Don’t allow the ghosts of student debt to haunt your future

Loading player...
GUEST: John Manyike, Head of Financial Education at Old Mutual

Education is the key to a great future, but, like all good things, it can come with a steep price tag. For many graduates, this means shouldering part of the national R16.5 billion student debt and starting a working life with this financial burden.

But, says Old Mutual, it’s not all bad news. Having a diploma or degree is an investment that can offer rich returns for the rest of your life, says John Manyike, Head of Financial Education at Old Mutual. Yes, you may have debt, but how you manage it will be key. “Student debt is a serious issue in South Africa. Debts accumulated by young people are increasing. For many, taking a student loan is often the only way to realise their dreams. “

“For parents, the obvious thing to consider is an education plan that matures when a child is due to enter a tertiary institution. If contributions keep pace with education inflation, this could guarantee a paid-up place at a university. Even if the amount realised falls short, it could reduce the loan size needed to get that qualification.
21 Feb 2023 3PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

Other recent episodes

South Africa's R1.16 Trillion Logistics Problem

South Africa's logistics bill is projected to reach a record R1.16 trillion in 2026, equivalent to 14.6% of GDP and the highest logistics cost burden recorded in more than two decades. The latest State of Logistics 2026 for South Africa report paints a picture of a freight system under pressure…
9 Nov 1PM 13 min

Your Vote, Your Wealth: Why Politics Shapes Property Prices

For most South Africans, their home is their largest financial asset. So, what happens when poor governance starts eroding property values? Herschel Jawitz, CEO of Jawitz Properties, joins us to discuss the powerful relationship between local government performance, infrastructure, service delivery and household wealth.
9 Nov 12PM 19 min

Coalition Country: South Africa's New Political Map

South Africa's local elections have redrawn the country's political landscape. With no outright majorities in most major metros, coalition negotiations will now determine who governs Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni and other key economic hubs. Louw Nel, Senior Political Analyst at Oxford Economics Africa, unpacks the rise of political fragmentation, the growing…
9 Nov 11AM 17 min

Can You Trust AI for High-Stakes Decisions?

Should you rely on AI for critical legal or financial choices? My AI Lawyer Head of Services Michael Visser joins Nzinga Qunta to unpack how specialized AI acts as an affordable starting point to navigate your rights before paying for professional advice.
5 Nov 1PM 13 min

How to Invest in Banana Trees

Expanding beyond traditional livestock, crowdfarming is now giving everyday South Africans direct access to plant-based farm assets. Ntuthuko Shezi breaks down the mechanics of banana tree investments, harvest yield returns, and risk management for retail investors looking to grow real farm wealth.
5 Nov 1PM 15 min