Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET): Bursaries and Support for SA Students
Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust: Transforming Futures Through Education
Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET): Bursaries and Support for SA Students
The Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET) has become a beacon of hope for South African students facing financial barriers to higher education. Established by the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, CRET stands apart with its holistic approach to student support, offering much more than financial aid. This article delves into CRET’s formation, mission, eligibility criteria, and the profound impact it has on the lives of its beneficiaries.
1. History and Formation of CRET
The Origins
The roots of the Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust trace back to 1996, when Cyril Ramaphosa, inspired by his commitment to supporting South Africa’s youth, began personally funding a small number of students. Using proceeds from his speaking engagements, Ramaphosa sought to make higher education accessible to those with potential, regardless of their financial circumstances.
The Formal Establishment
In 2000, this initiative grew into the formal Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET) under the auspices of the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation. Today, CRET stands as a well-structured bursary scheme, reaching hundreds of students nationwide, dedicated to transforming lives through education.
2. Mission and Unique Approach
Foundation Mission
CRET operates as part of the broader Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, an independent non-profit organization committed to youth development and enterprise creation. The trust’s primary aim is to uplift students from disadvantaged backgrounds, aligning with the foundation’s vision of creating a positive societal impact.
Holistic Support
Unlike traditional bursary programs that primarily reward top academic achievers, CRET focuses on candidates who demonstrate potential but may not have the top scores. CRET’s goal is to support students with strong character and a desire to succeed despite their circumstances.
Mentorship and Life Skills
CRET’s approach extends beyond financial support, offering mentorship, psychological grounding, and life skills development to ensure recipients are well-prepared for the world beyond academia. This comprehensive support empowers CRET students with tools for both personal and professional growth, making the trust a unique player in the educational support landscape.
3. Fields of Study Supported by CRET
Overview of Sponsored Fields
CRET provides bursaries for a range of undergraduate studies, ensuring students gain qualifications in fields critical to South Africa’s development. From business to engineering, CRET’s support spans diverse sectors.
Specific Fields
Bursaries are available for:
- Commerce and Finance
- Education
- Engineering
- Sciences (excluding MBChB)
- Technology
- Scarce or Critical Skills Training: This includes fields such as boiler making, welding, plumbing, occupational health and safety (OHS), renewable energy, waste management, green technology, and entrepreneurship. These fields are identified as essential to South Africa’s sustainable development, and CRET aims to fill these gaps by supporting relevant training.
4. Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a CRET bursary, candidates must meet certain requirements:
- South African Citizenship: Applicants must hold a valid South African ID.
- Age Range: Applicants must be between 16 and 27 years old.
- Educational Requirements: Students must either be in Matric or have completed Matric, aiming to pursue an undergraduate qualification in a specified field.
- Financial Need: Candidates must come from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, with a total household income below R650,000 per annum.
These criteria ensure that CRET’s resources reach those with genuine need and potential for growth in their chosen fields.
5. The Application Process
Online Application
Students interested in CRET bursaries can apply online through the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation website. The process is straightforward, though attention to detail is essential to ensure eligibility.
Required Documentation
Candidates need to submit several supporting documents, including:
- Certified copy of their ID
- Recent academic records
- Proof of acceptance to a recognized tertiary institution in South Africa
- Motivational letter explaining their goals and reasons for seeking the bursary
- Proof of household income and residential address
- Psychometric test results specific to their chosen field of study
These requirements are designed to give CRET a holistic view of each applicant, beyond just academic performance.
Psychometric Testing
A psychometric test, required as part of the application process, helps assess the applicant’s aptitude and suitability for their chosen field. This approach ensures that bursaries go to candidates with a high likelihood of success.
6. Impact and Alumni Network
The Success Stories
Since its inception, CRET has positively impacted countless lives by enabling financially disadvantaged students to obtain degrees and qualifications. Many recipients have gone on to become highly skilled professionals, filling critical roles in industries across South Africa.
Alumni Contributions
CRET’s alumni network is a strong community of past beneficiaries who actively contribute back to the trust, often by mentoring current students. This gives CRET students access to guidance from those who have successfully navigated similar journeys, reinforcing the program’s holistic support model.
7. Contact and Support Options
Contact Information
For questions, mentorship opportunities, or financial support:
- Tel: 011 592 6560
- Email: info@cyrilramaphosa.org
Ways to Support
CRET welcomes contributions from individuals and organizations eager to support its mission. Donors can choose to provide financial aid, become mentors, or contribute in other impactful ways to help South African youth achieve their potential.
8. Important Dates and Deadlines
Application Closing Date
The closing date for 2025 CRET bursary applications is 13 December 2024. Applications submitted after this deadline will not be accepted, so students are encouraged to apply early to ensure consideration.
Conclusion
The Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust plays a crucial role in expanding access to education for South Africa’s youth, investing not only in their academic achievements but also in their overall development as individuals. With its comprehensive approach, CRET creates opportunities where there were none, allowing talented young South Africans to rise above financial hardship and realize their dreams.
If you or someone you know could benefit from CRET, consider applying – the chance to transform a life through education awaits.
