Hon Speaker, the ANC recognises with great appreciation the efforts undertaken by the Ministry and the Department of Higher Education and Training to award full bursaries to 95 students in the Mopani district in Limpopo. All these students come from very poor families and could not afford to further their studies after passing their matric well. The Minister made this commitment on 18 July 2010 during the 67 minutes of observing the contribution of our hero, Dr Nelson Mandela. In line with 67 minutes, he committed to assisting 67 students. However, due to great need, 95 students were assisted. These students have the potential to succeed in their studies. They are the first cohorts to be assisted under this scheme, in keeping with the ANC priorities of providing for education in general and tertiary education in particular and providing access to those who were previously advantaged.
We hope these students will be monitored and assisted every step of the way in order to ensure that a 100% success rate is realised. There are still thousands of aspirant students who are capable but poor and might not gain access to institutions of higher learning.
Minister, we wish you success in your continuous endeavours to assist almost all of them. This is testimony to the ANC's commitment to skill and educate the nation in order to address the skills challenge that South Africa is facing. Thank you. [Applause.]