By 
Only one in 200 South African primary school students graduate with a university degree. This is a shocking statistic and one that we strive to change every day by helping more students graduate. So it is with great excitement that I share the news about our partnership with Stellenbosch University, which will nearly double the number of Dell Young Leaders we will support during their time at the university.
More STUDENTS HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY to SUCCEED
Two current Dell Young Leaders shared these sentiments. However, they are words that I have heard many times from others.
“I thought I was going downhill after the death of a close friend during the exam period. Emotionally, I was a disaster. It was the end of my degree, I thought.”
“I’ve always wanted to become a lawyer. However, I was repeatedly told that students from disadvantaged backgrounds are almost unqualified to earn their LLB degrees.
We see young people who are driven and determined, despite their hardships growing up in disadvantaged families. We must support our students in achieving their university graduation and meaningful career. Students from low-income families are more likely to not graduate from university, despite universities’ best efforts. This can harm their ability to provide for their families and communities and build a better future.
The Dell Young Leaders program has been a success story over the past 10 years. It has helped high-potential students from the most disadvantaged areas in South Africa graduate and starts their professional careers. It is well-known that students, especially those from low-income families, need financial aid to graduate from university. It also requires personalized support and resources. The dedicated program staff at Dell Young Leaders provides ongoing advice and resources to young leaders. These include mentorship, academic support, and wellness resources. They offer leadership development, career coaching, job placement, and mentoring. This program assists students in overcoming challenges while at university or in the workplace.
DETAILS ABOUT THE EXPANSION
The program at Stellenbosch University will allow 1,000 students with low income to receive financial aid and a scholarship to cover their full tuition costs over the next five years. To help them continue their studies, they will receive academic, career, and wellness support. We will open applications for students pursuing professional or in-demand degrees in their first year. We will also select applicants based on their ability to overcome obstacles and demonstrate leadership potential. We are thrilled to offer the Dell Young Leaders program to Stellenbosch University students. Applications will be open on Sept. 21. Our inaugural class will be announced on Nov. 6.
BRIGHTER FUTURE
We are excited, optimistic, and thrilled to be able to reach more students. We want to thank Stellenbosch University for their time and effort in helping our students and for the challenge of helping young South Africans realize their potential, regardless of their economic status. We are all committing to South Africa’s future leaders, who will undoubtedly change the world.
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