Online Learning Allowances Urged for NSFAS Students

Online Learning Allowances Urged for NSFAS Students. In light of the upcoming resumption of the 2020 academic year on June 1st, the Parliament select committee on education and technology, sports, arts, and culture is urging students benefiting from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) learning material allowances to strategically allocate their funds. The primary recommendation is to invest in devices conducive to remote learning.

Remote Learning Challenges Addressed by Government Initiatives

As only 33% of the student population is expected to return to campuses next month, the higher education department has implemented a multi-modal and remote learning system. However, concerns have been raised about the potential disadvantages faced by students in underprivileged areas.

Government Commitment to Device Accessibility for All NSFAS Students

To tackle these challenges, Dr. Blade Nzimande, the minister of higher education, science, and innovation, has affirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring that all NSFAS students have access to appropriate devices for online learning.

Committee Call to Action for Students

Elleck Nchabeleng, the chairperson of the select committee on education and technology, sports, arts, and culture, emphasizes the role of students in this endeavor. The committee urges those who have received the annual teaching assistance allowance of R5,200 to invest in gadgets such as laptops, tablets, and other essential tools to facilitate effective learning during this challenging period.

Support Beyond Devices – Data Accessibility Ensured

In addition to device support, NSFAS and Funza Lushaka students will receive 10GB daytime and 20GB night-time data for three months, starting from June 1st until the end of August. This initiative aims to ensure that students have adequate internet access to engage in online learning activities.

Conclusion

Through partnerships with the communications and digital technologies ministry and mobile network operators, the higher education department has zero-rated the educational content sites of public universities and colleges. This collaborative effort seeks to promote inclusive education by making access to institutional websites free, although some embedded content, such as YouTube videos, may incur charges. In conclusion, these comprehensive measures aim to mitigate the challenges posed by the current learning environment and promote equitable access to education for all students.