The exciting and informative “Varsity Indaba”  held on the 27^th April 2017 at the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) campus was well attended. Awqaf SA, Muslim Students Association (MSA)  and  and Muslim Youth of SA (MYSA) co-organised this career guidance day for Grade 11 and 12 learners. Top 6 students from different schools in Johannesburg were invited to this event. The varsity indaba commenced with Shakeel Garda welcoming the students and outlining the purpose of the event. There was much excitement and anticipation from the grade 11 and 12 learners including MSA student mentors who ensured a well-run program.

Sershin Naicker from the Wits campus registrar gave a clear outline to students of the requirements for each degree with the step by step process of applying to university. MSA Union president gave students further insight as to what MSA is about. Naeema Ramadan, Awqaf SA Youth Ambassador, then engaged with the learner’s regarding Awqaf SA, explaining the concept of Waqf.

Each session was interactive and allowing for students to put forward their questions and concerns to the speakers. The breakaway session included current WITS students from different faculties and professionals to interact with learners. Students from faculties such as Law, Commerce, Halth Sciences,  Engineering and Built Environment, Education, Science and Humanities.

Learners from various schools gave positive feedback about the Varsity Indaba, Insaaf Mossa and Justine Kester from St Barnabas College commented that they found the Varsity Indaba extremely helpful and eased their worries about the application process. They further stated that they now have increased motivation to work harder to enter into their field of choice.

Summaya Mangera and Rizwana Karodia from the Al Aqsa School in Lenasia remarked that they found the breakaway session really informative and the overall program was informative.

Students were bussed in and were provided with lunxh packs, sponsored courtesy of Awqaf SA.  Thanks to all the student mentors and volunteers who made the event a great success. Rashid Chopdat, Coordinator of the Awqaf SA Youth Committee said that several suggestions for improvement and bigger scale were made and these will be considered for future Career Guidance events.

Aarifa Hunter, Awqaf SA Staff Reporter