The University of Pretoria (UP) has raised at least R170 000 for its Degrees Delivered campaign through ticket and merchandise sales from The Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe – The Ballet.
The production, presented in collaboration with Mzansi Ballet, took place on 7 and 8 October at the university’s Hatfield Campus, combining dance, music and South African cultural heritage to support graduates struggling with historical student debt.
Launched in mid-2026, the Degrees Delivered campaign aims to raise R50 million between 2026 and 2028 to help eligible graduates access their degree certificates. The campaign has already raised more than R11 million, enabling nearly 200 graduates to receive their qualifications.
UP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Francis Petersen said the initiative aims to address the challenges faced by graduates who have completed their academic requirements but remain unable to access their certificates due to outstanding debt.
The university hopes to assist approximately 1 500 eligible graduates through the campaign, with support from alumni, staff, corporate donors and BANKSETA.
The ballet featured Mzansi Ballet, the UP Symphony Orchestra, Tuks Camerata and the UP Ovuwa Cultural Ensemble, bringing the story of the historic Gold Rhino of Mapungubwe to the stage while raising funds for graduates’ futures.
