Welcome to Russel Botman Bursary Fund
“Africa needs a new generation of responsible leaders who are willing
to place the public good before self-interest.
”
-Prof H. Russel Botman
About Russel Botman
Prof. H. Russel Botman was a theologian, academic leader, and public intellectual
whose life was devoted to ethical leadership, social justice, and the pursuit of the
common good.
He served as the first Black Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University,
following earlier roles as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor, and Dean of Theology.
His leadership was marked by a deep commitment to transformation, reconciliation,
and moral courage within higher education and public life.
Ordained in the Dutch Reformed Mission Church, Prof. Botman played a pivotal role
in the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa and was widely respected for his
contributions to theology, ethics, missiology, and public discourse. He believed
strongly that universities and leaders carry a responsibility not only to excellence, but
to justice, dignity, and societal healing.
His legacy continues through the Russel Botman Bursary Fund, which supports
students in their academic journeys and reflects his lifelong belief in education as a
powerful instrument for change.
The Russel Botman Bursary Fund
The Russel Botman Bursary Fund supports students with academic potential who
lack the financial means to access higher education. Established in honour of Prof. H.
Russel Botman, the fund reflects his lifelong commitment to justice, education, and
the public good.
Applications
Applications: applications are managed by the Stellenbosch University Bursaries &
Loans Office.
Current Recipients
Lwandisile Mhlanga
Kayla Ruiters
Aidan Fletcher
Liam Pietersen
Lando Joyi
Celsey Farao
Gabriella Clarke
Aviwe Ndlanleni
Donate
If you would like to contribute to the Russel Botman Bursary Fund – the details for
direct payments are:
Standard Bank
Account number: 07 300 695 5
Branch code: 05 0610.
Reference: Botman
Account number: 07 300 695 5
Branch code: 05 0610.
Reference: Botman
Alternatively make a contribution on our GivenGain page.
Click Here
Click Here
Meet the Team
Roxanne Gabriella Botman
Career Confidence Coach, People & Culture Consultant | Daughter of Prof. Russel Botman
Dr Beryl Botman
Committee Chairperson, Author, Speaker, Podcaster | Wife of Prof. Russel Botman
Prof. David Xolile Simon
Senior Lecturer, University of Stellenbosch Theology Department, Huis Russel Botman House Resident Head
Russel Botman Memorial Lecture
The Russel Botman Memorial Lecture honours Prof. Botman’s intellectual legacy and
commitment to ethical leadership, social justice, and public responsibility. Hosted
annually around his birthday on 18 October, the lecture brings together scholars,
church leaders, and public thinkers to reflect on issues central to his life’s work. The
lecture also serves as an opportunity to introduce bursary recipients and strengthen
support for the fund.
Hosted by Stellenbosch University Theology Faculty.
Russel Botman Book
Russel Botman: A Tribute (1953–2014)
This commemorative volume reflects on the life, leadership, and scholarship of Prof.
Russel Botman, from his early years to his tenure as Rector and Vice-Chancellor of
Stellenbosch University.
Through personal reflections, academic contributions, and memorial essays, the book
offers insight into his role as a theologian, public intellectual, and advocate for
transformation.
A lasting record of his legacy and influence.
