Building Financial Futures: University of Venda and Absa Bank Host Engaging Financial Education Game Day

From 14 to 15 October 2025, the University of Venda (UNIVEN), in partnership with Absa Bank, hosted an inspiring two-day Financial Education Game Day at the Student Parliament. Over 60 enthusiastic participants gathered for this event designed to equip students with essential financial skills and knowledge, preparing them for a successful transition into the professional world.

In his opening remarks, Mr Andisani Mathelemusa emphasised the critical importance of financial responsibility among students. He highlighted the need for students to manage their finances wisely. With many students soon to graduate and enter the workforce, he urged them to seize the opportunity presented by this collaboration with Absa to develop strong habits of planning, saving, and responsible spending.

Mr Tirani Mathye shared a heartfelt message reflecting on lessons learned from past student financial management experiences. He emphasised the importance of making informed financial decisions and cautioned against repeating the mistakes that had led previous groups into debt and financial instability. Mr Mathye encouraged students to make “sober decisions” about their finances, reminding them that financial freedom is earned through discipline and responsibility. He described the event as a valuable chance to learn how to manage money effectively as future professionals.

The core of the programme was led by Ms Sherryl Mwaka from Absa Bank who outlined the purpose of the Absa Bank visit to the University of Venda which is to enhance financial literacy and familiarise students with private banking. She described private banking as a specialised service offering clients a dedicated banker, personalised financial advice, and access to exclusive banking benefits. Ms Mwaka shared exciting details about the Young Professionals Programme, which allows final-year students to enjoy full private banking services free of charge, services that typically cost standard clients around R500 per month. “This initiative aims to help students manage their finances effectively before entering the job market.”

Adding an element of fun and engagement, the Absa representatives led an interactive finance-themed game called “30 Seconds.” Student teams competed in this lively activity designed to reinforce key financial concepts entertainingly. During the session, the representatives also explained the practical advantages of private banking, such as reduced interest rates on loans, credit cards, and mortgages. For example, private banking clients can qualify for vehicle loans at a reduced interest rate of prime minus 1%, compared to the typical 18% for new retail clients. Other perks include access to airport lounges, cashback rewards, and round-the-clock banking support. The Absa team urged students to think ahead about their financial futures and to use these services as a foundation for building lasting wealth rather than falling into debt.

The event concluded with a lively question-and-answer session where students sought clarity on eligibility and qualifications for private banking benefits. The Absa team explained that while final-year students studying fields such as law, medicine, engineering, and accounting automatically qualify for free private banking, those wishing to apply for loans must demonstrate proof of income and maintain a good credit record.

The University of Venda and Absa Bank’s Financial Education Game Day proved to be a powerful platform for empowering students with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed financial decisions. By combining practical advice, engaging activities, and expert guidance, the event laid a strong foundation for the financial success of the university’s future graduates.

Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding & Communication University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
Date: 15 October 2025