Unisa online - Hard work pays off for the DSF

“Hard work pays.” This was the message from the Directorate: Student Funding (DSF) and the Dean of Students, Mr Convy Baloyi, on 28 October 2010 during an event to celebrate the DSF’s outstanding performance. “We are here to celebrate excellence. We are here to acknowledge hard work and the results that can come when people are committed to turning things around. It is a pleasure for me to accept this award on behalf of the university,” said Prof Makhanya, Unisa’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor.

This directorate has improved their performance so much that the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has awarded them the “Best performing financial aid office” together with the University of Johannesburg in the category of Higher Education Institutions which deal with large allocations and high number of students. The award is given based on the following criteria: audit compliance, percentage of claims submitted by the target date, the percentage variance between allocations and claims (at year end), an evaluation by the awards administration team and the final reports submitted on time.

“Hard work has paid off. We were among the worst and a year later we are the best. Hard work has indeed paid off and I am thankful to the team and everyone present for helping us achieve what we have achieved,” said Mr Isaac Mabena, DSF Loans Manager.

According to Mr. Baloyi, the relentless pursuit of excellence should never cease. “This award heralds the start of many great things to come. It not only sets us at the top, but positions us in a place where the spotlight shines directly on Unisa. There is no room to falter, only room to improve.”

Ms Nonhlanhla Nkosi, the new DSF Deputy Director, then thanked the entire team for their contributions and support. She spoke of a renewed commitment to service and making a difference in the lives of Unisa’s students. As a way forward, she outlined several strategies which included sourcing private funding, and liaising with companies and the community to help Unisa become the African university in the service of humanity. “In the end, it boils down to our students and making a difference in their lives.”