Categories
Media release

Media release

Absa and Feenix Unlock Economic Opportunity by Clearing Student Historical Debt for Graduates

13 March 2026

For many South African students, completing a qualification does not automatically mean stepping into the next chapter of life.  Each year, thousands of students finish their studies but cannot graduate because of unpaid university fees from previous academic years.

This unpaid balance, known as historical debt, refers to outstanding student fees owed to universities that prevent students from receiving their certificates, accessing official transcripts, or formally graduating. Without these documents, employment opportunities are delayed and years of academic effort remain stalled, not because students lack ability, but because debt stands in the way.

Through the Absa’s partnership with the Feenix Trust, Absa is addressing this final obstacle by clearing historical student debt at selected public universities. By settling verified debt directly with participating institutions, the partnership removes the final barrier preventing capable graduates from transitioning into  economic activity.

This initiative forms part of Absa’s commitment to being a purpose led pan African financial institution committed to developing Africa’s youth.

“When debt is lifted, we unlock economic opportunity which is critical considering the high youth unemployment rate,” says Clement Motale, Interim Managing Executive for Corporate Citizenship at Absa Group. “Graduation becomes possible, and economic inclusion  is unlocked . Through this partnership, we are deliberate about impacting the youth of our nation.”

This intervention applies strictly to historical debt and does not cover current-year tuition fees. Applicants must have completed their qualification, and the outstanding balance must be the sole reason they are unable to receive their graduation certificate.

How to Apply

Students who believe they may qualify are encouraged to visit  https://bursaries.feenix.org/absa/apply-now/ to begin the application process.

On the website, applicants can review the full eligibility criteria, download the required documentation, including the EEA1 form, follow the step-by-step application guidance, and submit their completed application online.

Through this partnership, Absa and Feenix are coming alongside our youth to enable a different future for them.

13 March 2026

For many South African students, completing a qualification does not automatically mean stepping into the next chapter of life.  Each year, thousands of students finish their studies but cannot graduate because of unpaid university fees from previous academic years.

This unpaid balance, known as historical debt, refers to outstanding student fees owed to universities that prevent students from receiving their certificates, accessing official transcripts, or formally graduating. Without these documents, employment opportunities are delayed and years of academic effort remain stalled, not because students lack ability, but because debt stands in the way.

Through the Absa’s partnership with the Feenix Trust, Absa is addressing this final obstacle by clearing historical student debt at selected public universities. By settling verified debt directly with participating institutions, the partnership removes the final barrier preventing capable graduates from transitioning into  economic activity.

This initiative forms part of Absa’s commitment to being a purpose led pan African financial institution committed to developing Africa’s youth.

“When debt is lifted, we unlock economic opportunity which is critical considering the high youth unemployment rate,” says Clement Motale, Interim Managing Executive for Corporate Citizenship at Absa Group. “Graduation becomes possible, and economic inclusion  is unlocked . Through this partnership, we are deliberate about impacting the youth of our nation.”

This intervention applies strictly to historical debt and does not cover current-year tuition fees. Applicants must have completed their qualification, and the outstanding balance must be the sole reason they are unable to receive their graduation certificate.

How to Apply

Students who believe they may qualify are encouraged to visit  https://bursaries.feenix.org/absa/apply-now/ to begin the application process.

On the website, applicants can review the full eligibility criteria, download the required documentation, including the EEA1 form, follow the step-by-step application guidance, and submit their completed application online.

Through this partnership, Absa and Feenix are coming alongside our youth to enable a different future for them.