Prof Wim de Villiers, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University, completed the 45th Cape Town Cycle Tour on Sunday 12 March 2023 to raise funds for the University’s Annual Fund, Bridge the Gap.
Prof de Villiers is no stranger to cycling and he has participated in numerous cycling events, including the London to Brighton Cycle Tour. However, this year’s Cape Town Cycle Tour was particularly significant for him as it was his first cycle tour since the COVID‑19 lockdowns.
Speaking about his experience, Prof de Villiers said, “It was an incredible feeling to cycle alongside so many staff, alumni, and friends of the University who are passionate about making a positive impact in their communities. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to ride for a cause that is close to my heart and to support the important work of Bridge the Gap.”
Bridge the Gap is Stellenbosch University’s Annual Fund that aims to close the gap between talent and financial need by providing financial support to students who face financial difficulties and may not be able to complete their studies. The Fund provides scholarships, bursaries, and emergency loans to students in need, ensuring that they may continue their studies and achieve their goals.
The Cape Town Cycle Tour is one of the largest cycling events in the world, with over 35 000 participants from all over the globe. The event covers 109 km and takes participants through some of the most scenic routes in Cape Town.
Prof de Villiers’ participation in the event highlights his commitment to supporting Stellenbosch University and ensuring that all students have access to quality education, regardless of their financial circumstances. His fundraising efforts will make a significant difference in the lives of many students, providing them with the financial support they need to succeed in their academic pursuits.
As an accomplished cyclist and a dedicated leader, Prof de Villiers is an inspiration to the University community and a shining example of the values of excellence, service and commitment that are at the heart of the University’s mission.
We congratulate Prof de Villiers on his successful completion of the Cape Town Cycle Tour and thank him for his unwavering commitment to Stellenbosch University and its students.
The Cape Town Cycle Tour may be over, and Prof Wim may have crossed the finish line, but his fundraising efforts are continuing. If you wish to support him and his hard work, please donate to the University’s Annual Fund, Bridge the Gap on GivenGain.
Your donation will make a difference to the lives of many students at Stellenbosch University.
Visit https://lnkd.in/dY3pP5a
- From the left: Ferdinand Mettler, a Stellenbosch University (SU) alumnus and Future Fund ambassador, Braam de Villiers and his father Wim de Villiers, the vice-chancellor and rector of SU, and Ashraf Kagee, a professor of Psychology at Stellenbosch University, who participated in the Cape Town Cycle Tour on 12 March.
- Photo: Supplied/William Sezoe
