
Date : 19 November 2024
From : South African Medical Students Union (SAMSU)
Subject : Communiqué to all NSFAS-funded medical students
Dear Colleagues,
We, the South African Medical Students Union (SAMSU), call on all medical students funded by
the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to complete an important survey to gather
crucial statistics that will help us advocate for fairer financial support. The form is now live and
will remain open until November 30, 2024.
Access the Form Here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/16tGSfYIBcf8pLv5r1QgPO15TwK3LOcGnbYi8JyLSD2Q/viewfo
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The information we collect is vital for our ongoing engagements with NSFAS, the Minister of
Higher Education, and potential sponsors. We are fighting to restructure the current funding
model, which currently only covers 10 months, leaving medical students financially unsupported
during January and December. This affects our physical well-being, mental health, and academic
performance, and ultimately compromises the quality of future healthcare in South Africa.
We encourage you to complete the survey as soon as possible and to continue raising awareness
on social media using the hashtag #12MonthsNSFASAllowanceForMedicalStudents. This is not
only a problem affecting NSFAS-funded students but an issue that jeopardizes the training of
medical professionals and threatens the future of our healthcare system.
As we reflect on the journey to transforming medical education, let us remember the words of
Nelson Mandela:
➢ “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Providing adequate support for medical students is essential to undo the injustices of the past
and build a resilient healthcare system for the future.
Together, let us ensure our voices are heard and our needs are met. Thank you for your active
participation and for continuing to be part of this movement.
