“Together we can do more” Spark of possibilities

The Vaal University of Technology’s Student Financial Trust Fund launch was held at Auditorium 100 on the main campus on Friday, 17 October.

This initiative was established by parents and VUT management who had met previously on Saturday, 20 September 2014 at Desmond Tutu Great Hall.

Staff members, students, partners of VUT, sponsors, parents and the community at large formed part of the programme. Dr Segopane Seroka, Director: Student Support Service welcomed everyone present and spoke of how this trust fund would be able to assist students with groceries, stationery, accommodation and other necessities.

Prof Gordon Zide, DVC: Resources and Operations and acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal gave a welcome address. He said he was excited about this programme and urged that all should spread the word of its worth. He reminded everyone of the term “Motho ke motho ka batho- you are who you are because of people” and said that without everyone’s participation, the fund would not be sustained.

Mr Mpho Diago, Director: Special Projects gave a presentation about the history of the VUT and said that this trust fund is a way towards building the institution. Dr Oupa Moshebi, Chairperson of the Parents’ Interim Forum, briefly explained that the shortage of National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funds and the protests experienced on campus had let to this initiative. “Research has to be done in order to know the needs of the students,” he said.

Mr Eddie Mkuchane, Executive Director: Office of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal who called upon Mr Solly Sibiya to close the event, said he would ensure the programme ran accordingly.

A total amount of R301 000 was raised and it is hoped more will be raised through the efforts of this initiative.

VUT management, staff members, students, the Parents’ Interim Forum and the donors