Midvaal Local Municipality has increased its Mayoral Student Financial Aid Programme budget to more than R1.1 million for the 2026 academic year, expanding support to at least 44 beneficiaries.
The programme’s funding was raised from an initial R750 000 after the municipality proposed an additional R305 000 as part of the 2025/2026 Adjusted Capital and Operating Budgets. The adjustment was approved during the municipality’s second ordinary council meeting.
Corporate partner Nedbank also contributed R50 000 to the initiative, bringing the total programme allocation to R1 105 000.
The increased budget will allow more students to receive financial assistance, up from 37 beneficiaries in the previous year. Since its launch in 2024, the Mayoral Student Financial Aid Fund has disbursed more than R2.6 million, benefiting at least 101 students pursuing higher education.
Municipal authorities say the programme is designed to expand educational opportunities for young people facing financial barriers to tertiary studies. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to invest in youth development and community empowerment.
Midvaal Excutive Mayor Peter Teixeira said the municipality will continue exploring ways to strengthen the programme in response to community needs.
The municipality remains committed to supporting learners who aspire to further their education and build sustainable futures.
