Universities key in sport transformation
- Wits University
The Wits Sport Transformation Fund will support talent and contribute to the national pool of African athletes.
Wits University and Wits Sport have launched the Fund in order to enable talent from historically disadvantaged backgrounds to gain access to Wits and soar in sports without financial impediment.
The Fund was launched during the suspense filled varsity football match between Wits University and the University of Johannesburg. Billed as the Joburg Derby, the match between the sport rivals provided the perfect backdrop for the launch.
The first bursary recipient of the Fund, Sisipho Magwaza, a Grade 12 learner from Hoerskool Transvalia, was overjoyed at the news.
Magwaza has shown incredible talent in sport, academics and leadership. She is the head girl and captains the school's hockey and athletics teams. Her talent has also been rewarded by a place in the U/21 SA hockey team.
“I am truly humbled and grateful for this life-changing opportunity,” said the multi-talented goalie.
Both her moms Miriam Magwaza and Rosemary Anderson were delighted at what awaits Sisipho.
Speaking at the launch, Professor Adam Habib, said sport and education are key in transforming society.
In a society that is searching for healing and equity, “sport brings us together and education creates the opportunities to transform.”
Habib highlighted the importance of universities in achieving national development and transformation targets.
“Student sport and university sport codes have been one of the most important cornerstones and enablers of South African sporting achievements. Many Olympic and international medal winners and other success stories have come through the university system.
“University success in transforming our sporting teams is critical to achieving transformation targets at provincial and national level,” Habib.
Fund patron and former Banyana Banyana defender, Simphiwe Dludlu, praised the inititiave and reflcted on her own years as a student athlete. She sais such initiatives make it possible for young people to realise both their academic and sport ambitions.
For more details on the Wits Sport Transformation Fund, contact email Adrian.Carter@wits.ac.za, the Head of Wits Sport.