Thomas Munyai, a bright young student at the University of Venda, has been given another chance to complete his studies after obtaining a study bursary from mining giant Rio Tinto, thanks to the help of the Makhado Municipality mayor, Cllr Glory Mashaba.

Thomas enrolled at the University of Venda, studying BSc mining and environmental studies. Earlier this year, tragedy struck when Thomas’s mother was killed. Not only did he have to deal with the grief about his mother, but with all the costs involved with the funeral and his mother’s estate, Thomas soon landed in debt and was struggling to keep on paying his university fees. At one stage, he started thinking of dropping out of university to help save the family some money.

But as luck would have it, Mayor Mashaba was among the guests who attended Thomas’ mother’s funeral and she noticed that he was struggling. She spoke to him and was so touched by his heartbreaking story that she immediately contacted mining giant Rio Tinto, who is currently busy with exploration in the Waterpoort area.

On Friday, December 14, representatives from Rio Tinto met with Thomas and handed him his bursary. The bursary includes paying his present study fees, as well as his enrolment for 2008. Thomas will also be able to gain practical experience by accompanying mining representatives on site.

Thomas was overjoyed about the bursary which came as a very welcome early Christmas gift. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards Rio Tinto and Mayor Mashaba.

Dr Francis Amponsah-Dacosta, head of the university’s geological and environmental studies, said Thomas was a bright young student. He said it would have been a real loss if Thomas was eventually forced to suspend his studies. Dr Amponsah-Dacosta also expressed his gratitude towards Rio Tinto and the mayor for helping Thomas continue with his studies.

Mr Albert Matodzi, the ward councillor where Thomas and his family stay, said that the municipality will always try and help those who wish to further their education. All that needs to be done is to fill out an application for a bursary. The municipality will then select those truly worthy of a bursary and will do everything in their power to involve companies such as Rio Tinto.