Sol Plaatje University (SPU) SRC and the Division of Student Affairs (DSA) today launched the food nutrition programme where food packs were handed over to students in need.
In 2022, DSA rolled out the Student Wellness Survey pilot study and found that 60% students who are not fully funded by NSFAS are food insecure.
In a collaborative effort, Gift of the Givers has donated food parcels to DSA and the SRC to distribute to students; this will be an ongoing project until all packs are handed to students in need.
The programme is a collaborative effort between the SRC and DSA who have identified the need for a structured food security programme for students who are not fully funded.
Beneficiaries of the programme include not only students in need of financial assistance, but those who have displayed academic performance, active participation in student life programmes and a commitment to give back to the community. The initiative strives to ensure that students focus on their studies without having to worry about their next meal.
In line with its mission statement, SPU aims to not only improve access to higher education for persons from disadvantaged backgrounds but also ensure success once on campus, without compromising academic success.
