Dr Mamphela Ramphele.

A group of alumni, led by former UCT vice-chancellor Dr Mamphela Ramphele, has established a trust to help previously disadvantaged staff and students.

The Ukukhula (to grow) Trust was formed under the guidance of the UCT Foundation, and has started a long-term endowment fund to provide bursaries to students intending to pursue a tertiary education, and academics seeking further developmental opportunities.

To qualify for participation in Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBEE) initiatives under the terms of the Act, it was necessary to create a legally-separate entity that would be fully compliant in terms of its purpose, composition, and modus operandi.

Ukukhula is a vehicle for firms that are interested in BBBEE and skills development. It seeks to provide a reputable organisation that fulfils all the requirements of a BBBEE entity in terms of legislation, to enable previously disadvantaged South Africans to benefit from quality tertiary education.

Vice-chancellor Dr Max Price has appealed to staff and students to join the initiative by suggesting potential opportunities for Ukukhula to collaborate with businesses - both large and small - that are seeking a BBBEE partner.

"Your support will be greatly appreciated, both by me and - especially - by the future generations of UCT students and staff who will benefit from support by Ukukhula," Price said.

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