LUSAKA - The Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board (HELSB) has begun processing and paying accommodation allowance top-ups for eligible University of Zambia (UNZA) students living off campus.
The payments follow a directive by President Hakainde Hichilema to increase the accommodation allowance for eligible off-campus students from K3,900 to K5,850.
HELSB Chief Executive Officer John Machayi said the payment currently being processed represents the K1,950 difference between the amount already paid and the revised allowance approved by Government.
Dr. Machayi said the top-up is being paid to eligible HELSB-sponsored UNZA students residing off campus.
He explained that following the President's announcement on August 1, the Board immediately began the administrative and financial processes required to implement the directive.
Dr. Machayi said payment processing commenced today after the Board confirmed that the required funds had been credited to its account.
He said eligible students should expect the top-up to be deposited into their bank accounts in line with normal banking and electronic funds transfer processing timelines.
Dr. Machayi thanked the Government for its continued support in improving student welfare and reaffirmed the Board's commitment to ensuring eligible students receive their financial support without unnecessary delays.
He also thanked students for their patience while the Board completed the administrative and financial procedures needed to implement the directive.
Meanwhile, University of Zambia Students' Union (UNZASU) President Mwanto Kabaso welcomed the commencement of the payments, saying the increased accommodation allowance would provide much-needed relief to many students living off campus.
Mr. Kabaso said the development has boosted students' confidence in President Hichilema.
Source: ZNBC | By: Arnold Tutu