The spirit of "Sharing is caring" was evident at a recent staff function of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS), Stellenbosch University, where faculty staff, who were treated to lunch, in return donated non-perishable food items and toiletries to needy students.

About 450 staff members celebrated the faculty's 60th anniversary at the festive lunch, hosted by Prof Jimmy Volmink, Dean of the FMHS. Volmink thanked staff for their contribution to 60 years of success. Guests were entertained by the renowned Gugulethu Tenors, and their renditions of South African favourites like Liefling and Meadowlands had members of the audience jiving and clapping.

"As we celebrate our faculty's 60th anniversary this year, we look back with pride at the many accomplishments that have been achieved over the years. We celebrate the excellence for which our faculty is known for, and we also look to our shared future," Volmink said.

Volmink said the FMHS had many achievements it could be proud of, but none if it would have been possible without the commitment of its members of staff. "Thank you for your individual contribution, but also for your contribution as a member of a team. You are all colleagues on which others can rely," he said.

The Dean said that during the year of its 60th anniversary, the faculty would also continue to celebrate the culture of caring, giving and sharing for which Tygerberg is well-known.

One of the projects that is being highlighted is the Pantry Project, started by FMHS Students and the Tygerberg Student Council Office. Students contribute non-perishable food items and toiletries to communal pantries in residences, where needy students can then have access to these basic necessities. There are also drop boxes on campus where items can be donated.

At the lunch, staff members donated a total of 345 food and toiletry items to the Pantry Project.