To address the issue of student food insecurity, the Central University of Technology’s (CUT) Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof. Pamela Dube, has donated R182 725.57 to the university’s Student Representative Council (SRC) to establish a much-needed foodbank.
The initiative is aimed at supporting underprivileged students by providing food and other essential resources, ensuring that financial challenges do not hinder their academic journey. The fund is a collaborative effort between the Vice-Chancellor and the SRC, and will specifically assist students in need of food and those facing difficulties with registration fees.
Prof. Dube emphasised the importance of sustainability, urging future SRCs to continue and expand upon this initiative: “This donation is the start of a fund that builds on the work that the 2023/24 SRC has started. We aim to create a sustainable fund where students can receive assistance, at least meeting them halfway, whether it’s for registration fees or basic food needs. This mission will be handed down to every following SRC to grow the fund through campaigns and gain more support for our student leadership and community.”
The CUT’s Dean of Students, Dr Karabo Sebake, expressed his gratitude for the Vice-Chancellor’s donation, noting how crucial it will be to addressing the wider socioeconomic challenges students face.
“It is important to recognise that student indigency in higher education is part of what has evolved within the context of higher education. Building a university fit for purpose requires all of us to come together and support our students. We must address the challenges of unemployment, poverty, and inequalities that continue to persist in our economy. Thank you, VC, for helping to create a truly student-centric university,” he said.
The university also invites the public to donate to the foodbank.
Compiled by Warren Hawkins
