At Kaap Agri, we believe that education is one of the most powerful tools to break the cycle of poverty and that is why we are proud of our R1,4 million investment in education initiatives over the past year. By means of the Kaap Agri bursary programme we work to secure successful futures for young people living in the communities in which we operate. Wilbur Jasson, a 20-year-old LLB Law student from Malmesbury, is grateful for the opportunity to pursue his dreams and acknowledges that it would not have been possible without the assistance of Kaap Agri.
“I can clearly recall the day I received the news that Kaap Agri awarded me a bursary. It was an emotional moment. My family and I were overjoyed. Although it was tears of joy, it was the first time I saw my father cry,” Wilbur said.
The bursary programme considers learners from various underprivileged communities who show academic promise, but don’t have the necessary funds to pay for their education. As one of Swartland High School’s top achievers, Kaap Agri first awarded Wilbur a bursary during his high school career. Following his commitment and dedication, it was decided to extend his bursary to cover his tertiary education.
“I knew I had the potential to make a success of my life, but my family simply didn’t have the financial resources. When Kaap Agri awarded me the bursary, it gave me the opportunity to live up to that potential and for that I’m forever grateful,” he explained.
In 2020 Wilbur set off to start his tertiary studies at the University of Stellenbosch. Although the year didn’t quite go as he had planned due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wilbur remained very focused and continued to achieve excellent results – attaining five distinctions in his first year of study. Wilbur attributes his success to his family and his support structure.
“Ultimately, the hope of a better future is what fuels my drive for success. With all the opportunities given to me, I cannot let it slip through my fingers. Kaap Agri provided the funding, I have my family and I have God backing me. All I have to do, is to put in the work,” he added.
“I’ve learnt that people can rob you of many things in life, but they can never steal your education. The mind is the most powerful weapon and if we as youngsters choose to put in the hard work, the world can be your oyster,” he continued.
Tasneem Sulaiman-Bray, Director of Corporate Affairs, said Kaap Agri is proud of their commitment to improving the lives of the youth by means of education. “Wilbur has shown great determination and his results speak for themselves. We wish him and all the other bursary holders well as they continue their academic journey. Whilst the pandemic has brought about much disruption, it has also been a catalyst for reflection and positive change. We have seen our learners adapt and embrace these challenges with resilience and fortitude. We believe in them and we are certain that they will make a success of the opportunities they have been given.”