By: Qhawekazi Memani – 06  March 2024

In a remarkable event held on 23 February 2024 at the Sandton Convention Centre, the Motsepe Foundation bestowed a significant donation upon the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), marking a pivotal moment in the university’s journey towards student empowerment and support.

The donation, amounting to a generous One Million One Hundred Thousand Rand (R 1 100 000.00), carries profound implications for student governance and welfare at VUT. The donation also signifies the Motsepe Foundation’s commitment to fostering student success and well-being.

The essence of the donation centres around a distinct vision: strengthening student-driven projects that enhance student governance, while simultaneously tackling pressing concerns like student indebtedness, psychological well-being, gender equality, and the welfare of women.  This multifaceted approach reflects a clear understanding of the challenges faced by modern students and highlights the Motsepe Foundation’s dedication to holistic student support.

Receiving the donation on behalf of VUT were Mr. Twanano Hlongwani, the Student Representative Council (SRC) President, and Mr. Lucas Mahooa, representing the Student Leadership and Governance (SLG). Their presence symbolized the university’s unity and commitment to leveraging external support for the betterment of its student body.

Mr Mahooa emphasized the targeted impact of the donation, particularly its allocation towards specific areas of interest. He highlighted how addressing student debt, investing in mental wellness, and promoting gender equity initiatives align with VUT’s mission and the goals of the SLG, which strive to enhance education accessibility and support academic development.

Despite the absence of specific conditions attached to the donation, VUT remains committed to utilizing the funds responsibly, ensuring maximum benefit for the student community. Plans for measuring the donation’s effectiveness include tracking graduation rates and progress towards reducing student debt.

Looking forward, Mr Mahooa expressed optimism about ongoing collaboration and partnership opportunities with the Motsepe Foundation, highlighting that a similar amount was donated to VUT by the Foundation in 2023. As the foundation’s support enters its second year, it promises a positive trajectory for future engagement and mutual benefit.

The Motsepe Foundation is known for its philanthropic efforts in South Africa and across the African continent, and this donation is an example of their pledge to nurturing potential and promoting education. VUT acknowledges the Foundation’s continued support, and  expresses its gratitude for their ongoing efforts in assisting students.