Bamboo - eat it

If we are really determined to get rid of bamboo – we can always eat it! ‘Menma’ is made from fermented Bamboo Shoots and it is a very popular topping for Ramen Noodle Soups. However, it is tricky to make ‘Menma’ at home as it involves drying and fermentation processes. But this ‘Braised Bamboo Shoots’ tastes quite similar to ‘Menma’ and it is so easy to make. Use Canned Bamboo Shoots that are available from most supermarkets.

Fresh Bamboo Stir-Fry with Sweet Peppers

To remove the skin when preparing fresh bamboo, make a shallow cut lengthwise down the skin, then peel away and discard it. Cut off the in¬edible thicker end of the shoot. Never wash fresh bamboo with water, which can give it an unpleasant flavor. Instead, use a dry towel to brush away any dust or dirt. In a wok over very high heat, add the lard or oil, and swirl the pan to coat its surface. When the oil is smoking, add the ginger and garlic, and cook, stirring constantly, just until fragrant (avoid browning or burning the garlic), about 1 minute. Add the bamboo and bell pepper, and continue stir-frying until both are crisp-tender, 2–3 minutes. Season with kosher salt, pour in the potato-starch mixture, and let cook for 30 seconds more.

What is NSFAS? The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government entity under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)

What does NSFAS do?

Supports access to and success in, higher education and training for students from poor and working-class families who would otherwise not be able to afford the cost of studies at a public university or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college. •Provides financial aid to eligible students who are studying or plan to study at any of the 50 TVET colleges or the 26 public universities in South Africa •Identifies students who qualify for the bursary •Provides bursaries to students

Who qualifies for NSFAS funding?

• All South African citizens • All SASSA grant recipients • Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350 000 per annum • Persons with disabilities with a combined household income of not more than R600 000 per annum • Students who started studying at a university before 2018 and whose household income is not more than R122 000 per annum

What does the NSFAS bursary cover? • Registration • Tuition • Book allowance • Accommodation allowance • Transport allowance • Food allowance • Personal care allowance

Does the NSFAS bursary offer any additional support for students with disabilities? Yes, NSFAS further supports funded students with disabilities through an additional allowance that covers:

• Medical assessments • Assistive devices • Human support to cover for the cost of a caregiver, guide dog, scribe or tutor.

How, where and when can one apply for NSFAS?

The 2021 application season will be communicated through media, social media and the NSFAS website www.nsfas.org.za. Applications are submitted online through the NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za

To apply for NSFAS funding students must have a registered myNSFAS account. If you plan to study in 2021 and require support from NSFAS, you may open your myNSFAS account now to keep updated with the latest funding information.

Connect with us using the following channels:

National Student Financial Aid Scheme myNSFAS myNSFAS

NSFAS Connect: www.nsfas.org.za and log into your myNSFAS account