Former SFAR beneficiaries become innovative

Some formerly government-sponsored university students, who no longer receive monthly living allowances from the former Students Financing Agency for Rwanda (SFAR), have come up with various measures to make up for the lost financial support. The Rwf 25,000 monthly allowances were halted for those deemed financially capable at the beginning of the 2010 academic year, but the tuition fees in public universities were maintained. The monthly stipend paid for meals, accommodation and other scholastic needs. Nadia Umumararungu, a third year student at the National University of Rwanda (NUR), became a part-time teacher in a school that helps candidates prepare for national exams. “I teach private candidates during the weekends, holidays and nights, when I am not busy, and earn Frw 80,000 a month. I can still pay for my rent, food and other necessities,” she says. Caleb Gumosabe, a fourth year student, at NUR makes money working for “Never Again Rwanda, Butare Club” and has co-started an English-teaching school. “I am involved with many projects like AIESEC and Never Again; I get work experience but we sometimes earn from projects,” he says. Malik Uwitonze, an ICT student at the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) got a job at an Information technology firm, Internet-Solutions Business. He works during the day and studies at night. “A neighbour from my village offered me a day-time job and I had to change my studying schedule to be able to work, though it is a challenge. From the School of Finance and Banking (SFB), Deo Jabo, an upcoming musician, earns from mini-shows and performances in Karaoke. “Music has helped me to keep going, though I am still a junior artist. I sing with J-KID group, and earn about Frw 50,000 at pub performances. We can even have four performances a week.” Esther Mutesi, also from SFB, still seeks support from her family. “Mum gives me money daily; though I sometimes have to explain my expenditure, unlike when I got the bursary.” Other students cut expenses by staying with their relatives or sharing rent. Others, though, still face challenges of coping with the situation. Ends