By: Nontobeko Moimane 18 July 2024

On 17 July 2024, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) through the Department of Resource Mobilisation, was the grateful recipient of five hundred (500) non-perishable food hampers from the Gift of the Givers Foundation, Africa’s largest independent humanitarian organisation. Additionally, on the day, a total of 100 students received personal grocery hampers.

This donation was an inspiring effort by the Foundation to commemorate this year’s International Nelson Mandela Day.

To welcome the Foundation’s representatives and accept the noble gesture on behalf of the university, was Prof Khehla Ndlovu, Vice Chancellor and Principal, along with Dr. Narissa Ramdhani, the Director of the Department of Resource Mobilisation.

Dr Ramdhani indicated that they enjoy a long and fruitful partnership with the Foundation, which has seen thousands of food parcels donated to the Department’s Student Food Insecurity Project. Further involvement includes the donation of medication for the campus clinic and initiatives to build a new Wellness Centre for students at the Sebokeng Campus (Science Park).

‘This Foundation has acted as the most committed donor to the VUT community,” said Ramdhani.

VUT students and delegates with the representatives from the Gift of the Givers Foundation

The students who received the food parcels were identified through the University’s Victim Empower Centre database and verified with their identification. This ensured that the aid reached those who needed it most. One of the student recipients, Ms. Tsholofelo Motsalane, expressed her heartfelt appreciation, saying, “This is such a thoughtful gesture from Gift of Givers Foundation. These parcels are packed with essential foods that we truly need, and they will make a significant difference in our lives.”

Ms. Hlubikazi Ntshobane, the Client Liaison Officer at Gift of Givers Foundation, also shared her sentiments on the occasion. “We are committed to supporting needy students with food hampers in commemoration of Mandela Day. I am profoundly grateful to our sponsors who recognise the plight of university students and extend their help through these food hampers.”

This act of kindness highlights the powerful impact of community and compassion, reflecting the enduring spirit of Nelson Mandela’s legacy. By providing essential support to students, Gift of Givers and their sponsors have not only alleviated immediate needs but have also sown seeds of hope and encouragement for the future.