Dbsa Board of Directors

The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) is a leading financial institution dedicated to infrastructure development and economic growth across South Africa and the broader Southern African region. Central to this mission is the expertise and leadership provided by its Board of Directors, which brings together seasoned professionals from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that the Bank fulfills its mandate of fostering sustainable development.

In this article, we take a closer look at some of the key figures who are driving the DBSA’s vision forward.

Ebrahim Rasool – Chairman of the DBSA

Ebrahim Rasool has been at the helm of the DBSA since November 2022 as an Independent Non-Executive Director. With a rich background in government, diplomacy, and social services, Rasool is well-equipped to lead the Bank. His previous roles as Premier of the Western Cape and South African Ambassador to the United States have endowed him with leadership and management skills essential for guiding the Bank through complex regulatory environments.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts and Higher Diploma in Education from the University of Cape Town, and honorary doctorates from Roosevelt University in Chicago and Chatham University in Pittsburgh.

Boitumelo Mosako – Chief Executive Officer

Boitumelo Mosako made history in April 2023 by becoming the first woman to serve as CEO of the DBSA. With a background in finance, including previous roles as Chief Financial Officer at the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), Mosako brings over 12 years of experience in financial services. Her expertise in governance, risk management, and financial strategy is instrumental in steering the Bank toward its long-term objectives.

A Chartered Accountant by training, Mosako holds several prestigious qualifications, including an Advanced Management Programme Certificate from Harvard Business School.

Zodwa Mbele – Chief Financial Officer

Zodwa Mbele joined the DBSA as CFO in October 2023, bringing a wealth of experience in financial leadership. Her career has seen her hold key positions within the DBSA, including Acting CFO and Group Executive: Transacting. Mbele’s strategic and financial management skills are supported by her Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification, along with additional certifications in International Treasury Management and executive programs from institutions like Harvard Business School.

Kenneth Brown – Non-Executive Director

Kenneth Brown joined the DBSA as a Non-Executive Director in 2022, bringing with him significant expertise from his career in both the public and private sectors. His experience at the National Treasury of South Africa, where he served as Chief Procurement Officer, and in leadership roles at Standard Bank, positions him as a critical figure in the Bank’s mission to promote sustainable development.

Martie Janse van Rensburg – Deputy Chair & Independent Non-Executive Director

With a tenure beginning in 2016, Martie Janse van Rensburg plays a key role in overseeing governance at the DBSA. Her experience as the former CEO of the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority adds valuable strategic planning and project finance expertise to the board. A Chartered Accountant, van Rensburg holds qualifications in finance and governance from the University of the Free State and Stanford University Business School.

Edgar Pieterse – Independent Non-Executive Director

Prof. Edgar Pieterse joined the DBSA in October 2023, adding academic and policy expertise to the Bank’s Board. As the Director of the African Centre for Cities, Pieterse is a thought leader in urban development and sustainable human settlements. His insights into poverty alleviation and infrastructure development will help guide the Bank’s initiatives to improve the lives of millions across the region.

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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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