KFC's initiative supports 200 South African students with R24,000 for school fees

FAST‑food chain KFC has announced the “Originals Start Strong” initiative, committing R5 million to assist 200 South African families and students with education fees.

Each of the 200 beneficiaries will receive R24,000, while a further 150,000 winners will be awarded airtime or data vouchers valued at R25 each. The Streetwise‑linked campaign runs until February 9.

According to the Children Count report, more than 46,000 children were absent from school in 2024 because of financial constraints. With school fees due and university registrations opening, KFC’s Chief Marketing and Digital Officer for Africa, Grant Macpherson, said the timing targets the period when education costs are most acute.

“January is when educational costs hit hardest,” Macpherson said.

He added that the promotion aims to “feed the potential we see in South Africa’s young ‘Originals’” and that “if you’ve got the drive, we’ll back you.” He noted that the giveaway is tied to Streetwise, KFC’s most affordable meal range, to broaden access.

The campaign coincides with the start of the school year on January 14, and follows the release of matric results. “Everyone deserves a seat at the table, and everyone deserves a shot at their educational goals,” Macpherson said, emphasising that the process is designed to be simple and accessible at KFC counters.