By: Ephreeda Banda

Rhodes University hosted its annual Commerce Extended Studies Programme (CESP) welcome function at the Amazwi Literary Museum on the 11^th of March 2025 in collaboration with Investec. The event warmly welcomed first-year students, introducing them to Investec's invaluable support throughout their academic journey.

Since 2009, Investec has played a crucial role in the programme, offering financial aid, mentorship, and educational resources to ensure students have the necessary tools to succeed. Over the years, this partnership has transformed many lives, like providing students access to bursaries, textbooks, stationery, and even laptops during the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2025 welcome function allowed students to engage with Investec representatives and gain insight into the continued support available to them.

Investec’s involvement in the programme has eased financial burdens and fostered a sense of belonging among students. The partnership has facilitated academic incentives such as awards ceremonies and mentorship initiatives, helping students develop professionally and personally. Mr Setlogane Manchidi, Head of Corporate Social Investments at Investec, emphasised that beyond funding, the programme is about creating opportunities for students to succeed. “Rhodes gave us access to students with potential. The true value of transforming lives is taking those who may not have been the preferred candidates for university and giving them a chance—and they deliver results,” he said.

Prof Lynette Louw, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Commerce, spoke about the long-standing impact of the partnership and how it has evolved from a transformation initiative into a programme that consistently produces exceptional graduates. The collaboration has benefitted 840 students, many of whom have excelled in various fields, including accountancy, business, and leadership roles. Numerous CESP students have been recognised for their achievements, with some featured on the Dean’s List for Academic Merit and others securing leadership positions, such as in the Student Representative Council (SRC). “One CESP alumna was elected to the 2024 Student Representative Council, while another received a Rhodes University Top 120 Student Leadership Award,” she noted.

Investec’s sponsorship of mentoring initiatives, such as the Trojan Academic Initiative (TAI), has provided additional academic and personal development support for students, further strengthening their chances of success. The Faculty of Commerce, in collaboration with Investec, is also launching a longitudinal study to track alumni career progress and improve the programme for future students. “We want to understand where our graduates work and how this programme has shaped their careers. This research will help us refine and improve our approach,” Prof Louw added.

Among the students who have benefited from this collaboration is Nkanyezi Mthimkhulu, a second-year BCom Extended Studies student. He shared his journey to Rhodes University, describing how, before arriving, he had no financial support and was the last person in his class to register for university. Despite these initial challenges, he worked hard and became the highest-achieving student in his first year in Theory of bet36体育投注_bet36体育在线—激情赢盈中√, one of the most demanding modules. “I never thought I would be the highest achiever in my first year, but through hard work and consistency, I managed to be the top achiever in Theory of bet36体育投注_bet36体育在线—激情赢盈中√,” he said.

He expressed his gratitude for the financial and academic support provided, explaining that without it, many of the typical stresses faced by first-year students would have been overwhelming. For him, being part of a programme backed by Investec was a turning point, confirming his capabilities and solidifying his aspirations of becoming a Chartered Accountant. “Being part of this programme gave me the chance to focus on my studies without constantly worrying about finances. I hope to work at Investec one day and contribute meaningfully to the company,” he said.

The welcome function was not just a formal event but a powerful reminder of how partnerships like this shape futures. It underscored the importance of investing in education and supporting students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring they have the resources, mentorship, and encouragement to succeed. As Investec and Rhodes University continue to collaborate, the focus remains on fostering academic excellence and professional growth, empowering students to achieve their ambitions and contribute positively to society.