The University of the Western Cape (UWC) has turned to technology to complete the academic year during the national lockdown. However, thousands of students are unable to embrace this new method of teaching because they lack devices and data.
UWC is raising funds to help these students through the #NoStudentWillBeLeftBehind campaign – a model which other South African universities have adopted.
In addition, several university departments and units have redirected savings to the campaign from unspent budgets during the lockdown period.
UWC’s Acting Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Vivienne Lawack, said colleagues are expanding the University’s fundraising initiative to multinationals for donations because many South African companies are also experiencing financial difficulties. Watch her appeal here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZNBJZpHe8g&feature=youtu.be
The University has sourced laptop packages for students. It includes software, a laptop bag, LTE Modem and a two-year warranty at a cost of R6 379,05 which will be added to the student’s account. The packaged deal also includes delivery to the student’s door and technical support.
The more funds raised, the less the devices will eventually cost, and such reductions will be offset against the individual student’s account. UWC has also been working at distributing data, after reaching an agreement with various mobile service providers, to thousands of students who have reached out for assistance.
You can make your contribution to the #NoStudentWillBeLeftBehind campaign as follows:
OPTION 1
Step 1: Click on the link or copy and paste into your browser: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/nswblb
Step 2: Click on the "Donate" button
Step 3: Enter Name/Email/Personal Message and Amount
Step 4: Select payment method
Step 5: Confirmation sent by email
There, you will have the option of contributing via credit card, instant EFT or PayPal. You can use the reference: #NoStudentWillBeLeftBehind
OPTION 2
Make a payment directly to the UWC Bank Account and use the reference #NoStudentWillBeLeftBehind and email payment confirmation to: sbomester@uwc.ac.za
You will receive official confirmation of your contribution in due course.
Bank Details
Bank: ABSA
Account name: GENERAL DEPOSITS
Account number: 40-5089-3930
Branch code: 632005
Swift code: ABSAZAJJ
For inquiries, please contact: sbomester@uwc.ac.za