In the spirit of UP Giving Month, observed annually by the University of Pretoria (UP) in July, the Faculty of Veterinary Science is proud to highlight a heartwarming initiative that has brought warmth and comfort to its students. Sanlam CSI / Spectroplan BlueStar recently donated 55 high-quality comforters to support both undergraduate and postgraduate students in need.

 

This generous donation forms part of the Sanlam Foundation Trust’s broader commitment to corporate social investment, particularly in education and community support. Their continued support not only helps keep students warm during the winter months but also fosters a sense of care and belonging — particularly valuable for those facing financial or emotional hardship.

 

This is not the first time the Sanlam Foundation has extended a helping hand to the faculty. In 2023, the organisation donated 60 much-needed blankets to students, a gesture that laid the foundation for an ongoing partnership focused on student well-being.

 

The provision of these essential comfort items has a tangible and meaningful impact on students’ daily lives. The true value of this contribution is reflected in the voices of the students themselves. According to Joanelle Smit who represented Spectroplan Bluestar, in association with Sanlam, they are honoured to sponsor these items for underprivileged students at the University of Pretoria’s Onderstepoort campus.

 

“Giving back is a core value of Spectroplan Bluestar. The students of Onderstepoort hold a special place in our hearts, as we have proudly served this community for the past 10 years, offering holistic financial advice to both students and university personnel. We are committed to continuing this legacy—supporting, empowering, and advocating for the professionals of the future,” she said.

 

Mmabatho Komane, a student leader, spoke about the broader significance of Sanlam’s support:

 

“I would like to thank Sanlam for their substantial donation of bedding comforters. It was a blessing to witness such kindness and generosity. As a student leader, I felt this was a significant step in addressing the needs of our students. Just knowing that some of the students in our faculty will be helped through this contribution inspires me to spread the word and continue advocating for them. There are still many students who are hesitant in expressing their need for help, so I am hopeful that through this and future contributions, those students will feel empowered to ask for the help they need.”

 

Another student leader, Stella Machaba, echoed the gratitude felt across the faculty’s student body:

 

“Our heartfelt gratitude to Sanlam for their generous donation to our veterinary faculty. Your kindness brings warmth — both physical and emotional — to students facing difficult times. This thoughtful gesture reminds us that we are not alone on our journey. Thank you for making a meaningful difference in our lives.”

 

The Faculty of Veterinary Science expresses its sincere thanks to the Sanlam CSI team for their continued commitment to supporting student welfare. Initiatives such as these are instrumental in creating a more inclusive, nurturing, and supportive learning environment.

 

The donation exemplifies the true spirit of giving — making a lasting difference in the lives of students who will go on to become the future leaders in veterinary science.