| Heritage Day: Our heritage shapes our future | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10879 | | Heritage Day: Our heritage shapes our future | Corporate Communication and Marketing/Korporatiewe Kommunikasie en Bemarking | <p>South Africans celebrated Heritage Day on 24 September. In opinion pieces for the media, Profs Chris Jones (Unit for Moral Leadership) and Nico Koopman (Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Social Impact, Transformation and Personnel) write that our heritage shapes our future and that we should pursue and cherish transforming and beautiful traditions. Click on the links below to read the articles as published.<br></p><ul><li>Prof Chris Jones (<a href="https://www.news24.com/news24/opinions/columnists/guestcolumn/opinion-chris-jones-from-past-to-present-how-south-africas-heritage-shapes-our-future-20240924"><strong class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-0">News24</strong></a>)</li><li>Prof Nico Koopman (<a href="https://www.iol.co.za/capetimes/opinion/a-time-to-pursue-and-cherish-transforming-and-beautiful-traditions-4306848f-2f15-4882-a037-4e6203fb4aa0"><strong class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-0">Cape Times</strong></a>)</li></ul><p><br></p> |
| African ingenuity to be showcased in electric motorcycle expedition from Nairobi to Stellenbosch | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10869 | | African ingenuity to be showcased in electric motorcycle expedition from Nairobi to Stellenbosch | Corporate Communication and Marketing / Korporatiewe Kommunikasie en Bemarking | <p>In a revolutionary showcase of African ingenuity, an electric motorcycle, designed and built in Africa and powered only by the sun, will tackle the long drive all the way from Nairobi to Stellenbosch in October, The initiative will in part be to observe Transport Month.<br></p><p>Researchers from the Faculty of Engineering at Stellenbosch University (SU) have joined forces with <a href="https://www.roam-electric.com/">Roam</a>, a technology-driven electric mobility company in Nairobi, Kenya, to test the Roam Air, a tailored electric motorcycle designed in Kenya for Africa. The motorcycle is used in urban settings. </p><p>It is believed to be the first time that electric motorcycles developed in Africa will be covering the approximately 6 000 km with only solar power as energy source. </p><p>Accompanied by two support vehicles, the electric motorcycle will depart from Nairobi on 29 September and is expected to arrive in Stellenbosch on Monday 18 October – in time for the University's Electric Mobility Day celebration</p><p>“Roam donated two of its electric motorcycles to our group for research and testing," explains Prof Thinus Booysen, founder of the Electric Mobility Lab. “We cannot think of a better way to kick-start our research collaboration than testing the motorcycle overland. To do this within the African fraternity of ingenuity is an enormous privilege." </p><p>Researchers at the newly founded Electric Mobility Lab at the Department of Industrial Engineering are spearheading research on electric mobility on the continent. They focus on the region's unique modes of mobility and the required infrastructure and operational adaptations.</p><p>Together, SU and Roam intend to develop and apply research on electric vehicles and the supporting ecosystem, including but not limited to the electric motorcycles, electric vehicle powertrains, local manufacturing, and digital pilots for planning for electric urban mobility. </p><p>“This journey showcases Kenya's ability to design and locally manufacture world-class electric vehicles for African conditions. It's a testament to local innovation, leading the way in sustainable mobility solutions," says Masa Kituyi EM Product Owner at Roam. </p><p>The motorcycle is to be ridden by PhD candidate and co-researcher on the project, Stephan Lacock, and Kituyi.</p><p>“The emphasis is not on the whether such a trip can be done as there has been other similar journeys in the world, but rather to showcase African ingenuity and collaboration between SU and Roam to overcome African conditions with green solar energy," comments Lacock.</p><p>Amongst others, the SU research team is quite interested in seeing the performance of the drivetrain and swappable batteries, as well as the efficacy of the solar recharging solution. </p><p><strong>Electric Mobility Lab</strong></p><p>The Electric Mobility Lab at SU will be launched on 18 October at Asara Wine Estate. A highlight of the event will be the handover of a retrofitted 65-seater bus to Golden Arrow Bus Service. The motorcycle making the trip from Kenya will also be officially handed over to the Electric Mobility Lab.</p><p>Government officials, funders, industry representatives and researchers are expected to attend the event. Demonstrations of various electric vehicles and charging infrastructure will form part of the event's activities.</p><ul><li><em>Visit </em><a href="https://ev.sun.ac.za/ecross.html"><em>ev.sun.ac.za/ecross.html</em></a><em> for more info </em></li><li><em>Photo: Stephan Lacock, PhD candidate and co-researcher on the project, Prof Thinus Booysen, supervisor and founder of the Electric Mobility Lab; Hanno Erwee, driver; Ryno Lacock, driver; and Lewis Seymour, videographer (photo credit Stefan Els)</em></li></ul><div><div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;clear:both;cursor:text;overflow:visible;direction:ltr;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;background-color:#ffffff;"><p class="Paragraph SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin-top:8px;margin-bottom:8px;padding:0px;vertical-align:baseline;background-color:transparent;color:windowtext;"><span class="ms-rteFontSize-2"><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-ZA" class="TextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0 ms-rteFontSize-2" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;line-height:22px;font-family:raleway, raleway_embeddedfont, raleway_msfontservice, sans-serif;font-weight:bold;">ADDITIONAL INFORMATION</span><span class="EOP SCXW195507762 BCX0 ms-rteFontSize-2" data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559738":120,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;line-height:22px;font-family:raleway, raleway_embeddedfont, raleway_msfontservice, sans-serif;"> </span></span></p></div><div class="ListContainerWrapper SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;background-color:#ffffff;"><ul><li><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-ZA" class="TextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="background-color:transparent;color:windowtext;font-size:11pt;margin:0px;padding:0px;font-style:italic;line-height:17px;font-family:raleway, raleway_embeddedfont, raleway_msfontservice, sans-serif;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">The trip from Nairobi to Stellenbosch is made possible by the support of</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"> </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">Scatec</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">,</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"> </span><span class="NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;background-position:0px 100%;background-repeat:repeat-x;">Balancell</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;background-position:0px 100%;background-repeat:repeat-x;">Voetspore</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">, Tracks for Africa, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">Bush Lapa, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">SANED</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">I through the LEAP-RE project, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">and </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">Charlie</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">’</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">s Travel</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW195507762 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559738":120,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}" style="background-color:transparent;color:windowtext;font-size:11pt;margin:0px;padding:0px;line-height:17px;font-family:raleway, raleway_embeddedfont, raleway_msfontservice, sans-serif;"> </span></li><li><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-ZA" class="TextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="background-color:transparent;color:windowtext;font-size:11pt;margin:0px;padding:0px;font-style:italic;line-height:17px;font-family:raleway, raleway_embeddedfont, raleway_msfontservice, sans-serif;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">Leaving from Nairobi in Kenya </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">on </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">29 </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">September</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">, the team will trek through Tanzania, Malawi, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">Zambia</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"> and Botswana – to arrive in Stellenbosch on </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">no later than 18 October</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW195507762 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559738":120,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}" style="background-color:transparent;color:windowtext;font-size:11pt;margin:0px;padding:0px;line-height:17px;font-family:raleway, raleway_embeddedfont, raleway_msfontservice, sans-serif;"> </span></li><li><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-ZA" class="TextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="background-color:transparent;color:windowtext;font-size:11pt;margin:0px;padding:0px;font-style:italic;line-height:17px;font-family:raleway, raleway_embeddedfont, raleway_msfontservice, sans-serif;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">The motorcycles will be accompanied by two support vehicles on which solar panels are </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">transported </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">to charge the </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">motorcycle </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">batteries.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW195507762 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559738":120,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}" style="background-color:transparent;color:windowtext;font-size:11pt;margin:0px;padding:0px;line-height:17px;font-family:raleway, raleway_embeddedfont, raleway_msfontservice, sans-serif;"> </span></li><li><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-ZA" class="TextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="background-color:transparent;color:windowtext;font-size:11pt;margin:0px;padding:0px;font-style:italic;line-height:17px;font-family:raleway, raleway_embeddedfont, raleway_msfontservice, sans-serif;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">The trip is to be </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">video</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"> </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">documente</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">d</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;"> with a view to produce a documentary</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW195507762 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;">. </span></span><span class="EOP SCXW195507762 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559738":120,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}" style="background-color:transparent;color:windowtext;font-size:11pt;margin:0px;padding:0px;line-height:17px;font-family:raleway, raleway_embeddedfont, raleway_msfontservice, sans-serif;"> </span></li></ul></div><i><br></i></div><p><br></p> |
| "Africa, Our Home" – fostering Internationalisation through culture at Stellenbosch University | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10849 | | "Africa, Our Home" – fostering Internationalisation through culture at Stellenbosch University | Abongile Quthu | <p>Stellenbosch University (SU) students celebrated the richness of diversity of its student body at a recent Cultural Evening, held on Friday, 6 September 2024, at The Stellenbosch Museum. Organised by the Student Representative Council's (SRC) International Students portfolio, under the leadership of Natasha Sibanda, the event showcased the unifying power of culture within the university community Themed "Africa, Our Home," the evening was more than just a display of talent; it was a celebration of identity and a powerful affirmation that culture lies at the heart of human connection. Students from various cultural backgrounds came together to showcase the uniqueness of their heritage through traditional dance, music, and fashion. As the rhythms of drums filled the air and vibrant garments lit up the stage, the event was a reminder that culture is not just an accessory—it is a way of life.<br></p><p>Solomzi Mphambo, a third year student in BA Humanities and a participant in the event, beautifully captured this sentiment, sharing, “Culture plays a vital role in our lives; therefore, I use culture to exhibit my own being and sense of feel." His words were a reminder that culture is not something external or performative. It is an extension of our very existence, a way of being in the world that shapes how we move, how we speak, how we love. Solomzi shared a drumming and spoken word piece at the event. </p><p>And it is this cultural connection that internationalisation seeks to honour. At its core, internationalisation is not just about expanding the number of countries represented on campus; it's about learning from one another, respecting the cultural richness that each</p><p>student brings. In doing so, we are creating a community where no one's identity is diminished, where no one's story is overlooked.</p><p>, Audience member Noxolo Njiji,a third year BA Humanities student shared her thoughts on the significance of the event stating, “Platforms like these are good for us to connect and learn different cultures." Her reflection underscored the evening's success in fostering mutual understanding and respect among students from diverse backgrounds.</p><p>For Sibanda, the event's success highlights the broader mission of internationalisation at Stellenbosch University. “Internationalisation goes beyond increasing the number of foreign students on campus; it is about fostering deeper cultural exchange, learning from one another, and ensuring that every student feels a sense of belonging".</p><p>“The 'why' behind the event is simple: why not? I organised the cultural evening to celebrate and highlight the rich cultural diversity within our university community.It was an opportunity for students to reconnect with their cultural roots, express themselves, and showcase their unique backgrounds."</p><p>The evening also posed important questions about the future of internationalisation at SU. Sibanda and the SRC envision building on the event's momentum by expanding cultural exchange programmes, strengthening support networks for international students on campus, and advocating for greater inclusion of global perspectives in academic curricula. These efforts are aimed at ensuring that the university's internationalisation strategy is not just a formal policy, but a lived experience for every student.</p><p>As SU continues its journey towards fostering an inclusive and interconnected student community, the success of the Cultural Evening serves as a reminder of the university's responsibility to honor the cultural richness within its walls.</p><p>The future of internationalisation, Sibanda suggests, lies not in the number of international students, but in how the university cultivates a sense of home and belonging for all.</p><p>With plans for more events like the Cultural Evening, Stellenbosch University is set to deepen its commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and global understanding, creating a space where every culture is celebrated, and every student feels valued.<br></p><p></p><p><br></p> |
| SU appoints its 13th Rector and Vice-Chancellor | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10841 | | SU appoints its 13th Rector and Vice-Chancellor | Corporate Communication and Marketing | Korporatiewe Kommunikasie en Bemarking | <p style="text-align:left;">Professor Deresh Ramjugernath, Stellenbosch University's current Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Learning and Teaching, has been appointed by the Stellenbosch University Council as the University's next Rector and Vice-Chancellor. <br></p><p>Prof Ramjugernath will assume office on 1 April 2025 after Prof Wim de Villiers concludes his second and final five-year term as Rector and Vice-Chancellor on 31 March 2025. Ramjugernath becomes the University's 13<sup>th</sup> Rector (although the title of this post has changed a number of times over the last 100 years). As Rector and Vice-Chancellor-designate, Ramjugernath will work closely with De Villiers until his retirement. <br></p><p>Ramjugernath is a seasoned and highly experienced higher education leader with extensive senior executive experience in the sector in South Africa. Prior to his appointment at Stellenbosch University as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Learning and Teaching in January 2021, he was the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Pro Vice-Chancellor: Innovation, Commercialisation and Entrepreneurship at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He also brings extensive board and governance experience having served on several company and organisation boards.</p><p>Ramjugernath resides in Stellenbosch with his wife, an accomplished academic in her own right, their three daughters and two dogs.</p><p>“I am deeply honoured to be entrusted with the opportunity to serve and lead one of the top universities on the African continent. I am immensely thankful to the Stellenbosch University Council for having the confidence in my vision to take the institution to the next tier in being a world-class research-intensive university that is in service to society," said Ramjugernath about his appointment. “Stellenbosch is locally and globally respected and admired for its academic excellence, and I look forward to the period of close collaboration with Prof De Villiers before officially taking office in April next year and building on his tremendous tenure and achievements over the past decade."</p><p>Ramjugernath's appointment comes after a thorough local and international recruitment process, including presentations by and interviews of short-listed candidates at meetings of the Senior Appointments Committee, Senate and the Institutional Forum and Council. </p><p>The Chair of Council, Nicky Newton-King, commented: “We are delighted with Prof Ramjugernath's appointment and look forward to having him lead our special institution on the next stage of its journey. He is an excellent academic and seasoned administrator and Council has no doubt that he will be a worthy successor to Prof De Villiers."</p><p>Newton-King acknowledged that the Council had a difficult task. “SU's achievements attracted top candidates locally and internationally to apply. Kudos for this goes to Prof De Villiers, his Rectorate team and the nearly 3 500 Stellenbosch academics and professional and administrative support staff who ensure that SU continues to attract top staff and students and deliver top research and student results. The Council is most grateful for this." </p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li><em>See</em> <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://stellenbosch.evlink2.net/servlet/link/35833/187677/68568429/1663486&data=05%7c02%7c%7c6b3ec415d4494b06c13908dccd9669da%7ca6fa3b030a3c42588433a120dffcd348%7c0%7c0%7c638611293152218739%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=Ww/Nc/Q5ObBU%2B8luOLlekU9ENs/EOpaAWmVC3EJSejQ%3D&reserved=0"><strong class="ms-rteForeColor-1"><em>this</em></strong></a><span class="ms-rteForeColor-1"> </span><a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://stellenbosch.evlink2.net/servlet/link/35833/187677/68568429/1663487&data=05%7c02%7c%7c6b3ec415d4494b06c13908dccd9669da%7ca6fa3b030a3c42588433a120dffcd348%7c0%7c0%7c638611293152229276%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=NsuiwBX%2BSi0yzHXajlVpTdLzxrMCHCO5ia8bzcr00ec%3D&reserved=0"><strong class="ms-rteForeColor-1"><em>link</em></strong></a> <em>for more information on the process followed as well as the duties and responsibilities of the Rector and Vice-Chancellor</em></li></ul><p><br></p> |
| Young democrats gather in Stellenbosch for Africa’s first International Youth Think Tank | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10836 | | Young democrats gather in Stellenbosch for Africa’s first International Youth Think Tank | Corporate Communication and Marketing/Korporatiewe Kommunikasie en Bemarking [Anel Lewis] | <p>A youth conference on democracy in Africa and Nobel Symposium held in Stellenbosch started with a minute's silence for detained Zimbabwean human rights activist, Namatai Kwekweza, who was supposed to be one of the keynote speakers.<br></p><p>Kwekweza, the first Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize 2023 winner, is one of 18 activists detained in Zimbabwe in July for “disorderly conduct". </p><p>Instead of speaking at the Frederik Van Zyl Lecture which formed part of the <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://iythinktank.com/6th-iytt/&data=05%7c02%7c%7c31ffc51c96374f0515f108dcc2832a87%7ca6fa3b030a3c42588433a120dffcd348%7c0%7c0%7c638599115814478484%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=PtCS%2B150fFmZd4o7jCOz/S6Fk9ruFVWhXcSkaFwYwzw%3D&reserved=0"><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-0"><strong>6th International Youth Think Tank (IYTT)</strong></span></a> Youth Conference and Nobel Symposium – and the first being held in Africa – she is awaiting her next court appearance. </p><p>As Helen Moffett, STIAS Fellow and moderator of the panel discussion on the future of Africa democracy noted, “This event (Kwekweza's detention) forces us to meditate on the importance of this programme."</p><p>However, reflecting on the programme at the end of the week, the prevailing sense was one of hope. As Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Tawakkol Karman<strong> </strong>told delegates at the closing session, “This has been an amazing project, and I have no doubt that you will create change."<br></p><p>Twenty-four young people between the ages of 18 and 28, from eight countries spent the week conversations with scholars, and professionals on topics related to democracy, peace building, and democracy renewal.<br></p><p>When opening the event, Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching at SU, said interest in engagement on global democracy issues was underscored by the fact that there were more than 200 applications for the first Youth Conference in Africa. “The IYTT is a powerful catalyst for change." Referring to the IYTT as an “incubator of ideas", Ramjugernath said it was a powerful catalyst for change. </p><p>Christian Fogelström, deputy head of Mission, Swedish Embassy in South Africa, described the youth participants from Botswana, Nigeria, Malawi, Pakistan, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Uganda as “the hope" and the “bright minds" who will shape the future<em>. </em> </p><p>When outlining the Norwegian Nobel Institute's view that democracy and social justice are prerequisites for peace, it's director, Prof Olav Njǒlstad, alluded to South African Nobel Laureates Albert Luthuli, Desmond Tutu, and Nelson Mandela and FW de Klerk. “Democracy is our best guarantee against civil war. So, the work you are doing is not just about democracy but also about peace," he told participants. </p><p>Prof Staffan Lindberg, director of V-Dem-Institute: Varieties of Democracy, at the University of Gothenburg, illustrated how democracy in many countries around the world is in decline. Autocratisation is ongoing in 42 countries, home to 35% of the world's population. This despite research by the V-Dem-Institute showing that democracies fare better economically, perform well in terms of social protection, have improved mortality rates and report better education enrolment. Indicators of democratic degradation, he added, include media censorship, limitations on freedom of expression and the repression of civil society.</p><p>“All of us have a real responsibility to defend democracy, especially you as young people," Karman urged participants. Known as “the Mother of the Revolution", Karman won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011 for her role in pro-democracy uprisings. “You as the youth have the energy and time to make a change."</p><p><strong>Looking ahead</strong></p><p>The programme concluded with presentations by the participants on challenges to democracy and proposed solutions. Recommendations included more inclusivity and better accountability by all spheres of government. Co-convenor and Head of the Frederik Van Zyl Slabbert Institute, Dr Heidi October noted that the work of this IYTT programme would continue beyond the conference. “This group of 24 will be remembered as the changemakers of their time." </p><p>She applauded the group for amplifying African perspectives to address the leadership challenges being experienced across the continent. “If we want to change the narrative of Africa, we need to become the authors of our narrative."</p><p>Convenor and co-founder of IYTT, Prof Urban Strandberg, confirmed that the next IYTT would be held in Washington DC in 2025. He also announced that a group of delegates from Africa, Europe and the USA would meet in Gothenburg, Sweden next year to allow for cross-continental engagement on democracy. </p><p><em>The NOBEL SYMPOSIUM NS 203 “African Youth Show the Way Towards Peace and Democracy, 6th IYTT Youth Conference" is funded by the Marcus and Amalia Wallenberg Foundation, organised by the International Youth Think Tank, and SU's Centre for Student Life and Learning's Frederik Van Zyl Slabbert Institute, in cooperation with The Norwegian Nobel Institute, and hosted at STIAS-Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study.</em></p><p>Caption: </p><p>Front: Dr Choice Makhetha (Senior Director: Student Affairs), Dr <span data-markjs="true">Heidi</span> October (Head: FVZS Institute/ Deputy Director (Leadership): Centre for Student Life & Learning), Ms Tawakkol Karman (Nobel Peace Laureate 2011, FVZS Honorary Lecture speaker 2024), Prof Ursula van Beek (Director: CREDO), Prof Njoki Wamai (Stias Fellow), Ms Tania Slabbert (Daughter of the late Dr Frederik Van Zyl Slabbert)</p><p>Back: Prof Helen Moffet (Stias Fellow, Mr Pieter Kloppers (Director: Centre for Student Life & Learning), Prof Hester Klopper (DVC: Strategy, Global & Corporate Affairs), Mr Christiaan Fogelström (Deputy Head of Mission, Swedish Embassy), Prof Olav Njǒlstad (Director: Norwegian Nobel Institute), Prof Edward Kirimura (Director: Stias), Mr Milton Dzinodya (IYTT speaker) , Prof Stan du Plessis (Chief Operational Officer), Prof Deresh Ramjugernath (DVC: Learning & Teaching), Mr Robert Kotzé (Senior Director: SU International), Prof Staffan Lindberg (Director of V-Dem-Institute: Varieties of Democracy, University of Gothenburg), Mr Riko Slabbert (Son of the late Dr Frederik Van Zyl Slabbert).</p><p>Photo: Stefan Els<br></p><p><br></p> |
| Highlighting teacher well-being through African collaboration and partnerships | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10837 | | Highlighting teacher well-being through African collaboration and partnerships | Faculty of Education | <h4 style="text-align:left;">Dr Shannon Bishop-Swart and Dr Elzahn Rinquest recently co-presented a teacher well-being and resilience workshop to thirty under- and postgraduate teaching students at Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda through an Africa Collaboration Grant. <br></h4><p style="text-align:left;"></p><p style="text-align:left;">The purpose of the teacher well-being workshops titled “Teacher Wellbeing African Partnership: Building Emotional Resilience" hinged on five components. Firstly, to develop integrated training modules encompassing teacher wellbeing, effective classroom management, and the nuanced understanding of emotions in the classroom. Secondly, to support comprehensive community outreach programmes by partnering with PACHEDO, a Ugandan NGO, to incorporate emotional intelligence components into community outreach programs, ensuring a comprehensive approach to community engagement that considers emotional dynamics. Thirdly, for interdisciplinary research collaboration between two African universities, exploring the intersections of education, psychology, and emotional intelligence in teaching practices. Fourthly, to explore future opportunities for exchange programs that specifically focus on understanding and implementing emotional intelligence in educational settings and facilitating cross-cultural learning experiences for educators. And lastly, to establish a dedicated network among workshop participants to share their experiences, resources, and strategies related to emotional wellbeing in the classroom and encouraging ongoing collaboration and support. </p><p style="text-align:left;">The two Stellenbosch University Faculty of Education academics have a shared interest in teacher well-being as an essential element for teachers' success. Despite their mutual interest in teacher well-being, an academic concern both researchers have had is the focus of research on teacher well-being in the global North. The Ugandan Teacher Well-being Workshop served as a valuable exchange of ideas and experiences. The feedback and reflections from the Ugandan participants will assist Dr Bishop-Swart and Dr Rinquest to further refine the workshop to ensure they are applicable to diverse African contexts. The collaboration between Stellenbosch University and Makerere University, the Ugandan non-government organisation PACHEDO, and the SU social impact project TeacherCalm marks a significant step towards making a global impact on teacher well-being. <br></p><p style="text-align:left;">The first three days in Uganda, the academics were accompanied by PACHEDO's President, Simon Omali, and Secretary, Sam Okuni, both founding members, and together travelled to various PACHEDO education projects across East and Central Uganda. The group spent Women's Day with a group of women living in a refugee camp near the South Sudanese border who are involved with PACHEDO's community resilience and household sustainability programmes in order to learn skills and earn an income. The women sang and danced and shared inspiring stories of how these education programs have assisted them to become more independent and not only earn an income, but also gain valuable skills that they are able to share with their community and thus ensure sustainability of the skill and income.<br></p><p style="text-align:left;">While at Makerere University the academics were hosted by Prof. Jude Ssempebwa, Associate Professor of Higher Education Studies and Management at the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development, College of Education and External Studies. <br></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span><strong>Collaboration and partnership background </strong></span></p><p style="text-align:left;">Twelve years ago, on an education exchange while studying her Masters at Teachers College, Columbia University, Dr Bishop-Swart travelled to Uganda and became a founding member of a non-government organisation called PACHEDO - Partners for Community Health and Development Organization. Since then PACHEDO has had success and experience particularly in humanitarian recovery education for children, women and youth in conflict, disaster and poverty affected communities in East Africa. PACHEDO's education interventions include the enhancement and integration of four education elements: i) Early Childhood Development, ii) Primary Education, iii) Community Transitional and Accelerated Learning Programme (CTLP and ALP); and iv) Vocational and apprenticeships that are aligned with national education policies and curriculum, as well as providing relevant transitional skills that address all these barriers. </p><p style="text-align:left;">In 2022 Dr Elzahn Rinquest founded TeacherCalm as a social impact (SI) project within the Faculty of Education at Stellenbosch University. This SI project focuses on supporting the well-being of pre-service teachers and equipping them with effective classroom management techniques. TeacherCalm recognizes that teacher well-being is a complex interplay of factors, including emotional, physical, and social dimensions and, by addressing these interconnected aspects, TeacherCalm strives to create a supportive and nurturing environment for teachers. <br></p><p style="text-align:left;"><br></p><p style="text-align:left;"><br></p> |
| ADA 2024 Winter School Ends on a High Note with a Focus on PhD Leadership & Academic Excellence | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10795 | | ADA 2024 Winter School Ends on a High Note with a Focus on PhD Leadership & Academic Excellence | Daniel Bugan | <p>The African Doctoral Academy (ADA) 2024 Hybrid Winter School concluded on a high note, featuring Prof Sibusiso Moyo, Stellenbosch University's (SU) Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Postgraduate Studies, as the keynote speaker for the official closing. Prof Moyo brought the curtain down on a highly successful programme held recently at the Stellenbosch Institute of Advance Study (STIAS).<br></p><p> The Doctoral Winter School offers high-impact training in research design and methodology, academic preparedness and career development for prospective doctoral students, PhD candidates, postdoctoral fellows and supervisors.</p><p>Over 170 participants, from almost 400 applications, attended the Winter School which took place from 24 June to 19 July. The programme featured 13 online and in-person courses, international speakers and a number of new initiatives.</p><p>Delegates representing 17 nationalities registered for the event. This included participants from the USA and 16 African countries, including Algeria, Botswana, Cameroon, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda. The ADA was also able to offer scholarships to seven participants who attended online and in-person from the University of Mauritius, University of Malawi, University of Zambia, Namibia University of Science and Technology, University of South Africa, University of the Western Cape and University of KwaZulu-Natal. The ADA also hosted a cohort of delegates from PERIPERI U.</p><p>Moyo's closing address was entitled, “Strategic Leadership: From PhD Scholar to Deputy Vice Chancellor, Championing Excellence in Doctoral Education".</p><p>The SU academic, who holds a PhD in Mathematics, asked delegates to consider what it means to have a PhD in Africa.</p><p>“For me having a PhD is critical for driving change. Data shows that the more PhDs a country has the more it improves the knowledge economy and the economy in general."</p><p>“In the South African and African context, we have a number of problems such as inequality, poverty and youth unemployment, as well as issues around climate change that are affecting us all. Those working on doctorates should think about the issues that you are addressing (in your study). How relevant is my study to some of these socio-economic issues? How can you apply some of your skills to solve some of these critical issues? That is key, because sooner or later you will have to apply for funding and people would want to know what the key issues are [and those] you are dealing with."</p><p>Moyo added that taking up leadership roles, early career experiences, publishing, mentorship, and networking, among other things, are important for one's career growth.</p><p>Over the four weeks of the programme, the ADA had the privilege of engaging with top-rated presenters from Trinity College Dublin, Ireland; University of Bath, UK; University of Nebraska-Lincoln, USA and University of Michigan, USA. Local presenters hailed from SU and the Southern African Regional Universities Association Climate Change and Sustainable Development Program me.</p><p>Of the 13 courses, three were new offerings, namely 'Conceptualising the Doctoral Degree: The 10 Important Points to Consider', 'Fondamentaux de la rédaction de propositions de subvention à impact' (Fundamentals of Impactful Grant Proposal Writing in English) and 'Effective Academic Writing for Master's and D octoral Students: Writing Retreat'. </p><p>The ADA also hosted its first grant writing course in French and its first strategic initiative week sponsored by PERIPERI U (a platform for university partnership to reduce disaster risks in Africa) through the APEDA (African Partnership Enhancing Discourse and Advocacy for Disaster Risk Reduction) Project.</p><p>Dr Natalie Kowalik, ADA Programme Manager, described the 2024 Winter School as “inclusive and supportive."</p><p>“It was one of the most rewarding schools I've experienced, as participants truly valued the courses and offerings, showing a high level of engagement. They approached as serious scholars, eager to absorb as much content as possible."</p><p>She noted that all the writing courses were popular with the participants, including 'How to Argue and Write an Effective Literature Review for your Master's or Doctorate', 'Crafting an Article out of your Thesis: Writing and Publishing the Final Phases of the Doctorate' and 'Effective Academic Writing for Master's and Doctoral Students: Writing Retreat.'</p><p>“Other courses, such as 'Statistics Revisited: All you need to know to Successfully Analyse and Present your Data' and our first French grant writing course were also in-demand," said Kowalik.</p><p>Notable events during the course of the programme included the official welcome by Prof Sarah Howie, Director of the Africa Centre for Scholarship at SU, a networking evening and an AI (Artificial Intelligence) lecture by Dr Sonja Strydom (Deputy Director: Academic Development and Research at the Centre for Learning Technologies at SU) entitled, “AI and Scientific Research: Issues, debates & opportunities."</p><p>Participant Kubiku Kozanai, a second-year research student in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at SU, enrolled in the programme to improve his research writing skills.</p><p>Kozanai, who's research focuses on mining-induced displacement and relocation in South Africa, with reference to Mogalakwena Local Municipality, Limpopo, registered for the Effective Academic Writing for Master's and Doctoral Students course.</p><p>“I am in the middle-phase of my PhD research and felt that there was something missing with regards to my writing skills," he said. “We can all write on our phones, on WhatsApp and do basic, simple writing. But to write something that is credible, valid and that can connect with your readers, you need the right skills. This course equipped me with the right skills for academic writing."</p><p>He added: “It is such a privilege to be here. The platform is set for you to connect with people from across Africa for future collaborations. The ADA is making a huge contribution not only in SA, but across the continent."</p><p><br></p> |
| Treat others with integrity, and see it returned to you: Zimbili Sibiya | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10789 | | Treat others with integrity, and see it returned to you: Zimbili Sibiya | Daniel Bugan | <p>To Zimbili Sibiya, leaders must be able to take charge of themselves before they can lead others. This attitude is seeing her thrive as research coordinator of the ACEWATER-III initiative, run by Stellenbosch University (SU) International's Centre for Collaboration in Africa (CCA). <br></p><p>ACEWATER-III was launched in Nairobi, Kenya, in April 2024. It involves the CCA working alongside 20 partner institutions in the AUDA-NEPAD Network of Water Centres of Excellence* to strengthen transboundary water resource management across Africa. This is being done through research, capacity development, short-term mobility opportunities, skills exchanges, and engagement with policymakers. The partners each undertake their own projects in their respective regions' river basin organisations.</p><p><strong>Keeping projects relevant and responsive</strong></p><p>As research coordinator, Sibiya ensures that all partners' projects align with the ACEWATER-III objectives and priorities. “Each partner is responsible for doing research that promotes integrated transboundary water resource management," she explains. “The research must also entail an element of training and should aim to contribute to policy by engaging policymakers and key decision-makers in their regions or countries. </p><p>“To date, each partner has had to submit a research proposal, and my job was to review the proposals for relevance and to ensure that there is no duplication of work, as some of the partners would be working in the same river basin." </p><p>Sibiya was invited to join the project by Dr Nico Elema, director of the CCA and the leader of ACEWATER-III. She had worked with him as a research assistant on two water-related projects before. “I said yes because research that serves humanity excites me," she says. “The water sector is doing a lot of important work in this regard. The highlight for me was that the project would be conducted on the African continent." </p><p><strong>Pursuing maximum impact, actual change</strong></p><p>Having obtained a BSc in Forest Science and Natural Resource Management and an MSc in Forest and Wood Science, both at SU, Sibiya was also intrigued by the similarities between the water and forestry sectors. “The sectors are dealing with similar climate change and management issues, and we need forests for the water sector to thrive. I was curious to see how we can match the two sectors and integrate our activities to ensure that the work done in this project has maximum impact," she says. </p><p><br>“What I hope to do through my involvement in the project is to amplify its impact in society, not just through publications, but also through storytelling and social media," Sibiya adds. “I would like to ensure that the science ultimately translates into actual change." </p><p>She is currently working towards her PhD while serving as part-time assistant resident head of Academia student residence. Always on the go, she also offers public speaking training, encouraging others to lead with integrity and be truthful and accountable in everything they do, even when nobody is watching. “As a leader, if you treat others with integrity, you won't have to do much to see that returned to you," she says. </p><p> <em>* The AUDA-NEPAD Network of Water Centres of Excellence is a network of higher education and research institutions that conduct high-end scientific research and capacity development in the water and related sectors across Africa. Member institutions are from South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Malawi, Mauritius, Kenya, Uganda, Sudan, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Benin, Burkina Faso and Senegal. The body received its mandate in 2005 from the African Union through the African Ministers' Council on Water (AMCOW) and the African Ministers' Council on Science and Technology (AMCOST).</em> </p><p> </p><p><br></p> |
| Students and South-South relations benefit from SU English language programme | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10764 | | Students and South-South relations benefit from SU English language programme | Ameera Crew | <p><span style="text-align:justify;">Learning a new language is much like travelling to a distant land: Every word unlocks a world of new possibilities, and every sentence builds bridges to exploring a new culture. This was also the experience of 16 students from Côte d'Ivoire who attended the four-week Intensive English Programme (IEP) presented by the Stellenbosch University (SU) Language Centre in June and July.</span><br></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The students, all from the School of Business Administration at the Institut National Polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny (INPHB) in Yamoussoukro, are the second cohort from Côte d'Ivoire to learn English at SU. “Last year, we hosted 22 INPHB students for the IEP," says Norma Derby, programme manager for African Partnerships in SU International's Centre for Collaboration in Africa. “Subsequently, the INPHB contacted us through the Côte d'Ivoire embassy in Pretoria to host another group this year." </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The IEP offers English language courses to international students at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. The programme aims to develop students' reading, writing, listening and speaking skills, as well as relevant grammar and vocabulary. Excursions and workshops throughout the programme offer students the opportunity to practise their English outside the classroom, while exploring the sights and sounds in and around Stellenbosch. </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Glowing feedback</strong></p><p style="text-align:justify;">The programme seems to deliver the desired results, judging by feedback such as that from Mohamed Fadel Junior Binate, a final-year student completing his master's in Business Administration at INPHB. “I have noticed an improvement in my English since coming to Stellenbosch," he says. “In my country, we learn English throughout primary and secondary school, but we cannot practise the language because no one there speaks English. This programme gives us the opportunity to improve our English through classes, tests, and outings where we are encouraged to practise our English skills in real-life situations." </p><p style="text-align:justify;">He knows only too well the value of improving his English language skills. “As a business student, it is important to know English, especially in the international domain where English is the language that everyone speaks, and all contracts and agreements are in English," Mohamed explains. “My goal is to open a consulting business, so improving my English through the IEP will help me make that goal a reality." </p><p style="text-align:justify;">Mohamed is also looking forward to use his improved English skills to expand his cultural knowledge. “Learning a new language can help you connect to people who are different from you, and gives you the chance to learn about new cultures and new places. I have seen this during my time here in South Africa, where knowing English has helped me learn more about this amazing country by having conversations with local people." </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Skills on show</strong></p><p style="text-align:justify;">At the closing function for the programme on 12 July, each student delivered a presentation on their time at SU with the aim of illustrating how their English language skills had improved. Guests at the event included the director of INPHB's Business Studies and Management Faculty, Dr Moustapha Traore, and Mr Diomandé Gondo Serge Siaba, minister and counsellor, representing the ambassador of Côte d'Ivoire.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Siaba was pleased with the students' progress during their short time at SU. “We are very satisfied with what we have seen so far," he said. “The results of the first group of students that came out of SU were outstanding, and we have no doubt that the project will still deliver many more cohorts." </p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Strengthening regional ties to boot</strong></p><p style="text-align:justify;">Aside from opening up possibilities for students, SU's IEP offering is also strengthening South-South relations. As Dr Traore explains, his institution made a strategic choice to send INPHB students to SU to learn English instead of a university in the global North. “Our vision is to promote South-South cooperation. Our choice fell on South Africa, as a country of excellence, and SU was our preferred institution." </p><p style="text-align:justify;">The partnership between SU and INPHB seems set to grow going forward. “Our main vision is to go beyond language learning and extend this to broader collaboration between our faculty and SU's Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences through student exchanges," Dr Traore says. “We would also like to create research exchange programmes between academics of the two institutions."</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Nurturing 30-year-old friendship</strong></p><p style="text-align:justify;">This year marks three decades of diplomatic relations between South Africa and Côte d'Ivoire. To celebrate the relationship built between the two nations, a South Africa–Côte d'Ivoire week will be hosted in Abidjan from 7 to 11 October. According to Siaba, a South African government and industry delegation led by deputy president Paul Mashatile is scheduled to attend. Delegates from both countries will showcase what they have to offer in the areas of mining, agriculture, tourism, culture and education. <br><br></p><p><br></p> |
| Mandela Day: We must continue Madiba’s courageous journey | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10748 | | Mandela Day: We must continue Madiba’s courageous journey | Corporate Communication and Marketing/Korporatiewe Kommunikasie en Bemarking | <p>Nelson Mandela International Day is celebrated annually on 18 July. In opinion pieces for the media, Profs Nico Koopman (Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Social Impact, Transformation and Personnel) and Chris Jones (Unit for Moral Leadership) write that we can honour Madiba by jointly continuing his courageous journey to eradicate poverty, injustice and inequality. Click on the links below to read the articles.<br></p><ul><li>Prof Nico Koopman (<a href="https://storage.googleapis.com/marketiq/134D94E/ESN-1721278158511_134D9A8.pdf"><strong class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-0">Cape Times</strong></a>)</li><li>Prof Chris Jones (<a href="https://www.news24.com/news24/opinions/columnists/guestcolumn/opinion-chris-jones-echoes-of-mandela-embracing-a-new-social-contract-to-combat-inequality-20240718"><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-0"><strong>News24</strong></span></a>)<br></li></ul><p><br></p> |
