| #GivingMaties campaign kicks off: A call to action for student support | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11162 | | #GivingMaties campaign kicks off: A call to action for student support | Development & Alumni Relations | <p>Stellenbosch University (SU) is once again rallying staff, students, alumni, and friends of the University to come together for SU's annual #GivingMaties campaign, running from 6 March to 16 April 2025. The campaign aims to raise funds for bursaries, student meals, and student debt.<br></p><p>Funds raised during the campaign will go towards SU's Annual Fund, BridgeTheGap (BTG), which supports initiatives designed to address the most pressing needs of students. These initiatives include:</p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">#Move4Food</span> – Providing emergency food relief to food-insecure students</p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">#GradMe</span> – Assisting students with unpaid fees to secure their degrees</p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">#CaughtInTheMiddle</span> – Helping students who don't qualify for government financial aid but still can't afford their education</p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">#EndPeriodPoverty</span> – Ensuring all students have access to basic sanitary products</p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">#Action4Inclusion</span> – Supporting students who face financial barriers to registration and accessing their academic records.</p><p>“With a target of R2 million, we are encouraging everyone to participate by fundraising, spreading the word, and donating. If each person fundraises R100, this goal will be met and countless students will benefit," says the GivingMaties organiser at SU's Development and Alumni Relations Division (DAR), Viwe Benxa,</p><p><strong>Season of giving</strong></p><p>Benxa explains: “If you've participated in previous Giving Days, you'll notice that we're doing things differently this year. We're expanding the event into a 'season of giving', allowing you plenty of time to support our students. The season will culminate on Giving Day, set for 16 April, which will feature a series of social events across SU campuses."</p><p><strong>Giving Day events</strong></p><p>Here's a look at the events happening during the Giving Day celebrations:</p><p><strong>Forest of Giving (Tygerberg 9 April and Stellenbosch 15 April)</strong></p><p>Stakeholder groups decorate trees on Victoria Street with a student support theme, accompanied by live music performances.</p><p><strong>Staff #Groove4Good (16 April, Rooiplein)</strong></p><p>Staff divisions compete in a fun dance competition.</p><p><strong>The Amazing Chase (16 April, Rooiplein)</strong></p><p>Residences and Faculties race in creative soapbox cars on the Rooiplein.</p><p><strong>Matie Parent Virtual Trivia Challenge (16 April, Online)</strong></p><p>Parents of Maties test their knowledge in an online Trivia event.</p><p><strong>Show Your Colours (16 April, Social Media)</strong></p><p>Alumni are encouraged to wear SU colours to work and share their Maties pride on social media. </p><p><strong>Pokkel Dash and Prize-giving (16 April, Coetzenburg)</strong></p><p>Students team up to 'rescue' Pokkel from Maties sports teams, ending with a prize-giving ceremony.</p><p><strong>Addressing the need for student support</strong></p><p>With the rising cost of education, many students are grappling with the harsh reality of debt and food insecurity. #GivingMaties directly addresses these challenges by raising funds for students in need. </p><p>“#GivingMaties is more than just a fundraising campaign; it's about coming together as a community to ensure that every student can succeed. Whether it's donating, fundraising, or simply sharing the campaign with others, every effort counts," says GivingMaties ambassador and fundraiser at DAR, Alwin Mabuza.</p><p><strong>What can you do?</strong></p><ol><li><strong>Select:</strong> Click <a href="https://www.givengain.com/team/giving-maties-stellenbosch-university"><strong>HERE</strong></a><strong> </strong>and<strong> </strong>select the #GivingMaties initiative you want to support.</li></ol><ol start="2" style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li><strong>Share:</strong> Share your group's unique QR code and link with your networks.</li><li><strong>Fundraise:</strong> Encourage donations from your friends, family, and wider network.</li></ol><p>By sharing this link with your networks, you will collect donations that go directly to the cause. Remember, every contribution, whether big or small, counts. </p><p>Questions? Visit <a href="http://www.matiesgivingday.com/"><strong>www.matiesgivingday.com</strong></a> or contact us at <a href="mailto:giving@sun.ac.za"><strong>giving@sun.ac.za</strong></a><strong>.</strong><br></p><p><br></p> |
| Universities at the fault line: Student protest and the burden of leadership | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11146 | | Universities at the fault line: Student protest and the burden of leadership | Development & Alumni Relations | <p><em>In an opinion piece published by University World News, Karen Bruns, Senior Director of Development and Alumni Relations, highlights the ongoing tensions between university leadership and student activism in South Africa. </em><br></p><p></p><ul><li><em>Read the original article below or </em><a href="https://www.universityworldnews.com/post-mobile.php?story=20250303085304694" target="_blank"><strong><em>click here</em></strong></a><strong> </strong><em>for the piece as published. </em><br></li></ul><p>In the past forty years of my life, I have seen how political issues have played out on South African university campuses. </p><p>Dr Stuart Saunders led the University of Cape Town (UCT) – where I did my undergraduate degree – through the turbulent Apartheid period in our country's history. As students, we were determined to mobilise our constituency, working alongside the broader anti-apartheid movement to bring down the Apartheid government. Dr Saunders often found himself between us and the riot police. I can vividly remember our protests, bringing the M3 to a standstill on many occasions.</p><p>It was clear that he faced pressure from conservative elements on the UCT Council, Senate, and donor community. Yet, despite these pressures, our student leadership always felt he had their backs. He was a wily negotiator who managed to keep the university together – contradictions and all.</p><p>Inevitably, as vice-chancellor during tumultuous times, he was sometimes the object of student protest. I remember the songs calling him to act on fees, exclusions, accommodation, and other issues – concerns that continue to challenge universities today. But at the same time, he tenaciously defended our right to protest. He worked to maintain the university as a space where truth was spoken to power, where the academic project was never complacent. His legacy lives on in those he helped shape and in the DNA of the university he so steadfastly stewarded.</p><p>For me, Prof Jakes Gerwel was one of those leaders who, during the darkest days of Apartheid, inspired us – whether we were students at the University of the Western Cape or beyond – to fight for a better education. He wanted only the best for his students. We must never stop acknowledging people like him, whose leadership helped shape our country's future.</p><p>Again, I was in a university when the student-led #FeesMustFall movement erupted in October 2015. During those protests, media reports suggested that Wits University Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Habib had been held hostage by students – something he disputed at the time and later reflected on in his book <em>Rebels and Rage: Reflecting on #FeesMustFall</em> (2019). In his account, Habib believed #FeesMustFall was a legitimate and progressive struggle but took issue with some of the movement's tactics and strategies.</p><p>He offered an unfamiliar perspective on what transpired in the tertiary education sector during that period. Habib described how political parties quickly capitalised on the movement's momentum, complicating efforts to reach a resolution. By 2016, external political interests made negotiation nearly impossible, as various factions rejected any form of compromise. He also highlighted the dangerous "incentive structure" that emerged – where students who created mayhem could build a political profile, earn votes, and secure lucrative positions in government.</p><p>Yet, nearly a decade after #FeesMustFall, the underlying issues remain. In 2024, protracted water disruptions in Makhanda led to Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor Dr Sizwe Mabizela and his students taking to the streets to protest against the Makana Municipality. Their frustration was clear: their human dignity and constitutional rights were being infringed upon. "They don't care about our university, they don't care about our schools, they don't care about our staff and students, they don't care about the residents of this city," Mabizela declared.</p><p>At universities across the country, protests erupted last week over financial exclusions – at UCT, Stellenbosch University, Nelson Mandela University, the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Durban University of Technology inter alia and included a hunger strike at Wits. Two weeks into the academic year, some students remained unregistered due to delays by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), some fall outside of the NSFAS cap of R360 000 per annum per household but remain too poor to afford fees, and others have drained all resources as they should enter their final year of studies – so close and yet so far. </p><p>These frustrations extend far beyond individual universities. The ongoing student debt crisis and NSFAS failures have made access to higher education a national issue, entrenching systemic disadvantages. Universities cannot simply erase student debt, nor can they fully resolve financial exclusions created by poor government policies. Higher education leaders are increasingly caught between students who demand immediate relief and a political system that refuses to address the deeper structural problems.</p><p>Last week, UCT Vice-Chancellor Professor Mosa Moshabela responded to student protests by announcing a new security protocol. While reaffirming the university's commitment to free expression, he made it clear that disruptive actions would no longer be tolerated – an indication of how universities are shifting their approach. Meanwhile, thousands of students in Cape Town took to the streets, intended to coincide with the Finance Minister's budget speech. Students celebrated the postponement of the address, declaring that the government must "go back and design a Budget that is suitable for South Africa and its students." </p><p>All that has transpired at the time of writing is that Minister Dr Nobuhle Nkabane announced on Friday, 21 February 2025 that the Department of Higher Education and Training — working with NSFAS, Universities South Africa and student formations in the country — had decided to increase the student financial aid body's allowances for university students by 4%, the first adjustment in three years. NSFAS has provisionally funded 800,000 students<strong> </strong>for the 2025 academic year. Their funding will only be finalised once registration data is confirmed, after which payment processes will begin.</p><p>And so, the cycle continues. For decades, university leaders have found themselves mediating between students and the political realities of the day. At times, they have stood with students in their frustrations, confronting the failures of the state. At other times, they have become targets of protest, held accountable for systemic problems beyond their control.</p><p>The tension between students and university leadership is not new, nor is it unique to South Africa. But what is clear is that until government institutions take decisive action on student funding and higher education policy, universities will continue to be battlegrounds for broader political struggles. The question is not whether the protests will stop – it is how universities will navigate them, and whether those in power will ever listen to the voices of those marching in the streets. </p> |
| Secure your spot in the Maroon Wave | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11078 | | Secure your spot in the Maroon Wave | Development & Alumni Relations | <p></p><p>Ladies and gentlemen, we have exciting news! </p><p>#Move4Maties is taking on the iconic 2025 Cape Town Cycle Tour. We are going big this year aiming for a <strong>Maroon Wave</strong> with 100 energetic cyclists representing the initiative. #Move4Maties offers a unique and impactful way for the entire Stellenbosch University community to band together. It draws inspiration from the passion for fitness, the spirit of giving back, and the desire to help current and future Maties achieve their dreams. <br></p><p>By joining our team, you will not only experience the thrill of the race, but you will also be helping raise funds for deserving Maties students in financial need. Every turn of the pedals will bring us closer to ensuring that hardworking students can pursue their dreams without the worry of financial obstacles.</p><p>And as a special thank you for your generosity, we offer you R100 off your entry fee.<br></p><p>This is your chance to join a passionate team of alumni, staff, students, and friends, combining your love of cycling with your commitment to making a difference.</p><p>By joining the #Move4Maties team, you have access to the following benefits:</p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li><strong>R100 discount:</strong> Receive a R100 discount on your Cape Town Cycle Tour entry fee.</li><li><strong>#Move4Maties jersey:</strong> Brand new jersey design</li><li><strong>Pre-race celebration:</strong> Join us for an exciting pre-race fun reception on Thursday 6 March for networking with fellow riders, cycling brands and legends to gear up for the Big Day.<br></li><li><strong>Awesome prizes:</strong> Fantastic prizes awarded to all fundraisers who reach their goal, and those embodying team spirit.</li></ul><p><strong>Secure your spot in the Maroon Wave</strong></p><p>Please do not miss this opportunity to ride for our students in need, connect with fellow Maties, and make a real difference. Spaces are limited, so register now! You have until <strong>Thursday 30 January</strong>. </p><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li><strong>Secure your entry and R100 discount on Quicket </strong><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.quicket.co.za/events/291350-move4maties-2025-cape-town-cycle-tour-edition/&data=05%7c02%7c%7cfb9c6c29f53c406f05e608dd3ae85418%7ca6fa3b030a3c42588433a120dffcd348%7c0%7c0%7c638731491725032485%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=ih94ImSj3kR8uFfADAArpFYPvQdtGGZMGtfBnioZ2OE%3D&reserved=0"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li><li><strong>Create your fundraising GivenGain page. Sign up </strong><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.givengain.com/project/create?event%3D4244&data=05%7c02%7c%7cfb9c6c29f53c406f05e608dd3ae85418%7ca6fa3b030a3c42588433a120dffcd348%7c0%7c0%7c638731491725048362%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=N0I8qMSAEnNszLFXgOyxz6nXeyH1zsPrT3fWHSVKSM4%3D&reserved=0"><strong>here</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li></ol><p>Get ready to pedal for student success. Let's make 2025 our biggest and most successful #Move4Maties Cape Town Cycle Tour yet.</p><p>Questions? Contact Alwin Mabuza at <strong style="text-decoration:underline;">amabuza@sun.ac.za</strong></p><p>Here we go!<br></p><p><br></p> |
| Governor Lesetja Kganyago new Stellenbosch University Chancellor | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11079 | | Governor Lesetja Kganyago new Stellenbosch University Chancellor | Stellenbosch University / Universiteit Stellenbosch | <p>Lesetja Kganyago, Governor of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB), was unanimously elected to the office of Chancellor of Stellenbosch University (SU) today (24 January 2025). This follows the end of Justice Edwin Cameron's term in December 2024.<br></p><p>The Chancellor is the titular head of the University.</p><p>An electoral college, constituted in terms of the <a href="https://sunrecords.sun.ac.za/controlled/C4%20Policies%20and%20Regulations/SU%20Statute%202019_gg42636-2019-GOV_nn1062.pdf"><span class="ms-rteForeColor-1"><strong>SU Statute</strong></span></a> and consisting of all members of the Council and the Executive Committee of the Senate, met today to elect the institution's 16<sup>th</sup> Chancellor.</p><p>Governor Kganyago received an honorary doctorate (<a href="/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=6145"><span class="ms-rteForeColor-1"><span><strong>Doctor of Commerce (DCom) </strong></span><em><strong>honoris causa</strong></em></span></a>) from SU in 2018 and is viewed as one of the finest public-policy minds in the country. In December 2020, Nelson Mandela University also conferred upon him an honorary Doctorate of Commerce.</p><p>He holds a Master of Science degree in development economics from London University (School of Oriental and African Studies) and a Bachelor of Commerce degree in accounting and economics from the University of South Africa.</p><p>“Tertiary institutions have always played a pivotal role in shaping future leaders, and driving social, economic, and cultural transformation in our country. As Chancellor of this dynamic institution, I am looking forward to inspiring the next generation to realise their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of our country and continent," Governor Kganyago commented. </p><p>Prof Wim de Villiers, Rector and Vice-Chancellor, said: "I am thrilled to welcome Governor Kganyago as the new Chancellor of our University. With his unparalleled expertise in economics, finance and leadership, combined with his steadfast dedication to public service, he embodies the qualities we deeply value as an institution. I have no doubt that Governor Kganyago will inspire our University community." </p><p>Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Learning and Teaching and Vice-Chancellor-elect added: “Governor Kganyago's leadership at the pinnacle of economic policy and his commitment to the careful custodianship of our national reserves have set a formidable example to us all and make him uniquely suited to represent our institution as Chancellor."</p><p>Chair of the SU Council, Nicky Newton-King, added her voice in welcoming the newly elected Chancellor: “This is a moment of great pride for the Stellenbosch University community. Governor Kganyago's exemplary leadership, vast experience, and unwavering commitment to independence and excellence are inspiring matters of public record. I very much look forward to welcoming the Governor to the University community. I would also like to recognise and thank Justice Cameron for his commitment and service as Chancellor."</p><p>Governor Kganyago will assume office today which will also mark the start of his five-year term. His official inauguration will follow on a date yet to be determined.</p><p><strong><em>Note for editors</em></strong></p><p>The term of office of the Chancellor is five years, and the Chancellor may be elected again for one more consecutive term only. Justice Edwin Cameron's term as Chancellor ended on 31 Dec 2024. A notice calling for nominations was distributed to members of Convocation via e-mail on 21 November 2024. During the nomination period of 30 days (22 November to 22 December 2024 at 23:59), only one nomination was received.</p><ul><li>Governor Kganyago's abbreviated CV can be accessed <a href="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/Anenxure%20B2%20Abbreviated%20CV%20-%20EL%20Kganyago%20-%20Governor%20SARB%20-%20without%20Photo%20-%20Updated%20April%202022%20-%20On%20Letterhead%20without%20Awards%20(002)%20(002).pdf"><strong class="ms-rteForeColor-1"><span>here</span> </strong></a>as well as a <a href="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%2520Items%2520View/Annexure%2520B3_PIC%2520-%2520Gov%2520Lesetja%2520Kganyago%2520-%2520As%2520at%2520April%25202023.jpg"><strong class="ms-rteForeColor-1">photo</strong></a>.</li></ul><p><strong><br></strong></p><p><strong>MORE ABOUT GOVERNOR LESETJA KGANYAGO</strong></p><p>Lesetja Kganyago was appointed Governor of the South African Reserve Bank with effect from 9 November 2014. The Governor was reappointed by the President for a second five-year term effective 9 November 2019. </p><p>He had been a Deputy Governor of the South African Reserve Bank since May 2011. In this role, he was responsible for a wide range of areas, including Research, Financial Stability, Bank Supervision, Financial Regulatory Reform (including introducing the Twin Peaks regulatory structure), Financial Surveillance (including taking responsibility for the regulation of cross-border flows), Risk Management and Compliance, and what was then called the South African Reserve Bank College (now the South African Reserve Bank Academy). </p><p>Governor Kganyago has more than 20 years of experience in formulating and implementing public policy, having spent this time in both the central bank and National Treasury. He has wide-ranging experience in Macroeconomic Policy, Financial Sector Policy, Public Finance, International Finance, Public Debt Management, and Financial Markets. During his tenure as Director-General of National Treasury, he successfully steered several public finance and financial market reforms. He played a leading role in the fundamental reform of the microstructure of domestic bond markets, including reforms to the auction system and the introduction of new financial instruments such as inflation-linked bonds, buy-backs, switches, and STRIPS. During his time at National Treasury, a fundamental reform in the management of the national debt portfolio was completed. </p><p>Governor Kganyago has led South Africa's technical team to various G20 Ministers of Finance and Central Bank Governors meetings and summits, including the Inaugural Summit in 2008. He has chaired the IMF/World Bank Development Committee Deputies and the G20 Working Group on IMF Governance Reform; he was also the vice-chair of the Financial Stability Board's Standing Committee on Standards Implementation for a period of four years. </p><p>Currently, Governor Kganyago chairs the Committee of Central Bank Governors of the Southern African Development Community and is the co-chair of the Financial Stability Board's Regional Consultative Group for Sub-Saharan Africa. He also chaired the Financial Stability Board's Standing Committee on Standards Implementation. He now chairs the Financial Stability Board's Central Bank Governance Group (CBGG). </p><p>He was appointed as the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC) Chairman effective 18 January 2018 for a period of 3 years until 17 January 2021. The IMFC, comprising Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, is the primary advisory body of the IMF Board of Governors and deliberates on the principal policy issues facing the IMF. </p><p>Governor Kganyago holds a Master of Science degree in Development Economics from London University (School of Oriental and African Studies) and a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Accounting and Economics from the University of South Africa.<br><br></p><ul><li><em>Source: South African Reserve Bank</em><br><br></li></ul> |
| Karen Bruns honoured with Chancellor's Award | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11049 | | Karen Bruns honoured with Chancellor's Award | Development & Alumni Relations | <p>Karen Bruns, Senior Director of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) at Stellenbosch University (SU) has been awarded the prestigious Chancellor's Award for her outstanding contributions to raising funds and building and fostering meaningful alumni relations at SU. <br></p><p>The Chancellor's Awards recognises SU staff whose careers attest to sustained excellence in research, innovation, learning and teaching, social impact and professional services. </p><p>Bruns was honoured for her exceptional leadership, dedication, and impactful contributions to SU. A trained lawyer, former marketing director, and CEO of a multimedia publishing company, Bruns has led DAR since 2015. Under her leadership, the Division has achieved remarkable fundraising successes, securing substantial financial support for SU, and expanding the University's global alumni network.</p><p>"I am grateful to receive this award. It's been an honour to contribute to the University's mission by securing vital funds and engaging our Maties alumni. I couldn't have achieved this without the dedication and hard work of my incredible team. This award inspires me to continue striving for excellence and I'm excited to contribute to the future of SU and make a lasting impact."</p><p>Bruns also noted the privilege of being recognised at the same graduation ceremony as philanthropist and entrepreneur Wendy Ackerman. Ackerman received the degree Doctor of Philosophy, <em>honoris causa</em>, for her consistent philanthropic support that has benefitted men, women, children and the arts for more than 40 years.<br></p><p><em>Photographer: Stefan Els</em><br></p><p><br></p> |
| SU showcases legendary stories of alumni on Showmax | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10986 | | SU showcases legendary stories of alumni on Showmax | Development & Alumni Relations | <p>Stellenbosch University is proud to announce the release of the <em>Matie Legends & Pioneers</em> documentary series on Showmax, Africa's leading streaming platform, this November. This groundbreaking series delves into the rich tapestry of the university's history, offering viewers a contemporary reflection on its social and historical milestones, while celebrating the extraordinary stories of its alumni and community. This is the first time that any university content is accessible on an African streaming platform.</p><p><strong>Capturing the Spirit of Maties</strong><br> Launched in 2020, <em>Matie Legends & Pioneers</em> was conceived by the Senior Director of Development & Alumni Relations, Karen Bruns, in collaboration with veteran journalist and alumnus Bun Booyens, and award-winning filmmaker Jo Higgs. The series is funded by the Development & Alumni Relations Division's annual budget.</p><p>The series aims to present inspiring narratives that transcend biographies and memorable moments. It dives deep into Stellenbosch University's archives, achievements, and traditions to tell of the trials and triumphs of the institution over the past century. Each episode captures the values, excellence, and mutual respect that continue to shape the university community.<br></p><p>Bruns explains: “<em>Matie Legends & Pioneers</em> is our way of reflecting on the profound contributions of Maties to South Africa and beyond. It's about sharing the personal and collective journeys that define what it means to be a Matie – stories of transformation, resilience, and an enduring commitment to making the world a better place."</p><p><strong>Episode Highlights</strong></p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li><strong>Episode 1</strong>: <em>Robert F. Kennedy and the Other White House</em><br> Narrates the story of USA senator, Bobby Kennedy's visit to Simonsberg Men's Residence in 1966 during Apartheid and is enriched with archival footage and interviews.</li><li><strong>Episode 2</strong>: Chronicles the historic renaming of the RW Wilcocks Building to the Krotoa Building, marking a significant moment in Stellenbosch's commitment to transformation.</li><li><strong>Episode 3</strong>: Showcases Dr Thinus Kruger's pioneering fertility work, including South Africa's first test-tube baby in 1984 and groundbreaking medical achievements that highlighted Stellenbosch's role in medical innovation.</li><li><strong>Episode 4</strong>: <em>Die Uurbeeenkomste: Coetzenburg Athletics</em> explores decades of record-breaking athletic achievements at the Coetzenburg stadium, featuring interviews with legends like Elana Meyer and Zola Budd.</li><li><strong>Episode 5</strong>: Spotlights the Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden as a hub for research, education, and conservation, showcasing its role in sustainability and community engagement.</li></ul><p><strong>Reaching Global Audiences on Showmax</strong><br> Partnering with Showmax ensures that <em>Matie Legends & Pioneers</em> reaches millions of viewers across Africa and beyond. Showmax's commitment to showcasing African stories aligns with Stellenbosch University's goal to celebrate local voices and bring its rich history to a global stage.</p><p>The series launch will be celebrated with a special event on <strong>Tuesday 26 November 2024</strong>, at the Neelsie Cinema in Stellenbosch. From 12:00 to 14:30, attendees will enjoy a screening of the trailers, followed by an insightful discussion with the series' producers. Please contact Simone Davies at <strong>simoned@sun.ac.za</strong> should you wish to attend. </p><p>This collaboration represents SU's ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing the narratives that define its legacy. Through <em>Matie Legends & Pioneers</em>, Maties around the world can relive remarkable moments that have shaped the university's history and celebrate its enduring impact.</p> |
| Stellenbosch University celebrates R3 billion milestone | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10943 | | Stellenbosch University celebrates R3 billion milestone | Development & Alumni Relations | <p></p><p>Stellenbosch University's Development and Alumni Relations Division (DAR) marked a significant achievement last week, announcing the successful fundraising of three billion rand over the past decade.<br></p><p>"This remarkable achievement, realised under the leadership of our Rector, Prof Wim de Villiers, during his two terms in office, is a testament to the collective efforts of our generous donors, dedicated staff, and the unwavering support of the university community," says DAR's Senior Director, Karen Bruns. </p><p>"The generosity of our donors has enabled us to invest in cutting-edge research, state-of-the-art facilities, and life-changing opportunities for our students. The efforts of our dedicated and passionate staff, along with Prof De Villiers' active involvement in fundraising initiatives including his personal participation in, amongst others, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, the Cape Town Cycle Tour and London-to-Brighton Cycle Ride, have been instrumental in propelling the university to this significant milestone."</p><p>David Marupen, Director of Fundraising, says philanthropy has played a pivotal role in the university's growth and development. "Through effective fundraising initiatives, our philanthropic donors have made significant contributions to Stellenbosch University."</p><p>Bruns says that, looking back on the past 10 years, there are so many stand-out highlights: “In 2017 we received a bequest of R194 million to benefit students in the electronic and electrical engineering disciplines; and in 2018 we received R50 million from philanthropist, SU alumnus and business leader, Jannie Mouton to build the Jan Mouton Learning Centre, named after his father. We've launched many student access and support programmes that continue to help to grow the next generation of leaders; and most recently the university was the beneficiary of a R50 million bequest directed towards talented undergraduate and postgraduate theology and music students. </p><p>"During the challenging Covid-19 pandemic, we received incredible support from individual donors, industry leaders, as well as local and international trusts and foundations, supporting emergency interventions and research. This represented much more than community solidarity, demonstrating our donors' confidence in SU as a leader in higher education on our continent. Building on this momentum, we launched our Bridge the Gap (BTG) Annual Fund in 2021 to support students in overcoming the financial challenges that stand between them and academic success. This Fund addresses issues such as food insecurity, student debt, work readiness and menstrual hygiene."</p><p>Bruns concludes: "As we transition from the leadership of our outgoing Rector Wim de Villiers to Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, we look forward to taking the institution on an ambitious next journey. DAR remains a steadfast partner in advancing Stellenbosch University's mission and inspiring philanthropy as it supports a future-focussed and inclusive university for the country, the continent and the world." <br></p><p><br></p> |
| A top legal expert with a passion for art | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10746 | | A top legal expert with a passion for art | Development & Alumni Relations | <p>Liesl Fichardt is not just a top tax lawyer, but also an advocate for the arts. While she has established herself as a leader in the legal world, her love for art runs deep, evident in her roles as a trustee, patron, and advisory board member of art foundations and institutions.<br></p><p>This Matie alumna has established herself as a leading figure in the legal world as chair and head of the International Tax Disputes and Resolution team at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan LLP in the United Kingdom. She is also a Trustee of the Stellenbosch University SA Foundation UK. Liesl is dual qualified in the UK (solicitor of England and Wales) and South Africa (advocate of the High Court). Previously, she was head of the tax disputes team at Clifford Chance LLP in London and, while an advocate in Cape Town until 2005, also acted as a judge of the High Court in 2004. <br></p><p>Liesl and her team engage in complex tax and regulatory disputes for global corporations and high-net-worth individuals. She is also actively involved in several prestigious organisations, including the International Taxes Committee of the Law Society and the Advisory Board for the MSc (International Tax) at Oxford University. <br></p><p>Despite thriving on foreign soil, South Africa calls on her from time to time. "Later this year, I shall participate as a speaker at the International Fiscal Association Congress in Cape Town," she says. <br></p><p>Liesl is however not only a successful legal professional but also active in the art world. "My love for art comes from my childhood," she recalls. "I saw an art exhibition in Bloemfontein when I was five years old, and I was mesmerised. Over the years, some of my best friends have been artists, and they have always inspired me to do what I am able to do, to the best of my ability." <br></p><p>This early fascination with art has driven her to play an active role in various art groups and initiatives. She serves as a trustee and member of the International Council of the Norval Foundation in Cape Town and is a Trustee of the Contemporary Art Society in the UK, where she co-chairs their Development Board and Frieze Acquisitions Board.<br></p><p>Her law firm, Quinn Emanuel's commitment to the arts is evident through an in-house artists-in-residence initiative known as the QE AIR programme. <br></p><p>"This was conceived during and after the Covid lockdown when lawyers started to work more often from home or remotely," Liesl says. "We had excess office space, which we have made available as artists' studios in our offices in Los Angeles, New York, and London."<br></p><p>Liesl's passion does not only stop at the arts, but she is also helping law students at her alma mater. Reflecting on her involvement with the AMICUS Fund, she highlights its role in supporting law students. "There is no direct link with the arts, but via the AMICUS Fund and various art initiatives, we are able to support others in need."<br></p><p>For professionals aspiring to pursue their passions alongside their careers, Liesl offers sage advice. <br></p><p>"I always wanted to believe that you will be successful when you do what you love – but life does not always work like that. What has worked for me is to work hard at what I do in my legal career. This in turn has enabled me to do what I love and give back what I can in both the legal and art worlds – for me, they have become the perfect parallel universes."<br></p><p><br></p> |
| Spes Bona Initiative uplifts medical students | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10733 | | Spes Bona Initiative uplifts medical students | Development & Alumni Relations | <p></p><p>While working in Cape Town hospitals for a year, Belgian medical doctors and Stellenbosch University (SU) international medical graduates Edouard Hosten and Charlotte Maillard were struck by the poor living conditions of some local medical students. They decided to do something about it.<br></p><p>“My wife (Charlotte) and I worked in SU affiliated hospitals in Cape Town in 2019-20 where we witnessed first-hand the dire living and training conditions of some medical students. We wanted to make a difference by financially supporting these students to improve their living conditions and support them in their studies. Thus, we created two nonprofit organisations (NPOs) in Belgium and South Africa in order to collect money and distribute bursaries to medical students in need," says Ed.<br></p><p>This led to the establishment of the Spes Bona Initiative for Medical Education in 2020 by Ed along with 15 other young South African and Belgian colleagues and friends.</p><p>“Almost everyone involved in the initiative lived and worked in South Africa at some point and has an innate love for the country and its people," he says.<br></p><p>The Spes Bona Initiative offers top-up bursaries to qualifying Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, BSc in Physiotherapy and Bachelor of Speech-Language and Hearing Therapy students from several South African universities, including SU, for the duration of their studies. The scholarship covers accommodation, food and other basic expenses such as toiletries, stationery or textbooks. Mentorship and moral support are also provided. So far 16<strong> </strong>students have benefited from the initiative since 2020.</p><p> In June this year, the Spes Bona Initiative for Medical Education awarded a further six bursaries to medical students from SU.</p><p>Students' selection is primarily based on their financial situation, but they must also have demonstrated commitment to altruism, including involvement in charity work, community projects or academic mentorship.<br> <br>“We raise money by organising charity events and by selling our own beer and chocolate (we're Belgian after all!). But our main source of funding comes from the financial support of several private donors in Belgium and internationally," Ed says. “We recently organised a 20 km run in Brussels in which 35 people participated and which raised more than 5000€ (R95 000)."</p><p>The certified emergency medicine (EM) physician who has for the past seven years been involved in acute clinical care, says his involvement in the Spes Bona Initiative has brought him immense joy and fulfilment. </p><p>“It has allowed me to bring together many of my friends around the crucial issues of healthcare studies, accessibility and workforce development."</p><p>In addition to being a staunch advocate of high-quality EM resident education in Belgium, Ed also developed a particular interest in the health impacts and the adaptation of health systems to climate change. </p><p>“Developing systemic and multidisciplinary thinking around these fundamental issues in order to build supportive, resilient and sustainable healthcare, is the focus of my endeavours," he says.<br></p><p><br></p> |
| Colleagues team up for fundraising success | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10602 | | Colleagues team up for fundraising success | Development & Alumni Relations | <div>Stellenbosch University (SU) academics and senior leaders have taken up the opportunity to gain valuable fundraising insights at a recent upskilling workshop hosted by the Development and Alumni Relations Division (DAR). The workshop, in its second year, aims to equip participants with the skills and insights to solicit philanthropic funding.<br></div><div><br></div><div>This year’s workshop, entitled “Develop your fundraising pitch”, ran from 22nd to 26th April at the Stellenbosch and Tygerberg campuses and was coordinated by the Major Gifts & International Engagement unit within DAR. The week-long voluntary practice development sessions attracted participants from SU’s faculties, schools, and institutes.</div><div><br></div><div>Graeme Byrne, UK-based consultant at DAR, and founder of Lagotto Solutions, says it was heartening to see colleagues embracing the upskilling initiative.</div><div><br></div><div>According to Byrne, the job of fundraising at universities is not just for the fundraisers. "The philanthropic fundraising initiatives of the university will only be strengthened when DAR continues to partner with academics to raise the profile of the university. Therefore, many of the sessions focused on showing academics how they should go about interacting with fundraisers and how fundraisers should interact with academics. If it is done well, it means that the organisation is more likely to raise big gifts. So much of this is about building the right teams and working well together."</div><div><br></div><div>Byrne, who works with universities throughout the world to help them raise philanthropic income more effectively, says the aim is also to take the fear out of fundraising.</div><div><br></div><div>"I work with a lot of academics, and I always ask them, ‘What scares you about fundraising?’, and the response most often is the thought of being stuck opposite another person asking them for money. That thought can be quite daunting, but the truth is that most of the time they will be working with fundraisers who have years of experience in the field. The idea is that we will work with you to develop relationships and to identify the right time to ask for money.”</div><div><br></div><div>He says when you ask people to consider new ideas or do things that they haven’t done before, there is always a danger that it can be met by a level of cynicism. "But that was not the case when DAR presented the first upskilling programme in 2023, and judging by this year’s attendance, the programme continues to grow from strength to strength."</div><div><br></div><div>Director of Fundraising at DAR, David Marupen, says the upskilling programme was introduced to foster collaboration between DAR and SU colleagues, and to upskill and expose them to best practices that will help attract philanthropic support for projects and initiatives.</div><div><br></div><div>"We wanted to reach as many of our colleagues as possible through this programme because it also ties in with the long-term Strategic Fundraising Plan that we are developing. This strategy aims to not only guide our fundraising activities within DAR, but also within the broader institution," he says.</div><div><br></div><div>According to Marupen, the success of the programme has prompted DAR to plan and host more workshops in the future, ensuring this valuable training reaches a broader audience. <br></div><div><br></div><div><em>Photographer: Ernest Birkenstock<br></em><br></div> |
