Rhodes University

In 2015, Professor Sizwe Mabizela was inaugurated as Rhodes University’s (RU’s) Vice-Chancellor and articulated a vision of the institution as ‘of’ and ‘for’ Makhanda, with a commitment to addressing disparities in the local education system. To give effect to this vision, the Vice-Chancellor’s Initiative (VCI) was established, bringing together university and community stakeholders to facilitate systemic change in Makhanda’s schools. The VCI, as a community engagement programme, comprises a multi-stakeholder group of education organisations working on several interventions ranging from the early years through primary and high school, and supporting post-school pathways. A notable implementing collaborator is GADRA Education, a local non-profit organisation focused on public education advocacy, academic support, and systemic reform in education.