The UNIVERSITY OF KWAZULU-NATAL UK TRUST is a UK-registered charity (charity number 1004047) established in 1990 with the mission to support and advance the education of people in need at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. It operates under the charitable laws of England, focusing on providing assistance to disadvantaged students through bursaries and allowances, thereby facilitating their academic and professional development.

History and Founding

The Trust was founded under the leadership of the late Margaret Thomas, who envisioned empowering students living in poverty by offering them access to university education. Starting with the support of a single student in its first year, the Trust has grown steadily, helping approximately one additional student each year. After nearly two decades, over 150 students had benefited from the Trust’s financial assistance, reflecting sustained alumni commitment and community support in the UK.

Objectives and Activities

The principal objective of the Trust is to support needy students enrolled at the University of KwaZulu-Natal by providing financial aid in the form of bursaries and allowances. These funds are raised primarily from UK-based alumni and supporters who share the vision of expanding educational opportunities for South African students facing economic hardships. The Trust emphasizes personalized engagement with the beneficiaries, which is a distinctive feature of its approach.

Financially, as of the year ending December 2023, the Trust reported an income of £34,507 and expenditures totaling £14,301. The charity operates without paid trustees; all six trustees volunteer their services without receiving remuneration or benefits.

Impact and Achievements

Since its inception, the Trust has provided financial support to around 400 students from low-income backgrounds. This support has been instrumental in enabling these students to complete their university studies successfully and pursue professional careers. The positive ripple effects extend beyond the individual students to their families and communities, contributing to broader socioeconomic development in South Africa.

Future Goals

The Trustees aim to broaden the charity’s support base among UK alumni and other potential donors. Strategies include enhancing the use of digital platforms such as social media and the Trust’s website to engage a wider audience and encourage donations, including through Gift Aid tax relief. The ambition is to sustain or increase the number of students assisted annually, thereby amplifying the Trust’s educational impact in South Africa.

Summary Table: UNIVERSITY OF KWAZULU-NATAL UK TRUST

The UNIVERSITY OF KWAZULU-NATAL UK TRUST exemplifies a long-standing commitment to international educational philanthropy, channeling UK-based support into meaningful opportunities for South African students with financial need. Its ongoing work continues to enable academic success and professional advancement for its beneficiaries.

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[1] https://www.ukznuktrust.org [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/1004047 [3] https://alumni.ukzn.ac.za/ukzn-uk-trust/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/1004047/full-print [5] https://wptest282.ukzn.ac.za/uk-based/