Stellenbosch University Launches #GivingMaties: A 40‑Day Drive to Stop Student Hunger
Campus-wide campaign rallies alumni, staff, students, and friends to support food‑insecure Maties
Stellenbosch University (SU) is taking bold action to confront one of the most urgent challenges facing its students: hunger. From 5 March to 15 April, the University community will unite for #GivingMaties, a dynamic 40-day fundraising campaign aimed at ensuring that no student has to choose between academic success and their next meal.
“Hunger makes it hard for students to concentrate, stay healthy and succeed academically. No one should have to choose between eating and studying,” says campaign ambassador Alwin Mabuza. “That’s why this year’s #GivingMaties drive is shining a spotlight on #Move4Food, a student-led initiative providing immediate, practical relief.”
Launched in 2018, #Move4Food offers direct food allowances to students in financial distress, addressing the reality that many struggle to access consistent, nutritious meals. This initiative forms part of SU’s broader, coordinated efforts to tackle food insecurity through financial support, vouchers, sponsored campus meals and donor‑funded food parcels. In the past year alone, the University provided more than 700 instances of food support, ensuring students could stay focused and nourished throughout the academic year.
“Access to food is fundamental to academic success. If we are serious about student success, we must also be serious about addressing hunger,” Mabuza adds. “What makes #GivingMaties powerful is that it belongs to the entire SU community. When faculties, residences, sports teams and alumni rally together, even small contributions create meaningful change.”
Across the Stellenbosch and Tygerberg campuses, sports clubs, societies, staff divisions and alumni networks are gearing up to transform collective energy into tangible student support—through fundraising challenges, collaborative events and a wave of community participation.
“By taking part in #GivingMaties, you help ensure students can focus, thrive and succeed — and you strengthen a caring university community,” says Mabuza.
The campaign culminates on 15 April with Giving Day, featuring festive on‑campus activities and virtual opportunities for supporters across the globe.
How to Get Involved
1. Become a #GivingMaties Champion
Sign up at https://www.givengain.com/event/givingmaties2026, share the campaign widely, and help raise funds.
2. Make a Donation
Every rand brings a student one step closer to food security.
3. Join the Celebration Events
10 April 2026 | 11:00–14:00 – Fun activations at Tygerberg Campus
14 April 2026 | 17:00 – Forest of Giving: decorated trees on Victoria Street, live music, food and drinks
15 April 2026 | 12:00 – Pokkel Dash: Rooiplein challenges with faculties, student groups and societies
15 April 2026 | 17:00 – The Amazing Chase: go‑cart races and team challenges on SU sports fields
Learn more at https://www.givengain.com/event/givingmaties2026