“OUTsurance Imali Yam hosted a three-day Financial Literacy Programme at VUT, empowering first-year students with essential budgeting, saving and investment skills.”
03 March 2026 | Story by: Sphiwe Sadiki | Picture by: Sifiso Nomzaza
3 minutes read time.
From 24 to 26 February 2025, OUTsurance Imali Yam hosted a three-day Financial Literacy Programme for first year students at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT). Held at the PS Building, African Languages, the initiative brought together students from various faculties, united by a shared determination to take charge of their financial futures.
The programme was facilitated by economic expert and Master Trainer, Ms Amanda Ndiki, supported by Ms Pamela Makeleni. Addressing the students, Ms Ndiki commended them for prioritising financial education at the start of their academic journey, describing financial literacy as a life skill that shapes both academic performance and long-term stability.
Students were equipped with practical guidance on budgeting, saving, responsible spending and foundational investment principles. Using relatable examples, Ms Ndiki demonstrated how consistent saving can yield meaningful results. Setting aside R300 per month, she explained, could grow to approximately R3,300 in a year and R16,500 over five years. Such an amount could serve as emergency support or seed capital for a small business.
The example resonated strongly, particularly with students dependent on NSFAS allowances or limited family support. Ms Ndiki encouraged them to distinguish clearly between needs and wants, emphasising that financial success is defined not by income alone, but by disciplined management of available resources.
Students were also advised to adopt smarter purchasing habits, including buying essential goods in bulk to reduce monthly costs. Cautioning against the misuse of credit cards and unnecessary loans, Ms Ndiki warned that unmanaged debt can damage credit records, limit employment prospects and create emotional strain. Financial stability, she noted, provides peace of mind and allows students to focus fully on their studies and personal growth.
The programme created space for students to reflect on their financial journeys and entrepreneurial aspirations.
Mr Nathaniel Machume, a Diploma in Tourism Management student, spoke candidly about his experience as a self-funded student. “I work part-time and look for side businesses so that I do not put pressure on my family,” he said. “This workshop showed me that saving is not about how much you earn, but about discipline. If I budget properly and stay consistent, I can build real security for my future.”
Ms Nokulunga Thubane, a Food Service Management student who runs a hairdressing business to support her tuition, described the session as transformative. “I realised that I need to treat my business like a real business,” she said. “I am going to separate my personal and business money and start saving with a clear goal in mind. That is how I will grow.”
Similarly, Ms Tebatso Mabena, a Tourism Management student who sells toilet paper to fellow students in residences, reflected on the importance of intentional saving. “Setting specific savings goals has changed my mindset,” she said. “I want to expand my small business and become financially independent. This programme gave me the confidence to plan properly.”
The Financial Literacy Programme left a lasting impression by instilling a mindset of responsibility, discipline and forward thinking. More than a workshop, it positioned money as a tool for empowerment rather than anxiety.
Through partnerships such as this, OUTsurance Imali Yam and VUT continue to invest in shaping financially conscious graduates who are equipped to make informed decisions, manage risk responsibly and pursue their academic and entrepreneurial ambitions with confidence.