For her birthday this year, Stellenbosch University’s Prof Karin Baatjes is asking for the best gift. Not exactly for herself, but one that will greatly help health science students achieve their dreams of becoming healthcare professionals.
Stellenbosch, South Africa (05 February 2026) – At the mention of a birthday, a few things easily come to mind: a celebration, gifts, laughter shared amongst loved ones and of course, cake!
These are incredible delights many of us take pleasure in when that one special day arrives once every year. Professor Karin Baatjes of Stellenbosch University has spent the last few years enjoying her cake with a different purpose in mind.
Through the Bursaries4Birthdays initiative, she has dedicated her own celebration to making a meaningful difference in the lives of health science students. She has launched her annual campaign to support the Ithemba Bursary Fund, which helps health sciences students in need achieve their dreams of becoming healthcare professionals.
This milestone year calls for a milestone goal: R70,000 in celebration of 70 years of the Bursaries4Birthdays initiative.
“For this year’s Birthday4Bursaries2026, my wish is simple. I’m asking for the best gift: your help to change a life. That’s why we are launching our third annual Birthday4Bursaries2026 (B4B) campaign, bringing the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences’ (FMHS) community together to support deserving health sciences students,” Baatjes says.
There is no denying that tertiary education comes at a high cost. The Ithemba Bursary Fund provides crucial financial support to these students, ensuring no bright mind is left behind due to financial constraints.
Prof Baatjes believes education has the power to transform lives and that no educational dream should remain unfulfilled due to a lack of resources. Donations help create real impact, opening doors for deserving students who will go on to serve their communities.
Even if you can’t spare some change, you can still help by sharing this campaign with your networks.
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I like how this story connects birthdays with meaningful giving, reflecting the thoughtful spirit of Marathi birthday traditions. I recently adapted a traditional blessing for a family birthday and it felt sincere. Even when celebrating with a cause, including one line inspired by marathi birthday wishes can add warmth and heartfelt intent.