The Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Trust Fund is helping young South African women stay at university by covering outstanding fees, registration gaps and other financial shortfalls that could prevent them from completing their studies.
The initiative, which places particular emphasis on women pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), is carrying Charlotte Mannya Maxeke’s legacy into a new generation as South Africa marks 125 years since her historic university graduation.
Maxeke became the first Black South African woman to earn a university degree in the United States in 1901, breaking barriers at a time when educational opportunities for Black women were severely restricted.
More than a century later, the fund bearing her name is focused on a problem that remains very real for young women today: gaining admission to university does not necessarily mean having the financial resources to remain there until graduation.
“This year marks the 125th anniversary of Mama Charlotte Maxeke’s graduation from university. We want to ensure that her legacy continues through this education fund. We want to ensure that women continue to thrive, because women contribute in unique ways,” said Dr Zanele Matsane, Ambassador for the Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute (CMMI).
