Nicolette Dirk
UWC’s Ikamva Lethu Future Fund campaign, driven by the SRC, has received a R1 million injection.
The fund was started to help students who need financial aid.
Since they established it in February last year, they have raised R3.3m; almost half of which has been spent on helping students register, as well as developing a food security programme.
Last week, Minister of Energy Tina Joemat-Pettersson, an alumna of the university, handed over a much-needed donation by renewable energy company BioTherm.
The university recently called on renewable energy companies to aid academic institutions, harness innovation and bolster efforts towards youth employment and economic empowerment.
The donation is aimed at creating an enabling environment for students, especially those in the sciences.
The SRC approached the Department of Energy in February this year to assist them with lobbying companies for funding academically deserving students who are struggling to secure funds to complete their studies.
With so many registered students at the institution needing some sort of financial assistance, the campaign comes at a time when collective and sustainable solutions are needed.
SRC president Akhona Landu described the donation as an exciting venture, bringing them closer to their R15m goal by September.
The emphasis of Ikamva’s drive is also to ensure food security, which is a challenge for many students.
While many bursaries cover tuition and textbooks, many students go hungry as they are unable to afford food.
“We understand that need transcends simple access to their studies. There are other elements, such as availability of study resources and access to regular meals, tuition and academic material that also contribute towards creating a healthy and progressive environment for students.
“This is why our campaign is so relevant as it includes the holistic approach needed for students to succeed,” said Landu.
In recent years, UWC has become a South African research leader in physics, molecular biology, biochemistry and computer science.
The university is also playing a significant role in renewable energy, with projects such as HySA and SAIAMC developing hydrogen-fuelled vehicles and generators.
BioTherm Energy identified UWC as a potential partner for future energy projects which will, in turn, create many opportunities for deserving students.
BioTherm’s economic development director, Loretta Di Zio, said the donation formed part of the company’s socio-economic contribution to education.
Details for those who want to donate to the Ikamva fund by EFT are: Name of Bank: Absa; Branch Code: 631609; Account No: 4068739851; Reference: SRC – Name of Donor; Branch: Public Sector, Western Cape; Swift Code: ABSAZAJJ