BURSARY CLERK

This clerical post sits within the financial aid and bursary administration environment at the High Street Campus, where the incumbent will play a central support role in helping students access and maintain funding. Operating within a public service setting, the bursary clerk is responsible for the day-to-day administration of bursary and financial aid processes, working closely with systems such as NSFAS and internal financial platforms. The position demands accuracy, confidentiality, and a service-oriented approach, as the role involves direct interaction with student funding records and progress updates.

To be considered, candidates must hold Grade 12 plus a recognised national diploma in Financial Management, Accounting, or an equivalent relevant qualification. In addition, at least one to two years of experience in a bursary, financial aid, or broader financial environment is required. Applicants need to demonstrate basic knowledge of financial functions and practices, including the ability to capture data, operate a computer, and collate financial statistics. Familiarity with Public Service financial legislation is essential, including the PFMA, PSA, PSR, PPPFA, and the Financial Manual, as well as knowledge of basic financial operating systems such as Coltech. The required skills set includes computer proficiency, planning and organisation, strong verbal and written communication, basic numeracy, and the ability to perform routine tasks effectively. The successful candidate will also need to operate office equipment, show flexibility, maintain good interpersonal relations, work with a high degree of accuracy, and display an aptitude for working with figures.

The main duties of the bursary clerk include assisting with the coordination of the entire bursary application process, from initial applications through to allocation. This includes helping coordinate and monitor financial aid processes, analysing NSFAS provisionally funded students to determine funding status, and assisting with the coordination of bursary allocations across various funding sources. The clerk is also responsible for helping coordinate feedback to students about the progress of their bursary applications as communicated by NSFAS, and for assisting in reporting on all bursary allocations and progress made. This requires constant liaison between the campus, funding bodies, and students, ensuring that accurate records are maintained and that students are kept informed in a timely manner.

This is a Level 05 position within the Public Service, offering the standard benefits associated with a government post. The role is suited to an organised, detail-conscious individual who can handle multiple tasks in a busy financial aid office. While no specific equity targets are stated in the vacancy, employment practices follow the relevant Public Service regulations. Prospective applicants should note that clear communication and the ability to work under routine administrative pressure are key to succeeding in this role. The position provides an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to student success by ensuring that bursary funding is administered fairly and efficiently. It is particularly suitable for candidates with a background in financial administration who are looking to specialise in student financial aid within the tertiary education sector.