Students ****med

To whom it may concern,

I hope this message finds you well. We, the students of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) are writing to formally lodge a complaint regarding two pressing issues affecting myself and many other students at our institution.

Let us start by referencing what the Funza Lushaka Bursary covers: "Funza Lushaka bursaries cover most of the recipient's essential expenses. Expenses covered include tuition fees, accommodation including meals, books and learning materials, teaching practice laptop and if possible, a small allowance for monthly living expenses." This information can be seen here.... http://www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za/Home/FAQ

Students apply for the FLB based on the information Funza Lushaka provides regarding what will be covered should we be successful. It is disheartening to now be notified that this is not the case, and that we have been misled.

Firstly, we are not receiving the amounts that were stipulated in our financial aid contracts. This discrepancy between the agreed-upon sums and the actual disbur*****ts is causing significant financial strain. Students rely heavily on these funds for essential expenses such as tuition, books, and living costs. The shortfall is leading to undue stress and financial instability, which in turn affects our academic performance and overall well-being.

Secondly, the current policy regarding private accommodation and residence fees versus travel allowances for students who live at home is inequitable and unrealistic. While private accommodation and residence fees are fully covered, students who stay at home are only provided with a travel allowance. This does not adequately reflect the actual costs incurred by these students. Many students staying at home are contributing to household rent and utilities, in addition to needing reliable means of transportation to attend classes. The travel allowance is insufficient to cover these combined expenses, putting these students at a disadvantage compared to those in private accommodations.

As a result of these financial shortfalls, many students are forced to borrow money to cover necessities such as food and transportation. This situation is exacerbated by the disappointment and frustration among students who have diligently maintained specific grades each year to ensure continued funding. The disparity in funding policies and the breach of contractual agreements are demoralising and unfair to those who strive to meet academic requirements under challenging circumstances.

The impact of these issues on students is severe. Financial instability can lead to students having to make difficult choices, such as cutting back on essential living expenses, foregoing important academic resources, or even dropping out of school. The mental and emotional toll of financial stress cannot be overstated, and it is imperative that the financial aid policies be reviewed and adjusted to ensure fairness and adequacy.

I urge you to address these concerns promptly. Ensuring that financial aid disbur*****ts match the contracted amounts and revising the travel allowance policy to reflect the true costs incurred by students living at home will greatly alleviate the financial burden on students and support their academic success.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt response and action to resolve these issues.

Sincerely, Funza Lusaka students