The University of Pretoria’s Giving Matters campaign is nearing its R100 million goal to support ‘missing middle’ students. To date, widespread community donations have raised R82 million.
Pretoria, South Africa (15 July) – “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” These profound words by Nelson Mandela capture the essence of why education is so crucial. Mandela also said, “Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.”
This is the driving force behind the University of Pretoria’s (UP) incredible Giving Matters campaign, which has raised R82 million to support students in the ‘missing middle.’
‘The ‘missing middle’ refers to students who do not qualify for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding due to their household income being above the threshold, yet they still cannot afford higher education. This group often falls through the cracks of financial aid systems, making initiatives like UP’s Giving Matters campaign vital for their academic and professional success.
Launched in 2022, UP’s Giving Matters campaign set an ambitious goal to raise R100 million over three years. This initiative aims to positively impact the lives of UP’s community members, inspired by the university’s motto, ‘Make today matter.’ This campaign calls upon staff, alumni, donors, and friends of the university to contribute and make a meaningful difference.
Interim UP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Themba Mosia shared, “While we will always need this kind of funding due to the ongoing socio-economic challenges in our country, we are proud to have changed the lives of more than 407 students and supported various projects at UP through this campaign. None of this would have been possible without the support of our donors, including staff, students, and alumni, who understand the struggles faced by students striving to transform their lives through education.”
The Impact So Far
In its first year, the Giving Matters campaign raised an impressive R31 million from 504 donors. Of this, approximately R9 million came from 461 donors, supporting bursaries and scholarships, while the remaining R22 million from 63 donor organisations went towards various non-bursary projects.
The campaign’s success continued to grow in 2023, with around R36 million raised from 834 donors. This included R16 million for student bursaries and scholarships and nearly R20 million for non-bursary projects.
“Compared to 2022, 2023 showed a significant 77% increase in fundraising,” said Prof Mosia.
“Notably, there was a 110% increase in alumni participation, an 8.3% increase in staff participation, a 68% increase in corporate participation, and a remarkable 374% increase in student participation. This growth in donor participation is a source of encouragement for all of us.”
In 2024, the campaign has already raised approximately R15 million from 38 donor organisations, including a major gift from an individual donor. Over R6 million of this amount has been allocated to bursaries, with the rest supporting various projects.
“In summary, the Giving Matters campaign has achieved a remarkable milestone, raising about R82 million, and we are calling on all members of society, locally and internationally, to extend a helping hand this Mandela Month and help us reach our R100 million goal by 22 July, which is UP’s annual Giving Day. We say you can donate as little as R10 because, indeed, ‘Your Giving Matters. Make a Difference. Make an Impact!'” Prof Mosia concluded.
The University of Pretoria’s community has demonstrated incredible solidarity and generosity, changing the lives of over 400 students and supporting numerous university projects. As we edge closer to the R100 million target, your support is more crucial than ever.
How You Can Help
By donating here, you can help the Giving Matters campaign reach its target and boost the UP community.
“As we approach our target, we invite you to join us on this incredible journey. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference. Together, let’s continue to foster a culture of giving and empowerment. Your support matters!”
Let’s make education accessible for all and continue changing lives, one donation at a time!
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