AN INDEPENDENT campaign by Walter Sisulu University (WSU) alumni is currently underway to assist disadvantaged students who might not be able to attend their graduation ceremonies, which started on May 30 and conclude on June 10, across the four university campuses.
The campaign aims at assisting graduands with clothing items, such as dresses and shoes.
One of those spearheading the campaign is student development practitioner at the Mthatha campus, Amanda Mtsotso, who also could not attend her first graduation due to financial struggles in 2016.
“I remember locking myself in my room, looking outside my window and watching my classmates dressed up for graduation and celebrating. Unfortunately, I don’t have memories of my own as I could not attend graduation because I did not have clothes,” said Mtsotso.
She added, “I get so emotional when I see students not being able to attend their graduation because of the same reason; hence I started this campaign.
“I want all WSU students to celebrate their achievements because they’ve worked hard for it, and I want them to feel the graduation fever.”
Also joining the campaign is former Mthatha student representative council premier, Litha Ngalonkulu, who made a significant impact with his gift of giving during his tenure by donating 300 food parcels to disadvantaged students and sewing machines and other essentials to the hospitality department in 2021.
“There is a lot of frustration among students who are about to graduate. Some claim they would like to attend but financial muscle is not there; therefore, they can’t come and celebrate their hard-earned achievements,” said Ngalonkulu.
Dozens of WSU alumni have been donating shoes, suits, dresses, and gowns, with others offering free services, such as make-up.
“I would like to call upon other alumni to join in and help these students and keep the spirit of Ubuntu in the university alive,” said Ngalonkulu.
Should you be interested in donating, contact: Amanda Mtsotso – 083 423 5288 or Litha Ngalonkulu – 072 530 8509.
-ISSUED BY WALTER SISULU
UNIVERSITY
