UJ walk to raise funds for poor students

The University of Johannesburg has organised a fun walk to raise tuition fees for poor students.

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Johannesburg - The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has organised a fun walk to raise tuition fees for poor students.

On Sunday (Oct 18), UJ vice-chancellor Professor Ihron Rensburg (corr) and Gauteng education MEC Panyaza Lesufi (corr), will lead the first annual UJ Future Walk.

“Annually, thousands of successful matriculants, driven by hope and youthful optimism, are trying to gain entry to one of the country’s institutions of higher learning. However, a sizeable number of tertiary students and their parents cannot afford university education,” Lesufi said.

He said the walk aimed at funding students who because of shortfalls can’t be funded by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

“Although, NSFAS plays a vital role for access to tertiary institutions of higher learning by providing funding, the demand for student financial support is vast and has been inadequate given the scale of need among and beyond those qualifying for assistance,” Lesufi said.

He said the shortfall in NSFAS funding results in fewer students gaining access or continuing their studies at higher education institutions.

The UJ Future Walk, will be held annually so the institutions alumni, staff members and students can contribute to ensuring that needy students have a chance in attending the institution.

People who might not make it to the walk are encouraged to pledge R20. To participate in the 5km walk costs R145 and R175 for the 8km run and the event will be held at the AW Muller Stadium at the Bunting Road campus.

Registrations forms are available on the UJ website.

The Star