A bright future awaits Keabetswe Blessing Ndlovu, one of only 18 South African students selected for the esteemed 2025 Abe Bailey Travel Bursary. The Financial Aid Bureau recently held a send-off for the young leader who will soon embark on an educational and cultural tour of the United Kingdom.
Keabetswe, an Advanced Diploma in Economics student at the Faculty of Economics and Finance, is widely admired for his drive to uplift others. He is the founder of the Economics Excellence Association (EEA), which equips students to excel beyond the classroom by providing tools, insights and support needed to navigate an increasingly complex economic world. He also serves as a Tutor in Economics and Stats and is a Student Development and Support champion, making him a well-recognised figure on campus.
According to him, the opportunity to explore the UK is a dream come true. “I am excited to represent the University well during our visit. What inspired me to apply was my constant search for opportunities that challenge and allow me to grow. The fact that the bursary covers all travel expenses and provides a chance to experience the UK culture and explore new possibilities motivated me even further.”
The group will depart on 29 November and return on 17 December.
The Abe Bailey Travel Bursary is regarded as one of the most valuable leadership development opportunities available to South African university students. It aims to broaden worldviews, build international networks and shape socially conscious leaders who make an impact beyond campus. The bursary is open to fulltime students and junior academic staff who demonstrate academic excellence and exceptional leadership in both university and community spaces. Recipients participate in seminars, historical and cultural tours and global leadership dialogues during their time abroad.
From left to right are George Temba, Keabetswe Ndlovu, Tertia van Schalkwyk, Mmaphuti Mohlala and Refilwe Mphuthi.