Dedicated student desperately seeking sponsorship
2008-09-11
Yolande Mabunda from Lulekani is a first year student at the University of Venda, despite only being 17 years old. Her path to success was paved by Palabora Mining Company/Palabora Foundation’s Programme for Technological Careers (PROTEC), where she studied from 2004 until she matriculated last year. Having obtained good results, she earned a place on the four year Degree in Bachelor of Earth Sciences in Mining and Environmental Geology (BESMEG).
Although she has been performing extremely well at university, unfortunate circumstances at home have led to Yolande having severe financial difficulties. These problems threaten her ability to continue with her studies. She is now looking for someone to sponsor her so that she can continue her degree and fulfill her potential.
Yolande says:
“I was once a PROTEC and Master Maths student. PROTEC played an essential role in my life as a whole, academically and generally. I managed to get good results in Grade 12 because of the lessons that I used to attend at PROTEC (including Mathematics “A”). Generally now I can cope with different situations because of the training that PROTEC gave us, such as the 2006 leadership course at Schoemansdal.
“I did seven courses in the first semester including Mathematics and Physical Science. I again got distinction in Mathematics, I was one of the best ten Geology first year students, and I’m doing well in all my work. This semester I am also doing seven courses, and the class tests that I have written now, I got high marks. I am very positive and sure that also this semester I will pass my exams.
“My father passed away in 2005. Those of us who are left at home: mother, sister, nephew and me. My mom is a single parent who is working at Phalaborwa Checkers as a cashier. With the salary that she earns she has to pay for my sister’s tution fees at Mopani College and also my fees. I don’t have financial assistance to help me to continue with my studies.
“I am very hardworking and goal-directed, very confident, creative and have a nice sense of humour. I would be very happy if I get a sponsor or bursary to help me continue with my studies. I know if given a chance, I would provide the same high level of commitment.”
If anybody is able to assist Yolande, or would like to know more about her ambitions, please contact her on 071 150 8892 or PO Box 17, Lulekani, 1393.
Palabora Mining Company, Foskor Ltd and Sasol Nitro are the major sponsors of the PROTEC programme in Phalaborwa. The other sponsors are Standard Bank, Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality, Lepelle Northern Water, GAGE Specialists, Professional Career Consultants, Mopani South-East FET College, Phalaborwa Chamber of Business, Eskom and the Department of Education.
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