they may be receiving. Failure to declare such assistance may result in the recipient being dismissed from the programme and may be required to repay the bursary.
Misconduct, such as academic dishonesty, criminal activity, or any behaviour that brings the programme into disrepute, may result in the recipient being dismissed from the programme and may be required to repay the bursary.
Priority Subject Areas
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme aims to increase the number of qualified teachers in South Africa. In order to achieve this goal, the programme gives preference to students who are studying in certain priority subject areas.
The national priority subject areas for the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme are as follows:
- Foundation Phase (Grade R-3)
- Intermediate Phase (Grade 4-6)
- Senior Phase (Grade 7-9)
- Further Education and Training (FET) Phase (Grade 10-12)
Within these broad categories, the programme gives preference to students who are studying specific subjects. The priority subjects are:
Other subjects that are considered to be priority subjects include Accounting, Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Technology, Civil Technology, Computer Applications Technology, Electrical Technology, Engineering Graphics and Design, Geography, Life Sciences, Mechanical Technology, Physical Sciences, Technical Mathematics, Economics, and Technical Science.
Students who are studying in these priority subject areas are more likely to be awarded the Funza Lushaka Bursary. However, it is important to note that meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee that a student will be awarded the bursary.
In addition to studying in a priority subject area, students must also meet other eligibility criteria in order to be considered for the Funza Lushaka Bursary. These criteria include being a South African citizen, having a valid ID number, and being accepted into a teaching qualification at a recognized public university.
Overall, the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is an important initiative that aims to address the shortage of qualified teachers in South Africa. By giving preference to students who are studying in priority subject areas, the programme is helping to ensure that there are enough qualified teachers in the future to meet the needs of South Africa’s learners.
Phases of Teaching
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme aims to address the shortage of qualified teachers in South Africa. The programme provides financial support to students who wish to pursue a career in teaching, particularly in the identified Subject priority areas. The programme has four phases of teaching: Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Senior Phase, and FET Phase.
The Foundation Phase includes Grade R to Grade 3. During this phase, students learn basic literacy and numeracy skills, as well as social and emotional development. The Foundation Phase is critical in building a strong foundation for future learning. The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme gives preference to students who wish to teach in the Foundation Phase.
The Intermediate Phase includes Grade 4 to Grade 6. During this phase, students continue to develop their literacy and numeracy skills and begin to learn more complex subjects such as science and social studies. Teachers in this phase play a critical role in preparing students for the Senior Phase.
The Senior Phase includes Grade 7 to Grade 9. During this phase, students prepare for the FET Phase by learning more advanced subjects such as physical science, life science, and mathematics. Teachers in this phase play a critical role in preparing students for the FET Phase.
The FET Phase includes Grade 10 to Grade 12. During this phase, students prepare for their future careers by studying subjects such as engineering, medicine, and law. Teachers in this phase play a critical role in preparing students for their future careers.
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme gives preference to students who wish to teach in the Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Senior Phase, and FET Phase. The programme aims to ensure that South Africa has a sufficient number of qualified teachers in these priority areas.
Online Services
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme offers an online application system for applicants to apply for the bursary. The online application system is accessible through the e-Gov portal at www.eservices.gov.za.
To access the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme online application system, applicants must register by providing their personal information. All first-time applicants must be 30 years or younger to apply for the bursary. Once registered, applicants can follow the steps to complete the required fields with their information.
To begin the application process, applicants should select the Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme option from the e-Services menu. After entering the OTP received on the preferred channel, applicants must accept the terms and conditions to proceed.
On the dashboard menu, applicants can click on the 2022 application button to begin the application process. The system will guide applicants through the required fields to complete the application. Applicants must accept the declaration to confirm the information captured.
It is important to note that the online application system for the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme opens on 8 October 2023. Applicants who qualify to apply for funding to study teaching are requested to apply online at https://www.eservices.gov.za.
Other Relevant Information
In addition to the eligibility criteria and application process, there are some other important details to keep in mind when applying for the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme.
Firstly, it is important to note that the bursary is only awarded to South African citizens with a valid South African ID number. Additionally, the bursary is only available for study at public universities or higher education institutions in South Africa.
Successful applicants will be required to sign a bursary agreement with the Department of Basic Education. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the bursary, including the recipient’s obligations to teach at a public school in South Africa for the same number of years as the bursary was awarded. Failure to fulfill this obligation may result in the recipient being required to repay the bursary in full.
It is also important to note that the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme prioritizes certain subject areas, known as national priority subject areas. These subject areas include mathematics, science, technology, and technology subjects. Applicants who wish to teach in these subject areas will be given preference during the selection process.
Finally, applicants should be aware that the application process requires the submission of personal information, including academic records and identification documents. This information will be used to verify the applicant’s eligibility for the bursary and to process their application. Applicants should also be prepared to receive an OTP (one-time password) via their preferred channel to verify their identity during the application process.
Overall, the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is an excellent opportunity for South African citizens who wish to pursue a career in teaching. By providing financial assistance and support, the programme aims to promote teaching as a profession and to address the shortage of qualified teachers in the country’s public schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the monthly allowance for Unisa students on the Funza Lushaka bursary?
The monthly allowance for Unisa students on the Funza Lushaka bursary is R1 500. This allowance is paid for a period of 10 months per year.
How can I contact Funza Lushaka for more information?
You can contact Funza Lushaka by emailing info@funzalushaka.gov.za or by calling their toll-free number at 0800 202 933. You can also visit their website at www.funzalushaka.gov.za for more information.
How do I check the status of my Funza Lushaka bursary application?
You can check the status of your Funza Lushaka bursary application by logging into your account on the Funza Lushaka website. You should receive an email notification once your application has been processed.
When will the Funza Lushaka 2024 application period open?
The Funza Lushaka 2024 application period is expected to open in October 2023. However, it is important to regularly check the Funza Lushaka website for updates and announcements.
What is the WhatsApp number for Funza Lushaka enquiries?
The WhatsApp number for Funza Lushaka enquiries is 082 046 8553. Please note that this number is only for WhatsApp messages and not for voice calls.
What happens if I fail a module while on the Funza Lushaka bursary?
If you fail a module while on the Funza Lushaka bursary, you will be required to repeat the module at your own expense. If you fail more than one module, your bursary may be terminated.