As matric results are released and university costs continue to rise, the MotiMoves Pay It Forward initiative is offering financial relief to prospective first-year students heading into the 2026 academic year.
The R1 million initiative will provide R10,000 each to 100 students, paid directly to accredited tertiary institutions to assist with registration or tuition fees. The aim is to ease the upfront costs that often prevent accepted students from finalising their enrolment.
Unlike traditional bursaries that focus only on top academic achievers, Pay It Forward takes a broader view of student success — recognising determination, potential and access to opportunity alongside academic performance.
First-year study costs at South African universities can range from R50,000 to over R100,000 a year, with registration fees payable upfront. While admission is a major milestone, these costs remain a decisive barrier for many families.
Zunaid Moti said the weeks before registration are often when study plans become uncertain.
“Getting accepted is only half the journey,” Moti said. “Pay It Forward is designed to step in at the moment when a contribution can determine whether a student registers or has to put their plans on hold.”
How to apply
The initiative is open to South African residents aged 18 and older who have been accepted to study at an accredited tertiary institution in 2026, in any field.
Applicants must submit a 90-second public video on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn or X, introducing themselves, outlining their field of study and explaining why the support matters. Posts must tag Zunaid Moti and include #MotiMoves and #PayItForward.
Supporting documents — including a South African ID, proof of residence, matric results, and an acceptance letter — must be emailed to education@zunaid-moti.co.za. Successful applicants will be announced later in January.
The bursary forms part of MotiMoves, a free entrepreneurship and mentorship programme aimed at expanding access to education and opportunity for young South Africans.
Full details are available at www.motimoves.co.za.
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