We are a group of six passionate final-year BScAgric Viticulture and Oenology students from Stellenbosch University, honoured to be selected for an international summer programme hosted by Changins University of Applied Sciences in Switzerland this July.
This 12-day academic journey includes visits to Burgundy and Bordeaux, two of the world’s most iconic wine regions. The programme will immerse us in the viticulture, oenology, sustainability, innovation, and heritage of European winemaking – offering insight that we can bring back to strengthen and enrich the South African wine industry.
Each of us comes from different backgrounds but shares a deep, genuine passion for wine. We’ve worked harvests, studied hard, and now look forward to taking what we've learned to a global level. This experience will not only expand our academic understanding but also connect us with fellow students and winemakers from around the world. We believe it will shape us into better winemakers and ambassadors for South African wine.
While some of our funding has already been secured through the university and other sponsors, we are still short of our target. We are therefore reaching out to the wider wine community for sponsorship or support, no matter the size. Contributions will go directly towards our travel, accommodation, and academic expenses.
This opportunity represents more than just a trip – it’s a step toward global collaboration, innovation, and growth in wine. We would be immensely grateful for any support and hope our story inspires the next generation of wine students to dream big.
If you or your company would like to assist, please contact Jess Meeter at 25170724@sun.ac.za or 082 392 1836.
Or, speak to our programme coordinator, Prof Maret du Toit, at mdt@sun.ac.za.