By: The Division of Communications & Advancement
As part of Rhodes University’s RU120 celebrations, the Old Rhodian Golf Club (established in 1970), under the leadership of Terry Sutherland, organised a Golf Day at Royal Johannesburg to bring alumni together for a noble cause. From a modest 60 participants to an incredible 200, this event aimed at generating third-stream income for the University saw the awarding of a significant bursary to nineteen-year-old Psychology student Luyolo Nketsheni, who was the Sports Star of the Year 2023 (Awarded by Mfuzo Boxing Camp) and Sportsperson of the Year 2023 (Awarded by Rhodes University). The bursary, which will cover her academic needs for the next three years, represents a milestone in the Golf Club’s commitment to student support.
Historically, the bursary—funded through the Old Rhodian Golf Club’s Bursary Fund—covered only one year’s tuition. The club has consistently awarded this bursary to students who exhibit exceptional sporting talent, reinforcing the importance of sports in the holistic development of students at Rhodes University. Reflecting on the initiative, Terry Sutherland observed that other universities, especially Afrikaans institutions, have built substantial funding reserves, typically channelled towards rugby teams. Inspired by this model, Sutherland sought to establish similar opportunities for a range of sports at Rhodes University. “We had over 200 Rhodians and their friends, and were expected to raise over R130,000. The camaraderie was wonderful, and the party continued late into the night,” Sutherland highlighted.
In addition to the bursary programme, the Old Rhodian Golf Club oversees the Sports Trust, which is worth R5.5 million. The Sports Trust is dedicated to improving and expanding the sports facilities at Rhodes University, aligning with the institution’s goal to enhance the overall student experience. Sutherland emphasised his hope that these efforts will instil a sense of giving amongst alumni, who he believes can elevate the University’s standing, particularly in sports.
Kamlesh Riga, Rhodes University’s Chief Financial Officer, reinforced this sentiment, highlighting how sports directly contributes to a student’s university experience. Riga noted that sports fundraising has become a priority at Rhodes University, acknowledging sporting success' role in attracting sponsorships and funding opportunities for student-athletes. According to Riga, those who excel in sports should have access to funding to further their academic and athletic pursuits.
The RU120 celebrations have strengthened connections between Rhodes University and its alumni, many of whom had yet to engage with the institution in recent years. Riga mentioned the resurgence of alumni networks, such as the UK and US Trusts, due to these celebrations, which have revitalised the University’s global alumni relations. He also touched on broader developments at Rhodes University, including the construction of a Nanotechnology Institute building, which cost over R84 million, and the R253 million renovation of the ChemPharm building. These infrastructural upgrades reflect the University’s commitment to academic and research excellence.
Among the most notable outcomes of the RU120 Sports initiative is the planned renaming of The Great Field to honour Alistair ‘Ally’ Weakley, one of the University’s most celebrated alumni and a champion of justice and equality. This renaming, set to take place at the end of the year, signifies the culmination of ongoing efforts to upgrade the University’s sports facilities, a key priority for the alumni community.
Through events like The Old Rhodian Golf Day, Rhodes University’s alumni demonstrate their dedication to fostering a vibrant, supportive environment for current students. The initiative reflects the institution’s broader vision of alumni involvement in sports and ensuring that Rhodes continues to thrive as a centre of academic and athletic excellence.
The Old Rhodian Golf Club’s initiatives—whether through the Bursary Fund, the Sports Trust, or global alumni engagement—underscore the power of community and collaboration. As Rhodes University continues to grow, these efforts will remain integral to creating student opportunities and strengthening the University’s legacy for future generations. The RU120 celebrations have reinforced the importance of these connections, ensuring that Rhodes University remains at the forefront of academic and athletic development.
Luyolo Nketsheni is set to represent Rhodes University at the USSA Championships in December 2024 and will compete in SANABO’s National Team Selection early next year.