South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU)

The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) has long stood as the leading voice for educators, committed to advancing the rights and welfare of teachers in South Africa and beyond. Founded in 1990, SADTU represents over 250,000 educators and education sector workers, making it the largest teachers’ union in the country. Its dedication to creating a fair, non-racial, and democratic educational environment has earned it national and international respect.

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A Brief History of SADTU

SADTU was established on October 6, 1990, in Johannesburg. The union’s formation was a significant milestone, bringing together previously racially divided teacher organizations to create a unified structure aimed at eradicating educational inequality. This pivotal merger helped to challenge the segregationist educational policies of apartheid and laid the foundation for an inclusive, democratic education system.

The idea to form SADTU originated at a teachers’ conference held in Harare in 1988. At this event, various teacher organizations came together, pledging to form a national, non-racial teachers’ union in South Africa. This agreement, known as the “Harare Accord,” led to the establishment of the National Teacher Unity Forum (NTUF). By 1990, these efforts culminated in the formation of SADTU, solidifying a national voice for teachers in the country’s fight for equal education.

SADTU’s Mission and Values

SADTU’s mission centers on promoting equality and eliminating discrimination in the education sector. The union’s main objectives include:

  • Advocating for a democratic education system free from discrimination.
  • Addressing the legacies of apartheid-era education policies.
  • Supporting teachers in their professional and personal development.

Today, SADTU is an affiliate of COSATU, the Congress of South African Trade Unions, and is also internationally affiliated with Education International (EI), the All Africa Teachers’ Organisation (AATO), and the Southern Africa Teachers’ Organisation (SATO).

The Role of SADTU in Modern South Africa

Over the years, SADTU has played a transformative role in South Africa’s education sector. The union empowers teachers to actively participate in rebuilding the education system and contributing to the country’s broader development goals. It provides a platform for teachers to engage in initiatives that address challenges such as inadequate resources, overcrowded classrooms, and underpaid staff.

SADTU’s commitment to inclusivity and equality has driven it to create a supportive environment where teachers can work effectively to inspire future generations.

Contact Information for SADTU

For those interested in learning more about SADTU or seeking membership, the union’s national office details are as follows:

Address:
SADTU Village, Portion 74, Corner Dann Road & Loam Street,
Glen Marais, Ext 144, Kempton Park, 1619

Postal Address:
Postnet Suite 106, Private Bag X5, Aston Manor, 1630

Contact Details:
Tel: (011) 971 2000
Email: sadtu@sadtu.org.za

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Sponsored Guide

Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.

  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.

  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

 

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