Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted its second Decade Campaign Gala Dinner on Wednesday, 22 November 2023, at the SPU South Campus Multipurpose Hall. In addition to commemorating SPU’s first 10 years, the dinner’s objective was to raise funds for the Lesedi La Afrika Endowment Fund.
The event brought together the Northern Cape community, with dignitaries including SPU’s council members, various corporates and businesses and SPU’s Senior Management team. Chairperson of the Host Committee, Mr Sechaba Thole, welcomed all guests, thanking all the companies who came out to support the university.
Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof Andrew Crouch reflected on the university’s progress after a decade of quality teaching and learning, highlighting significant achievements the university has made in its 10 years. “The university is working; the university is proud of its good governance and its proud of its achievements over the last 10 years,” he said.
Director of Institutional Advancement, Mr Qondakele Sompondo provided an overview of the Lesedi La Afrika Endowment Fund, what it is, what it means to the university and what it aims to achieve, urging all guests to donate to this fund. “We are called to invest in the future of young people of the Northern Cape by creating perpetual access through endowed funds today. The Lesedi La Afrika Fund is currently funded mainly by the mining sector, SPU staff, and kind individuals but we have not as yet reached our target. By being here tonight, we are hoping that tomorrow and in the next coming months we will hear from you to help us in achieving our vision for the fund.”
SPU extends special thanks to our key sponsors, PMG Mining and South32, whose generous support was instrumental in the evening’s success. Their commitment to SPU’s vision exemplifies the vital role of partnerships in our progressive journey. In addition, FASSET and SIOC – CDT extended warm messages of support on the night, highlighting that they are always pleased to help the university grow and achieve its vision.
The gala also featured a fundraising auction with exquisite paintings from local artists and an exciting raffle, both contributing significantly to the endowment fund. These efforts underscore SPU’s commitment to innovation and community engagement as we look towards a brighter future.
While the evening was dedicated to sustaining the future, we had the multi-talented Unathi as a host and performer, joined by Kimberley’s very own Thami Mngqolo, who filled the atmosphere with great entertainment and good music, allowing guests to create unforgettable memories.
Judge Mmathebe Violet Phatshoane, Chair of the SPU Council, thanked each and every one who took part in ensuring that this dinner was a success, from the sponsors, companies, host committee and individuals who have contributed to this fund. She also expressed gratitude to the hosts, Unathi and Thami, for their excellent job in hosting and ensuring that every guest had a great evening at SPU.
SPU would like to express its gratitude to one and all who came to spend this evening with us in efforts of ensuring that the future of our university and its students continues shining brighter, being the Light from Africa.
Here is a list of all our sponsors for the Decade Campaign Gala Dinner:
Corporate Sponsors:
PMG Mining2
South32
Table buyers:
African Vineyard
Afrimat
Assmang Iron Ore – Beeshoek Mine
Assmang Iron Ore – Khumani Mine
Dawson Lemma Arts and Crafts
De Beers
eKapa Minerals
Events Tsarona
FASSET
First Technology
Gkhui Gkhui
Human Capital Maximizer
John Taolo Gaetsewe Development Trust
Kumba Iron Ore
Mattanu Private Game Reserve
Mokala National Park
Nare Boutique Hotel
Nedbank
Redstone
SIOC Community Development Trust
Standard Bank
Vedanta
