The Old Mutual Education Trust equips graduates to succeed
Leonie Sampson
Empowering young people through quality education and holistic support is a key focus area for Old Mutual. “We believe education is one of life’s most powerful uplifters,” says Leonie Sampson, Head of The Old Mutual Education Trust (OMET).
“But a fine education doesn’t only contribute to greater personal success,” she adds. “It also has the power to help uplift entire communities, societies, and economies. When a nation has a strong focus on educating its young to be clear, critical thinkers, it stands to reason that the nation will be better positioned to prosper.”
One of Old Mutual’s most successful education-related initiatives, OMET has to date helped more than 490 students overcome significant socio-economic challenges to pursue their academic goals and dreams in a wide range of fields of study.
Established in 2005 by Old Mutual in partnership with ten South African trade unions, OMET has invested more than R206.8 million to date to enable talented youth to gain a tertiary education.
“We warmly applaud our latest cohort of graduates – 49 of the 54 strong Class of 2023 successfully completed their undergraduate studies - and wish them well as they prepare to join the world of work and help our economy to grow. All final year students who were unsuccessful in 2023, are being afforded a fully funded second opportunity to complete their qualification,” says Sampson.
Abundant support
Sampson believes the success of OMET is largely due to Old Mutual’s holistic approach. “Our commitment to the students who are accepted into the programme extends well beyond money,” she explains. “In addition to covering their academic fees, we also ensure the students receive plenty of emotional and practical support.”
The back-up they receive includes laptops, meal and transport allowances, and access to tutoring and counselling services.
Many of OMET’s alumni are happy to confirm that what got them through their most challenging days, and what helped them persevere, was the care and encouragement OMET provides in abundance.
Post graduation, the OMET scholarship recipients continue to be nurtured through programmes such as the OMET World of Work programme, which involves mentorship by former OMET scholarship holders and young Old Mutual professionals.
In addition, Old Mutual offers vacation work, internships, and financial guidance to its OMET students. In 2024, we have six students currently doing vacation work, five doing 12-month internships at Old Mutual and five have been offered permanent employment, also at Old Mutual.
Who can apply?
You’re eligible for this scholarship if:
• you are a paid-up member or full-time and permanent employee of one of the below listed trade unions; or
• you are the spouse (as legally defined) of a paid-up member or fulltime and permanent employee of one of the trade unions; or
• you are under 25 and a dependant of a paid-up member or fulltime and permanent employee of one of the trade unions; and
• you intend to pursue your studies at an official public university in South Africa; and
• you are studying towards your first undergraduate qualification (degree or National Certificate).
For more information about the scholarship programme email [email protected] or visit www.oldmutual.co.za/careers/old-mutual-education-trust/
Old Mutual’s partner unions
