Student hunger remains a pressing reality at Stellenbosch University (SU) – and from 5 March to 15 April, the SU community is mobilising to respond. Alumni, staff, students and friends of the University are invited to take part in the annual #GivingMaties campaign, a 40-day drive to raise funds for students facing food insecurity.
“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.
#Move4Food offers immediate, stabilising support where it’s needed most
“For that reason, this year #GivingMaties will focus on #Move4Food, a student-led initiative that provides immediate relief,” Mabuza explains. Launched in 2018, #Move4Food responds directly to the reality that many students struggle to access regular meals, providing direct food allowances to students facing financial hardship.
Small contributions, shared effort and a united SU community
#Move4Food forms part of a broader, coordinated University response to student hunger. In the past year alone, more than 700 instances of support were provided through financial assistance, supermarket vouchers, sponsored campus meals and donor-funded food parcels – ensuring students had consistent access to food during the academic year.
“The University’s approach focuses on stabilising, practical support rather than one-off crisis aid,” adds Mabuza.
“Access to food is fundamental to academic success. If we are serious about student success, we must also be serious about addressing hunger. #GivingMaties gives our community a clear way to respond. What makes this campaign powerful is that it belongs to the entire SU community – when faculties, residences and alumni pull together, even small contributions add up to meaningful support.”
Giving Day brings campuses and supporters together to make a difference
#GivingMaties brings together sports teams, societies, staff divisions and alumni chapters across the Stellenbosch and Tygerberg campuses. Through online fundraising, friendly competition and collaborative events, supporters translate community spirit into practical student support.
“By taking part in #GivingMaties, you can help ensure students can focus, thrive and succeed – and support a stronger, caring university community,” Mabuza adds.
The campaign ends on 15 April with Giving Day – an on-campus event, alongside virtual opportunities for supporters around the world.
How to get involved with #GivingMaties
Sign up at https://www.givengain.com/event/givingmaties2026 as a champion, share the campaign, and help fundraise. Make a donation – every rand counts. Attend and support #GivingMaties celebration events:
10 April 2026, between 11:00 and 14:00 – Fun activations at Tygerberg Campus
14 April at 17:00 – Forest of Giving: decorated trees along Victoria Street, live music, and food and drinks
15 April at 12:00 – Pokkel Dash: fun challenges on the Rooiplein with faculties, student communities, and societies
15 April at 17:00 – The Amazing Chase: go-cart races and team challenges on SU sports fields
Learn more about the campaign at https://www.givengain.com/event/givingmaties2026
