In a remarkable display of determination and unity, a group of students from various universities have come together for an extraordinary cause.

The Solutionary Walk, a project under Operation Compassion of South Africa (OCSA) Krugersdorp West, aims to raise awareness and funds through a 600 km walk from Maseru, Lesotho, to Krugersdorp West, Gauteng, in celebration of Youth Month.

Participants in the Solutionary Walk come from various educational institutions and organisations and are supported by the Krugersdorp West Full Gospel Church of God. They include Campsizanani, Nelson Mandela University, Westcol TVET College, National University of Lesotho, Agriskills College, Hammanskraal Operation Compassion South Africa, and Tangible Africa.

The diverse team of eight walkers began their journey on 26 June from the National University of Lesotho, with stops planned at schools, universities, and community organisations to promote the walk, inspire communities, and offer career exhibitions.

On Tuesday, 2 July the walkers visited the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus, where they were warmly welcomed by staff and students. They participated in a brief walk around the campus, which was proudly named the “NWU Solidarity Walk with Solutionary Walkers”.

In welcoming the walkers, Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for planning and Vanderbijlpark Campus operations, shared an encouraging message. “Your journey is a powerful reminder that each step taken with purpose can lead to monumental change. We are incredibly proud of you and stand with you every step of the way."

The organisation aims to raise R24 million in 2024 to address various student needs such as tertiary funding, registration fees, accommodation and transportation. This initiative seeks to transform lives by breaking the cycle of unemployment and support sustainable community projects.

The brainchild of this initiative is Tona Moroke, a pastor at the Krugersdorp West Full Gospel Church. Tona founded the Solutionary Walk in April 2024, driven by a deep-seated desire to find solutions to pressing problems.

"Problems motivate me to find solutions, and I am inspired by community transformational leaders and projects globally," he says. His vision and leadership have been instrumental in mobilising the youth and fostering a spirit of compassion and action.

The Solutionary Walk is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path toward a future where the youth are empowered to create positive change in their communities.

The Solutionary Walkers enter the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus main gate.

The Solutionary Walkers receive a warm welcome from NWU students and staff.

NWU staff and students accompany the Solutionary Walkers on a Solidarity Walk around the campus.

Tona Moroke, a pastor at the Krugersdorp West Full Gospel Church, is passionate about mobilising the youth.

Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for planning and Vanderbijlpark Campus operations, welcomes the walkers.