Students urged to complete studies, not fall pregnant

When a student gets bursary to further their studies, they must come back with a qualification – and not a baby.

- Alex Japho Matlala

That's the message from a Limpopo mayor who doesn't want government funds to be misused by students who fall pregnant and drop out from the studies.

Fetakgomo/Tubatse local municipality mayor Eddy Maila told bursary recipients: "When we give you this money, we expect you to come back home with certificates, diplomas or degrees. Don't come back with babies."

The municipality has offered bursaries to cover accommodation, tuition fees, books and a monthly stipend to 12 financially struggling students.

Maila said recent statistics have shown that students who have children often struggle with their studies. This was due to high levels of stress, financial difficulties and health problems, he said.