BURSARY CLERK

This position is for a Bursary Clerk at the Grahamstown Campus, within the college's financial aid environment. The role is central to the day-to-day administration of student bursaries and financial aid, forming the link between the institution, students, and external funders such as NSFAS. As a Level 05 post, it carries a public service remuneration package with benefits, and the appointment is subject to the usual public service conditions. The campus-based nature of the role means the incumbent will work closely with students, academic staff, and the broader finance team, ensuring that bursary processes run smoothly and that accurate records are maintained.

To be considered, applicants need a Grade 12 certificate as well as a recognised national diploma in Financial Management, Accounting, or another relevant qualification. In addition, the role requires one to two years of practical experience in a bursary, financial aid, or broader financial environment. This combination of formal study and hands-on work ensures the successful candidate understands the realities of student funding and can handle the administrative demands of the role. The post also calls for a sound working knowledge of financial functions and practices, including the ability to capture data, operate standard computer systems, and collate financial statistics. Familiarity with public service financial legislation is essential, including the Public Finance Management Act, the Public Service Act, public service regulations, the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act, and the relevant financial manual. Knowledge of basic financial operating systems, such as Coltech, will be an advantage.

The ideal candidate will possess a range of skills and personal attributes suited to a busy administrative office. Strong computer literacy is essential, along with good planning and organisational abilities. Clear verbal and written communication is needed because the role involves giving feedback to students and liaising with various stakeholders. Basic numeracy skills, accuracy, and an aptitude for working with figures are all important, as is the ability to perform routine tasks reliably and to operate standard office equipment. Flexibility and sound interpersonal relations are also valued, as the work can involve shifting priorities during peak application and allocation periods.

The duties of the Bursary Clerk are varied and practical. The postholder will assist with the coordination of bursary application processes, from receiving applications to checking supporting documents. They will also help coordinate and monitor the broader financial aid process, ensuring that timelines are met and that information flows correctly between the campus and NSFAS. A key responsibility is analysing provisionally funded NSFAS students, which involves checking lists, verifying student status, and resolving discrepancies. The clerk will assist with the coordination of bursary allocations, helping to match available funding to eligible students. They will also help coordinate feedback to students on the progress of their bursary applications as communicated by NSFAS, ensuring that individuals are kept informed. Finally, the role requires assisting in reporting on all bursary allocations and progress, producing and maintaining accurate records for internal and external oversight.

This vacancy is advertised through the public service circular system, and the relevant enquiries may be directed to the contacts listed. Applications are submitted via the specified email address for the campus. Eligible applicants should note that the post is based in Grahamstown and may require occasional travel or coordination across campus departments. This summary draws on the official vacancy text and is intended to provide a comprehensive overview for prospective applicants.