A university's contributions to society reach far beyond the hallowed hallways of research and teaching, as illustrated by members of UCT's Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) student branch. Earlier this year they wrapped up the installation of an array of solar panels at the Emasithandane Children's Project in Nyanga. The panels will supply 75% of the home's power needs.

It wasn't the first time that UCT students have lent a hand to Emasithandane, which provides a home for orphaned and otherwise vulnerable children from the township. In 2010, postgraduate students from the Faculty of Commerce raised R55,000 for the home at the behest of lecturer Stuart Hendry.

UCT alumnus Michael Tladi is also a major benefactor. The electro-mechanical engineering graduate, who as a young boy was homeless and now works for the Department of Public Works, played a key role in raising thousands of rands for the home, and continues to support it today.