100UP

The 100UP programme is a long-standing initiative committed to advancing equitable access to higher education for learners from under-resourced communities in the Western Cape. Over the past decade, it has transformed lives, enabling more than 1,500 young people from Khayelitsha, Mitchell's Plain, and Philippi to gain admission to tertiary institutions across South Africa.

Learners in these communities face persistent structural barriers: under-resourced schools, limited social capital, and few opportunities for academic enrichment. These systemic inequalities place them at a significant disadvantage compared to peers from well-resourced educational environments.

100UP directly addresses these challenges by identifying high-potential learners and providing comprehensive academic, psychosocial, and aspirational support. Through sustained coaching, subject-specific enrichment, and guided mentorship, the programme equips learners with the skills, confidence, and readiness not only to access university but to thrive once enrolled.

A key strength of 100UP is its deep integration with the University of Cape Town. Learners gain structured exposure to university faculties, campus life, and academic pathways experiences that help them ask critical questions, explore areas of interest, and make informed decisions about their future careers.

This holistic, university-engaged model continues to deliver measurable impact, breaking cycles of disadvantage and opening pathways to higher education for talented young people who might otherwise be excluded.

To sustain and grow the programme's life-changing impact, we rely on the support of friends and donors. The cost of supporting one matric learner through the 100UP Programme is approximately ZAR 12,000 per year, and donors may sponsor a learner for one year or commit to a two- to three-year partnership, enabling consistent support and greater long-term impact.