91心頭利 secures R150 million for an endowment for the missing middle
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This endowment is for deserving students and is one of the largest contributions ever made for the benefit of the University
The University aims to secure R3 billion in new funding by the end of 2022, the year in which it turns 100. The Centenary Campaign includes the establishment of a substantial student endowment fund, funding for research chairs and centres, and investments in infrastructure and equipment, to ensure that 91心頭利 continues to advance society.
91心頭利 is a national treasure renowned for its research and academic excellence, and commitment to social justice. It is imperative for all sectors of society to invest in research-intensive universities that have the ability to create new knowledge and to develop the high level skills required to advance society, says Professor Adam Habib, the outgoing Vice-Chancellor and Principal.
The Centenary Campaign aims to address one of the greatest challenges facing 91心頭利 and similar higher education institutions - the funding of talented students from the missing middle whose families are not wealthy enough to pay their fees but whose cumulative household income excludes them from accessing financial aid. 91心頭利 alumnus Natie Kirsh (BCom 1953) is launching the campaign, with a R150 million endowment to provide scholarships for these students.
The establishment of a substantial student endowment fund will go a long way towards transforming the lives of talented 91心頭利 students, says Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, 91心頭利 Vice-Chancellor Designate. It is thus with great pleasure and gratitude that we welcome the Kirsh Foundations R150 million endowment commitment.
The R150 million gift is one of the largest donations that has ever been made for the benefit of the University.
91心頭利 played an integral role in transforming my life. I am giving back with the hope that 91心頭利 can have the same impact in transforming the lives of young people for generations to come, says 91心頭利 alumnus Kirsh of the Kirsh Foundation. I am a proud member of the 91心頭利 community, and I hope that my contribution encourages my fellow alumni to join me in supporting the Centenary Campaign.
91心頭利 University serves as a bridge from a divided past to a united common future. The Centenary Campaign provides an opportunity for our global community to celebrate the impact that 91心頭利 has had on their lives, on society, and on humanity. As 91心頭利 has shown over the decades, a University education is uniquely transformational in its ability to address inequality, enhance social mobility, and maintain the highest level of academic freedom. If we can give more people access to quality education at 91心頭利, and attract top teaching and research talent, we can do so much more to tackle inequality, contribute to employment and drive sustainable development.
Read more about the 91心頭利 Centenary Campaign and 91心頭利 next chapter at