Tracing the Legacy: The History and Achievements of UP RAG

UP RAG, formerly known as Tuks RAG, has a rich history of community engagement and student camaraderie dating back almost a century.

The tradition began humbly in the 1930s when Kollege residence students, inspired by a financial crisis at a local hospital in Pretoria, took to the streets to collect money for the hospital. This simple act of generosity not only saved the hospital but also sparked a legacy of charitable giving and student involvement. Over time, this initiative evolved into Tuks RAG Week, a vibrant festival of fundraising, teamwork, and creativity that became a cornerstone of student life at the University of Pretoria.

RAG, which stands for “Reach Out and Give,” is rooted in the spirit of selflessness and community upliftment. It has grown from modest beginnings to become a large-scale charity initiative, celebrated with events like the iconic float procession through the streets of Pretoria. Over the years, students worked tirelessly to design colorful floats and participated in various fundraising activities. These included music festivals featuring top South African bands like Fokofpolisiekar, the Parlotones, and Crash Car Burn, as well as comedy shows and DJ performances.

The first documented RAG initiative in South Africa dates back to 1925 when Tukkies students organized a fundraising spectacle in Church Square, Pretoria, raising £197 for charity. This marked the beginning of an enduring tradition. Although similar events occurred at other South African universities, Tuks was the first to formally adopt RAG, establishing it as a signature event in the University of Pretoria’s calendar.

In recent years, the traditional Tuks RAG Week has been reimagined as RAG of Hope Day, reflecting a more inclusive and community-focused approach. This event, now part of the Department of Student Affairs, brings together students from different faculties, day houses, and residences to fundraise for various charitable causes. Instead of the traditional float parade, students now sell crafts and other goods, with entry to the event being non-perishable food items or a donation of the attendee’s choice.

The governance of UP RAG has also evolved. Today, it operates under the leadership of an executive committee composed of 12 members, including roles such as Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Events Officer, Media and Marketing Officer, and Transformation Officer, among others. This committee works closely with 40 general committee members to ensure the success of all UP RAG initiatives.

Despite these changes, the heart of UP RAG remains the same: fostering a spirit of generosity, community engagement, and student unity. It continues to be a platform for students to “reach out and give,” making a positive impact on society while creating cherished memories of their time at university.

Event Recordings:

Tuks RAG 2016: 

Tuks RAG 2015: