On Tuesday, 30 July, the University of Pretoria community came together on the Aula Lawn for the ‘Food Pack-a-Thon’, one of the flagship events of the University’s Giving Month campaign. This year’s Giving Month focuses on supporting two critical student-focused initiatives: the Student Nutrition and Progress Programme (SNAPP), which addresses food insecurity, and the Vice-Chancellor and Principal’s Scholarship Fund, which provides essential support to ‘missing middle’ students who do not qualify for financial aid but cannot afford University fees.

The Pack-a-Thon highlighted the university’s collective effort to ensure that students do not have to choose between food and education. Staff, students, and external partners all contributed, donating non-perishable food items and volunteering their time to pack food parcels for students in need.

Among the standout supporters was the Department of Historical and Heritage Studies, and the postgraduate students in the Heritage and Cultural Tourism Honours degree who run UP Campus Tours. DHHS rallied to collect and donate all the required food items, also winning the inter-departmental challenge in the Faculty of Humanities for having brought the most items. Their commitment was captured during the handover, showing how academic departments and students are actively contributing to student welfare beyond the classroom.

The event was further energized by the presence of Vodacom Bulls and Isuzu Bulls Daisies players, who engaged with volunteers and showed their support for the cause. Their participation added excitement and broadened awareness beyond the university community.

The Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Francis Petersen, emphasized in his keynote address the importance of unity and compassion in addressing student needs. He reminded the audience of the need, “to reflect on the four core institutional values that guide the University of Pretoria which is Action, Collaboration, Excellence and Diversity. With regard to the value of Action, the University of Pretoria believes in acting now, being proactive in the face of challenges and today's Food Pack-a-Thon is not just symbolic, it's a direct, meaningful, practical and also visible intervention. Every parcel packed is a decision to #Make Today Matter.” He went on to commend all departments, partners, and individuals who contributed to making the initiative a success: “…let us build a university where food relief is no longer necessary, but until then let us never look away, please continue to give whatever you can…”

Through volunteerism, food donations, and financial contributions, the Food Pack-a-Thon once again demonstrated that #UPGivingMatters. It showcased the spirit of Ubuntu within the UP community and reinforced the message that meaningful change happens when we act together. Let us create Infinite Impact together.