A fundraising initiative of student group UNSW Entrepreneurship Society has so far raised more than $20,000 to assist victims of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami.

A week of online fundraising and campus-based collections and stalls culminated in a candlelight vigil last Friday night, attended by more than 400 people, including Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Students) Professor Joan Cooper and two Japanese students who spoke about their personal experience of the disaster.

"The night was a tremendous success with around $8,000 raised, which included donations from a silent auction," said Kevin Truong, one of the event organisers.

"Even though we're on the other side of the world, we wanted to show our support in whatever way we could. Thanks to the generosity of the UNSW community we surpassed our target of $20,000 in just four days, with all proceeds going to the Japan and Pacific disaster appeal of the Australian Red Cross," Kevin said.

"It's amazing what can be achieved in such a short time and it would not have been possible without the support of the University, ARC and our many sponsors."

They include major sponsor Pennytel, Eyes of Adonia, Stack of Wax, the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Institute of Language, FM Assist, SDI and MX Newspapers.

ARC's Volunteer Army recruited more than 30 students to assist with fundraising activities.

Donations can still be made to the appeal.