Abstract:

Africa has many problems, the perceived degradation of educational standards is probably the problem with the biggest impact. However, using education to address these problems has its own challenges. Many organisations are attempting to address these challenges by means of bursary or support programmes. But with the degradation of the educational situation in Africa, it is no longer enough to “throw money” at the problem or at students. Moreover, the needs of business and those of students have changed significantly, resulting in financial support alone no longer being sufficient. Companies wanting well-rounded multi-skilled entrants to the workplace have to start looking at new initiatives to support the students during tertiary education.

Against this background, the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants has developed a framework/model to provide tertiary students studying towards qualifying as Chartered Accountants with the support necessary for them to succeed during their university education. The framework was developed through a detailed investigation on available literature on academic support programs and discussions with knowledge leaders in different fields of education, sociology, psychology, and accounting etcetera.

The purpose of this research is to outline the key issues identified during the development and implementation of a comprehensive support program at Stellenbosch University, South-Africa, and, in doing so, to highlight the key components of a successful bursary and support program.

This research is addressed specifically to educators and executives involved in and responsible for bursary programs, educational awards and support programmes, particularly in fields of education where students are to be delivered with a strong academic and other non-academic skills.

Keywords:

Auditing education, Support programmes, Enhancing academic skills, Enhancing non-academic skills.