In a bid to complete the 2020 Academic Year (AY2020), the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) developed a risk-adjusted approach in responding to the pandemic. The response includes the procurement and distribution of digital learning devices (laptops) for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funded students studying at public universities.

The following link will assist you to complete the laptop application: NSFAS Digital Learning Devices

Deadline for completing the form: Tuesday, 27 October 2020 at 12:00

Eligible students have been identified by means of the following guidelines:

• Recipients of the COVID-19 Digital Learning Device Scheme must be an NSFAS Bursary funded student in AY2020.
• Recipients must be currently registered at a public university; qualify to receive a laptop.
• Recipients must opt and consent to receive a laptop; on a loan-to-buy basis as per the NSFAS guidelines regulating the issuing of laptops.
• Recipients must consent to NSFAS withholding their future learning material allowance as payment for the laptops. Should the recipient not return as an NSFAS funded student in future academic years, the recipient is liable to repay the amount due to the university where the student was registered at when receiving the laptop.
• Recipients are eligible to benefit under the scheme on a once-off basis in respect of receiving a laptop, for the duration of their academic career.

According to the requirements, ownership of the devices vest with the institution, and in this case with the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT). Therefore, each recipient will sign a written agreement with the CUT, stipulating the conditions of receipt, including the option of purchasing or returning the laptops, as well as the taking of insurance cover for the laptop. This agreement will apply to NSFAS students who have already received laptops, as well as those who are still in need of laptops.

Laptops may only be used for learning purposes and will be delivered to the students directly from a  pre-selected service provider on a date to be announced by NSFAS and to be communicated at a later stage. All recipients will be notified about this process by the CUT.

Successfully completing AY2020 remains our top priority, and we do not want any student to be left behind. The distribution of laptops will greatly aid the learning and teaching activities, ensuring that the academic project continues. Should there be any questions, kindly contact the Fees and Financial Aid Officer for your Faculty, for further assistance.

Please stay safe by adhering to all the health protocols and reaching out to the Student Wellness Centre should you need assistance. Visit our COVID-19 Information Hub for all the latest information and support structures.

ISSUED BY

Welna van der Berg

Acting CFO