| Getting through exams | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=5688 | | Getting through exams | Corporate Communications Division | <p>It is important that our students are mentally and physically ready to handle the volume of work during examinations and to approach each examination opportunity with confidence. Student Affairs' Elmien Sinclair, Educational Psychologist and Head of the Unit for Academic Counselling and Development at the Centre for Student Counselling and Development of Stellenbosch University (SU) shared some important tips on how students can become mentally and physically ready for the exams.<br></p><p>Listen to some inspirational and wise words from SU's honorary doctorates to the students of Stellenbosch<br></p><div class="ms-rtestate-read ms-rte-embedcode ms-rte-embedil ms-rtestate-notify"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RaL9rzDuD7E" frameborder="0"></iframe> </div><p><br></p><p> <br></p><p><strong>1.</strong> <strong>What is the best way to start and not be overwhelmed by the mountain of work in front of you?</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><ul><li>Make a study timetable.</li><li>Don't wait until you feel ready to start working. Chances are slim that it will happen. You must make a conscious decision to start working.</li><li>Break your work down into digestible chunks. This will help you to get it more organised.</li><li>Study the difficult parts during the times of the day when you are most productive.</li><li>Early in the morning and later in the evening are great revision time.</li><li>Always remember: “How to eat an elephant? One bite at a time!"</li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>2.</strong> <strong>What tips are there on study methods and effective use of studying time?</strong></p><p> </p><ul><li>Everyone is unique and different. What works for a friend will not necessarily work for you. Rather do not copy your friend's studying methods unless you process works and learn in the same way.</li><li>Be creative and use what you are comfortable with to memorise your work. Think of different colours, mind maps, flashcards, bullet points, keywords and more.</li><li>It is also not a rule to study in a stereotypical way by sitting behind a desk. You can walk around in your room; have notes pasted all over; talk to yourself or sit in the garden.</li><li>Some people study better with instrumental background music, others with scented candles burning and others with absolute silence.</li><li> It's important to find out what works for you because how we are taught to study at school does not necessarily works at university. </li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>3.</strong> <strong>What is the best way to cope with this stress and turn it into positive energy?</strong></p><p> </p><ul><li>Schedule time for relaxation.</li><li>Surround yourself with positive people.</li><li>Set small goals for yourself and reward yourself for the hours you put in.</li><li>Laughter is the best medicine, so try get a good dose of humour too.</li><li>Don't forget to take care of yourself; eat regularly, because you are burning a lot of energy while studying.</li><li>Drink lots of water and exercise.</li><li>Don't drink too much coffee and avoid energy drinks.</li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>4.</strong> <strong>How often should students take breaks and what are ideal ways to spend this time off?</strong></p><p> </p><ul><li>Research shows that the average person can concentrate constantly for approximately 25 minutes.</li><li>If your concentration span is 20 minutes, then take a 5 minutes break in-between and do 2 to 4 sets of 20 minutes before taking a longer break. It is important to take short breaks while studying.</li><li>Consider using the Pomodoro Application for time-management</li><li>Do something during your break that can take your focus away from your studies. This way you will be rejuvenated for the next session.</li><li>Definitely avoid snacking on junk food, surfing the internet or going on to social media and excessive caffeine intake.<br><br> </li></ul><p><strong>5.</strong> <strong>What should you be doing just before writing an exam? Any useful tips? </strong></p><p> </p><ul><li>Get a good night's rest</li><li>Don't try to cram way into the night.</li><li>Have a healthy breakfast.</li><li>If hearing people chat about what they have learnt and it stresses you out, then put on your earphones and listen to your favourite music.</li><li>Believe in yourself</li></ul><p><strong> </strong></p><p>If you need academic counselling or support, make contact with the Centre for Student Counselling and Development in Victoria Road 37 or visit SU's website at <a href="/cscd">www.sun.ac.za/cscd</a>. Also, follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SUStudentAffairs/">Student Affairs</a> and #SUexam on Facebook for regular study tips</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> <br></p><p><br></p> |
| Weekend's commemorative events form highlight of SU Centenary | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=5486 | | Weekend's commemorative events form highlight of SU Centenary | Corporate Communication / Korporatiewe Kommunikasie |
<p>As part of the commemoration of Stellenbosch University's <a href="/100">Centenary</a>, two special events will take place in conjunction with the SU <a href="http://www.woordfees.co.za/">Woordfees</a> (Word Fest): the Centenary Concert is held on Friday 2 March (18:00 to 23:00), while a Family Day takes place on Saturday, 3 March – after the Centenary Fun Walk through the streets of Stellenbosch.</p><p>The Centenary Concert and Family Day wil both take place at Coetzenburg (tickets available via Computicket) while there are no costs to take part in the Fun Walk. </p><p>Saturday's Fun Walk starts at 07:30 at the Old Lückhoff School in Banghoek Road. It was specifically chosen to acknowledge residents who had suffered during the forced evictions of the families living on “Die Vlakte", and to symbolically cross the so-called Banghoek Divide from there.</p><p>Participants in the Fun Walk will get free access to Coetzenburg after completing the walk. Register by sending a Whatsapp message with your full name, ID number and contact number to 082 287 1764. </p><p>Artists like Gloria Bosman, Tim Moloi, Laurika Rauch, Coenie de Villiers, Valiant Swart, Arno Carstens, Brandon October, J'Something and Mi Casa will take to the stage on Friday night. Saturday will see a military parade by the Military Academy, parachute jumpers, a performance by the elite air force unit the Silver Falcons, a production of Peter and the Wolf, and performances by artists such as Les Javan, Theuns Jordaan, Jeremy Loops and Jimmy Nevis – on two stages. There are also stalls and merry-go-rounds.</p><ul><li>See <a href="/100">www.sun.ac.za/100</a> (centenary) and <a href="http://www.woordfees.co.za/">www.woordfees.co.za</a> (Word Fest) for more information. </li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>MORE ON THE EVENTS</strong></p><p>The <strong>CENTENARY CONCERT</strong> takes place at Coetzenburg from 18:00 to 23:00. </p><p><strong>18:00-20:00</strong></p><p>The <strong>SU Jazz Band</strong>, conducted by Felicia Lesch, accompanies <strong>Gloria Bosman</strong> and <strong>Tim Moloi</strong> with “big band" hits, from <em>Mack the Knife</em> to <em>Meadowlands</em>. The <strong>Soetstemme</strong> from Solms Delta entertain with their infectious energy; proud Stellenbosch singing duo <strong>TWEE</strong> perform their hits; and the <strong>Dennegeur</strong> <strong>Marimba</strong> <strong>band</strong> contributes to the contagious festival spirit.</p><p><strong>20:00-22:00</strong></p><p>The <strong>Centenary Orchestra</strong>, with alumni members of SU, conducted by maestro Marvin Kernelle, excels with masterpieces by Leonard Bernstein and Dimitri Sjostakowich. This orchestra accompanies <strong>Laurika Rauch</strong>, <strong>Coenie de Villiers</strong> and <strong>Valiant Swart</strong>. The highly acclaimed <strong>Minette du Toit-Pearce</strong> sings with her promising students; the internationally awarded <strong>SU Choir</strong> performs with alumnus <strong>Arno Carstens</strong>, and there are many melodious highlights by <strong>Heavenly Quartez</strong>, <strong>Brandon October</strong> and 30 young violinists from the Ronnie Samaai Music Education Project.</p><p><strong>22:00-23:00</strong></p><p><strong>J'Something</strong> and his 'familia' <strong>Mi Casa</strong> conclude the evening in their contemporary South African fashion.</p><ul><li>Please book at Computicket. <br></li></ul><p><strong>CENTENARY FUN WALK and FAMILY DAY</strong></p><p>On 3 March it is time for the<strong> </strong><strong>CENTENARY FUN WALK and FAMILY DAY</strong>. Participants in the Fun Walk meet at 07:30 at the Old Lückhoff School in Banghoek Road. It was specifically chosen to acknowledge residents who had suffered during the forced evictions of the families living on “Die Vlakte", and to symbolically cross the so-called Banghoek Divide from there.</p><p>From the school, the route crosses the central campus and ends at Coetzenburg where entertainment awaits the whole family. This includes a parade by the Military Academy, parachute jumpers, a performance by the elite air force unit the Silver Falcons, a production of Peter and the Wolf, and appearances by artists such as Les Javan, Theuns Jordaan, Jeremy Loops and Jimmy Nevis. There are two stages, stalls and merry-go-rounds, and a beer and wine tent for the adults. Bring your own chair and blanket and just relax! And if you want to bring your own cooler-box food (but without glass or alcohol) you may buy your cooler-box ticket at Computicket.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:6pt 0cm;line-height:normal;">If you wish to participate in the Coetzenburg events only, buy your ticket via Computicket (prices between R150 and R60). However, those who participate in the fun walk get free access to Coetzenburg after completing the walk. You need to only register before 06:00 on 3 March by sending a Whatsapp with your full name, ID number and contact number (of you or your guardian) to the following number: 082 287 1764. Since places are limited, please register as soon as possible.<span lang="AF"><br></span><span lang="EN"></span></p> |
| SU welcomes the new gender non-violence coordinator | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=5439 | | SU welcomes the new gender non-violence coordinator | Dumile Mlambo | <p></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The first days in a new job may be daunting for some, but for Thembelihle Bongwana, the newly appointed Gender Non-Violence Coordinator at Division Student Affairs Stellenbosch University (SU), it was a different ball game. It wasn't long after she'd entered a very quiet Huis Simon Nkoli House on the morning of 1<sup>st</sup> February when she suddenly heard giggles and laughter clad with excitement echoing from the house corridors as staff members at the Equality Unit (EqU) gathered to give her a warm welcome. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The appointment of Thembelihle follows a countrywide search to get a suitable candidate who would breathe life to the newly established Gender Non-Violence Portfolio at the EqU within the Centre for Student Counselling and Development (CSCD), Division of Student Affairs (DSA). The decision to form this portfolio came from the university's announcement that a gender non-violence response be setup, to ensure culture change and the sustainability of culture change, and through which matters related to gender-based violence will be coordinated and monitored, following the release of the SU EndRapeCulture Report 2017. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Based on the findings and recommendations of the report, the EqU, under the leadership of Jaco Greeff Brink, proposed the formation of this portfolio to address some of the significant challenges raised in the report.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Although this is a new position, the 32-year-old Thembi who originates from East London in the Eastern Cape is no stranger to gender matters, both professionally and academically. The self-proclaimed talkative individual started paving her career path back in 2009 when she landed her professional role as a Gender and Development Intern at the Transkei Land Service Organisation (TRALSO). However, that was just a starting point to spearhead and mainstream gender into programmatic work. Amongst others, she left the following career footprints: </p><ul><li>Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA): Cape Town Parliamentary Office as a Social Policy Officer in 2014</li><li>3<sup>rd</sup>-year tutor for Gender and Development module at the University of the Western Cape 2015-16.</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;">As a registered doctoral degree (PhD) candidate in Gender Studies at the University of Western Cape (UWC), some of her research interests are around masculinities, gender and development, gendered power dynamics, public eating spaces, social identities, transformation, sexuality and gender violence. </p><p style="text-align:justify;"> </p><p style="text-align:justify;">According to Mr Brink, Thembelihle was chosen for the position because she comes with a background on gender-related matters and has a clear vision of what the opportunities and challenges of this kind of position are. “She brings a strong combination of professional and academic backgrounds. We are excited to have her in our team to work towards a gender violence-free campus" – said Mr Brink.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">According to Dr Birgit Schreiber, Senior Director: DSA, one of the primary responsibilities of this portfolio is to develop a comprehensive institutional response to gender violence and rape culture at SU. To do so, the Gender Non-Violence Coordinator will work with various stakeholders within the university to create and solidify shared responsibility in all spheres of the University. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Thembi says that as a South African woman, she is aware of many of these challenges and that her academic and professional background has conscientised her around the most sensitive political and social implications of working in the gender field. “Rape culture is one beast that continues to infiltrate our social spaces causing distress to many in places that are meant to be conducive to learning and homes-away from home, yet reports of rape or offences of a sexual nature which encompass violence have been rife across south African communities" she adds.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Acknowledging that the problem is much bigger than universities, Thembi emphasizes that Rape Culture is also deeply rooted in societies. She says as part of society and a key role player, SU seeks to equip its students to be agents of sustainable change in societies where they come from. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">“The EqU may steer the ship, but we need all our stakeholders on board to make Stellenbosch University live up to its 0% tolerance approach to all forms of unfair discrimination and forms of harassment". “The overall goal is to see a diversified Maties community living and excelling together in a crime free, misconduct free, injustice free, abuse free, transgression free etc. society ", she concludes. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Feel free to contact Thembelihle at <a href="mailto:tbongwana@sun.ac.za">tbongwana@sun.ac.za</a> or at 021 808 3136.<br><br></p><p><br></p> |
| Sign Language Classes | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=5429 | | Sign Language Classes | Dr Marcia Lyner-Cleophas | <p><span style="text-align:justify;">The Disability Unit, which is part of our Centre for Student Counselling and Development (CSCD) at Student Affairs, will be hosting Beginners' Sign Language classes in February and March 2018.</span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">A commitment fee of R20 will be charged per class. The total cost is therefore R120.00 for the full set of classes. The classes will be on the following dates: </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Wednesday 21 February 2018 13h00 – 14h00 (CSCD)</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Wednesday 28 February 2018 13h00 <span><span>–</span></span> 14h00 (CSCD)</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Wednesday 7 March 2018 13h00 <span><span>–</span></span> 14h00 (CSCD)</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Wednesday 14 March 2018 13h00 <span><span>–</span></span> 14h00 (CSCD) </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Wednesday 21 March 2018 13h00 <span><span>–</span></span> 14h00 (CSCD) </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Wednesday 28 March 2018 13h00 <span><span>–</span></span> 14h00 (CSCD)</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Venue: 39 Victoria Street, Den Bosch, Huis Simon Nkoli House.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Bookings for the workshop sessions can <u>only be made electronically</u> at <a href="/workshops">http://www.sun.ac.za/workshops</a>. For more information send an email to <a href="mailto:workshops@sun.ac.za">workshops@sun.ac.za</a>. Staff and students are welcome to sign up for the workshops.<br></p> |
| SU campuses to save even more water | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=5420 | | SU campuses to save even more water | Sandra Mulder/Corporate Communication | <p>The good news is that students and staff at Stellenbosch University (SU) are already using 30% less water than in the corresponding period last year; and there is no truth in the rumours that campuses will close because of the water crisis.<br></p><p>The bad news is that water consumption has to be reduced even further, and that level 6B water restrictions will be announced for Stellenbosch later in the month (February).</p><p>John de Wet, Manager: Environmental Sustainability at Property Services at SU, says it was reassuring that staff and students were aware of the water-saving initiatives and that they were using less water. The Facilities Management Division launched intensive interventions in November last year to reduce water consumption; to encourage water-saving awareness among staff and students; to find alternative water sources and to recycle grey water.</p><p>De Wet said: “We deal with the water situation in different ways on the campuses. On 1 February, the City of Cape Town instituted level 6B water restrictions with the target of 50 litres per person per day. The University must save 45% water compared to its 2015 water consumption; and our two experimental farms must save 60% water compared to 2015."</p><p>Although the Stellenbosch water restrictions are still fixed at 87 litres per person per day, staff and students have been requested to limit consumption to 50 litres of water per person per day.</p><p>De Wet feels that water consumption could be reduced even further.</p><p> He explained: “Staff members are already doing a great deal to reduce water usage. They are fully aware of the necessity to save water. However, water usage at basins in the administration buildings make up 35% of the water consumption. If we can address this, we will be able to save even more water.</p><p>“Students at the residences have developed very clever ways of saving water. They collect the water from their showers and use it to flush the toilets. Many of the students are doing a great deal to help the process. All these efforts by the students and the staff have contributed towards the 30% water saving."</p><p>SU's water interventions include:</p><ul><li>Changing shower heads and reducing pressure in taps;</li><li>Filled bags are placed in toilet cisterns to save one litre of water per flush;</li><li>Seven boreholes have been drilled on the Stellenbosch campus as additional sources of water;</li><li>Swimming pools and artificial hockey fields are irrigated with only borehole water;</li><li>Cricket pitches are watered only with borehole water and from the dam;</li><li>Only the Craven A field is watered from the dam to ensure that SU honours the existing agreement for the FNB Varsity Cup. The players practise there and, if so dry, the grass blades break off and sandy field can easily develop. The other sports fields are no longer watered.</li><li>The Lentelus fields were irrigated until the lawns were established, but watering is no longer essential.</li><li>The University gardens have not been watered since November 2017. Boreholes are used at strategic places just to maintain old historical gardens such as at the Wallenberg Centre, and elsewhere on campus.</li><li>Eendrag and Simonsberg residences already have grey-water systems to purify shower water to irrigate the gardens. Similar systems were also installed on the Tygerberg campus.<br><img src="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/SaveWaterEendrag-10.jpg" alt="SaveWaterEendrag-10.jpg" style="margin:5px;width:400px;height:267px;" /><img src="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/SaveWaterMajuba-4.jpg" alt="SaveWaterMajuba-4.jpg" style="margin:5px;width:400px;height:267px;" /><br><span class="ms-rteFontSize-1">One of the four grey-water systems at Eendrag residence. Lambert Fick and Njabulo Mahlangu at Majuba residence collect shower water </span><br><p><br></p></li><li>A big grey-water project will commence next month (March). Grey water from residences will run through a single central purification system and return to residences for flushing toilets.</li><li>Two large purification plants have been purchased for the Tygerberg and Bellville Park campuses. It will take about eight weeks before the plants become operational. Once fully functional the plant will supply 100% of the Bellville Park campus' water needs.</li><li>On the Tygerberg campus water from five boreholes that will be purified, can meet 50% of the faculty's water needs.</li><li>The swimming pool at Tygerberg is being used as a reservoir. Should it become necessary, water can be transported from the quarry on the Bellville Park campus to Tygerberg. <br><img src="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/SaveWaterTygerberg-5.jpg" alt="SaveWaterTygerberg-5.jpg" style="margin:5px;width:400px;" /><br><span class="ms-rteFontSize-1">The swimming pool at Tygerberg is being used as a reservoir.</span><br><br></li><li>SU receives treated sewage water from Stellenbosch Municipality to irrigate certain trees in Stellenbosch;<br></li><li>SU has two dams – Ertjieskloof and Welgevallen – with a quota to use the water in summer for irrigation. This water is reserved for the Craven A field, the cricket pitch and the central section of the athletics track.</li></ul><p>What does SU's drought-response plan entail?<br></p><p>The plan is based on three points of departure: to reduce water consumption by changing people's behaviour and through other interventions; re-using grey water and identifying alternative water sources.<br></p><p>De Wet added: “The important message is, the lower our consumption is now, the more we can postpone Day Zero. Staff and students should bear in mind that the 50 litres per person per day is the total amount of water used, at work and at home."</p><p>What can you still do?</p><ul><li>Shower for less than two minutes;</li><li>Do not let the water run freely when washing your hands, brushing your teeth or shaving. Put the plug in the washbasin.</li><li>Flush toilets with collected shower water;</li><li>A toilet does not have to be flushed after every use;</li><li>Set an example and inspire others to save water;</li><li>Although the University will not close during the recess from 30 March to 8 April, students are encouraged to go home during this period. This will help to reduce water consumption in Stellenbosch.</li><li>Although interruptions in the water supply are not currently envisaged, staff and students are encouraged to keep 5 litres of water available to avoid any inconvenience if an emergency should arise. <br></li></ul><p><img src="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/SaveWaterTygerberg-2.jpg" alt="SaveWaterTygerberg-2.jpg" style="margin:5px;width:400px;" /><br></p><p><span class="ms-rteFontSize-1">SU ran several awareness programmes to promote water saving</span>.<br></p><p><br></p><p>For more on water saving and tips click<span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-0"> </span><a href="/english/Pages/Water-crisis.aspx"><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-0"><strong>here. </strong></span></a><br></p> |
| ‘Vensters’ at SU a roaring success once again | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=5411 | | ‘Vensters’ at SU a roaring success once again | Rozanne Engel/Corporate Communication Division | <p> The annual 'Vensters' event at Stellenbosch University (SU) last Friday where new students were afforded the opportunity to entertain audiences with their very own original performances, was a runaway success once again.<br></p><p>Apart from entertaining audiences, the performances by new students from SU residences and private student organisations (PSOs) also brought social awareness and promoted their social impact projects.</p><p>More than 15 000 tickets were sold and some 25 000 people attended the event. </p><p>Ferdi van Dyk, Administrative Officer at the Centre for Student Leadership and Structures, said at this year's 'Vensters' there had been an improved relationship with all stakeholders involved in the event. He added: “There was greater mingling of students through different partnerships sharing stages. The rethinking of the themes of Vensters also resulted in the causes the residences and PSOs will be focusing on throughout the year, being emphasised and introduced to the public more clearly."</p><p><img src="/english/PublishingImages/news-media/2018Vensters-4.jpg" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:450px;height:253px;" /><img src="/english/PublishingImages/news-media/2018Vensters-5.jpg" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:450px;" /><br></p><p>With the focus on the students' social impact projects at 'Vensters,' the event's profit of more than R150 000 will be utilised to boost the residences and PSOs social impact projects.</p><p>These <strong>social impact </strong>projects connecting SU and surrounding communities focus on to the University's broader social impact themes of Education for All; Employment & Inclusive Economic Development; Environment & Sustainability; Food Security & Health; Resources & Infrastructure; Safety, Security & Good Governance; and Social & Gender Justice.<br></p><p>This year's 'Vensters' also boasted a street festival in Victoria Street, where Stellenbosch community members and SU students were offered the opportunity to run a market stall or showcase their talents through various performances.</p><p>Said Van Dyk: “One thing that was key to this year's Vensters, was building relationships with the community and positioning the event for future growth through established relationships."<br></p><p>* Winners of the Vensters festival, Metademia – a fusion of Metanoia and Academia residences – said their performance was greatly influenced by the fact that they addressed issues which mattered to students and the community as a whole.</p><p>Speaking to Corporate Communication, Bachelor of Music student and student mentor Van Wyk Venter, said: “We believe that each year we need to address important issues, including matters such as alcohol abuse and the Cape water crisis which are imperative for students to take note of in order for them to play their part in possibly solving such problems.</p><p>“We have also taken note of free education and the 100 years of Stellenbosch University's existence which means that many changes need to occur so that we as students achieve what we have always been fighting for."<br></p><p>For more highlights from 'Vensters' 2018 check out the Facebook page of the student-driven organisation <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ConnectMaties/">Connect Maties</a>, which helped organise the successful event this year.<br></p><p>What the video #helloMaties 2018 Highlights.<br></p><div class="ms-rtestate-read ms-rte-embedcode ms-rte-embedil ms-rtestate-notify"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ej4avXzR8qc" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0"></iframe> </div><p><br></p><p>Other articles on <span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-0"><strong>'</strong></span><a href="/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=5397"><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-0"><strong>Vensters' and Connect </strong></span></a><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-0"><strong>:</strong></span></p><br><p> </p><p> <br></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> <br></p><p><br></p> |
| SU ready for ‘Vensters' 2018 | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=5397 | | SU ready for ‘Vensters' 2018 | Rozanne Engel / Corporate Communication | <p>Thousands of visitors are expected to make their way to Stellenbosch University (SU) on (Friday) 2 February, for the annual 'Vensters' event, where newcomer students have the opportunity to entertain audiences with their very own original performances.</p><p>SU residences and private student organisations (PSO) collaborate on the day to bring audiences a vibrant and entertaining performance, which from this year will be connected with the Social Impact projects all newcomer students are involved in throughout the present year. Each residence and PSO will be able to choose their own theme, related to their social impact project, and create a performance that will be entertaining while also conveying a message of social awareness. </p><p>The performances at 'Vensters' will take place across ten locations on the SU campus. Each performance lasts 15 minutes in total and will run in intervals from 18:00 to 22:00.</p><p><strong>Connect</strong></p><p>This year 'Vensters' will be presented and organised by the newly formed and student-driven organisation, Connect. This organisation functions within the Centre for Student Leadership and Structures and is connected to the Sustainable Development goals of SU's Centenary marking in 2018.</p><p>Mari Fölscher, chairperson of Connect, says the organisation's main aim is to help students be more aware of the social impact they can have while studying at SU.</p><p>She explains: "We wish to make the SU campus more inclusive and accessible to everyone. By connecting the Social Impact projects with 'Vensters', students become more conscious of their environment and a community-based partnership is created.</p><p>“Connect's theme is 'Engage, Excel, Impact'. This is derived from the organisation's two main objectives: building community and developing social consciousness and skills through co-curricular activities. Endeavours to achieve these objectives will bring students to engage in social impact projects within key geographical communities in the greater Stellenbosch area. This would enhance students' understanding of social issues and provide them with skills to implement community-based projects and develop leadership that has a social impact."</p><p>Fölscher says Connect wishes 'Vensters' to have a more non-commercial focus, which is why all the revenue from ticket sales will go towards the social impact projects.</p><p>Tickets for 'Vensters' cost R40 and are being sold online on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ConnectMaties/">Connect Facebook</a> page. 'Vensters' tickets will also be available on the day at the event entrances and sold at selected spots in Stellenbosch – these spots will be announced the day before (1 February) on the Connect Facebook page.</p><p>For more information on Connect:</p><ul><li>Follow the organisation on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ConnectMaties/">here</a>.</li><li>Contact Mari Fölscher, Chairperson of Connect, via email at <a href="mailto:19440383@sun.ac.za">19440383@sun.ac.za</a> or call 071 116 8947.</li></ul><p><strong>'Vensters' Festival</strong></p><p>Apart from the 'Vensters' performances, there will also be a 'Vensters Festival' running from 16:00 to 18:00 on Victoria street. The festival will include street performances, by those involved at SU and community members from the surrounding Stellenbosch area, as well as various food stalls and markets.</p><p>Says Travis Defty, Connect's chief of Media and Marketing: "Our goal is to make Vensters more family-friendly and community orientated. We would like students, community members and those visiting Stellenbosch to share a moment together on the day."</p><p><strong>Parking and Security</strong></p><p>Most of the streets around the main campus will be closed on the Friday of the event from 15:00. Visitors traveling into Stellenbosch can expect traffic congestion in the vicinity of Merriman Avenue and Van Riebeeck Street.</p><p>Parking will be available at the following buildings and areas on SU's campus:</p><ul><li>Arts and Social Sciences Building</li><li>Admin A Building</li><li>JC Smuts Building</li><li>Coetzenburg Centre (areas around the hockey field, swimming pool and tennis courts)</li><li>'Ou Landbousaal'</li><li>'Die Laan'/The Avenue (close by the Eerste River)</li><li>Crozier Street</li><li>Jannie Marais House at Coetzenburg</li><li>Theological Faculty (close by the Eerste River)</li><li>JS Marais Building</li><li>Engineering Building (area behind the building)</li><li>Eikestad Mall (pay parking)</li></ul><p>Campus security will be on duty throughout the event, as well as in every area where there is a performance. At all venues, there will be alcohol monitors, and no alcohol will be allowed during 'Vensters.' <br></p><p><br></p> |
| SU’s newcomer students dream big at official welcoming | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=5395 | | SU’s newcomer students dream big at official welcoming | Rozanne Engel / Corporate Communication | <p></p><p>Every year thousands of new students are afforded the opportunity to dream big at Stellenbosch University's (SU) official welcoming ceremony.</p><p>As part of the formal welcoming procession on Thursday (25 January) in the Danie Craven Stadium at Coetzenburg, new students participated in the official <strong>Dream Launch</strong> event, which functions as a symbolic entrance into their life at SU.<br></p><p><img src="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/SU%20Pokkel.jpg" alt="SU Pokkel.jpg" style="margin:5px;width:400px;" /><br>During the <strong>Dream Launch</strong>, students were encouraged to jot down their goals and dreams on paper “leaves" that were blown across the open fields at the stadium. Students also gathered on the sports field where they encircled a huge “100" laid out on the grass signalling 2018 being the 100<sup>th </sup>year of first year dreams.<br></p><p>Ferdi Van Dyk, Administrative Officer at the Centre for Student Leadership and Structures, says the aim of the <strong>Dream Launch</strong> event is to bring all first-years from different backgrounds together for the first time as Maties.<br></p><p><img src="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/New%20Students.jpg" alt="New Students.jpg" style="margin:5px;width:400px;" /><br></p><p>Says Van Dyk: “The goal is to signify the co-development of students' academic and non-academic goals at Stellenbosch University. With the Dream Launch, we wish to show them that the University and the people around them will support their dreams over the coming years. We include their parents and guardians, who were their support in the previous phase of their lives, and the University faculty and Student Dean, who will assist them on their journey forward."</p><p>The <strong>Dream Launch</strong> forms part of <strong>CONNECT</strong>, a student-driven organisation, which focuses on creating social awareness and making students more aware of the social impact they can have while studying at SU.</p><p><strong>New students share their dreams</strong></p><p>Dricus Jacobs from Robertson, who will be studying BSc Earth Science, said: “I just want to be part of something great at SU."</p><p>Austin Newman from Vredendal, a BCom Management Science student, dreams to one day be able to plough back what he learned at SU into the University. “I want to do my Masters and come back to Stellenbosch and teach here."</p><p>Johannesburg native, Kim Yammin, who will be studying BSc Dietetics (Hippokrates resident on the Tygerberg campus), said she just wanted “a more contented life" and be able to do her best while studying at SU.</p><p>BSc Agricultural Sciences student Tamsin Newman, from Kuilsriver, said her dream while at SU is to “stay motivated even if things seem difficult."</p><p> <br></p><p><br></p> |
| Newcomers welcomed at Stellenbosch University this week | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=5388 | | Newcomers welcomed at Stellenbosch University this week | Corporate Communication / Korporatiewe Kommunikasie | <p>Stellenbosch University (SU) is ready to welcome thousands of newcomers to the University this week while also welcoming back its seniors next week. On campus, newcomer students who will stay in the residences, will start to move in from Wednesday (24 January) and on Thursday morning (25 January). </p><p>The welcoming programme of the University officially kicks off on <strong>Thursday 25 January at 17:30</strong> with the Official Welcoming event at the <strong>Danie Craven Stadium at Coetzenburg</strong> on the Stellenbosch Campus. Among others, Prof Wim de Villiers, Rector and Vice-Chancellor, and Mr Lwando Nkamisa, SRC Chairperson, will be addressing newcomer students. </p><p>A highlight of the Welcoming Event is the <strong>Dream Launch</strong>. The Dream Launch is a symbolic start to students realising their dreams for themselves with the support of the University (including academic support) and the community they will now become part of while also giving recognition to the support they received from their parents or guardians up to this point. </p><p>At the event, students will receive paper “leaves" on which they can write their dreams. The more than 5000 newcomer students will also convene on the sports field where they will encircle a huge “100" laid out on the grass signalling 2018 being the 100<sup>th </sup>year of first year dreams. (The University commemorates its centenary this year). </p><p>The Dream Launch forms part of <strong>CONNECT</strong>, a student-driven platform for creating social awareness and to make students more aware of the social impact they can have while studying at SU. </p><p>A further highlight of the Welcoming Programme – also forming part of CONNECT is the annual “<strong>Vensters</strong>" event taking place on Friday 2 February. For these colourful outdoor performances, residences and private student organisation (PSOs) partner up to impress audiences with innovative and creative dance performances around a central theme – this year depicting their various social impact projects. The performances take place in 15 min intervals at 10 different stages across the Stellenbosch campus. It will kick off at 18:00 and will continue until 22:00. </p><p>The University's website, <a href="/">www.sun.ac.za</a>, contains all the necessary information for newcomer students. The full week's welcoming programme is set out in the <a href="/english/Documents/PDFs/W6429_Verwelkomings_Boek_2018_eng.pdf"><em>Guide for Newcomers 2018</em></a> booklet. </p><p>The guide contains information on amongst others the registration schedule, transport, personal safety, the library, free writing advice, tips on saving water and transport, amongst others. </p><ul><li>Social media updates on welcoming are done via the hashtag #HelloMaties</li></ul> |
| Registration and welcoming – what you need to know | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=5374 | | Registration and welcoming – what you need to know | Corporate Communication / Korporatiewe Kommunikasie | <p>Important information regarding registration, student fees and financial assistance at Stellenbosch University is now available to all <strong>first-time entering </strong>and <strong>continuing</strong> students. </p><p><strong>IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR </strong><strong>FIRST-TIME ENTERING STUDENTS</strong><strong>:</strong></p><ul><li>Welcoming programme: see <a href="/welcome">www.sun.ac.za/welcome</a> or click <a href="http://bit.ly/Newcomers2018">here</a> for the<em> Guide for Newcomers 2018</em></li><li>Your final admission status is available at <a href="http://www.mymaties.com/">www.mymaties.com</a> </li><li>Online registration is available from 12 January 2018 at <span lang="EN-GB" style="text-decoration:underline;">my.sun.ac.za</span> (>>undergraduate >>administration >>e-Registration). </li><li>Registration Schedule 2018 (<a href="/english/welcome/Documents/2017/Registration%20Schedule%202018.pdf" style="text-decoration:underline;">link</a>) for students who cannot do self-registration. </li></ul><p><strong>Presidential Pronouncement of free higher education for poor and working class students</strong></p><ul><li>Click <a href="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/Mail%20prospective%20student%20Jan%202018%20fin%20ENG.pdf" style="text-decoration:underline;">here</a> for a letter by the Registrar to <strong>first-time entering students</strong> containing important information on the Presidential Pronouncement, financial assistance and important NSFAS information, amongst others. </li><li>Enquiries related to financial assistance: e-mail <a href="mailto:info@sun.ac.za">info@sun.ac.za</a>, tel 021 808 9111 or visit the Information desk at Centre for Bursaries and Loans in Admin A Building on the Stellenbosch Campus or the Bursaries and Loans Office in the Clinical Building at the Tygerberg campus</li><li>Make payments: click <a href="http://t2000-05.sun.ac.za/app-adf-view-student-bucket-parent/faces/login.jspx%3bjsessionid=92e880a930e8a5cde6517daf42f59a72ce26a72ad746.e3iQbN0MahmLe3mNb3qTaxiKbi0" style="text-decoration:underline;">here</a>. Send an e-mail to <a href="mailto:studentaccounts@sun.ac.za">studentaccounts@sun.ac.za</a> to make payment arrangements. </li><li>Read a NSFAS info brochure <a href="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/NewFunding%20NSFAS%20FAQ.pdf" style="text-decoration:underline;">h<strong></strong>ere</a>. <br></li></ul><p><strong>IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR </strong><strong>CONTINUING STUDENTS</strong><strong>:</strong></p><ul><li>Online registration will be available from 12 January 2018 at <span lang="EN-GB" style="text-decoration:underline;"><a href="http://midtier.sun.ac.za/html-navbar/home.html">my.sun.ac.za</a></span> (>>undergraduate >>administration >>e-Registration). </li></ul><p><strong>Presidential Pronouncement of free higher education for poor and working class students</strong></p><ul><li>Click <a href="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/Mail%20current%20student%20Jan%202018%20fin%20ENG.pdf" style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>here </strong></a>for a letter by the Registrar to <strong>continuing students f</strong>or important information on the Presidential Pronouncement, financial assistance and important NSFAS information, amongst others. </li><li>Enquiries related to financial assistance: e-mail <a href="mailto:info@sun.ac.za">info@sun.ac.za</a>, tel 021 808 9111 or visit the Information desk at Centre for Bursaries and Loans in Admin A Building on the Stellenbosch Campus or the Bursaries and Loans Office in the Clinical Building at the Tygerberg campus</li><li>To make payments, click <span style="text-decoration:underline;">here</span>. Send an e-mail to <a href="mailto:studentaccounts@sun.ac.za">studentaccounts@sun.ac.za</a> to make payment arrangements.</li></ul> |
