Education is a powerful tool that can break the cycle of poverty and create opportunities for a better future. Since 2015, data has shown that children who receive social grants in South Africa tend to stay in school longer and perform better in Grade 12. The 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results for social grant beneficiaries highlight this success, proving that social protection plays a vital role in education and economic growth.
With an 86.06 percent pass rate—an increase from 81.26 percent in 2023—learners from grant-supported households are excelling academically. Many of them have applied for NSFAS funding, ensuring they can continue their studies at a tertiary level. Additionally, over 3,000 learners applied for COVID-19 SRD grants after turning 18, showing how financial aid helps keep young South Africans in school.
This article explores the link between social grants and educational success, how these grants impact South African youth, and what the future holds for beneficiaries.
How Social Grants Support Education in South Africa
Social Grants Keep Children in School
Many children from low-income households rely on grants like the Child Support Grant (CSG) to cover school-related costs such as transport, food, and stationery. Without this financial assistance, thousands of learners would struggle to stay in school.
Research shows that children receiving grants are less likely to drop out and more likely to complete their matric year. The longer children remain in school, the higher their chances of pursuing higher education or securing stable employment.
Higher Pass Rates Among Social Grant Beneficiaries
The increase in NSC pass rates for grant beneficiaries over the years is proof that financial stability contributes to academic success. In 2024, the pass rate for these learners reached 86.06 percent, a significant improvement from 81.26 percent in 2023.
This increase reflects the effectiveness of government support in ensuring that disadvantaged learners get equal opportunities to succeed.
Support for 18-Year-Olds: COVID-19 SRD Grant
A major challenge faced by many learners is financial insecurity after they turn 18 and no longer qualify for the Child Support Grant. However, 3,092 learners who turned 18 in 2024 applied for the COVID-19 SRD grant to continue receiving financial support.
This highlights the crucial role of social protection in ensuring young South Africans do not drop out after matric due to financial constraints.
Access to Higher Education: More NSFAS Applications
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has also seen an increase in applications from social grant beneficiaries. With the 2024 NSC results showing improved pass rates, more learners are applying for financial aid, allowing them to pursue tertiary education at universities and TVET colleges.
NSFAS ensures that these students receive tuition fees, accommodation, and living allowances, preventing financial stress from becoming a barrier to higher education.
The Impact of Social Protection on Future Success
Social grants do more than just help learners complete their education—they create opportunities for long-term success. When young people have access to education, they can break the cycle of poverty and contribute to the country’s economic development.
Here is how social protection leads to success:
- Better Education – Grants help learners stay in school and achieve higher pass rates.
- Tertiary Opportunities – More students are applying for NSFAS to study further.
- Reduced Dropout Rates – Financial support ensures that learners complete their matric.
- Economic Growth – Educated individuals have higher employment prospects, reducing poverty in the long run.
Challenges and the Way Forward
While social grants have significantly contributed to education, challenges remain. Some of the key issues include:
- Inadequate Financial Support – The Child Support Grant (CSG) is R510 per month, which is often not enough to cover all educational expenses.
- Lack of Awareness – Many eligible students are unaware that they can apply for NSFAS or social relief grants after turning 18.
- Employment Opportunities – Completing matric is only the first step; ensuring that learners find employment after graduating remains a challenge.
Solutions for a Stronger Future
- Increase Social Grant Amounts – Adjusting grant amounts to match inflation can help students better manage educational costs.
- Expand SRD Grant Eligibility – Allowing more 18-year-old learners to qualify for financial support will keep them in school.
- Improve Awareness Campaigns – Government and NGOs should promote NSFAS and bursary programs more effectively.
- Create More Job Opportunities – Linking matric graduates to learnerships, internships, and skills programs can help them transition into the workforce.
Social Grants = Education + Opportunity + Success
The 2024 NSC results have proven that social grants play a vital role in ensuring that children stay in school, pass Grade 12, and pursue higher education. With an increasing number of learners applying for NSFAS and other financial aid programs, the future looks bright for South African youth.
Social protection is more than just financial assistance—it is an investment in the next generation. By strengthening social grants and ensuring better access to educational support, South Africa can create a future where every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed.
