Feenix, a public benefit crowdfunding organisation that connects university students who owe outstanding fees with funder communities, has recently raised more than R1,1 million to settle the historic debt of 15 Sol Plaatje University (SPU) students in order for them to receive their degrees.
The funding from Feenix was made possible by a large donation to the organisation from a corporate donor that wishes to remain anonymous. SPU was on the preferred list of 16 universities selected by the donor, which said it was important to them that wealth and financial assistance were spread across as many institutions as possible and not just focused on the larger universities.
“Despite the student debt crisis continuing to be a point of major concern, it is encouraging to see the possibilities that have been unlocked for students and universities as a result of this generous donation,” said Cara-Jean Petersen, Feenix Student Advancement Manager. “We have received an overwhelming response from our university partners sharing the impact of the programme for their institutions and on students.”
“SPU thanks Feenix and the corporate donor for financial assistance that will change not only the affected students’ lives, but the lives of those that these graduates will go on to serve and empower in turn,” said SPU’s Mr Qondakele Sompondo, Director of Institutional Advancement. “We look forward to a sustained and fruitful partnership that benefits all the partners as well as our students, province, country, and global society over the long term.”