Stellenbosch University Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Wim de Villiers, will put his metal to the test on Sunday, 10 October for this year’s Cape Town Cycle Tour. A team of 19 cyclists consisting of alumni, staff, students and fighting-fit friends of the University are ready to set a cracker pace and negotiate slipstreams.
This is, of course, the largest time trial cycling race in the world – a fantastic opportunity to raise funds for the student-driven #Move4Food initiative, now also one of the priority initiatives of the University’s Annual Fund, Bridge the Gap.
First, a pitstop at this initiative.
“#Move4Food aims to alleviate food shortages among students on SU’s campuses. And, of course, the need these days is more urgent than ever. Since 2018, the campaign has been well supported in various ways, but hunger is an issue that can’t afford complacency,” says Siya Ndlovu, peer-to-peer fundraiser at SU’s Development and Alumni Relations Division.
“There is a general perception that students at Stellenbosch University are fully funded, but this is not the case. Many students have poor access to basic necessities such as food and toiletries. The goal continues to be the provision of a sustainable model that provides students with dignified, stigma-free access to necessities, and to further strengthen the culture of ubuntu among students,” he adds.
With the generous support of donors, the #Move4Food initiative has raised more than R1.4 million since 2018.
Prof De Villiers, who only weeks ago completed the 88km London to Brighton Cycle Ride to benefit the UK/EU Bursary Fund, says he is geared for this iconic cycle tour. “Assignments, tests, and extra-curricular activities put students under a lot of pressure, but nothing compares to not knowing where your next meal will come from. No student can reach their full potential on an empty stomach. #Move4Food has my, and the Matie community’s, full support.”
To support #Move4Food, please visit https://www.givengain.com/cc/su100/
