For the past three years, the University of Pretoria (UP) has been hosting the Giving Matters campaign, an ambitious initiative launched in 2022 with the goal of raising R100 million by 2024. The campaign supplements UP’s ongoing fundraising efforts, specifically targeting the “missing middle” students – those whose families earn just above the threshold for National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding but cannot afford higher education expenses.

This year, as part of efforts to raise awareness and funds, the campaign has launched a raffle for an iconic 1967 Volkswagen (VW) Beetle in perfect working condition. This particular vehicle holds special significance for the University, having once been owned by Professor Casper Rautenbach who served as Vice-Chancellor and Principal at UP from 1948 to 1970. The vehicle was later donated to UP.

“Prof Rautenbach used the Beetle, which is still in its original condition, as his official vehicle until his retirement in 1970,” said Rikus Delport, Director of Institutional Advancement at UP. “When asked about his choice of vehicle, Prof Rautenbach famously remarked that he bestowed status upon his car rather than the other way around, reflecting his humility and dedication to the University’s values.”

The Beetle was passed on to UP by Prof Rautenbach’s sister. Its inclusion in the Giving Matters campaign symbolises not only a fundraising effort but also a celebration of the University’s history and the spirit of giving that sustains its mission.

In 2022, the Giving Matters campaign raised R31 million from 504 donors. About R7 million was disbursed to 167 students, while the remaining amount was allocated to various non-bursary projects.

In the following year, about R36 million was raised from 834 donors, 110 organisations and 724 individuals. Approximately R16 million was earmarked for student bursaries and scholarships, with the rest allocated to various non-bursary or scholarship projects.

“Including the 1967 VW Beetle in our Giving Matters campaign draws a strong connection to Mandela Day, where people are encouraged to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to support a chosen charity or serve their local community,” Delport added. “For as little as R67 a raffle ticket, members of the public can support a great cause and stand a chance to win an iconic car.

“This initiative not only honours the legacy of Prof Rautenbach, but also embodies the spirit of generosity and community support that defines the University of Pretoria. We are proud and honoured to offer this iconic Beetle as a prize and are grateful for the support of everyone participating in this campaign. Best of luck to all the entrants. When we do good for others, everybody is a winner.”

The competition launches on 18 July 2024, with the final draw taking place on 23 September 2024. Different tiers of tickets are available for purchase; the higher the tier, the more entries you get:  

Tier 1: Starter pack (R67)

1 entry per ticket

Tier 2: Value pack (R100)

2 entries per ticket

Tier 3: Power pack (R200)

5 entries per ticket

Tier 4: Corporate pack (R6 700)

Multiple entries at R67 per ticket

Purchase your raffle ticket here to stand a chance of winning a piece of UP history.

T's & C's apply.

Disclaimer