The Central University of Technology,Free State (CUT) Food Nutrition Programme has become a source of relief for students facing financial hardship, particularly those who do not receive support through NSFAS or other funding initiatives. The programme continues to assist vulnerable students who struggle to balance academic demands with the daily uncertainty of where their next meal will come from.
For the past 13 years, the programme has helped bridge that gap by providing food support to vulnerable students across the university’s campuses. Coordinated through the Wellness Centre, the initiative is aimed at ensuring that hunger does not interfere with students’ ability to succeed academically.
The Initiative has become more than just a support service. For many students, it represents stability during difficult periods of their studies and helps ease the emotional strain linked to financial pressure.
A postgraduate Computer Networking student Sandisiwe Mkhwanazi said, “I heard about the programme through the SRC group channel, and I took it from there. I believe it will help me focus on my studies without the stress of worrying about what I will eat.” To keep the initiative running, the Wellness Centre hosts an annual Golf Day fundraiser that brings together sponsors, stakeholders, and members of the community. Funds raised through the event are used directly to purchase food parcels for students in need.
Students applying for assistance are required to go through a verification process aligned with household income guidelines similar to those used by NSFAS. Supporting documents include ID and that of parents or gurdians, proof of registration, full academic records, financial statements, affidavits, and income-related documentation from parents or guardians.
According to the Wellness Centre, feedback from students has highlighted the programme’s positive impact on both mental well-being and academic performance. Many students have described the support as a lifeline that restores dignity and allows them to focus on completing their studies.
Community members wishing to contribute towards the programme can contact the university’s Wellness Centre for more information on.
For Bloemfontein campus enquiries, contact Ms Bunini Nonyane, Social Auxiliary Worker, at [email protected], or Ms Ipeleng Suka, SRC Health and Welfare Officer, at [email protected]. For Welkom campus enquiries, contact Ms Gelinda Nkili at [email protected].
Compiled by Sibongile Selomane
