Laingsburg celebrates new bursary recipients in the Karoo region

In a significant boost for education in the Karoo region, 15 aspiring students celebrated their acceptance into the Roggeveld, Brandvalley, and Rietkloof Bursary Programme. Hosted by Red Rocket in partnership with Study Trust, the ceremony marks a pivotal moment for these students, who are part of a total of 38 beneficiaries this year, all benefitting from the programme's commitment to transforming lives through education.

The event took place at the Stephanus Greeff Hall, attended by key dignitaries including  JJ van der Colff, Executive Mayor of the Karoo Hoogland Local Municipality and Executive Mayor of Laingsburg, Aletta Theron. Community leaders, representatives from Red Rocket and Study Trust, former and current students, and parents gathered to celebrate the new cohort ready to embark on their higher education journey.

In her welcoming address, Theron expressed immense pride in the students’ achievements, urging them to view challenges as opportunities for growth. “We believe in the role of talented and skilled young people. I commend them for their hard work, perseverance, and potential,” she said, emphasising the importance of resilience in pursuing their academic goals.

Red Rocket’s Economic Development team highlighted how the bursary programme extends its benefits beyond the students, contributing to the economic and social revitalisation of rural towns such as Laingsburg, Matjiesfontein, and Sutherland. Cheryl Persensie, the Economic Development and Compliance Manager, acknowledged the struggles many face in rural upbringing, stating, “This is only the beginning of your journey; the hard work lies ahead. In the end, it is all worth it.”

Study Trust Manager, Tracy September, reiterated the vital partnership with Red Rocket, focusing on the programme's holistic approach to education. She highlighted that the support encompasses tuition, living allowances, and psychosocial assistance, all aimed at developing students into impactful community role models. “Our partnership has enabled us to give students the opportunity to become positive contributors to the broader economy, ensuring they have the necessary life skills and psychosocial tools to succeed,” she said.

The ceremony also featured inspiring moments, as both current bursary recipients and graduates shared their stories, reflecting the transformative power of the programme. Among the most notable recognitions were high achievers from 2025, who received essential gifts such as laptops and power banks to support their studies. Among the top students were Fenicia Baadtjies, Jada Matthews, and Ridowhan Baardman, all celebrated for their academic excellence.

Stellenbosch University law graduate Rasheed Lowe expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by the bursary programme. “I was able to grow through the various workshops that I attended, which helped me to become better in many areas of my life,” he remarked, a testament to the programme’s profound impact on individual lives.

The event concluded with an inspiring keynote address by Fezeka Rayi, Director of Professional Development in the Western Cape Government’s Department of Public Works, who elaborated on the importance of character in personal and professional success, offering valuable insights for the future leaders in attendance.

With Roggeveld, Brandvalley, and Rietkloof wind farms contributing a combined capacity of 435MW to the national grid, the progression of such bursary programmes underscores the multifaceted benefits of sustainable energy projects in fostering local talent and developing community potential.

Weekend Argus