Students at Stellenbosch University (SU) this week elected a new Student Representative Council (SRC) for 2017.

Stellenbosch University (SU) Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Wim De Villiers congratulated the SRC saying that he is looking forward to a year of meaningful engagement with the SRC.

"Congratulations to the newly elected SRC and office bearers. The student body has placed its trust in you. This is a big responsibility but also a great opportunity. I am sure you will make the most of it. My colleagues and I look forward to a year of meaningful engagement with the SRC in the best interest of our university and all its stakeholders," Prof De Villiers said.

The SRC elections took place from 16 to 21 February 2017 on the Stellenbosch campus.

Election Convenor, Dylan Swiegelaar, said that "although the voter turnout was lower than previous years, I would still like to thank the campus community for taking part".

SRC Chairperson

The newly appointed SRC Chairperson, Nomzamo Ntombela, says she is experiencing a "good fear" of the huge responsibility placed upon her and the other SRC members.

"I have always been passionate to make changes to the SU space, because I've been through the system and I know what it feels like when a system is against you. The SRC will therefor strive to make SU spaces accepting of all people, especially women and marginalised bodies."

This final year B.A Humanities student says she is aware that managing SRC responsibilities and academic life could be challenging. It is for this reason she has worked hard on creating a support network for herself including mentors, friends and former SRC members from whom she can draw strength.

"I want to leave a mark especially for women of colour. As a black woman, being elected as SRC Chairperson, I hope to encourage others to recognise their self worth. You can make it. You can conquer and flourish."