The University of Pretoria (UP) allocated an estimated R500 million to about 8 000 students in 2021 in the form of University-managed and external bursaries.

“Those with academic abilities must be assisted with funding within the parameters set by the University’s policies and available funding,” said UP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Tawana Kupe. “UP does this by working through its Fundraising Office, a division of the Department of Institutional Advancement (DIA), and hand in hand with stakeholders. We will do everything we can to ensure that no under-resourced students are left behind.”

During a donor-appreciation webinar last year, Prof Kupe indicated that a degree or any other form of education remains a dream for many in South Africa, and that this is why donors are vital.

“Donating to the establishment in the form of grants and bursaries has been the perfect example of leading from the front to contribute to solving the student funding crisis,” Prof Kupe said. “Between 2019 and 2021, about 244 staff donors contributed to various projects on campus – these contributions amounted to more than R1 million.”

The DIA focuses its efforts on securing bursaries from external donors to supplement University loans and bursaries. These grants vary in amount and duration, and donors usually set the criteria for eligibility.

“UP’s DIA Fundraising Office works with donors and senior development officers, who have good working relationships with various donors,” said Hernan Finkel, Deputy Director of Relationship Management and Fundraising. “We also work with the Financial Aid Office to find student/s that meet the specific criteria of a particular donor. It is pleasing to realise that UP has helped so many students over the past three years.”

Funding is given directly to eligible students but administered with the assistance of UP. The requirements for academic and financial eligibility are determined by funders and vary according to the programme of study.