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

The fundraising gala, scheduled for 18 July 2026, is spearheaded by Lesego “Oscar” Molema, who serves as the Mahikeng Student Campus Council (SCC) fundraising and RAG officer, as well as the Student Representative Council societies liaison and international students officer.

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

“No student should be disadvantaged because of their financial circumstances. We believe every student deserves an equal opportunity to succeed academically and personally,” he says.

The gala will also serve as a reunion of former student leaders who served on the SCC from 2010 until now, 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 Lesego, 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,” Lesego explains.

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.

The initiative is being driven by the SCC in collaboration with Development and Fundraising, the Alumni Office and Student Life, while additional stakeholders and sponsors continue to come on board.

“We want to establish a sustainable support network that will continue to benefit students long after the gala dinner has ended,” says Lesego.

Guests attending the event can expect an elegant evening featuring keynote speakers, networking opportunities, entertainment, recognition of sponsors and fundraising activities.

Since announcing the initiative, organisers have been encouraged by the overwhelming response received from students, university staff, alumni, businesses and community members.

Lesego believes the strong support demonstrates the shared commitment of the community to educational access and student success.

He also calls 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.

Plans are already in place to continue developing sustainable initiatives that address student needs and promote academic success.

For Lesego, 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.”

The “No Student Left Behind” fundraising gala dinner will bring together students, alumni, university leadership, businesses and members of the public in a united effort to transform lives through education.

Lesego “Oscar” Molema is the driving force behind the “No Student Left Behind” fundraising gala dinner.

Lesego “Oscar” Molema is the driving force behind the “No Student Left Behind” fundraising gala dinner.

Fundraising Invitation Poster