The Democratic Alliance Student Organisation (DASO) at the University of Fort Hare (UFH) has launched the DASO Sisonke program. This is a critical initiative aimed at supporting over 1000 students facing financial hardship and potential academic exclusion due to a lack of funding for the 2025 academic year.
Today, during a Buffalo City Municipality Council meeting, I joined Cllr Funeka Wolose in submitting a matter of public importance urging the Council to take decisive action to “Feed a Student”.
Unfortunately, the matter was not debated due to the Speaker’s request for legal counsel regarding the municipality’s constitutional mandate in this regard.
Despite this decision by the Speaker, DASO has made it clear that we are not asking the municipality to directly fund this initiative. Instead, we seek their assistance in coordinating and facilitating support from the local business community. It is also worth noting that the Executive Mayor’s office has consistently provided donations to select student groups.
The Sisonke program will provide essential daily meals, toiletries, and sanitary products to students in need. This initiative addresses fundamental requirements for proper hygiene, women’s health, and basic sustenance, enabling students to attend classes without the burden of hunger.
DASO is actively mobilising support to make a tangible difference in the lives of students, who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. No student should be deprived of basic necessities.
The Sisonke program seeks to unite us in making a positive impact. Whether through monetary donations or direct contributions of essential items, your support will be invaluable. DASO will also soon launch a campaign outlining how individuals can register as beneficiaries, participate in fundraising activities, and become donors.
We call on the entire UFH community – students, staff, management, businesses, and the broader Buffalo City – to join us in alleviating the challenges faced by students.
DASO remains committed to fighting to ensure that there is no student left behind.