STUDENT SPONSORSHIP

More than just bed & breakfast

We have recently embarked on a training project organised by Studytrust on a national basis [see Cultural Links]. We are financially supporting a student from a previously disadvantaged community to be a full-time student at a university. She had been selected by Studytrust from many, many applications and is now pursueing a degree in Tourism at the University in Bloemfontein.

But more about Thea herself !
Thea Mackay grew up in Ritchie, a small rural town near Kimberley. Her father owns a taxi and their only income is generated by transporting persons from Ritchie to Kimberley and back. If the vehicle is out of order, then there is no income for the family.

Thea completed her school examinations in 2005 and had absolutely no hope of further study. Then she heard about Studytrust and applied for financial support. Her application was accepted. Going to university was at last a prospect ! She writes about this as
follows :

" I travelled to Bloemfontein and all I had with me was my clothes. I did not know where I was going to stay, but I knew I was accepted by Studytrust and that I could now proceed with my studies ! But there were still many things which were not in place and I became very depressed. I phoned Mr Hofmeyr at Studytrust and he comforted me. But still I could not see the way ahead. I prayed to God not to forsake me now that I am so close to my dream... Then I was told about the guest house in Stellenbosch that promised to assist me. And once again I cried, this time for joy."

 

After the first semester of 2006 we have received very positive reports about Thea's progress. She has obtained an "A" in four of her subjects and from her letters we see a motivated young girl making full use of every small opportunity.
If you would like to participate in a similar venture or learn more about supporting the next generation in South Africa, visit : http://www.studytrust.org.za