I am really beginning to wonder about the power and influence of cyber knowledge. In search engines, we can find answers to almost any question or issue if we know where and how to search.

I am from a generation where the internet and social media came late in life and it is quite an effort to stay current in the fast-growing world of information.

That is why I wonder how it could be possible that some of the Stellenbosch University students who were called for Russel Botman Bursary interviews would present themselves without any knowledge about Russel Botman, the person, or the bursary fund. Since August 2018 the RBBF has run posts and blogs on social media. On 18 October 2018, the RBBF website was launched during the Annual Russel Botman Memorial lecture and the bursary recipients were introduced to a capacity audience.

With every blog and post, the committee makes an appeal for donations. And the response: very close to nothing. Why is this? Is it a matter of conviction with a lack of commitment?

Russel Botman was a man of conviction and active commitment. Without donations, there can be no bursary opportunities for deserving students. If you are committed, family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances, move to active commitment and donate. Donate any amount. Together we can make a difference in the lives of our youth, their families, communities and ultimately broader society. We had Russel Botman to lead us in this.