Study Permit Struggle

I have been applying for the study permit for my nephew since 2023. The plan was for him to study in South Africa January 2024. To prepare for this exciting chapter of his life, in late 2023 we started with enquiries regarding study permit. I must admit this has been the most horrible experience ever.

At first, we were told to gather all the necessary documents, which we did, when we got to the office, we were turned back with the reason that we should submit Police clearance as well which we were not told about. Mind you by this time I had already paid for medical aid since its paid in advance.

We started with police clearance process, unfortunately while waiting for police clearance, all other documents validity expired so we had to start the process from beginning. By the time the police certificate was available, acceptance letter and all other documents were no longer valid, we started with the process again reapp**** with the academic institution. Because in the process of all this the funds we had accumulated were compromised, we had to save more and be ready in June 2025. Concurrently to saving money we ensured we cover all the bases though the hurdles we encountered in the past, ensured that all documents are well prepared and valid. We went to the foreign affairs as the step towards study permit application and indeed all our documents were cleared up and confidently proceeded to SA high commission. Unfortunately, even with so much preparation and excitement the office bearers turned us back.

May I indicate that we have heard stories about money given under the table, but we are committed to do the right things the right way. This gentleman I am writing about is my nephew, his mother is my sister, I am very privileged to have received the blessings I did, and I am willing to bless other so they can do the same to others and break the cycle of poverty and financial illiteracy. At some point I was in the same predicament, with the academic institution requesting study permit prior to admission at school, and at the same time the requirement for study permit is admission letter, it was like a situation of what came first between a chicken and egg, fortunately the school was very helpful and advised accordingly.

I am ensuring that this young man does not end up in the streets with too much time in his hands and find himself in trouble. All these years I have spent a lot of money with just logistics and admin.

I humbly request the office to intervene and assist me get this champ into university. I am not asking for anything unreasonable, please.

'Maserobanyane Matete ***