University of Limpopo alumni, friends and staff raise R8.5 million for missing-middle students
The University of Limpopo (UL) alumni, staff, and supporters successfully raised R8.5 million during a fundraising gala dinner held at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand. The event aimed to address financial challenges faced by the University’s missing-middle students—those from families with incomes exceeding the government funding threshold set by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
Initially targeting R3 million, the gala dinner exceeded expectations due to contributions from sponsors ranging from R10 000 to R5 million, with Standard Bank making the highest contribution.
Approximately 200 students falling within the “missing-middle” category have been identified by the University for potential assistance. The University Registrar, Professor Kwena Masha, confirmed these students will benefit from the funds, and additional support will be extended to other missing-middle students. Professor Masha stated, “Similar student funding initiatives will continue throughout the 2024 academic year to support academically deserving students facing financial constraints.”
Donald Selamolela, President of the UL Alumni and Convocation Association, expressed gratitude to all contributors, highlighting the acceptance of any amount and encouraging those unable to attend the event to make contributions to the University.
Pandelani Nefolovhodwe, Chairperson of the UL Council, commended the younger generation for organising the event and expressed hope that they would continue the legacy of ensuring that “no academically deserving black child is left behind”.
Giving the state of the University presentation, UL Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Mahlo Mokgalong, reaffirmed the commitment to the “missing-middle” students, stating, “We will never abandon the ‘missing-middle’ students. We must support them to always achieve their academic dreams. Please join us in funding these students whom NSFAS cannot assist, and whose parents cannot afford their academic expenses. Our gratitude goes to the many friends of UL who have generously donated to aid these students.”
One such missing-middle student, Vanessa Matjie, studying towards a Bachelor of Education from Jane Furse in Limpopo, shared her challenges, expressing gratitude for the funding efforts from UL alumni and the Convocation Association. She highlighted the financial strain faced by her family and the rejection from NSFAS.
“At home, we rely only on my father as my mother is not working. NSFAS rejected me. It’s tough because my father’s earning is not enough to cover my education and that of my siblings. All I need is funding to cover my studies so that I can also afford accommodation on campus as I’m currently staying off-campus.”
Delivering a keynote address upon receiving an excellence award recognizing his valuable contribution to the business sector, Chief Executive Officer of Seriti Resources and UL alumnus Professor Mike Teke appealed to both current and past students not to forget the institutions that shaped their careers. “As alumni, it is crucial that we persist in supporting this University, contributing to its rise in rankings, and sustaining its positive impact on the economy,” stated Prof Teke.