Group photo of presenters during the session
On 27 May 2027, the Revenue and Financial Aid Directorate held a Revenue and Financial Aid Information Session. This session took place at the University Auditorium. During this session, students, management, financial aid stakeholders, and partners from ABSA discussed important matters relating to student funding, accommodation, and their financial support services.
Acting Director: Revenue and Financial Aid, Mr Gaura Gungadeen
When outlining the purpose of the session, on behalf of the Chief Financial Officer, Mrs Mavis Madzhie, the Acting Director for Revenue and Financial Aid, Mr Gaura Gungadeen, said the session was to engage students on important matters relating to financial aid, student support, and financial literacy at the University of Venda. He said it aimed at equipping students with information on funding opportunities, application processes, responsibilities linked to financial assistance, and the importance of making informed financial decisions as well as to raise awareness about the dangers of over indebtedness and the long-term impact of debt review on students’ future careers and financial wellbeing.
The programme featured addresses from key university leaders and stakeholders including:
Mr Mzwakhe Matukane, Director for Advancement, Commercialisation and Strategic Partnerships, UNIVEN
Mr Mzwakhe Matukane spoke about the financial challenges affecting universities and the importance of external partnerships in supporting students. He emphasised the university’s commitment to securing funding for academically deserving and financially needy students to help reduce student debt and promote academic success.
Representatives from ABSA Group Limited also addressed the students which included:
L-R: Mr Aluwani Thuga and Ms Matilda Ngwana
Mr Aluwani Thuga, Branch Manager at ABSA Group Limited Thavhani Mall, encouraged students to practice responsible financial management and maintain good credit records. He advised students to pay accounts on time, avoid unnecessary debt, and understand the long-term impact of debt review and poor credit behaviour on future opportunities such as employment, vehicle finance, and home loans.
Ms Matilda Ngwana, Manager at ABSA Group Limited, encouraged students to understand the implications of debt review and make use of resources provided by the National Credit Regulator to manage their financial wellbeing. She emphasised the importance of staying financially disciplined in order to complete their studies successfully, secure employment, and contribute positively to their families and communities.
The Student Representative Council (SRC) President also addressed students and called for stronger engagement with funders, quicker resolution of student financial issues, and improved campus facilities, including sports infrastructure, to better support student life.
The SRC Minister of Finance, Mr Tsireledzo Manwele called for improved accountability and faster resolution of student financial issues to ensure timely support for students.
A comprehensive information-sharing session followed, covering several critical topics affecting students. Presentations included updates on second semester residence renewals, NSFAS information and updates, student debtors and Acknowledgement of Debts processes, internal bursaries, private and government sponsorships, and Funza Lushaka funding opportunities. Officials from the Revenue and Financial Aid Directorate and Student Housing provided detailed guidance and responded to questions from students during an interactive question-and-answer session. The engagement aimed at equipping students with the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding their academic funding and accommodation arrangements.
The session concluded with closing remarks from the Acting Director of Revenue and Financial Aid, by thanking attendees for their participation and support. He expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort that made the session possible.
The session most importantly reflects the University’s continued commitment to student support, especially access to higher education, and transparent communication on matters directly affecting their success.
Some interactive moments during the session
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
