In a powerful show of commitment to student support and inclusion, the North-West University (NWU) and global technology leader HCL Technologies (HCLTech) hosted a formal handover ceremony on 6 August 2025 at the Vanderbijlpark Campus.
The event marked a significant milestone in a growing partnership aimed at fostering access and opportunity for students living with disabilities.
HCLTech, a global IT services powerhouse operating in over 60 countries and employing more than 223 000 people, is known for its cutting-edge solutions in digital transformation, engineering, cloud and AI. As part of its skills development strategy and socio-economic initiatives, HCLTech began funding the NWU in December 2024, allocating R1 million for student bursaries and an additional R250 000 towards assistive devices and software updates for the NWU’s Disability Rights Unit (DRU), bringing the total contribution to R1,2 million.
Nkateko Shabangu, from the DRU highlighted the university’s deep-rooted commitment to inclusivity. “If you knew how deeply we care about our students, especially those who are differently abled, you would understand the lengths we go to every day. At the NWU, we are even moving away from the word ‘disability’, we see our students as different, not less.”
He emphasised the team’s efforts in sourcing assistive technologies and creating equitable learning environments. Nkateko also extended his gratitude to HCLTech and the NWU’s Development and Fundraising team, commending their role in ensuring that disability inclusion was a visible and funded priority. “This kind of awareness and advocacy is exactly what we need, not just within the university, but across all sectors.”
Representing HCLTech, Amit Kumar, global head of HR, spoke with honesty and urgency. “The reality is that, unfortunately, few people truly care. Token gestures do not lead to real impact. That is why we are here to make a meaningful difference.”
He encouraged students to take full advantage of the support now available. “You are the ones who will drive this forward. The world is vast; the competition is fierce. Understand the purpose of this initiative and take the best mileage out of it.”
He added that HCLTech’s vision goes beyond bursaries, it includes opening doors to employment and long-term empowerment. “This is just the beginning. We are committed to seeing this initiative grow and evolve.”
Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, community engagement, postgraduate studies with the assigned function of the Vanderbijlpark Campus, also expressed his gratitude. “We are deeply grateful for the generous donation of assistive devices. These tools will enable our students living with disabilities to thrive academically and extract maximum value from their studies.”
He acknowledged the significance of this partnership within the broader context of HCLTech’s university engagements and recognised its potential to grow even further. Addressing the students, he said: “This is your moment. There are no longer excuses, you now have both financial support and the tools to succeed. The responsibility is yours. Use this opportunity to strive for excellence.”
Closing the ceremony, Balisa Mancayi, senior fundraising specialist, reinforced the broader message of the critical importance of inclusive and holistic support for all students. “It is not enough to simply provide education, especially in a country like South Africa, where unemployment remains high, and even more so for students with disabilities.” She stressed that contributions from partners like HCLTech are not only appreciated but truly valued.
The ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including the directors for development and fundraising and student life, HCLTech representatives, and students who have benefited from HCLTech’s funding. More than a symbolic event, it reaffirmed the university’s ongoing commitment to accessibility, equity, and inclusive excellence.
With partners like HCLTech, the NWU is forging a future where no student is left behind and where difference is not only accommodated but empowered.
Forging a future together. In the back from left are Amit Kumar, global HR head executive at HCLTech, Chris Williams, Vanderbijlpark Campus director for student life, Balisa Mancayi, senior fundraising specialist, Silvanus Welcome, director for development and fundraising, Sahejna Sewpersadh, head of B-BBEE initiatives at HCLTech, Thato Lehutso, acting chief director for student life (Vanderbijlpark Campus), Mohsina Latiff. HR manager at HCLTech, Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, community engagement, Daisy Letoaba, junior analyst at HCLTech, Ntobeko Manqoba Phili, project manager at HCLTech, Jim Molautsi, acting chief director for student life (Mahikeng Campus), Harm Stavast, NWU SCD manager, Nkateko Shabangu from the NWU Disability Rights Unit, and Hloni Putsoane, employer engagement specialist.From left are students Keketso Khesa, Lethabo Mmangale, Mbali Dyobiso, Ntokozo Shabalala and Dimpho Mokoena, with Felicia Maxase, senior financial assistant in the NWU Bursary Office.
