Student Representative Council treasurers sharpen their swords against student debt

The weight of student debt continues to be a significant concern, but the National Student Representative Council (NSRC) is determined to tackle the challenge head on. On 25 – 26 February 2025, SRC treasurers from across the nation convened at Unisa’s Durban campus for an intensive Financial Committee (FINCOM) training session, focusing on strategies to alleviate the financial burden on students.

Student leaders at a training session, focusing on strategies to alleviate the financial burden on students

Facilitator and Treasurer General of the NSRC, Nokuthula Mathonsi from the Department of Student Development in the Dean of Students led the two-day training programme with presentations, discussions, and collaborative planning sessions. The treasurers reviewed the outcomes of the past year’s initiatives, identifying areas for improvement and reinforcing successful strategies.

A key focus was budgeting for the upcoming financial year. Lizette Le Roux, Deputy Director: Student Development, and Mogau Malatjie, Manager: Student Governance, guided the attendees through crucial budget processes. Representatives from each region, including the NSRC, presented their individual budgets, showcasing their commitment to addressing student debt.

Day two of the programme involved a deep dive into aligning budgets with each region’s programme of action. This crucial step ensures that financial resources are strategically allocated to initiatives that directly support students and strengthen the fight against crippling debt. The treasurers collaboratively worked on budget allocations for each SRC, ensuring that resources are available for impactful initiatives.

The FINCOM meeting at the Durban campus provided a platform for SRC treasurers to exchange ideas, hone their financial skills and, most importantly, reaffirm their dedication to empowering students by confronting the debt crisis. The gathering also crafted a common approach and understanding of this challenge, which needs to be addressed holistically since it affects Unisa students across the board.

* By Jo Cossavella, Communications Officer, KwaZulu-Natal Region, with input from ChatGPT