Smart card for social grants
26 August 2003
The Gauteng department of social development and Absa Bank have launched the Absa Sikhulule Debit Card to enable social grants recipients easier access to their money.
The card was developed by Absa as part of a joint partnership with government to find alternative ways of improving service delivery, especially for social grants.
The card will allow beneficiaries to withdraw grants at their own convenience at auto teller machines, and to purchase goods directly at retail outlets where the Visa Electron sign is displayed.
The introduction of the debit card is linked to a transactional account, and will bring an end to long queues for beneficiaries who choose the card.
The advantages for customers include automation and speed, greater flexibility, and easier access. Beneficiaries may also draw smaller cash amounts and deposit (cash and electronic credits only) additional funds into the debit card.
The social grants
beneficiaries will no longer have to queue, as their accounts will be credited electronically on the first working day of each month, and all account holders will have PIN codes for their safety.
Israel Skhosana of Absa said the bank and the department of social development will continue to review and seek ways to improve the effectiveness of distributing grants for the benefit of vulnerable groups.
"We are pleased to announce that Absa is simultaneously launching a world first portable device - a remote opening kit that will enable the opening of accounts," he said.
MEC for Social Development Angie Motshekga said the department was striving to make social grant beneficiaries' lives "smarter". "Through initiatives like this, the province will be 'smart' as all its people, including the elderly, will also be 'smart'", she said.
Source: BuaNews
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