SU activated the Student Debt Working Group (SDWG) to support students with historic debt, who without financial support would be unable to register for 2026. The University has lifted more than 95% of NSFAS-related blocks. The University works with students, leaders and partners to remove barriers and support academic, financial and wellbeing needs.

As a 2020 matriculant, Keesha’s final year of high school unfolded against the backdrop of a global pandemic. Masks, social distancing, and unprecedented disruption defined what should have been a celebratory milestone. The path forward seemed unclear, but Keesha refused to let that moment define her future.

Students and staff call for transformation that extends beyond access and statistics to lived experiences and inclusion. Dialogue highlights the urgency of addressing financial inequality, accommodation challenges and collaboration across University structures. Calls for authentic leadership and a humanising culture that empowers students as co-creators of change.