The University of Johannesburg Vice Chancellor Professor Tshilidzi Marwala has revealed that he will donate 33% of his salary to the Solidarity Fund to help fight the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

This follows President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement that members of Cabinet will donate one-third of their salaries towards Solidarity Fund.

Business leaders such as Nedbank CEO Mike Brown, Rhodes University Vice Chancellor Sizwe Mabizela and politicians, including the Economic Freedom Fighters’ public representatives, have also headed the call.

In a statement Marwala said it was an easy decision to make as the pandemic required leadership and personal sacrifices.

“The pandemic is, without doubt, a defining global crisis of our time and the greatest challenge we have faced in a long time. South Africa, like many other countries globally, has been left with no option but to impose drastic measures such as large-scale quarantines, travel restrictions and complete lockdowns. In a country fraught with inequality and poverty, with an almost 30% unemployment rate, the stakes are considerably higher,” he said.

He added for the virus to ultimately pass and for the situation to improve, leadership and personal sacrifices were needed.

Health Workers and PPE

He went on to praise the country’s health professionals who are on the frontline fighting against the pandemic

“I express my sincere gratitude to our courageous and selfless doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals who have been at the frontline of the pandemic, risking their lives daily to treat those infected with the coronavirus,” he said.

UJ’s Library Makerspace team has been using 3D printing to produce reusable surgical face shields to meet the growing need for personal protective equipment for healthcare workers.

To date South Africa has recorded 2 272 confirmed cases of Covid-19 with 27 deaths.

President Cyril Ramaphosa recently announced an extension of lockdown to the end of April.