In recognition of their initiatives to enhance financial literacy among students, the Financial Aid unit at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently scooped two prestigious awards at the Financial Aid Practitioners of South Africa (FAPSA) 20th Annual Conference. This event was held at the Southern Sun Elangeni and Maharani Hotel in Durban.

The first award was the Inclusivity Award where the university was acknowledged for the NSFAS Disability Roadshow Project. DUT was applauded for its proactive efforts in ensuring that NSFAS-funded students with disabilities receive essential guidance and support, promoting equal opportunities within the academic environment. Second in the bag for DUT was the Empowerment Award, which was awarded in recognition of the Financial Literacy Project. The university received high praises for its initiative to enhance financial literacy among students, equipping them with the skills needed to manage their finances effectively and make informed decisions.

According to the Financial Aid Manager at DUT, Mr Absolom Manashe, DUT was one of the co-hosts, therefore joined in facilitating the conference. The conference brought together 76 higher education institutions, which included 26 public universities and 50 TVET colleges.

“This conference served as a collaborative platform for Financial Aid Practitioners to address shared challenges, share innovative strategies, and enhance practices in student funding,” explained Manashe.

Expressing his excitement on the two awards, Manashe said the Financial Aid unit was recognised for its efforts in making the difference in students’ lives. He believes the recognition will encourage and motivate the unit to strive for greater achievements in its projects.

“Well done to the Financial Aid unit.  We are reaping the rewards of all the dedication and hard work by the respective team players of the unit. It was an overwhelming and proud moment to receive these awards in the prestigious event, in front of all the other higher education institutions. It gave us a sense of pride in achieving our accomplishments,” reiterated Manashe.

The Financial Aid team feels the recognition from the FAPSA conference aligns with the DUT ENVISION2030 strategy by highlighting the core values of professionalism, excellence, and commitment demonstrated by the unit. By implementing effective programmes like the Financial Literacy and NSFAS Disability Roadshow, the unit believes they have shown professionalism in their approach to supporting students, whilst highlighting DUT’s pursuit of excellence in providing quality resources and assistance to students. For the Financial Aid unit, this win also emphasizes the unit’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, which they find essential for the success of all students.

Representing DUT at the conference was the Financial Aid unti consisting of Mr Absolom Manashe (Financial Aid Manager), Mr Keshan Govender (Senior Financial Aid Counsellor), Mrs Thobeka Nzuza (Senior Financial Aid Counsellor), Mrs Sandra Moodley (Financial Aid Counsellor), Mrs Zandile Ngubelanga (Financial Aid Counsellor), Mrs Xolisile Bhengu (Financial Aid Counsellor), Ms Rochelle Ellary (Administrative Assistant), and Ms Philisiwe Gumede (Administrative Assistant).

Pictured: DUT Financial Aid team after receiving the two awards at the FAPSA conference.

Simangele Zuma