​"Support from generous alumni as well as the Stellenbosch University's (SU) Management Team since the launch of the Student Representative Council SRC's #RegisterALL campaign, means that we're breaking down the barriers of financial exclusion one rand at a time. And in the process, we're ensuring that South Africa does not lose a future doctor, lawyer, engineer or an educator because of financial constraints." This is according to Ms Karen Bruns, Senior Director: Development and Alumni Relations at SU. 

The #RegisterALL campaign was started earlier this year by the SRC to assist students accepted for studies at SU, but who do not have the means of paying the initial study fees.

According to Bruns, the total need among students is in the region of R13.4m for 2016. These students are academically capable and qualify for financial aid in terms of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) means test, but there are no available funds to counter the threat of dropout.

"Despite the current financial climate, daily donations are being received and the fund is growing. Maties alumni have contributed R140 000 to the fund to date. The University's Management team has publicly endorsed the campaign, donating in their personal capacity and challenging SU staff to make donations or to adopt angel campaigns within their faculty to assist students in need."

"The response and continued support from alumni have been heart-warming. It is through their contributions – big or small – that we are able to invest in the future of South Africa," Prof Wim De Villiers, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of SU, said.

"Making a difference starts with each and every one of us. I'm hoping our colleagues in the Faculties will rise to the challenge and support this worthy cause," he added. Prof Stan du Plessis, Dean of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, has previously committed to making a regular donation to the campaign. 

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According to the SRC representative, Lianda Du Plessis, the process to award the money has already started. "We can't wait to make a positive contribution and making a students' dream of tertiary education a reality," she added.

Awards will be made to deserving students via the Bursaries and Loans Office of the University in the course of the campaign so as to alleviate the stress that can impinge on student success.

You can still help make a difference:Account number:  073 00 69 55Branch-number: 05 06 10Bank: Standard BankAccount: US deposit accountReference: RegisterALL H494