Published: 23 February 2026

Ten students from Makhanda are starting the 2026 academic year with renewed confidence after receiving financial support that cleared their outstanding university tuition fees.The support was provided through the Wind Garden Bursary Programme, funded by Wind Garden, a 94.5 MW wind energy facility wholly-owned by NOA and located near Makhanda in the Eastern Cape. The programme settled the students’ outstanding 2025 tuition debt, removing a key barrier that could have prevented them from continuing their studies. Delivered in partnership with StudyTrust, the bursary top-up assistance supported six female and four male students who were experiencing financial pressure. The beneficiaries are pursuing degrees across a range of fields including Social Science, Law, Pharmacy and the Arts.

Removing barriers to education

For many students, even relatively small amounts of outstanding tuition debt can result in financial exclusion, preventing them from registering for the following academic year. By clearing these debts, the programme has enabled the students to return to campus and continue their academic journeys without the burden of unresolved fees. According to StudyTrust, that manages the programme’s implementation, the funding has had a meaningful impact on the students’ ability to focus on their studies and plan their futures with greater certainty. Angela Harrison, Socio-Economic Development Manager at Wind Garden, says investing in education is essential for long-term community development.

“Education and skills development are central to sustainable progress. By supporting students to complete their studies, we are helping to build a foundation for inclusive growth and lasting positive impact.”

A life-changing opportunity

For beneficiary Lisakhanya Tetani, a Bachelor of Science student, the support arrived at a critical moment.

“Receiving this bursary has been life-changing. As a student facing financial exclusion, the support lifted a significant burden off my shoulders and allowed me to focus fully on my academic studies. I’m proud to have earned an academic certificate and ranked among the top 10 in my residence. With my debt settled, I can now complete my final year in 2026 focused and determined to achieve my goals. I’m deeply grateful for this investment in my future.”

Investing in communities through renewable energy

Wind Garden forms part of NOA’s growing portfolio of renewable energy assets, which includes large-scale wind, solar and battery energy storage projects. Alongside generating clean electricity, the project is committed to supporting the communities in which it operates through targeted socio-economic development initiatives. By enabling students to continue their education, the Wind Garden Bursary Programme contributes to building local skills and strengthening long-term economic resilience.

Looking ahead

Building on the momentum of this initiative, the Wind Garden Bursary Programme will expand in 2026, with further details to be announced in the coming months. For NOA, investing in education is closely linked to the broader energy transition. Reliable energy and access to education are both essential foundations for economic development. By supporting students to overcome financial barriers, Wind Garden is helping to create opportunities that extend far beyond the wind farm itself – contributing to stronger communities, inclusive growth and a more sustainable future.