"Thank you to everyone who has stepped forward so far and pledged to the CC175 campaign. By taking up the challenge you have created a community of African pioneers - proud and of generous spirit."

Words of thanks from UCT's chancellor Graça Machel as she paid tribute to those staff members, alumni and donors who have pledged to the campaign.

Since its launch earlier this year, the campaign has received the following support:

• Before launching the campaign to the UCT community on May 7, Machel had already made a significant personal contribution.
• Every member of the UCT Senior Leadership Group has contributed.
• UCT's registrar, Hugh Amoore, was the first staff member to donate to the CC175.
• The Nussbaum Foundation became the first personal foundation to donate a significant amount per annum over the next five years.
• From drivers and office assistants, to managers and project leaders, a diverse group of staff members have opened their hearts to the challenge and made their pledges.
• Former president Nelson Mandela made a personal contribution, pushing the campaign over the R1-million mark.
• Vincent Mai, a UCT alumnus from New York, became the first individual donor from the United States to support the CC175.
• Another UCT alumnus, Harold Gorvy, was the first individual donor from the United Kingdom.
• The first five members of Senate made their contribution at the beginning of October.
• Raymond Ackerman made the first major special gift to the CC175 through the establishment of the Raymond Ackerman Academy for Entrepreneurial Development.

Machel again reiterated: "By taking up the challenge, your gift will assist UCT in promoting the values it is committed to - the transformation of this country and continent, the development of human resources and the pursuit of intellectual excellence. Once again, I thank you."