Limpopo-born music sensation Ndivhudzannyi “Makhadzi” Ralivhona has made a significant contribution to higher education by paying the registration fees for 10 first-year students at the University of Venda (Univen). This generous act was confirmed today by Sunday World, and it brings hope to students who might otherwise have struggled to afford university.
On January 31, 2025, Makhadzi made the announcement during the official opening of first-year student orientation at Univen. “The University of Venda became one of the lucky beneficiaries when 10 students were selected to have their registration fees fully paid, following my call for assistance,” she said.
In her speech, Makhadzi expressed the inspiration behind her decision: “I do not know much about university life and its struggles. But God chose me and blessed me with the talent to make money. Now, I am here, sharing some of the little money that I have with you. This is the power of God,” she shared with the students.
One anonymous first-year student expressed heartfelt thanks. “I come from a family where both parents are unemployed, and we struggle to make ends meet. I’m so thankful for this assistance from Makhadzi. Without her, paying the registration fee would have been impossible. I will not be taking a gap year because of her help, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity she has given me,” she said.
These students were selected from hundreds of applicants across South Africa. To qualify, they had to provide proof of acceptance and submit a motivation detailing their financial struggles.
Earlier, on January 29, Makhadzi had announced plans to pay the registration fees for 20 first-year students. By January 30, she had selected the 10 successful students for Univen. Speaking to Sunday World, Makhadzi shared her understanding of the challenges many students face: “Most students pass matric and have financial challenges due to poor backgrounds. I know the struggles of our youth. Education is a powerful tool for change.”
The response to the Makhadzi Student Registration Initiative was overwhelming, with over 5,000 applications received in just 24 hours. Makhadzi admitted she had not expected such demand, saying, “It breaks my heart to see how many students struggle just to get a chance at education. I have committed to helping where I can, but I need society to lend a hand so that together, we can reach even more students in need.”
