As part of Vision 2020, the university has been expanding access to computing devices for students in recent years. In 2013 and 2015, the university targeted academically deserving and financially needy students in its programme of providing 490 and 250 computing devices respectively.

During 2019, the university facilitated the provision of computing devices to its students on a mass scale though its Student Device Initiative, with the initial phase focusing on first-time entering NSFAS-funded students for 2019. 

The university provided these students an opportunity to secure their own laptop – valued at about R6 500, but offered it to students at R4 800, financed from their annual financial aid allowances. The device is paid off over two years, with R2 400 being deducted from the NSFAS book or technology allowance. Students can choose to opt into the agreement over the two-year period. 

To ensure success of this project, the university provides an enabling environment to support the entire ecosystem of technology-enabled learning and teaching.

This university aims to extend the Student Device Initiative to the class of 2020 first-time entering NSFAS-funded students and build upon the success of the 2019 project. 

The success of this Initiative has led to thousands of students receiving a device with excellent performance, accessories and aftersales warranty, repairs and service at an exceptionally good price.