Rector and Vice-​Chancellor Welcome Message

Dear newcomer student

Welcome to 2023 at Stellenbosch University.

Exciting times lie ahead!

Congratulations on working hard and persevering throughout high school. You have passed your final matric exams and have been accepted to study at SU – a tremendous accomplishment. Remember that receiving a university education is a privilege, and it’s up to you to make the most of it.

From the get-go, we want to introduce you to our University’s values – Excellence, Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Equity. If you embrace these values, you’re bound to be a successful student – but more than that, you’ll be an accomplished human being and engaged citizen of the world.

Last year, when Covid-19 restrictions were lifted, life on our campuses returned to normal and we could once again offer our students a truly thriving experience. And this year, you have the opportunity to live this reality from the very start.

Your new life at SU will start with our signature annual Welcoming Programme. Take this opportunity to familiarise yourself with the campus, and if you’re uncertain about certain aspects, ask your mentors, student leaders or staff. They’re here to help. We will do everything possible to make your introduction to campus life special and memorable, as we always do. Keep an eye on www.sun.ac.za/welcome for the latest developments and schedule. From now on, you will also have access to various support services at our Division of Student Affairs. Here, highly experienced professionals stand ready to support your learning and development, guiding you every step of the way. Do make use of their services to make the most of your time at our University.

The leap from school to university can be overwhelming, but we firmly believe you have what it takes to complete your studies successfully and graduate. That’s why you’re here! Also keep in mind that you’re not doing this alone, and even if professors and lecturers may seem intimidating, remember that they want to see you succeed.

Stay confident, remain focused on your studies and work hard. And don’t forget to have fun along the way – life at our University has the potential to transform you. Remember that learning doesn’t exclusively happen in the classroom. So, go out, join clubs, embrace our co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, make friends from different backgrounds and embrace the opportunities life at SU will throw at you.

Whatever your chosen field of study is, we will do our best to prepare you for the world beyond our hallways, classrooms and residences. I can also promise that it won’t be without its challenges. The trick is to turn those challenges into opportunities.

Many university friends stay friends for life. If you need help in the weeks and months ahead, simply reach out and ask. Because at Maties, we move forward together.

Prof Wim de Villiers

SU Rector and Vice-Chancellor