05 May l 2025 | Story: Tshepiso Kaibe | Photo: Peter Masela
2 minutes read time.
In a remarkable display of unity and compassion, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) hosted a food packing drive on 25 April 2025. The initiative, spearheaded by the Alumni Relations Department in collaboration with the PPS Foundation and Rise Against Hunger, brought together students, staff, alumni, and corporate partners in a hands-on effort to tackle food insecurity both within the university and in surrounding communities.
A shared commitment to social responsibility and student well-being inspired the drive. At VUT, initiatives like these are part of a continuous effort to uplift students and contribute meaningfully to the broader Vaal Triangle region. Partnering with the PPS Foundation, long-time advocates for education and youth development, and Rise Against Hunger, an organization renowned for combating hunger globally, provided the perfect platform for impactful collaboration.
The event formed part of VUT’s ongoing Phakamisa Ikhaya campaign, which focuses on fostering a sense of home, care, and support within the university community. Volunteers turned out in impressive numbers, driven by a collective spirit to make a difference. In just two hours, the dedicated teams managed to pack a remarkable 14,500 meal packages. These packages will now be distributed to food-insecure VUT students and vulnerable households within the local community.
Distribution will be managed through the university’s Student Support Services Department and community outreach offices. The allocation process is guided by carefully considered criteria, including financial need, academic standing, and referrals from social support networks, to ensure that the assistance reaches those who need it most.
Mr Comfort Madalane, Alumni Officer at VUT, expressed heartfelt pride in the initiative’s success. “This event was both heartwarming and inspiring. Witnessing students, staff, alumni, and corporate partners coming together with energy and purpose reminded us of the power of community. It wasn’t just about packing meals, it was about restoring dignity and hope. The positive energy in the room was contagious, and I left the venue feeling proud, motivated, and more committed than ever to our mission of uplifting others.”
Looking ahead, the Alumni Relations Department has expressed hopes to expand the initiative in future years. Plans include making the meal-packing drive an annual event, with increased participation from alumni, industry partners, and student societies. There’s also a vision to integrate job readiness workshops, wellness services, and motivational talks to make the event even more holistic. By securing additional sponsorship, the team aims to double their reach and impact in the coming years.
