September 2025.
In the ZF Mgcawu district of the Northern Cape, where the need for more educators remains pressing, initiatives that invest in educator development are creating real opportunities for change. One such initiative is a community bursary programme that is supporting 19-year-old Aaliyah Selborne in pursuing her studies, equipping her with the skills she needs to one day strengthen education in her hometown of Kenhardt.
As one of more than 12 local youth supported by this bursary to date, Aaliyah is in her first year of studying for a Bachelor of Education (Intermediate Phase) through the University of South Africa. Inspired by her grandmother and aunts, who have been educators for over 20 years, she developed a passion for teaching and recognised how valuable education is to bringing positive change in her community.
“Once I have completed my studies, I look forward to being a passionate educator, providing a strong foundation of educational support in my hometown. I attended both Kenhardt Primary School and Kenhardt High School and would love to see myself back in those classrooms,” shared Aaliyah when asked about her vision for the next five years.
The Aries Solar Power bursary programme covers Aaliyah’s tuition fees, book allowances, travel and accommodation costs, as well as day-to-day expenses through a stipend, which is particularly valuable as she is studying full-time. “The bursary has eased any financial burden, but most importantly, it has allowed me to follow in my family’s footsteps,” added Aaliyah.
“We are encouraged to see young, passionate students like Aaliyah taking the initiative to apply for bursary funding. Especially when she not only learned about the programme through her own research but also through the experiences of past beneficiaries and community engagements. This shows how the support we provide continues to reach and motivate local youth to pursue tertiary education,” commented Harrisinah Theka, Economic Development Manager at Aries Solar Power.
Since its launch over five years ago, this bursary programme has been an important resource for students from the Kenhardt area, investing in their educational journeys and helping to shape a brighter future for local families.
