The National Action for Quality Education in Zambia (NAQUEZ) says the introduction of the online TEVET bursary application system poses a challenge to individuals that might not have access to the internet.
NAQUEZ Executive Director Aaron Chansa said government should consider making the online application system optional so that those who are unable to use the platform can resort to using the manual process. Internet access and quality in rural areas is still as challenge.
Speaking in an interview with Zambian Business Times-ZBT, Chansa said the Ministry of Higher Education should also engage in sensitizing people in rural areas who are usually the most needy and may not be aware of this online facility as well as provide another option for those who are unable to access it.
Chansa however said that the world has continued to evolve therefore it is important for everyone to adapt to technology and familiarise themselves with new ways of doing things.
“It is a good development because it might reduce bureaucracy and make work easier but some people may not be conversant with it or have access to devices that they can use to access the internet therefore government should consider providing another option, he said.”
Chansa added that it is important for government to ensure that people in far flung areas are catered for as they are in most cases the ones in need of financial assistance the most as compared to people in urban areas.
The Ministry of Higher Education has launched an online bursary application system that replaced the manual process which it says involved some cumbersome factors and needed all applicants to travel and physically lodge an application form.
