SRD grant for elderly

The South African government has taken steps to provide financial assistance to the elderly population in the form of a Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant. The SRD grant is a short-term measure that provides temporary relief to individuals who are in dire need of financial assistance. In this article, we will discuss the details of the SRD grant and how it helps the elderly in South Africa.

The SRD grant was introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. The grant was initially provided to individuals who had lost their income due to the pandemic. However, in May 2020, the government expanded the grant to include vulnerable groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and child-headed households.

To qualify for the SRD grant, an individual must be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or a refugee registered with the Department of Home Affairs. The applicant must also be unemployed, have no source of income, and not receive any other form of social grant or UIF payment. The grant is also means-tested, which means that the applicant’s income and assets will be assessed to determine their eligibility.

The SRD grant for the elderly is a monthly payment of R350, which is equivalent to approximately $23. This may seem like a small amount, but for many elderly individuals who have no source of income, it is a lifeline. The grant is paid out monthly for a maximum of six months and can be extended depending on the individual’s circumstances.

The SRD grant for the elderly is essential in a country where poverty rates are high, and the elderly population is particularly vulnerable. Many elderly individuals in South Africa are unable to work due to their age or health, and they rely on their families for support. However, with the high levels of unemployment in the country, many families are unable to provide the necessary support, leaving the elderly without any means of survival.

The SRD grant for the elderly has been well-received by many beneficiaries. It has provided them with the means to buy food, pay for medication, and cover other basic needs. However, the grant has also faced challenges, including delays in the payment of the grant and fraud. To address these challenges, the government has introduced measures such as online applications, increased capacity in call centers, and anti-fraud measures.

In conclusion, the SRD grant for the elderly in South Africa is a critical intervention that provides temporary relief to vulnerable individuals. It has played a crucial role in supporting the elderly population during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it will continue to be an important safety net for many elderly individuals in South Africa. However, there is a need for continuous improvement in the implementation of the grant to ensure that it reaches those who need it the most.

Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.