During a fundraising team meeting, we were asked what we would do if we each had R1 million to allocate to a project at the University. The response was unanimous: We would use it to help alleviate student debt. Too many graduates receive accounts instead of their degree certificates on graduation day. Despite their proven academic abilities and determination to overcome obstacles, they lack the financial means required to clear their debt and enter the world of work.
We decided to take on the challenge.
To establish exactly what we were taking on, we needed data to help us make informed decisions. The information received from the Student Fees Division revealed that approximately 3 700 potential graduates had fee debt. We were also able to identify the students who had outstanding bursary and NSFAS funding due. Additional student information was provided by Loumarie Kistner from the Division for Information Governance so that we had a clearer picture of the level of need and to drive a campaign with clear beneficiaries whose financial status had been fairly verified.
To narrow it down and to be able to raise an obtainable amount in the month we had before graduation, we formulated some criteria to help drive the process. That left us with approximately 1000 students and R27 million to raise.
The team developed a plan and linked it to the existing #SU99 campaign to raise R99 000 for bursaries within 99 days. We issued a general call on #GivingTuesday 28 November, or the “Global Day of Giving”. Individuals, companies and government organisations were e-mailed and phoned, requesting them to donate to this cause. Friends and family members were asked to rather support this initiative than giving Christmas gifts. We designed a brochure that was distributed during graduation week, asking as much support as we could get. Working with the communication division of the institution, we also got support in the media and social media during graduation week.
Contributions could be made via SnapScan, GivenGain or electronic transfers to the University. People were also reminded that they could support Stellenbosch University through everyday purchases by nominating the institution as a beneficiary on their MySchool cards.
Although we used the data to assist us to identify the criteria and thus to also identify an amount to raise, the allocation of funds to the students was left to the Bursaries & Loans office.
The target was a lofty one with many variables. Although we could not wipe out everyone’s debt, we were working towards alleviating as much fee debt as possible so that students could graduate debt-free and enter the world of work unencumbered.
This was a true team effort. Thanks to everyone who contributed to this initiative. - Anneke Müller and Candice Egan
Below is a link to two videos of students’ responses after receiving this support.