Bursary Programme Empowers Aspiring Teachers in Kouga Area

Bursary funding is opening doors for aspiring teachers and other students in the greater Kouga area, enabling them to follow their passion for education. Among the more than 50 beneficiaries of the Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm Bursary Fund, which supports local students across various fields, is Ruchaan Malgas (30), now in her final year of a Bachelor of Education (Foundation Phase) degree. Her story highlights how this initiative is not only empowering individuals but also strengthening the future of education in local communities. 

Ruchaan, born and raised in Hankey near Jeffreys Bay, has always dreamed of becoming a teacher, inspired by a primary school teacher from her childhood. Her four years as a Reading Assistant gave her valuable experience working with children, which opened the door to a bursary and the chance to pursue her teaching career. 

"I was part of the Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm Reading Coach programme, and during this time, I was introduced to the bursary programme," said Ruchaan Malgas. 

Like many before her, Ruchaan is the first in her family to attend a national university. With this achievement, she is inspired to support her community and has set her sights on further study. 

"After earning my Grade R Diploma in 2021, I took up a Grade R teaching position at Clarkson Primary School in early 2022, where I continue to teach while completing my degree. I also plan to pursue an honours qualification to further improve myself," Ruchaan added. 

Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm’s Bursary Programme aims to drive socio-economic development by improving access to tertiary education, with 80% of the beneficiaries being women. The programme provided Ruchaan with mentors offering continuous mental, physical, and emotional support. 

Students from local communities in the Eastern Cape can apply for bursary funding directly through Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm. Available bursaries include the GSF Engineering Sciences bursary, open to all students nationwide pursuing an engineering-related qualification full-time in 2025, and the GSF Other Sciences bursary, available to Eastern Cape students pursuing qualifications in Education (Mathematics and Science), Agriculture, or Nursing. Additionally, the GSF Communities bursary supports students living within 50km of the wind farm, pursuing any tertiary qualification in 2025. 

Note: The application deadline is 31 October 2024. Interested candidates can apply online at www.globeleq.auraams.app or contact support@auraAMS.app for further details.