The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme Foundation NPC (ISFAP), since its inception in 2017, has invested about R1 billion in funding female students, particularly within the fields of medicine and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), as well as other high-demand occupations.
This initiative aims to bridge the financial gap for students who do not qualify for National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding and cannot afford tertiary education independently.
“ISFAP has dedicated itself to bridging the financial gap for students whose family incomes are too high to qualify for NSFAS funding, but too low to afford tertiary education independently. This ‘missing middle’ group has benefited greatly from ISFAP’s comprehensive support, which includes covering tuition fees, accommodation, books, laptops, stipends, and psychosocial support,” stated ISFAP.
To date, 1 685 female students have been supported, with 526 graduates and 668 currently enrolled. The foundation says the success of these women highlights the impact of such financial aid, fostering a new generation of female leaders and innovators in South Africa.
Sifanele Biyela, a chartered accountant and Corporate Partnership and Operations Manager at ISFAP, said: “We are incredibly proud of the strides made by our female students. Their success is a clear indication of what can be achieved when young women are given the support they need to succeed. We remain committed to fostering an environment where women can continue to excel and lead in these critical areas.”
ISFAP encourages continued support for gender equality in education and invites those interested in pursuing tertiary qualifications to apply for funding for the 2025 academic year.
The Mercury