In December 2022, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) launched the ‘Double Our Future Impact’ campaign, intensifying its commitment to aiding students facing financial obstacles. This initiative has resulted in raising R6.3 million and positively impacting the lives of numerous students.
A contribution from Dr Alistair Mokoena, the Country Director of Google South Africa bolstered this fundraising effort. Through the Alistair Mokoena Education Fund, he pledged a R50,000 donation towards this drive.
The establishment of the Alistair Mokoena Education Fund highlights Prof Mokoena’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and addressing the challenges of education access in South Africa.
Highlighting the value of investing in education, Prof Mokoena emphasises its role in advancing knowledge and innovation, enriching students’ learning experiences beyond traditional classrooms. He acknowledges the significant educational challenges facing Africa, particularly South Africa, which must be addressed to alleviate poverty, hunger, and societal inequality. The Alistair Mokoena Education Fund stands poised to become a beacon of hope for aspiring scholars, offering support and resources to propel them toward success.
Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi, the Vice Chancellor and Principal at UJ, stressed that Dr Mokoena’s contribution reflects his dedication to addressing educational disparities and creating opportunities for students to pursue their academic ambitions. “The private sector has a significant role in supporting educational institutions and ensuring a lasting impact on South Africa’s educational landscape,” said Prof Mpedi.
About the campaign
Since 2009, the University of Johannesburg has made R20 million available every year to assist academically deserving and financially needy students with their registration fees. This contribution has been able to assist more than 5000 students to register per year. UJ is aware that many South African families and prospective students find themselves in a desperate economic situation and through various initiatives and campaigns, the University assists has managed to assist its students to pay for their university education. The University’s vision of a reimagined future is to assist all its academically deserving and financially needy students pay for their university education. Becoming a part of our effort matches our contribution and assists us to double our impact and help more than 10,000 students.
