The North-West University (NWU) Mahikeng Campus is taking a bold step towards addressing student financial hardship through the “No Student Left Behind” fundraising gala dinner – an initiative aimed at ensuring that no deserving student is denied the opportunity to succeed because of financial constraints.

The fundraising gala, scheduled for July 18, is spearheaded by Lesego ‘Oscar’ Molema, who serves as the Student Campus Council (SCC) Fundraising and RAG officer, as well as the SRC Societies Liaison and International Students officer.

Molema said the event is more than just a fundraising campaign – it is a movement to restore hope and create opportunities for students facing financial difficulties.

The gala will also serve as a reunion of former student leaders who served under the Campus Student Representative Council (CSRC) from 2010 to the current Student Campus Council, bringing together different generations of student leadership in support of a common cause.

The initiative comes at a time when many students continue to face severe financial challenges.
According to Molema, 279 students are currently affected by the NSFAS gap investigation, leaving them financially vulnerable. In addition, more than 400 students require daily meal support, while existing assistance programmes managed by Student Counselling and Development have already reached capacity.

Many students are also burdened by outstanding tuition fees, preventing them from graduating and receiving their academic certificates.

“The reality is that many talented and hardworking students are unable to fully participate in university life because of financial barriers,” Molema explained.

Funds raised during the gala will be directed towards reducing outstanding student debt and expanding food support programmes to ensure students can continue with their studies with dignity.
Beyond raising money, the gala seeks to strengthen partnerships between the university, alumni, businesses, and the wider community.

Molema has called on individuals and organisations to partner with the initiative.
“Your support is not simply a contribution to an event; it is an investment in the future of deserving students. Together, we can create opportunities and ensure that no student is left behind.”
While the gala dinner is expected to make an immediate impact, organisers see it as the beginning of a long-term commitment to supporting financially disadvantaged students.

For Molema, the phrase “No Student Left Behind” represents more than a slogan.
“It means creating an environment where every student has an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of their financial circumstances. It is about inclusivity, support and empowering every student to reach their full potential.”