Shopping for student success this Black Friday

As South Africa prepares for the biggest shopping event of the year, Fundi recommends students approach Black Friday strategically – using deals to invest in quality equipment and tech that will support their academic journey in 2026 and beyond.

With Black Friday just around the corner, South African students face a unique opportunity to buy essential equipment for the upcoming academic year at significantly reduced prices. “This opportunity needs to be carefully considered however,” notes Sphiwe Masuku, Head of Marketing at Fundi.

“The excitement of big discounts can often lead to impulsive purchases that drain budgets without delivering real value. This is why we recommend doing your homework so that you can focus on genuine needs rather than fleeting wants. That way you will be able to invest in quality tech and ICT tools that will support your academic success throughout the coming year.”

She adds that Black Friday can be a game-changer for students who plan strategically: "We see many students making hasty decisions in the moment, only to realise later that they've missed the opportunity to invest in the equipment they really needed for their studies. The key is knowing exactly what you need before the sales begin."

Masuku recommends starting with a comprehensive list of equipment you'll need for 2026. “Consider your course requirements, assignment demands, and any items your current living set-up is lacking. Laptops, tablets, scientific calculators, textbooks, and study furniture should be at the top of your priority list if they're essential for your field of study.”

Next is to set a realistic budget: “You need to be clear upfront on how much you can afford to spend and stick to it.

Remember that Black Friday deals are only valuable if they fit within your financial means. At Fundi for example, we offer flexible payment solutions that can help spread the cost of essential equipment over manageable periods – including on our Black Friday specials. Don’t be scared to ask questions about payment options.”

Researching before you buy is just as important. With many retailers advertising their specials, compare prices and features: “This ensures you can recognise genuine deals when the sales begin, avoiding the trap of inflated ‘discounts’ on overpriced items.”

Masuku stresses prioritising quality over price. “The cheapest option isn't always the best investment. A reliable laptop that lasts four years offers better value than a budget model that fails after one. Consider warranty coverage, brand reputation, and user reviews when making your decision.”

As a student, you also need to pay attention to multi-year value. Ask yourself: "Will this item support my studies for the next two to three years?" Equipment that grows with you – like a powerful laptop, quality noise-cancelling headphones or a robust external had drive is money well spent.

“Linked to this is ensuring that you verify return policies. You must understand the store's return and exchange policy before purchasing. This protection is critical if equipment doesn't meet your expectations or develops faults shortly after purchase,” she adds.

While big-ticket items usually grab everyone’s attention, Black Friday is also ideal for stocking up on everyday study necessities such as USB drives, printing supplies, stationery, desk organisers and quality backpacks that protect your laptop. “Buying ahead can help significantly in tighter months when you need it most!”

With education one of your biggest life investments, the right equipment is part of that investment," notes Masuku. "This makes it important to buy from trusted suppliers – including Fundi – so that the quality study equipment you buy removes barriers to your performance and creates real opportunities,” she concludes.