| Portraits from the Pandemic – “We are all doing our best" | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=9629 | | Portraits from the Pandemic – “We are all doing our best" | Wiida Fourie-Basson, Faculty of Science | <p>From old souls who collect teas from across the world, to a burnt-out lawyer and a writer who has lost her sparkle. For those of us dealing with intense anxiety and burnout after the pandemic, the quaint watercolour-painted animal characters in <em>Portraits from the Pandemic </em>remind us “that we are all united in our brokenness".</p><p><em>Portraits from the Pandemic</em> is written and illustrated by Karin-Therese Howell, a mathematician and associate professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Stellenbosch University. </p><p>The mother of two created and painted 40 unique sketches of a range of forest folk writing about their experiences during the pandemic to the local forest newspaper, <em>The Daily Oak</em>. This was her way of dealing with the stress and anxiety of living through the unknowns of the pandemic and the hard lockdown.<br></p><p><img src="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/Meet%20Juniper.jpg" alt="Meet Juniper.jpg" style="margin:5px;" /><br></p><p>These forest folk include, inter alia, a dedicated Grade 2 teacher, an emphatic architect, a mathematician suffering from imposter syndrome, the owner of a bakery, a recent divorcee, a married couple seeking counseling, a depressed journalist and a stressed-out student in mathematics living on coffee and Red Bull. </p><p>But while all of this may sound quite depressing, the beauty of the characters is found in how they are portrayed as sensitive souls, dealing with intense burnout and anxiety in their own special ways. Jeff the journalist, for example, has learnt to cope with his depression “by viewing the world upside down while breathing deeply and engaging all his senses". Christopher the burnt-out lawyer has quit his high-flying career and now works in a pet shop, living with his four pet mice on a small holding. </p><p>A few of the characters are also dealing with neuro-diversity challenges. The little owl character Lisa, for example, has auditory processing disorder. But because she was only diagnosed as a teen, many lyrics of the A-Ha songs she memorised are wrong. But that does not disturb Lisa: “She thinks many of them are more beautiful as she has them stored. Sound is a colour for Lisa, and silence a rainbow", reads the sketch.</p><p>Fundamental to each sketch is a deep empathy and the believe that “no hare should be left behind, excluded or just accommodated". That is why the last three characters in the book are Daisy, Lilly and Rosy. They are three moms who have started a campaign for the inclusion of neuro-diverse children at schools.</p><p>With this quaint little book, Karin-Therese also wants to raise awareness of a poorly understood neurodevelopmental condition that remains largely undiagnosed, even though it affects up to 7% of school-going children in the United States. This condition is known as development coordination disorder (DCD).</p><p>According to Dr Eileen Africa from the Division of Movement Science and Exercise Therapy at SU, children with development coordination disorder (DCD) typically present with poor postural control, lower muscle tone, slower movements, delayed action and -response times and coordination. But while the gross motor delays typically associated with DCD are easily observable with the naked eye, these difficulties are often misunderstood as laziness or behavioral problems.</p><p>“They tend to be viewed and labelled as clumsy and uncoordinated and are often teased or bullied by their peers. They struggle with daily activities such as riding a bicycle, getting dressed, eating, self-care, and many other skills that otherwise come naturally to a neurotypical child of the same age," Dr Africa explains. </p><p>This condition can persist into adulthood and therefore early recognition, diagnosis and intervention are paramount.</p><p><em>Portraits from the Pandemic</em> is available in two formats and is available in major book and gift stores or can be ordered directly from the author: Insta: @jupiterjune612, Facebook: karinthereseart</p><p>“I hope readers will sense some parts of themselves in these sketches," she writes: “We are all a little broken and doing our best."</p><p>For more information about development coordination disorder, <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://canchild.ca/en/diagnoses/developmental-coordination-disorder&data=05%7c01%7c%7cecf742a4e35d4a40a37708dac71be048%7ca6fa3b030a3c42588433a120dffcd348%7c0%7c0%7c638041219793651160%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7c3000%7c%7c%7c&sdata=BnDvcoitpw3RwPBumF2SaExvnPjHn0mLC3cREUFqqEs%3D&reserved=0">https://canchild.ca/en/diagnoses/developmental-coordination-disorder</a></p><p> </p><p><br></p> |
| Applications for the Work Study Programme 2023 is open! | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=9569 | | Applications for the Work Study Programme 2023 is open! | Lizzie Witbooi | <p style="text-align:justify;">Applications for the Work Study Programme 2023 are open! <strong>Applicants must be senior students (no first years).</strong> The Work Study Programme gives financially needy and deserving students an opportunity to earn a subsistence income. The aim of this programme is to aid students who find themselves under financial strain regarding basic essential needs such as food, books, and as well other necessities. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Please submit your completed application form and attached CV before or on <strong>Friday, 18 November 202</strong> to <strong>Lizzie Witbooi at </strong><a href="mailto:lgwitbooi@sun.ac.za"><strong>lgwitbooi@sun.ac.za</strong></a>. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">No late applications will be accepted. </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Kindly note:</strong> Due to limited funding, we can only accommodate <strong>a limited number of students</strong>. The successful applicants will sign an 8-month working agreement and will be required to work a maximum of 20 hours per month. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Click <a href="/english/learning-teaching/student-affairs/Documents/Work%20Study%20Programme%20Application%20Forms/Work%20Study%20Programme%20Application%20forms%202023/Work%20Study%20Programme%20Application%20Form%202023.doc?d=wd8892580815f40fbb980427b60b58d4d">here</a> to download <strong>2023 Application Forms</strong>.<br></p> |
| Top SU students acknowledged for excellence | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=9547 | | Top SU students acknowledged for excellence | Corporate Communication and Marketing/Korporatiewe Kommunikasie en Bemarking - Sandra Mulder | <p>A group of 73 Stellenbosch University (SU) students were recently honoured with Rector's Awards for Excellent Achievement in recognition of their accomplishments in various spheres of student and campus life.<br></p><p>Themed “Sustainable innovation; pursuing excellence together", the annual awards on Tuesday, 18 October 2022, acknowledge student excellence in academics, leadership, culture, social impact, sport, and service provision.</p><p><strong>Innovators for the future</strong></p><p>Top management, faculty deans and student leaders joined award recipients at the ceremony hosted at the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS). </p><p>SU Rector and Vice-Chancellor Prof Wim de Villiers congratulated this year's awardees, adding that they were the “innovators we need for the future". The Rector also expressed the hope that this recognition would encourage the recipients to continue doing meaningful work wherever their future journeys might take them. “I congratulate you on your hard work and dedication, not only over the past year, but also the tumultuous two pandemic years. You persevered, and achieved something quite extraordinary," De Villiers said.<br></p><p>Having received 124 applications and nominations this year, the Rector's Awards ceremony is a key event on the SU calendar, said Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Learning and Teaching. “It's an opportunity to come together to celebrate the hard work and exceptional achievements of our students," he said. “However, at the same time, we must also acknowledge that our students' achievements are facilitated by our dedicated staff, who create a nurturing environment for students to flourish and thrive, and consequently meet their full potential. We are celebrating that full potential tonight." <br></p><p><strong>On the right track</strong></p><p>The keynote speaker, SU's former Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies, Prof Eugene Cloete, encouraged students to continue their innovation journey, as they were on the “correct trajectory." He highlighted clarity on goals and expectations as well as recognition of people's achievements as two vital requirements for promoting innovation and unlocking human potential. “If you do not acknowledge other people, you bankrupt them emotionally," Cloete said. He encouraged the award winners to take their potential to the next level by continuing to renew their knowledge, set new goals and raise their expectations.<br><br></p><p>Cloete concluded his address by underlining the importance of respect in achieving success in life. “I want you to live with respect. Respect is important because it creates the possibility for us to co-inhabit this planet. Respect means acknowledging that we all have different ways and that we need to create a space where we can all live together and to our full potential. May you have a spectacular future."<br></p><p><strong>And the winners are …</strong></p><p>The following students received awards:<br></p><p><strong>Academics</strong> (comprising the Rector's Award for Excellent Achievement as well as the SU medal for top master's student, by faculty)</p><p>AgriSciences</p><ul><li>Mia Olga Schutte </li><li>Anika Keuck </li><li>Karlene Lambrechts </li><li>Carla Dippenaar (top master's student)</li></ul><p>Arts and Social Sciences<br></p><ul><li>Julia Snyckers </li><li>Pieter Conradie </li><li>CJ le Grange </li><li>Mark Lynch </li><li>JZ Donnelly </li><li>Tamlyn February </li><li>Sophia Rabie </li><li>Lara van Heerden </li><li>Anita Faul (top master's student, Psychology)</li></ul><p>Economic and Management Sciences<br></p><ul><li>Petrone Moolman </li><li>Jessie Shannon Leukes </li><li>Julia Fiona Bishop </li><li>Peng-Chen Liang </li><li>Christa Jean Albertyn </li><li>Danielle-Verné Louw </li><li>Shannon Linda Barry </li><li>Christa-Mari de Lange </li><li>Mitchell Ashton van Heerden </li><li>Caryn Jill Bishop </li><li>Dané Odendaal </li><li>Jaco du Toit</li><li>Lauren Eileen Morrell (top master's student, Sustainable Development and Management)<br></li></ul><p>Engineering</p><ul><li>Charl du Toit </li><li>Elijah Cishugi </li><li>MC Harraway </li><li>T Hettasch </li><li>William Dommisse </li><li>Johannes Koekemoer</li></ul><ul><li>C Oosthuysen (top master's student, Civil Engineering)</li></ul><p>Law</p><ul><li>Estelle Hailey Hislop </li><li>Hugo Uys</li><li>Mitchell John Brooks (top master's student)</li></ul>Medicine and Health Sciences<br><ul><li>Christine Vivier </li><li>Kayleen Esau </li><li>Faye Gen Bure </li><li>Tasha Ainsworth</li><li>Suewellyn Francis Zimmerman </li><li>Lumé Koorts</li><li>Abigail Kate de Villiers (top master's student, Epidemiology)</li></ul><p>Military Science<br></p><ul><li>Khodani Sherrif Tshivhi (top master's student, Technology (Maths))</li></ul>Science<br><ul><li>Brendan Watling </li><li>Jean Durand </li><li>Graham Mitchell </li><li>Gerhard Gustav Woithe </li><li>Jessie Midgley </li><li>Kyle Harper Erwin (top master's student)</li></ul> Theology<br><ul><li>Lourens Bester (top master's student)</li></ul><p><strong>Sport</strong></p><ul><li>Franco Rheeder (boxing)</li><li>Clayton Saker (hockey)</li><li>Stephanie Botha (hockey)</li><li>Anna Thornton-Dibb (RSA water polo)</li><li>Ross Stone (RSA water polo)</li><li>Bianca Augustyn (rugby)</li></ul><strong>Students' Representative Council (SRC) Award for Exceptional Achievement</strong><br><ul><li>Prof Eugene Cloete <br><br><strong>Social impact</strong></li></ul><ul><li>Marcel Lee Adams<br></li><li>Adam Venter</li><li>Abongile Quthu<br><br> <strong>Academic resilience</strong></li></ul><ul><li>Michè Snyders<br><br> <strong>Leadership</strong></li></ul><ul><li>Sebastian Foster</li><li>Vhudi Ravhutsi</li><li>Precious Nhamo</li><li>Estelle Hislop</li><li>Makabongwe Kaseke</li><li>Rinae Musekene</li><li>Susanna Hendrina du Plessis</li><li>Luigia Nicholas</li><li>Alysa-Abby Kekana</li><li>Karabo Mogashoa</li><li>Christo van der Bank</li><li>Thimna Sotyato<br></li></ul><div><br></div><p> <br></p><p> Main picture: Khodani Sherrif Tshivhi (top master's student, Technology (Maths))<br></p><p> Photographer: Stefan Els<br></p><p><br></p> |
| Activists, students and staff discuss challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ community | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=9506 | | Activists, students and staff discuss challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ community | Nadine Christians and Keenen Gilbert | <p>Activists, students, and staff participated and attended a hybrid panel discussion focusing on the theme, Confronting the barriers to inclusion for the LGBTQIA+ community, held at Stellenbosch University's Tygerberg campus recently. <br></p><p>The panel discussion was held in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS), the Equality Unit and the Division Student Affairs (DSAf), with panellists, staff and students unpacking various themes related to the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. </p><p>The event was attended by over 50 staff and students.</p><p>The panel discussion formed part of a broader awareness campaign which included LGBTQIA+ allyship ambassador videos that have been screened in the lead-up to Pride Month in October. Several personal messages of solidarity were recorded by Justice Edwin Cameron, Chancellor of SU; Alex Vink, former SRC member; Prof Elmi Muller, Dean: FMHS, Jaco Greeff Brink, Head of the Equality Unit, and Fanelesibonge Ndebele, Shared Humanity Module and Shared Humanity Learning Coach Module Coordinator.</p><p>“Stellenbosch University recognised the importance of planning an evidence-based campaign with contributions from staff and students from the LGBTQIA+ community on Stellenbosch and Tygerberg campuses. The campaign was envisioned to create awareness and bring about critical engagement around important issues related to the LGBTQIA+ community," said Khairoonisa Foflonker, Manager: DSAf at the FMHS, based at Tygerberg campus.</p><p>Panellists Nicole Joy Alexander, Director of Pride Shelter Trust, Leon Coetzee, the newly-elected chairperson of SPECTRUM!, and Elliott Kotze, psychologist, researcher and LGBTQIA+ activist, provided expert insight into various topics that hinder the inclusion of the LGBTQIA+ community.</p><p>Bringing in the perspective of the student community, Coetzee shared their thoughts and experiences as a queer student leader on what allyship looks like on campus by deconstructing allyship from a queer perspective and providing perspective on simple ways of how students and staff can be allies by “speaking up, extending opportunities and challenging the status quo". </p><p>Coetzee also addressed the importance of redefining the meaning of being an “ally" as more than being a “heteronormative identifier".</p><p>"Community is important and [we need to understand that] queer bodies are all human beings deserving of fundamental human rights," said Coetzee.</p><p>Alexander highlighted the work done by The Pride Shelter Trust, a safe house and wellness centre focusing on LGBTQIA+ human rights and gender-based violence in South Africa. In her presentation, Alexander focussed on the access that LQBTQIA+ persons have to healthcare and safety.</p><p>She spoke on the challenges that LGBTQIA+ youth face and their struggles with “low self-esteem, unemployment, substance abuse, psychological instability" as well as health-related issues such as HIV/ Aids, hormonal treatment, and other medical issues. She also shared a personal story of a Pride Shelter resident and their struggles and triumphs with the South African healthcare system as an example of the reality of the difficult challenges faced by queer individuals when accessing healthcare and feeling safe. </p><p>Kotze's presentation focussed on improving the quality of life of queer and gender-diverse individuals through the strategic implementation of community-driven interventions. Kotze's presentation dealt with the mental health challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community and how members of the queer community “should not be expected to be resilient" when faced with mental health issues. His parting message was that “radical allyship" was needed to support the LGBTQIA+ community and reiterated the important role proactive healthcare professionals can play to improve the mental health of the queer community.</p><p>More ambassador videos will be shared via social media in October for Pride Month. So be sure to check out the Equality Unit and DSAf's social media channels at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SUStudentAffairs">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sustudentaffairs/">Instagram.</a></p> |
| Stellenbosch University extends closing date for funding applications till 30 November 2022 | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=9507 | | Stellenbosch University extends closing date for funding applications till 30 November 2022 | Petro Mostert | <p>Stellenbosch University's (SU) Centre for Undergraduate Bursaries and Loans (CUBL) has extended the closing date for 2023 Stellenbosch University funding applications until 30 November 2022 to allow more students to apply for financial support.<br></p><p>Applications for SU funding opened on 1 July 2022 and will now close on 30 November 2022.</p><p>“By extending the closing date, we are broadening the opportunity for students to apply for funding, especially students from the so-called <em>missing middle</em> (gross household income between R350 000 and R600 000 per annum)," says CUBL Deputy Director, Gerard Paris, <br></p><p><strong>SU funding</strong></p><p>A bursary can make a university education affordable. Current and prospective undergraduate students qualify for SU financial support based on two main criteria: <strong>financial need</strong> and <strong>academic merit</strong>. Students granted financial support receive the latter in direct proportion to the extent of their financial needs regardless of race and gender. Financial need is determined with the information submitted by the student regarding his or her financial circumstances and is verified by a third party.</p><p><strong>E-application process</strong></p><p>SU has a new online application process and student access to the new secure, external site is gained using their <strong>unique eight-digit SU# (student number) and password</strong>. CUBL highly recommends students <em>first</em> review the <a href="https://finaid.sun.ac.za/how-to-apply"><strong>How to Apply</strong></a> instructions to prepare the required support documents before applying via the my.sun portal. The online form takes approximately twenty minutes to complete.</p><p>All prospective and current undergraduate students are encouraged to apply – or reapply – and thus be registered on the CUBL database for 2023 funding allocations, should financial circumstances change unexpectedly.</p><p>For any application-related queries, students are requested to please call SU client services on 021 808 9111 or go to the website at <a href="https://finaid.sun.ac.za/">https://finaid.sun.ac.za/</a></p><p> </p><p>For media enquiries</p><p>Petro Mostert</p><p>M <a href="mailto:petromostert@sun.ac.za">petromostert@sun.ac.za</a><br><br></p><p><br></p> |
| SU student's innovation is among the top three solutions for world challenges | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=9496 | | SU student's innovation is among the top three solutions for world challenges | Corporate Communication and Marketing/Korporatiewe Kommunikasie en Bemarking - Sandra Mulder | A digital application developed by an engineering student from Stellenbosch University (SU) that provides information about water quality in water supply systems took third place at a recent international gathering in New York, where more than 250 young leaders from 61 countries pitched solutions for sustainable development.<p>Stanley Chindikani Msiska, a PhD student at SU's Faculty of Engineering, returned with great pride and excitement from Camp 2030, a project of Unite 2030, a non-profitable global youth community striving to achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the year 2030. </p><p>Unite 2030 believes young people can succeed in achieving these SDGs, especially regarding the global challenges of poverty, inequality, injustice, climate change and water and sanitation.</p><p>“I'm overwhelmed that my innovation was selected by the judges as a winning solution. This is the news that I worked very hard for and hoped for," Msiska said about his achievement. “I thank the Lord even more because this is the kind of success that is going to transform the lives of millions of people who live in despair and suffering."</p><p>Msiska and Stefani Terblanche, a BA student in international studies, represented SU at this global event. The delegates were divided into 36 mixed groups that focused on different SDG challenges. <img src="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/Camp30SDG_1.jpg" alt="Camp30SDG_1.jpg" class="ms-rtePosition-2" style="margin:5px;width:400px;height:267px;" /><br></p><p>Msiska's group came up with a website application, Maji, as a solution for the SDG for water and sanitation. “Maji" means water in Tumbuka, a language spoken in Northern Malawi. The app forms part of his postgraduate engineering studies at SU on existing water quality maintenance challenges in Malawi, his home country. He is also a lecturer in chemical engineering at the Malawian University of Technology and Sciences.</p><p>Maji is a digital platform that provides maintenance services and information about water quality in water supply systems, especially in developing countries. The process will start with its first implementation in Lilongwe, the Malawian capital.</p><p>Msiska's team members were Ashley Wunsch (Canada), Felipe Contreras (Mexico), Muskaan Waraich (Canada) and Inbar Erez (Israel). This team and Unite 2030's support is backing him to get his innovation implemented. “What captivates me even more, is looking at how people and institutions are excited about the innovation and support its implementation," said Msiska.</p><p>He didn't want to disclose much detail about how Maji will work because the patent has not been registered yet. However, he was willing to reveal that the Maji web app will operate on smartphones, computers and even through text messages if there is no internet. </p><p>Msiska said that this innovation will also address the challenge of unemployment. “The digital platform will create jobs because community members will be employed for data collection about water and systems.</p><p>“I will now be actively involved with stakeholders in implementing Maji." He added that he needs further support as the implementation will require more resources.</p><p>Terblanche was also overwhelmed by her “amazing experience" at Camp 2030 and by her group, which focused on finding solutions for gender-based violence and gender inequality.</p><p>“It was so interesting learning about other cultures and countries on such a scale, and hearing what people are doing within their communities and the world. I also learned about the different issues that different people face regarding gender-based discrimination in the workplace, women's health rights, trans-healthcare issues and more," Terblanche said.</p><p>Noel Bekkers, Head of the Concordia Residence, where Msiska is a resident, congratulated him on his achievement and praised him for his<strong> </strong>commitment to<strong> </strong>his PhD studies and his passion for accepting challenging assignments as an academic and an entrepreneur.</p><p>Bekkers credited various staff members for their additional efforts to enable Msiska and Terblanche to attend Camp 2030, especially Michelle Pietersen, programme manager at the Division of Social Impact, for making last-minute arrangements.</p><ul><li>Msiska can be contacted on +265884269861 (WhatsApp), +27633867094 (direct call), stanleycmsiska (Instagram), Stanley Chindikani Msiska (Facebook)<br></li></ul><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Terblanche's contact details are 0814446016 or Instagram: @stefani_terblanche</li><li>For more information about Camp 2030, visit the <a href="https://d.docs.live.net/ab4814f784e04351/Documents/Unite%202030%20website">Unite 2030 website</a> at <a href="https://www.camp2030.com/">https://www.camp2030.com/</a></li></ul><p> Main picture: Supplied<br></p><p>Portrait photo: Stefan Els<br></p> |
| Vloeibare Moed production tackles men's role in combatting GBV | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=9475 | | Vloeibare Moed production tackles men's role in combatting GBV | Enrico Hartzenberg and Lynne Rippenaar-Moses | <p><em>Vloeibare Moed (also known as Fluid Courage)</em>, a theatre production inspired by the events that led to the gruesome murder of Uyinene Mrwetyana, will be presented at the Academia Hall on Sunday, 18 September and Monday, 19 September 2022 at 14:00 and 18:00. Tickets are available for all students and staff of Stellenbosch University (SU) on <a href="https://qkt.io/5uR6AV">Quicket</a>.<br><span style="text-align:justify;"></span></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The play's script, which was written by Enrico Hartzenberg of Hartzenberg Films, “focuses on men's role in combatting gender-based violence" (GBV) and tells the story of how the lives of four first-year university friends – Sherwyn, Randall, Dillon and Dean – are thrown into turmoil after one of them becomes the main suspect in a GBV crime committed on the university campus.<br><br>Hartzenberg was mentored by SAFTA-award-winning scriptwriter, Abduragman Adams, as he wrote the second draft of his script while acclaimed director, Iman Isaacs, is responsible for directing the production.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The four friends are played by Lyle October, Gershwin Mias, Marunzo Thomas, and Jaydon Williams. October, who will be making his debut appearance, plays Sherwyn; an intelligent, introverted and curious 18-year old. Mias has been featured in productions such <em>Noem my Skollie</em>, <em>Trackers and Arendslvei </em> while Nama Swaan plays the character of Dean, the party animal of the group.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Dillon is played by Thomas, who has been seen in productions such as <em>Sara se Geheim</em>, <em>Troukoors</em>, <em>Projek Dina</em> and <em>Arendsvlei</em>, while Randall is played by Williams, who has also been seen on <em>Arendsvlei</em> as well as <em>The Kingdom</em>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">“This group of young, talented actors could not be more perfect to star in this diverse and exciting cast."<br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Noël Bekkers, SLS Cluster ResEd Coordinator and Residence Head at House MacDonald at SU, is responsible for bringing the production to the university along with three other staff members within the Division for Student Affairs and the Centre for Student Communities, which includes Yeki Mosomothane, Monica du Toit, and Joy Petersen. According to Bekkers, <em>Vloeibare Moed </em>(also called <em>Fluid Courage</em>)<em>, </em>also celebrates the different cultural heritages in South Africa in the same month that citizens will be commemorating Heritage Day on 24 September. <br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">“While most of the dialogue is in Afrikaaps, one of the many Afrikaans dialects that are spoken in South Africa and gaining increasing recognition in the Western Cape, and some English, the play is also meant to encourage multi-lingualism and multi-culturalism in its broadest sense and presented through a different lens."<br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Added Hartzenberg: “With the frightening statistics of gender-based violence in South Africa, this conversation needs to continue and our production is a way of doing exactly that. This is a story we need to tell and the message behind it is an urgent and relevant one."<br><br>To stay updated, theatregoers can follow Hartzenberg Films' Instagram page at @hartzenberg_films and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SUStudentAffairs/">DSAf's Facebook page</a>.<br></p> |
| Kayamandi in a bite | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=9461 | | Kayamandi in a bite | Tendani Tshauambea | <p style="text-align:justify;"></p><p style="text-align:justify;">T<em>his story is told by Tendani Tshauambea in his own words. </em></p><p style="text-align:justify;">On 25 August 2022, Senior Living Spaces (SLS) cluster member and outgoing cluster convenor, Tendani Tshauambea, organised a food experience in Kayamandi for a group of local and international students. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">“The idea behind the food experience was to expose students to the food culture of Xhosa people in the Western Cape," said Tshauambea.</p><p>The international students were from the University of Warwick on the outskirts of Coventry, England, and have been volunteering for the past four weeks at Makapula and Kayamandi Secondary schools as student teachers. They were joined by a group of students from the SLS cluster at <em>Amazink Live</em> – a Kayamandi institution, well known for its colourful décor, poetry sessions and delicious food. </p><p>After arrival, the students were given a short tour of the <em>Amazink</em> restaurant, followed by a meal. During the meal, Zintle Nomavuka – front of house manager at <em>Amazink</em> – gave a brief explanation of the different foods that the students would be eating. </p><p>“When Zintle explained that tripe is the stomach lining of a sheep or cow, one or two faces visibly changed expression," said Tshauambea while laughing.</p><p>The food fair consisted of a tasting menu of foods usually eaten by black South Africans. This tasting menu was served in individual platters. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">“Each platter contained three different meats for the students to taste: ulusu (tripe), umleqwa (roadrunner chicken) as well as amaqina (chicken feet). For the vegetarians, the meat was replaced with a fresh coleslaw and additional side. These were served with a starch choice of dombolo (steamed bread), pap (stiff maize meal) or samp. To round off, a side could be chosen from butternut, creamy spinach or chakalaka, a relish/salsa like side dish," he explained.</p><p>The students also learnt some interesting lessons during a story session focused on the roadrunner chicken called umleqwa in isiXhosa. </p><p>“The word umleqwa comes from the word 'leqwa', which means to chase, as you must do when trying to catch the bird.</p><p>“The feedback received from the students was overwhelmingly positive. They all shared how much they enjoyed their meals – including the tripe, which everyone had at least a bite of! Shohina Ahmadbekova was one of those who enjoyed the tripe and described the meal that she had at <em>Amazink</em> as the best meal she has had during her time in South Africa," added Tshauambea.</p><p>The chicken feet he said, which are difficult to eat but very delicious, proved to be most popular as two students bought extra servings to take home for later snacking.</p><p>“The food experience highlighted the power of food in bringing people together in a space where they could explore, eat and experience the culture of Kayamandi. In the words of Guy Fieri, “food is maybe the only universal thing that really has the power to bring everyone together. No matter what culture, everywhere around the world, people eat together." </p><p>According to <span style="text-align:justify;">Noël Bekkers</span>, SLS Cluster ResEd Coordinator and Residence Head at House MacDonald., the value of the food experience lies in its inherent potential to 'bring everyone together' and foster engagement not only with the food individuals are eating but also with the stories behind the food. </p><p>“It is this second part, which has the revolutionary potential for our community in Stellenbosch to strengthen its social cohesion," he said.</p><p>While this event only catered for ten students, with appropriate planning and coordination there is room to upscale the event to include more students. With Heritage month coming up in September, an event like the food experience would be an opportune moment for students to explore, eat and experience 'Kayamandi in a bite'."</p><p>For assistance in organising an event like the food experience, please contact Elouise Van Wyk on <a href="mailto:21868921@sun.ac.za"><span lang="EN-US" style="text-decoration:underline;">21868921@sun.ac.za</span></a>. To get more information on the different menu options available at Amazink, e-mail <a href="mailto:info@amazinklive.co.za"><span lang="EN-US" style="text-decoration:underline;">info@amazinklive.co.za</span></a>.<br></p> |
| Innovus celebrates entrepreneurial women making our world a better place | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=9344 | | Innovus celebrates entrepreneurial women making our world a better place | Petro Mostert | <p>Every year South Africa commemorates Women's month in August as a tribute to the brave women who marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956 to stop forcing women to carry passes. It is 2022, and we have come a long way, something we see daily at Stellenbosch University's innovation and commercialisation division, Innovus, where they nurture and develop entrepreneurial women's innovations into viable businesses that make significant differences in the world we live.</p><p>“We have them all," says Anita Nel, SU'S Chief Director: Innovation and Commercialisation. “Women scientists who very recently patented a ground-breaking research method, which detects micro clots in the blood of Long COVID patients; an engineer who helped establish a green energy company that is now helping schools to reduce their energy bills; a marine biologist that is helping to make the sea safe for sharks and people; our creative and energetic new Matie Shop manager who is taking our SU brand to the stars; and our women technology transfer team at Innovus who work around the clock to create commercially viable businesses from SU scholars' research. And there are many more. We, at Innovus, are inspired by each of these women." </p><p>Nel, who recently returned from Amsterdam with accolades for SU from the University-Industry Innovation Network (UIIN) as runner-up for Outstanding Entrepreneurial and Engaged University based on the work done via Innovus, believes it is the women entrepreneurs of today who are creating a better tomorrow for everyone. “I see this daily as innovations from our female researchers land on our desks. We have to support our women entrepreneurs because their legacy will create a better world for future generations," says Nel. </p><p>“I am privileged to have seen the enormous effect of women's successes contributing directly to local economies and touching the lives of the people in those communities. Women are constantly looking for ways to invest back into their families and community – to uplift education, and ensure the best nutrition, wellbeing, and children's health. Their innovations are also more likely to provide services and opportunities to their communities."</p><p>As one of the presenters at the UIIN conference in June this year, Anita shared her learnings in establishing SU's entrepreneurial ecosystem, which consists of Innovus's Technology Transfer Office, University of Stellenbosch Enterprises, the SU LaunchLab and SUNCOM, SU's division focusing on the commercialisation of non-academic services and projects. “The collaboration of these entities, together with the establishment of the University Technology Fund and the SU Investment Committee is providing the platform for entrepreneurship to flourish."</p><p>Nel believes Universities in Africa can play a significant role in supporting entrepreneurs to become economic growth agents in their regions, starting and growing ventures. “In growing SU as an entrepreneurial university, we will develop the Institution to innovate, recognise and create opportunities, take risks and respond to challenges and eventually become a natural incubator that supports its academics, technicians and students to create new ventures," said Nel, referring to UK academic David Kirby's definition of entrepreneurship.</p><p>In August, Innovus will publish a series of articles celebrating SU's women entrepreneurs on their website at <a href="http://www.innovus.co.za/">www.innovus.co.za</a> and on social media platforms. Read their stories and help us share and celebrate the outstanding achievements of women in various disciplines, creating a better life for all through innovation.</p><p> Innovus website: <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.innovus.co.za/womans-month&data=05%7c01%7c%7c57c14ec92be9483f009208da753ab3aa%7ca6fa3b030a3c42588433a120dffcd348%7c0%7c0%7c637951192362816364%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7c3000%7c%7c%7c&sdata=wy1SHR4NhHYE2cWeahlDq2FeQ7wAVqVn6I3CS9eoDBQ%3D&reserved=0">Woman's Month (innovus.co.za)</a></p><p>LinkedIn: <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.linkedin.com/company/883499/admin/&data=05%7c01%7c%7c57c14ec92be9483f009208da753ab3aa%7ca6fa3b030a3c42588433a120dffcd348%7c0%7c0%7c637951192362816364%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7c3000%7c%7c%7c&sdata=3PYlqhCwJJg1SEwwZpjklWY1L/NzglikOW84%2B%2BFQCgo%3D&reserved=0"><span style="text-decoration:underline;">(1) University of Stellenbosch Enterprises (Pty) Ltd: Company Page Admin | LinkedIn</span></a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.facebook.com/InnovusTTO&data=05%7c01%7c%7c57c14ec92be9483f009208da753ab3aa%7ca6fa3b030a3c42588433a120dffcd348%7c0%7c0%7c637951192362816364%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7c3000%7c%7c%7c&sdata=rQanHrrCw0U6Z2UG27wJY4XPDhSCV/BNzo%2BrBJrtGnc%3D&reserved=0"><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Innovus Technology Transfer | Facebook</span></a></p><p><br></p><p> </p><p><br></p> |
| Facilities Management getting their hands dirty at AF Louw Primary School in Stellenbosch for Mandela Day | http://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=9320 | | Facilities Management getting their hands dirty at AF Louw Primary School in Stellenbosch for Mandela Day | Petro Mostert | <p>Facilities Management (FM) staff and suppliers arrived in full force at AF Louw Primary School on Monday, 18 July 2022, to get their hands dirty for Mandela Day. There was even massive congestion as vehicles made their way into the school yard early morning, offloading chain saws, ladders, paint, grinders, and gardening equipment.<br></p><p>"I was expecting a few people to come to our school this morning, but this is a full-scale operation," said principal Anne Tarr. "Thank you for touching lives here today. We must teach our children to dream; this is how dreams come true. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts."</p><p>Because Tarr and this school touched her life, Aloma Fourie, Manager: maintenance planning at FM's Property Services, was delighted that the school was picked for this year's Mandela Day project.</p><p>Together with Robert Todkill, technical advisor, and the maintenance team at FM, Aloma quickly assembled a team to get the maintenance wheels rolling. "You give a job like this to Aloma, and magic happens," said Nicolette van den Eijkel, FM's Chief Director, who thanked each person for arriving and helping where they could. Over 170 people helped somehow on Mandela Day to improve the school.<br></p><p>And magic it was. FM's staff and suppliers came to this school with their fleet of construction vehicles, equipment, and staff. You saw people everywhere painting walls, sanding floors, fixing roofs, doors, and windows, trimming trees, and restoring a fragile sports pavilion to its former glory. A corner patch of barren ground is now this school's beautiful vegetable garden. It is also the spot that our Chief Operating Officer, Prof Stan du Plessis, chose to give his 67 minutes (and more) for Mandela Day 2022.</p><p>Aloma said she wanted to show that SU is not an entity in isolation. "SU is part of the bigger Stellenbosch community, and what we do impacts everybody that lives here. I hope that the children from this school will be inspired by SU as a place that is there for the bigger community." Many of FM's staff and their children attended this school.</p><p>"Some of our suppliers and staff were on site almost this whole week leading up to Mandela Day, as there was a lot of work to be done," said Brandon Como, who took the lead on this event "It is unbelievable how everyone just came on board to make this project far better than what we anticipated." Staff even organised to collect non-perishable articles which was donated to the school. Brandon and his organising committee did wonders in arranging the day's logistics and ensured everyone was there, had their tools and a much-deserved lunch.</p><p>The atmosphere at AF Louw on Monday was eclectic and energetic. You could not help laughing at all the sayings from people working hand-in-hand and against the clock to restore, fix and create a place that learners will be proud to return to. People said they were privileged to be part of a group of people that give of themselves, so you cannot even find words to describe it.</p><p>Watch the video <a href="https://youtu.be/4CqxVgohC7Y">here</a> for a quick glimpse of the day's activities.</p><p><br></p> |
