Invest in a child and you invest in the future is what Siza Water believes

Six years in and Siza Water’s bursary fund continues to uplift students within the water utility’s concession area.

The annual fund aids local students in pursuing tertiary studies, helping to remove financial barriers which often make it impossible for studies to continue.

There are currently 8 recipients studying through the programme in a variety of fields – Melokuhle Ngema (22), Shanay Hemraj (19), Mandisa Shabangu (21), Shuvaadon Poonan (19), Sthembile Bila (21), Lungelo Bhengu (20), Nomvelo Ngema (18) and Kwanele Kumalo (17).

“Siza Water has spent R1.5-million on the bursary fund since its inception. We hope to help students achieve their dreams and the dreams of their families,” said Siza Water managing director, Shyam Misra.

Although a wide range of studies are supported, ideally students in the fields of engineering and town planning are preferred given Siza Water’s field of operation.

As part of the programme, students are able to gain work experience at Siza Water, while there are also employment opportunities at the company after graduation.

Councillors from KwaDukuza and iLembe municipalities attended the annual bursary breakfast, held at Siza Water’s Ballito offices last Friday.

“Every progressive country in the world has invested in education. If you shine at university, the future of our country also shines,” said iLembe district municipality deputy-mayor, James van Wye.

Given the length of time since the bursary programme’s inception, there are now graduates almost every year.

One such student, Zinzile Nyaka, who graduated from the University of Pretoria with a Bachelor of Education degree (cum laude), addressed the students still in the programme.

“I know for many of you it will be the first time leaving home, which can be daunting. I promise you it is worth throwing yourself into every facet of your student life to make the most of your experience. Once you have overcome the challenges, you will realise that nothing can defeat you,” she said.

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