Wits University and their SRC members hosted a DoubleUp lunch hour event on 16 February, to raise funds for the #Access movement. The campaign aims to raise R10 million for students with outstanding debts.
According to a statement by the university, only 10 per cent of their students qualify to receive funds from NSFAS. There is a large group of students who form part of the ‘missing middle’. Wits SRC secretary general Fasiha Hassan said that the missing middle comprises students who are just above the NSFAS threshold, but are still too poor to afford university fees.
A box was set up on the library lawns and Wits students had an opportunity to help their fellow students by putting money in the box. Rapper iFani attended the event, having already donated R50 000 in his personal capacity to the cause. “I am offering my time, because it is a positive campaign. These students are the future of our country. If we deprive them of their education, then what kind of leaders will we have,” asked iFani.
The rapper mentioned that they have asked companies to donate money for this cause. “We have already raised R100 000 for this campaign and wish to double it in this lunch break.” Hassan took the time to thank every student for supporting the cause.
Students who put money in the box said that its really important for them to help their fellow students. Hassan added that as an SRC member she will not be able to sleep at night knowing there are students not able to study.
Details: Wits University, 011 717 1000.
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