As the only university in the world to bear the iconic statesman’s name, the institution’s allegiance to the values and goals of Madiba is so much more than a once-off Mandela Day celebration.
But for those for whom social justice is key in addressing the triple ills of poverty, unemployment and inequality, Mandela Day comes as a reminder of opportunities for individuals to join hands with like-minded partners to make a difference.
Last year the University established the Mandela University Convergence Fund to assist in communities where the university is located. Through the generosity of alumni, staff, students and friends we raised over R1 million for community-related projects, which was deployed in partnership with civil society organizations and NGOs.
Covid-19 regulations and the pandemic have made it difficult for people to directly volunteer in 2021, but there is still an opportunity to do something special on Mandela Day.
“We call on our University community to support the Mandela University Convergence Fund to contribute directly to challenges facing communities during the pandemic and in its aftermath in a practical way,” says Denver Webb, the University’s Senior Director for Resource Mobilisation and Advancement. “Your individual contributions can make a big difference and help us achieve our target of R1,5 million.”
Visit the Convergence Fund web page to make a donation this Mandela Day and to see how funds raised in 2020 have been already distributed.
