The annual Shaping Futures Golf Challenge held at the Umhlali Golf Course in Ballito was the perfect blend of friendly competition to raise funds for academic success. Swinging for goals, over 100 golfers and public and private stakeholders competed in four-ball teams, all united by a shared commitment to shaping a brighter future through education.

The challenge, hosted in Unisa’s KwaZulu-Natal Region, aimed to raise funds for financially constrained students who cannot settle their final-year study fees. This exciting fundraising event took place in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Education Development Trust. The trust is committed to promoting quality teaching and learning through innovative and strategic projects that benefit learners and educators across the province. Currently, Unisa’s student debt exceeds R1 billion, mainly due to the financial challenges faced by many students who are unable to pay their fees.

Frankie Mojapelo, Deputy Director: Developments and Special Projects at Unisa; Nathi Majozi, 2025 Golf Challenge best golfer winner; and Dr Joyce Myeza, KZN Regional Director

Strategic partnerships and collaborations are vital in addressing these challenges and promoting student access and success. Raising funds for education remains a top priority for the university. The proceeds from the challenge will go towards assisting students who have completed their undergraduate qualifications (excluding higher certificates), but cannot graduate due to outstanding fees.

Unisa KwaZulu-Natal Regional Director, Dr Joyce Myeza, welcomed the players and sponsors to the prize-giving ceremony and thanked them for their continuous support. She extended her heartfelt thanks to every golfer, sponsor and partner: "I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone for being here today and making this golf day such a meaningful and memorable occasion," she said. "Today was about more than just the love of golf. It celebrated our shared commitment to education, transformation, and a brighter future for our students and communities. Your presence and participation demonstrate your belief in the power of education and our role in shaping the next generation of leaders."

She stated that this fundraising event was growing each year, and that the support went a long way towards helping needy students in the region. "Thanks to your support," she continued, "the funds raised today will go directly toward our regional initiatives, especially supporting bursaries for students, including students with disabilities, and helping to settle outstanding student debt. These projects are vital in opening the doors of learning and keeping them open."

Thabisile Mkhize, a Unisa student debt assistance beneficiary, graduated with a Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood Development Foundation Phase. "I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the University of South Africa for paying my outstanding fees and enabling me to graduate," she said. "This generous support has made a significant difference in my life, and I am truly thankful. Unisa student debt assistance has alleviated a substantial financial burden, allowing me to focus on my studies and achieve my academic goals. I appreciate the University's commitment to supporting students in need. Thank you for your kindness and support. I am grateful for the opportunity to complete my degree and look forward to the other opportunities that lie ahead," she said.

Thabisile Mkhize, Unisa student debt beneficiary, Mxolisi Nxumalo, Unisa Intern, Nondumiso Ndunakazi, Unisa alumna, and Lloyd Modjadji, Development Officer: Unisa Foundation, encouraging golfers to donate

Unisa thanks all its sponsors and donors for their contributions: aQuellé, CMH Ford Ballito, Syavaya Transport, Southern Sun, Zimbali Estate, SA Golf Academy and Training, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, VW Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal Education Trust, and TECPROHEALTH; co-sponsors Zenzele Security and Training, Van Schaik Bookstore, KZN Tourism and Film Authority, and Unisa SBL. Your support is invaluable, and we recognise the importance of your partnership in advancing the University's mission.

Our special thanks also go to our new co-sponsor, the KwaZulu-Natal Education Trust, led by Nhlanhla Ngubane, for the continued partnership in uplifting both Unisa KwaZulu-Natal Region students and the community. The support of the trust is exactly what we need to implement these magnificent initiatives.

Frankie Mojapelo, Deputy Director Developments and Special Projects at Unisa; Melokuhle Magwaza; Siyamsekela Mgobhozi, SA Golf Academy best juniors winner; and Dr Joyce Myeza, KZN Regional Director

Furthermore, Unisa thanks Eric Mhlongo, Executive Director of the SA Golf Academy and Training, for continuing to provide professional support and advice on golf-related matters. His involvement in the youth academy and development has yielded excellent results. For the first time this year, young golfers participated in the Unisa Golf Day and won prizes. The golfers from the SA Golf  Academy, both male and female, were trained by Mhlongo. Among their ranks were Siya Mgobhozi, Ziyanda Mhlongo, Melo Magwaza, Siyamsekela Mgobhozi, Samkelo Magwaza, Siyamthanda Magwaza, Mpendulo Mcineka and Koketso Ramala.

The best player of the day was Nathi Majozi, who took home some Unisa-sponsored goodies.

* By Mduduzi Ndunakazi, Regional Communication and Marketing Officer, Unisa KwaZulu-Natal Region