With second semester registrations now underway at local tertiary institutions, students are being encouraged to register timeously – setting the stage for a smooth ongoing academic journey. While financial challenges remain the top barrier for both returning and first-time students, Mary Maponya, Executive Head of Lending at Fundi, encourages students to continue exploring the funding options available to them, thereby enhancing their chances of success.
“The importance of registering on time for the next stage of one’s academic journey cannot be underestimated,” says Maponya. “This is a fundamental step toward academic success – enabling students to secure their spots in desired courses, access essential academic resources, and avoid administrative complications that can arise from late registration.”
Maponya highlights that studies around the world have shown that students who register for courses on time are more likely to complete their qualifications within the prescribed timeframe as compared to those who register late[1]. “Delayed registration often correlates with increased dropout rates, as late registrants struggle to catch up with coursework and navigate administrative hurdles. This means that addressing barriers to registration is essential to improving registration rates and, consequently, academic outcomes.”
She notes that funding and access to finance remains one of the most pressing barriers affecting registration, particularly for the second semester. “Many students still find themselves struggling to secure the necessary funding they need for tuition, accommodation and critical tuition support. This is particularly true of ‘missing middle’ students who remain excluded from traditional funding vehicles such as those offered by NSFAS and most financial institutions.”
While options for “missing middle” appear to be limited, Maponya says that there is help available for them: “This includes applying for bursaries typically based on first semester outcomes, as well as approaching alternative funding solutions providers. As Fundi for example, we specialise in providing funding for the ‘missing middle’ space, assisting families and beneficiaries of public servants to secure the finance they need to build and grow their careers. We’re additionally collaborating with Government and tertiary institutions to pro-actively find relevant solutions and alternatives for these students in particular.”
She notes that there is also significant goodwill in the ‘missing middle’ space with both corporates and individuals assisting where they can: “At Fundi for example, we have numerous private individuals who are sponsoring students – often anonymously. These ‘everyday heroes” have contributed towards the career journeys of several students, sponsoring their full qualification as a means of paying it forward. Kagisho Phofolo is a wonderful example; having anonymously supported 23 students over the past six years [2].”
With first-time registrations for this year’s matriculants also recently opening, Maponya recommends taking the time to research options and choices. “Equipping yourself with information about career choices and the options available will help you to make the best possible decision about your future. This will influence everything – from the institution where you apply all the way through to the time, energy and finance required. Remember that this is your future, so it is well worth making the right investment upfront,” she concludes.
[1] https://digitalcommons.odu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1072&context=efl_etds