“VUT’s Computer Science team helped Tharabollo learners apply to universities, offering mentorship, funding guidance, and digital support for 2026.”
1 September 2025 | Story By: Staff Reporter | Picture: Supplied
2 minutes read time.
On Friday, 29 August 2025, the Vaal University of Technology’s (VUT) Computer Science Community Engagement team, working with Geekulcha and the Computer Society, delivered a transformative outreach programme at Tharabollo Secondary School to support Grade 12 learners with their university applications.
This initiative forms part of VUT’s broader vision of positioning universities as anchor institutions that connect higher education with communities. It aims to empower first-generation learners to transition successfully into university life and improve access to higher education.
Learners received hands-on guidance from volunteer mentors, many of whom were VUT students from different faculties. These mentors provided one-on-one and group support, assisting with online applications, uploading documents, exploring courses and faculties, and applying for funding opportunities including the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and bursaries.
Beyond technical support, mentors shared their own experiences of student life, career decisions, and the resilience needed to thrive in higher education.
“It was rewarding and eye-opening,” one mentor reflected. “Even a short intervention can shift a learner’s future. Many of us left with a stronger sense of responsibility and a deeper understanding of the challenges learners from disadvantaged schools face.”
The programme also benefited the mentors, who developed valuable communication, leadership, and digital skills. They gained deeper appreciation of the inequalities faced by learners with limited access to computers, internet connectivity, and career guidance.
For the Tharabollo learners, the immediate impact was evident. Many successfully completed their 2026 university applications, gained confidence in navigating digital platforms, and left with renewed hope about their futures.
However, the session also revealed ongoing challenges, including limited time, scarce digital resources, and the need to prepare mentors on application systems. The team
recommended stronger partnerships with universities to provide additional resources, extended engagement timeframes, provision of devices and Wi-Fi hotspots, and ongoing mentorship.
The initiative was a win-win experience: it equipped learners with essential tools for accessing higher education and reminded university students that education extends beyond lecture halls into service to communities.
As VUT advances towards 2033, programmes such as this reaffirm its commitment to social change, digital inclusion, and equitable access to education, ensuring that no learner is left behind.