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Unisa alumni inspire Elswood Secondary School learners to strive for excellence

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Members of the Unisa Cape Town Alumni Chapter, from left: Francois Mintoor, Sandie Xheke, Siyanda Mgudlwa, and Violet Poole

Members of the Unisa Cape Town Alumni Chapter and the Western Cape Regional Office recently visited Elswood Secondary School in Cape Town as part of an outreach initiative aimed at motivating learners and promoting access to higher education.

The visit had three key objectives: to introduce learners to the academic opportunities available at Unisa, to provide alumni support and encouragement to the matric class as they prepare for their final examinations and to inspire learners to invest in their future through education.

The chapter’s executive committee selected Elswood Secondary School as a beneficiary of the initiative. The school, located in a community affected by social challenges such as gang activity and substance abuse, serves many learners from disadvantaged backgrounds and has struggled with low matric pass rates and limited university enrolments.

The day started with a valedictory ceremony attended by proud parents and community members. Learners were recognised for their achievements and reminded to stay focused and disciplined as they approach their matric exams. Unisa alumnus Francois Mintoor delivered an inspiring speech, encouraging learners to believe in their potential and to persevere in their studies.

The event concluded with 150 learners receiving gift packs from the alumni chapter. The school principal, Marlon Kiewiet, expressed deep appreciation for Unisa’s commitment to empowering the learners of Elswood Secondary School. He commended the university and its alumni for their ongoing support, noting the positive impact such initiatives have on motivating learners to pursue excellence despite challenging circumstances.

Reflecting on the day, Mintoor said: “We, as Unisa alumni, trust that our visit has inspired the learners to dream big and to realise that anything is possible when you believe in yourself.” 

By Thandeka Mtyali, Communication and Marketing Intern, Western Cape Region

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Publish date: Wed Nov 19 14:58:08 SAST 2025

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