The Motsepe Foundation, founded by South African businessman Patrice Motsepe, is at the forefront of philanthropic initiatives across the continent. With a strong commitment to addressing pressing challenges in areas such as climate change, education, healthcare, and social development, the foundation has made significant contributions that have positively impacted communities in South Africa and beyond.
Donations by the Motsepe Foundation
The Motsepe Foundation donations have supported a wide range of causes, highlighting its dedication to improving lives and building a sustainable future. Below are some of the most notable contributions made by the foundation:
1. Tackling Climate Change
The Motsepe Foundation has shown its commitment to environmental sustainability by donating £3 million to the Africa Innovation Partnership. This donation is aimed at developing African-based solutions for tackling climate change, biodiversity loss, and nature conservation. It is an example of the foundation’s dedication to promoting sustainable development and protecting Africa’s rich natural resources.
2. Fighting COVID-19
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Motsepe Foundation and its associated companies pledged R1 billion to support the South African government’s efforts in combating the virus. This donation was directed towards providing essential healthcare resources, personal protective equipment (PPE), and supporting efforts to ensure the health and safety of South African citizens during the pandemic.
3. Supporting Education
Education is a critical focus for the Motsepe Foundation, and the foundation has made several donations to improve the education sector in South Africa. One of the most significant donations was R150 million to the Department of Basic Education. This donation was aimed at enhancing school sports and promoting indigenous music, providing students with the tools to excel in both academic and extracurricular activities.
Additionally, the Motsepe Foundation donated R30 million to support 26 university student representative councils (SRCs). The funds helped students cover registration fees, clear historical debt, and address other financial challenges, empowering the next generation of South African leaders.
4. Empowering Universities
The Motsepe Foundation has also supported higher education institutions, such as the Durban University of Technology (DUT). In 2020, the foundation donated R1.1 million to support the university’s academic programs, furthering the institution’s commitment to providing quality education to students.
5. Bringing Joy to Children
The foundation recognizes the importance of giving back to children in need, particularly during the festive season. To spread joy, the Motsepe Foundation distributes toys across the country during the holidays, brightening the lives of young children and ensuring they experience the joy of receiving gifts.
6. Support to University of Venda
In yet another donation aimed at supporting students, the Motsepe Foundation contributed R1.3 million to the University of Venda SRC, helping students overcome financial barriers to education and fostering an environment where young people can thrive.
The Motsepe Foundation’s Approach to Collaboration
The Motsepe Foundation understands that sustainable development requires a collective effort. By partnering with diverse stakeholders, including government, businesses, knowledge institutions, and community groups, the foundation aims to drive positive and lasting change. Their focus on collaboration enables them to leverage the expertise and resources of various sectors, ensuring that their donations and initiatives have a wide-reaching and meaningful impact.
Contacting the Motsepe Foundation
For those who want to learn more about the Motsepe Foundation’s initiatives or are interested in getting involved, here is the contact information:
- Address: 19 Impala Rd, Chislehurston, Sandton, 2196
- Telephone: +27 (0) 11 324 1500
- Email: info@motsepefoundation.org
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.