Grateful Graduate’s ‘Thank You NSFAS’ Sign Sparks Nationwide Praise

A University of KwaZulu-Natal graduate has captured the heart of South Africans after a powerful image of her holding a sign reading “THANK YOU NSFAS” during her graduation ceremony went viral. The photo, shared by both NSFAS and the University, has attracted thousands of engagements and heartfelt comments from the public, applauding the honesty and gratitude expressed in the moment.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) posted the image on Facebook, writing:

“We are super proud of this proud NSFAS beneficiary who just graduated… A testimony of the great impact and role NSFAS plays in changing the lives of young deserving South Africans from poor and working class backgrounds.”

The graduate’s simple gesture — a handwritten note held high in a gown-clad hand — ignited a flood of emotional reactions from taxpayers, students, and education advocates alike. One user, Ntlobeh Zamanzi Dumakude, summed up the mood by calling her “an honest graduate ❤️❤️❤️.”

The image, viewed over 100,000 times in just a few hours, drew admiration from people of all walks of life.

“NSFAS is a great initiative, it must be well managed,” commented Percy Mabanga.
“This one touched me,” added Lindani Lierh.
“A country that invests in its youth — not many countries in the world do that,” praised Nozipho Khumalo.

Our hearts are full🥹

We are super proud of this NSFAS beneficiary who just graduated at UKZN today. A testimony of the role NSFAS plays in the lives of South Africans.
Please do tag us on your graduation pics so we can celebrate these moment with you.#NSFAS2025#NSFASGraduate pic.twitter.com/VKh1vQQkvy

— NSFAS (@myNSFAS) May 9, 2025

Some commenters reflected on their own journeys and struggles. Londiwe Mkhize wrote:

“Nailed it my sister. Without NSFAS, angicabangi ukuthi ngabe ngiyi graduate.”
Others, like Thuludu Msomi, expressed deep well-wishes:
“May God bless her with her dream job.”

But not all responses were celebratory. A few reminded NSFAS to address unresolved issues:

“Some were not granted funds although they said application was approved,” noted Ann Moodley. “They were not fair to some students who also deserved it.”

Despite this, the tone across platforms remained overwhelmingly celebratory.

“I will forever be grateful for NSFAS!!” declared Thandeka Somfula.
“You just made me proud to be a taxpayer,” added Nonhlanhla MaXaba.

NSFAS concluded their post by encouraging graduates to continue sharing their stories with the hashtags #NSFAS2025 and #NSFASGradua

te — a call many have already answered.