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ABOUT THE BURSARY PROVIDER – FERMEL
Fermel (Pty) Ltd, established in 1963 and formerly known as Impala Engineering Works, is a prominent player in the mining equipment industry. With over 54 years of experience, this privately-owned company has made significant strides as an innovator and manufacturer of underground mining equipment, particularly in “hard-rock” and “flameproof” mining operations. Fermel’s core mission is to deliver integrated solutions to its clients by manufacturing and supplying a wide range of trackless underground mining machinery.
Fermel’s headquarters are located in the industrial areas of Wadeville and Alberton, Gauteng, with an aftermarket distribution center also in the province. Additionally, the company has regional offices in Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
ABOUT THE FERMEL BURSARY PROGRAMME – FIELDS COVERED
Fermel (Pty) Ltd is offering bursaries for the academic year to students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds who aspire to build careers in the mining industry. The bursary program supports studies in the following fields:
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
Through this initiative, Fermel aims to help deserving students achieve their educational goals and foster the next generation of professionals in the underground mining equipment sector.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE FERMEL BURSARY
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the bursary:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Come from a previously disadvantaged background.
- Be enrolled full-time in a degree program in one of the specified fields of study.
- Be entering the final year of study.
- Have a strong academic record.
- Demonstrate an interest in the underground mining equipment industry.
HOW TO APPLY FOR THE FERMEL BURSARY
Applications must be submitted online via the Fermel Bursary Application portal.
Submit the following supporting documents along with your completed application form (note that missing documents may lead to disqualification):
- Certified copy of your ID document.
- Certified copy of your full academic record.
- University fees statement on the institution’s letterhead.
- Motivational letter explaining your chosen field of study and your reasons for pursuing it.
- Certified copies of your parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
- Proof of income for parents or guardians (latest payslips, employment letters if employed, affidavit if unemployed, proof of SASSA grant if applicable, or death certificate if deceased).
- Motivational letter stating why you deserve the bursary (refer to tips on writing a compelling motivational letter).
CLOSING DATE FOR THE FERMEL BURSARY
The deadline for applications is 23 February. Applications submitted after this date will not be considered, so ensure you apply before the closing date.
By following this guide, eligible students can take advantage of the Fermel Bursary to advance their studies and careers in the mining industry.
Related Resources
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.