The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has implemented several comprehensive interventions to prevent and alleviate hunger among its students, recognising the critical impact of food security on academic success and overall well-being.
UJ Food Bank Project
Central to UJ’s efforts is the UJ Food Bank Project, which provides meal assistance to students in need. This initiative offers well-balanced meal packs containing essential ingredients to support students’ health. The project relies on donations of non-perishable food items such as rice, pasta, maize meal, sugar, tinned goods, and soup powder. These contributions are distributed across all campuses to reach those most in need.
Food Trolley System
To streamline the distribution of meal parcels, UJ has introduced the Food Trolley system, designed by UJ Blockchain. This platform manages the allocation of free meal parcels to over 17,000 students. Students can register, order, and track meal parcel collections through an online dashboard or mobile app, ensuring an efficient and dignified process.
Plates4Days Initiative
In partnership with Tiger Brands, UJ relaunched the ‘Plates4Days’ programme to combat student hunger. This initiative provides monthly food parcels to students, aiming to address food insecurity on campus. The programme supports approximately 500 UJ students monthly, offering parcels that include a variety of nutritious food items.
Student Representative Council (SRC) Trust Fund and Meal Assistance
UJ’s Student Representative Council administers a Trust Fund and Meal Assistance programme to support students facing financial hardships. This initiative ensures that needy students have access to nutritious meals, thereby promoting their academic performance and overall well-being.
Community Engagement and Support
UJ’s commitment extends beyond immediate food assistance. The university encourages community involvement and support for its food security initiatives. For instance, the Centre for Psychological Services and Career Development (PsyCaD) has received significant donations of food and clothing from organisations such as ENS Africa, highlighting the collaborative efforts to support students in need.
Through these multifaceted interventions, the University of Johannesburg demonstrates a robust commitment to addressing student hunger, ensuring that all students have the necessary resources to succeed academically and maintain their well-being.
