The Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences not only welcomed a third cohort of Project Zero bursary recipients in 2018, but also celebrated the progress of the bursary recipients who started their journey in 2016 and 2017.

The Project Zero initiative aims to reduce the cost of studying at SU to zero for talented students. Project Zero bursaries, along with the University's recruitment and merit bursaries, cover the student's full university account. The bursaries are granted based on academic merit and about 50% of the recipients come from resource-poor backgrounds.

“You are the cream of the crop and we are very proud of you," Prof Johan Malan, Acting Dean of the Faculty, told the students at a special function held earlier in March.

The 2018 cohort consists of 20 first-year students, while there are 19 second-year and 15 third-year students. Three students of the original 2016 cohort left the Project Zero initiative after signing other bursary contracts.

The top Project Zero achievers from the 2016 intake (now third year) and the 2017 intake (now second year) were acknowledged at the function. They are Kamir Arjun (Accounting), Panashe Hakutangwi (Actuarial Science), Jeremy Gounden (Accounting) and Wesley Manotwana (Actuarial Science).

They all appreciate the fact that the financial burden was lifted from their shoulders so that they can focus on their studies.

“The bursary has allowed me to study a skill that is in demand without having to worry about student debt. Besides this, the bursary has supported my studies by means of the module mentorship program which allowed me to find a mentor who was able to guide me through the challenges that I faced in the course," said Kamir.

“I believe in living my life to the fullest while ensuring that I remain a well-balanced individual. I constantly set goals for myself and always work towards making them a reality. Among other things, I would like to earn my Accounting degree cum laude, complete a MBA at the Harvard Business School, become a CFA charter holder with the goal of entering the Venture Capital space and run the Comrades marathon. I would also like to give back to the community by offering my time and skills to help mentor fledgling business owners so that they can build a sustainable business."

Jeremy felt very honoured when he received the news that a Project Zero bursary had been awarded to him

“The bursary, first and foremost, is making a huge impact financially, covering my tuition, accommodation and a plethora of other expenses relating to my studies, therefore allowing me to focus on my degree without the fear of financial hassles, whilst also serving as motivation to attain the best marks possible."

His goal is to qualify as a Chartered Accountant and see where the world takes him.

“We are living in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment with various avenues one can pursue as a Chartered Accountant."

Panashe never expected to receive a full bursary from one of the top universities in the country.

“After the shock came overwhelming joy, a strong determination to ensure that my matric results were top notch and since arriving at university, an even stronger determination to do my absolute best and not waste this opportunity. It removed the financial burden from my parents and allows me to focus on my academics, leadership skills and physical wellness.

“The best part about being a student at Stellenbosch University is the realisation that I'm not here just to get a degree. I'm here to grow, make friends and experience some of the best years of my life."

Wesley, who matriculated​ from Mphela A Marumo Secondary School in Limpopo, describes the day he heard that he had been awarded a Project Zero bursary as the best day of his life.

"I couldn't believe it at first. It felt like God was encouraging me to go after my "big" dreams by removing financial obstacles I'd a have to face without a sponsor."

His dream is to give something back to his community one day.

"I want to help students in my area realise their potential since many of them don't realise how much education can change their lives for the better."

• ​No contribution is too small and funds can be earmarked for the Project Zero initiative. Contact the faculty manager, MJ Brooks, on +27 (0)21 808 2078 or mjbrooks@sun.ac.za if you wish to contribute.