Canyon Coal’s bursary programme has given Financial Accounting student Zama Twala (22), the support she needs to pursue her dreams. Zama, from Springs near Canyon’s Ukufisa project was awarded with a full bursary in April 2020. She recalls seeing an advert calling for applications, just two days before the closing date. “When I saw the advert in the Springs Advertiser I decided to quickly apply. I felt happy when I got it because varsity is expensive. Having a bursary relieves the financial burden and helps you focus on your studies,” says Zama.

She is currently doing her fourth and final year of study at the North West University’s Vaal Triangle Campus. The bursary covers tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and a monthly stipend to assist with livings costs like groceries. Zama’s initial choice was health sciences, but she could not secure entry into the course. Financial Accounting was her second choice, but Zama says she has fallen in love with the field and hopes to become an Accountant in the future. “It is really turning out to be great. I never anticipated that I would do Accounting because in high school I did not enjoy commerce. There was a change of plans and now I am enjoying it. I want to do my honours in Accounting Management next year,” she says.

Zama believes bursaries and scholarships play an important role in uplifting young people who might not have funds to carry on with their education. “Tuition fees go up by at least 10% a year and even families that are middle class are struggling to afford, especially with the current economy. So, bursaries are a big help,” Zama concludes.