By 
BLOEMFONTEIN — In a unique intersection of local folklore and higher education funding, the University of the Free State (UFS) has partnered with the National Wool Growers Association (NWGA) to launch the Rico Bursary Fund. The initiative aims to provide financial support and expand access to higher education for deserving students pursuing studies in agriculture.
The funding initiative draws its inspiration from Rico, a sheep that captured national attention after surviving independently for seven years in the harsh terrain of the Moordenaarskaroo. University officials and industry partners noted that Rico’s improbable survival has become a national symbol of perseverance, resilience, and hope — qualities they hope to foster among future leaders in the agricultural sector.
Through this joint venture, UFS and the NWGA intend to honour Rico’s enduring legacy by opening academic doors for students who demonstrate promise but face financial hurdles in completing their qualifications.
By funding agricultural studies, the partners aim to invest directly in the future of South Africa’s agricultural ecosystem and sustainable farming research.
The official announcement and media launch for the bursary fund are scheduled for today, 17 August 2026, at the Naval Hill Planetarium in Bloemfontein. Stakeholders, university leadership, and industry representatives are expected to gather to outline the bursary’s application criteria and scope of support for incoming students.
