BURSARY FUELS STUDENTS’ PASSION TO UPLIFT

June 2025.

Driven by her passion for nurturing young minds, Masego Eutricia Tlhageng, originally from Kimberley in the Northern Cape, recently graduated with a Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching from the University of the Free State. A proud beneficiary of the Matla A Bokone Scholarship Programme, Masego’s dedication to education, especially Early Childhood Development (ECD), stems from her deep desire to help build strong foundations for young learners.

“My passion for education stems from a strong interest in early childhood development and a desire to play a positive role in shaping future generations,” she explained.

Established five years ago, the scholarship programme supports and impacts students from Riverton, Barkly West, Kimberley Central, Boshof, Delportshoop, Galeshewe, Greenpoint, Holpan, Platfontein, Ritchie, Roodepan and Windsorton communities. It specifically targets learners within a 50km radius of the solar plant, providing them with the necessary financial and academic resources to further their education.

“This support came at a critical time when my family was struggling financially, especially after my parents incurred significant debt to pay for my first year of studies. Receiving this bursary lifted a tremendous burden off my parents’ shoulders, and I remain deeply grateful to Matla A Bokone for providing me with the opportunity to achieve my academic goals,” she said.

Now officially a graduate as of April 2025, Masego is actively seeking employment in the education sector while preparing to pursue her Honours degree part-time. Her long-term goal is to obtain a PhD in Education and play a key role in shaping the country’s education system.

The comprehensive support provided by the scholarship includes tuition, accommodation, stationery, stipends, textbooks, a laptop, administration fees, disbursement costs, and wrap-around support. This support is necessary to ensure that students successfully complete their studies.