Raising funds for bursaries for the missing middle group at Nelson Mandela University is not only a moral duty, but also a strategic investment in the future of South Africa. It is an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of thousands of students who have the talent, ambition, and resilience to succeed, but lack the financial means to do so. It is also a chance to strengthen the quality and reputation of one of the leading universities in the continent, and to foster a culture of giving and gratitude among its alumni, staff, and stakeholders.

Therefore, we urge you to join us in this campaign and to donate generously to this worthy cause. Defining the ‘missing middle’: financial aid for students who fall between the cracks of the higher education funding system. These are students who are too poor to afford tuition fees, but too rich to qualify for government grants or loans. They often face the risk of dropping out or accumulating debt. Offering missing middle bursaries are a way of supporting these students and ensuring that they can access and complete their studies.

Furthermore, there is a growing and significant need for postgraduate bursaries which are unfunded by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Typically, these bursaries include the Honours degree, Advanced Diplomas and Postgraduate Diplomas which enables undergraduates to proceed to higher levels of qualifications i.e., Masters and Doctoral degrees. By supporting students to attain these postgraduate qualifications, we are enabling them to attain their full academic potential and optimally contribute to society and the development of the economy.