In a transformative step toward expanding access to higher education, Rhodes University proudly announces the launch of the Rhodes University 120^th Anniversary Merit Scholarship, a prestigious new award aimed at recognising and empowering top-performing learners from the Makana Local Municipality.

The initiative is a brainchild of the Chairperson of the Rhodes University USA Trust, Mr Donovan Neale-May. The Scholarship has been established through a joint agreement between Rhodes University and the three leading Makhanda independent schools: Diocesan School for Girls (DSG), St. Andrew’s College, and Kingswood College.

As part of the agreement, one percent (1%) of all school donations received from North America and channelled through the Rhodes University USA Trust to the schools will be allocated to a scholarship fund at Rhodes University. The fund will be dedicated to supporting academically deserving yet financially disadvantaged matriculants from the Makana Local Municipality, enabling them to pursue their studies at Rhodes University. The initiative reflects a shared vision to expand opportunity, uplift the local community, and invest in the future of Makhanda.

The Scholarship seeks to attract and reward the top-performing students in the Makana Municipality who will embody the University’s motto, “Where Leaders Learn”. The Headmaster of DSG, Mr Jannie de Villers, says he is “delighted to be collaborating in this powerful initiative with the Rhodes USA Trust and other independent schools in Makhanda. May the scholarship grow from strength to strength in enabling exceptional young talent from our community to reach their potential and impact the world”.

His sentiments are shared by the Headmaster of Kingswood College, Mr Leon Grové, who says: “We are thrilled to be partnering with the Rhodes University USA Trust in this meaningful way. The decision to allocate donations to a bursary fund at Rhodes University is powerful – it means that each gift will have a ripple effect, opening doors for a talented young person from Makhanda to access a world-class university education.”

The Scholarship covers full tuition and residence fees, along with a book and living allowance annually and will be renewable each year based on academic performance and active participation in community engagement initiatives at the University.

Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor Professor Sizwe Mabizela’s vision is to make Makhanda a place of educational excellence and this partnership stands as a powerful testament to what can be achieved through shared purpose and meaningful collaboration. Neale-May strongly believes that by bringing together Rhodes University and Makhanda’s leading independent schools, this initiative creates a vital opportunity for top-performing, financially disadvantaged learners to access quality higher education. As the Scholarship begins to take root, the University calls on alumni, donors, and supporters to be part of a larger movement – one that invests in the future of Makhanda, and of South Africa.

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