| Nurturing children through movement | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11280 | | Nurturing children through movement | FMHS Marketing & Communications | <p>In a world where screens increasingly dominate children's lives and safe outdoor play spaces dwindle, Professor Eileen Africa stands as a beacon of hope for childhood development. As an Associate Professor in the Division of Movement Science and Exercise Therapy at Stellenbosch University, Africa has dedicated her career to transforming young lives through the science of movement.<br></p><p>“Early intervention is key," Africa emphasizes. “Your window of opportunity to develop holistically is between 0 and six years old." This philosophy drives her pioneering work in Kinderkinetics, a field she established at Stellenbosch University in 2010 and has been leading ever since.</p><p><strong>Movement as medicine</strong></p><p>Kinderkinetics is a field in paediatric movement science where specialists work with children from infancy to age 13, using physical activity and movement as a vehicle to enhance children's gross motor skills development.</p><p>In today's South Africa, this work has become increasingly vital. While some affluent schools maintain structured physical education programmes, many schools lack qualified teachers and dedicated time for physical activity. Schools prioritise academic subjects, technology keeps children indoors, and safety concerns prevent the kind of free outdoor play that previous generations enjoyed.</p><p>“When I was a kid—and it's not that long ago—we played in the street and it was safe. But nowadays kids can't do that," Africa notes. “They don't get lots of natural physical activity anymore."</p><p>The consequences extend far beyond childhood. “If we can get a child to be physically active in their early years, they will become healthy, active adults," she says. This preventive approach reduces the burden on healthcare systems by helping avoid obesity, chronic disease, diabetes, and hypertension in adulthood.</p><p><strong>A winding path to purpose</strong></p><p>Africa's journey to becoming a leader in this field wasn't straightforward. Born and raised in Worcester, she initially pursued physiotherapy at university. However, an early clinical experience prompted a reassessment of her path.</p><p>“I wanted to work with kids," she explains. “I redirected my academic career and applied for sports science." After completing her undergraduate studies in human movement science, she discovered an honours program in movement science in paediatrics that aligned perfectly with her passion. This led to master's and doctoral studies, culminating in her appointment as a lecturer in 2007.</p><p>While her academic journey had its challenges—including a heavy initial teaching load and limited support—Africa persevered. Her dedication was recognised with a Rector's Award for excellent performance in 2011, promotion to senior lecturer in 2015, and finally to associate professor in 2023.</p><p>That same year brought another milestone: a Fulbright Scholarship that took her to Nationwide Children's Hospital and Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. The experience was transformative, reinforcing her confidence in South African expertise.</p><p>“We have the expertise as South Africans, although we don't have the facilities. They have the facilities, but they don't have the expertise," she reflects. “Our students are on par. The students that we deliver are amazing."</p><p><strong>A legacy in motion</strong></p><p>Today, Africa's programme serves more than 400 children weekly through her carefully selected cohort of 12 postgraduate students. These students complete rigorous coursework alongside 300 clinical hours, working everywhere from Tygerberg Hospital School to community schools and institutions, and even Virgin Active facilities.</p><p>For Africa, the greatest joy comes from witnessing growth—both in her students and in the children they serve. “Seeing kids light up through movement and seeing that progress through therapy is actually what really keeps me going," she says. “It reminds me daily of why I do what I do."</p><p>As a mother who started the Kinderkinetics program while pregnant in 2010—even using her firstborn as a “guinea pig" for demonstrations—Africa's personal and professional lives have been intertwined in her mission to help children reach their full potential.</p><p>Her message is clear: “The power of movement and physical activity and early intervention is super important." And the approach must be collaborative: “At the end, it's all about the child... it takes a village."</p><p>Through her work, Africa isn't just teaching movement—she's creating momentum for healthier generations to come.<br><br></p><p><br></p> |
| Stellenbosch University is growing rapidly, as is its economic impact | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11282 | | Stellenbosch University is growing rapidly, as is its economic impact | BER | <p><br></p><p>· <em>SU spent </em><em>R4.2 billion in the Stellenbosch economy in 2024</em></p><p>· <em>Spending contributed approximately 13% to local GDP</em></p><p>· <em>“</em><em>Universities have always played a uniquely powerful part in economic development, a process by which we become more prosperous and live qualitatively different lives from earlier generations"</em></p><p>· <em>Students with NSFAS bursaries and living in Stellenbosch spent an average of R35 347 per year in town (excluding accommodation costs), compared to R51 123 for students who do not receive NSFAS bursaries.</em></p><p> </p><p><strong>Stellenbosch University (SU), its students, staff and visitors spent R4.2 billion in the Stellenbosch economy last year. This spending contributed approximately 13% to local Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and supported 13% of formal sector jobs within the Stellenbosch municipal region. </strong> </p><p>This is the main finding of a recent economic impact assessment of the University conducted by the Bureau for Economic Research (BER), an independent economic research institute within SU. Big changes have occurred in the University's student body composition since the BER's previous economic impact assessment in 2017.* </p><p>Most significantly, student numbers have expanded over the past two years – by 3.4% in 2023 and 5.1% in 2024. Over the past decade, student numbers grew by an average of just 1.8% per year</p><p>The Stellenbosch campus now has 28 922 students – 17% more than in 2017. In total, roughly 35 000 students are enrolled at SU across all five campuses. </p><p>Most striking is that the number of white and coloured students has dropped marginally while the number of black African students has grown by 50%, from 5 025 in 2020 to 7 572 in 2024. The latter now accounts for 21.6% of all 35 000 students. </p><p>White students – which numbered 16 254 in 2024 down from 16 529 in 2020 – remain the largest cohort at SU, accounting for roughly 46% of all students. </p><p>Another important change between 2017 and 2024 is an almost six-fold increase in the number of government-sponsored National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) students enrolled at the University – from 853 students in 2017 to just over 5 000 in 2024. In percentage terms, NSFAS students have grown from 2.7% to almost 14% of the student body. Last year, one in seven SU students received an NSFAS bursary. </p><p>Prof Stan du Plessis, SU's Chief Operating Officer, said SU aspires to be a cosmopolitan university of the world as well as a university for all South Africans, and is pursuing successful and deliberate transformation strategies to achieve this.</p><p>“We are deliberately increasing the opportunities for all students, especially from communities who previously had limited access to Stellenbosch," says Du Plessis. “We create these opportunities with the help of our fundraisers and provide extensive financial aid to those in need because we believe the student experience is an essential dimension of transformation at our institution."</p><p>“Universities have always played a uniquely powerful part in economic development, a process by which we become more prosperous and live qualitatively different lives from earlier generations," Du Plessis adds. “Access to tertiary education offers an irreversible entry into this process of economic development for the student and her family."</p><p>“As it stands, thousands of students of all ages would benefit tremendously from SU programmes, but they cannot join for various reasons, one of which is financial. Through special meal allowances, bursaries, loans, and other innovative supporting projects, SU is constantly aiding students' access to higher education, a process that will irreversibly change their lives and their families for the better."</p><p><strong>Population dynamics shape local spending patterns.</strong></p><p>These evolving student population dynamics also shape local spending patterns. According to the BER, students living in Stellenbosch who are not recipients of NSFAS bursaries spent an average of R51 123 per year in town, excluding accommodation. Those in private accommodation spent an additional R99 506 on housing-related costs such as rent, utilities, housekeeping and fibre. In contrast, NSFAS students spent R35 347 annually in town and R68 656 on housing and related costs. On average, total spending by NSFAS students living in Stellenbosch amounts to 69% of that of their non-NSFAS peers. </p><p>After adjusting for inflation, the average student paid 19% higher rent in Stellenbosch in 2024 than in 2017. </p><p>After spending on housing-related costs, groceries are the top spending category for most students. Averaged across the cohort, students' mean monthly grocery spending in Stellenbosch was R2 049 per person (or R1 454 for NSFAS students) in 2024. </p><p>The average spending on public transport for students living in Stellenbosch has more than doubled in real terms since 2017. This aligns with the increase in the CPI of passenger transport services at a national level, which reflects the demise of public transport like passenger rail, and the growth in costlier alternatives, like ridesharing. NSFAS students, in particular, are affected by this (see figure), especially those living outside Stellenbosch. </p><p><img src="/english/PublishingImages/Lists/dualnews/My%20Items%20View/Student_spending_new%20graph%20to%20use.png" alt="Student_spending_new graph to use.png" style="margin:5px;" /><br><br><br></p><p> <img src="file:///Users/petromostert/Library/Group%20Containers/UBF8T346G9.Office/TemporaryItems/msohtmlclip/clip_image001.png" alt="" style="width:403px;margin:5px;" /> <br></p><p><em>Note: Values shown in the graph are averages across the student cohort. Actual spending on specific items is pulled down by students who do not spend any money on a particular item.</em> </p><p>Though the student population has grown rapidly, the University has seen a 3.6% decrease in full-time equivalent jobs since 2017. However, the share of total operating expenditure spent on staff grew from 47% in 2016/17 to 52% in 2023/24. In other words, although the University employed fewer staff, staff costs increased. This speaks to the difficulty of attracting and retaining staff in a competitive market for highly skilled labour. </p><p>Approximately R666 million of SU's total operating expenditure was spent on roughly 900 local suppliers of goods and services in Stellenbosch. This was 18.7% more than the University's spending in the local Stellenbosch economy in 2016/17. </p><p>The biggest beneficiary was the<strong> </strong>Stellenbosch Municipality, which absorbed roughly 28% of SU's spending in the local economy in the form of rates and service charges, followed by the finance and insurance sector (12.7%). In third place was the catering and accommodation sector (12.6%), which includes spending on restaurants, guest houses and hotels, and other providers of private short-term accommodation. </p><p>In total, students spent 40% more in the Stellenbosch local economy last year than in 2017 (in real terms). This was primarily driven by increased student numbers. Staff, however, spent almost 30% less in Stellenbosch. </p><p>BER senior economist Helanya Fourie, who led the study, attributes these trends to technical improvements in the study design and changing consumption patterns. For instance, the availability of online study material has, on average, lowered expenditure on textbooks and extra tuition. </p><p>The study results also suggest that staff and students spent less money buying clothes from Stellenbosch retailers in 2024 than in 2017, which may indicate a pivot towards online shopping. </p><p>The slight decrease in the total number of staff and a smaller share of staff living in town contribute to lower overall local spending by staff. In 2017, just over half of the staff who worked at the Stellenbosch campus lived in Stellenbosch. The latest study finds that this share has dropped to 42%. Stellenbosch's high property prices and the increased availability of neighbouring property developments most likely contributed to this trend. </p><p>In short, the actual spending by SU, students, staff, and visitors in the town totalled R4.22bn in 2024 – a real increase of 21% over 2017. This generated R5.83bn in local economic activity (output)**, which generated 13% of the town's GDP and supported 13% of formal sector jobs. </p><p>ENDS </p><p>· Liaise with Celeste Booysen (BER) at <a href="mailto:cbooysen@sun.ac.za">cbooysen@sun.ac.za</a> for more information.</p><p> </p><p><strong><em>Note to editors:</em></strong><strong> </strong></p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li><em>*The 2017 study focused on students and staff at the Stellenbosch campus (and Elsenburg). The 2024 study includes SU's other campuses (e.g. the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in Tygerberg and the Business School in Bellville) based on the assumption that these students and staff occasionally visit Stellenbosch. These and other technical enhancements mean the 2017 and 2024 studies are not strictly comparable. Even so, the broad strokes reveal fascinating changes over the past seven years.</em> </li></ul><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li><em> The BER study follows an expenditure-based approach to quantifying the economic benefits (the additional spending and direct increase in economic activity throughout the local economy) generated by the University's operational and capital expenditure, as well as local expenditure by staff and students, and visitor spending. It is based on a comprehensive 2024 supply-use table analysis of the Stellenbosch economy developed and maintained by Quantec Research.</em> </li></ul><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li><em>** This includes direct impacts (t</em><em>he immediate economic activity generated by a project or investment)</em><em>, indirect or secondary effects (like increased demand for materials and services from local businesses), and induced effects (such as workers spending their wages from the direct and indirect activities).</em> </li></ul><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li><em>The terms “town" or “local economy" refer to the Stellenbosch municipal region, including Pniel and Franschhoek.</em> </li></ul><p><br></p> |
| SU students, staff join in celebrating Earth Day 2025 | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11257 | | SU students, staff join in celebrating Earth Day 2025 | Petro Mostert | <p></p><p>Stellenbosch University's (SU) students and staff took to the streets on campus to celebrate Earth Day 2025 with a walk and clean-up on 22 April 2025, committing to this year's theme of #OurPowerOurPlanet — calling for everyone to unite around cleaner renewable energy so that we can triple clean electricity by 2030.</p><p>The participants ended the walk and clean-up on the steps of SU's Library, where they all signed a memorandum and called on SU to deepen its commitment to Environmental Sustainability by establishing an integrated, unified, campus-wide sustainability network. Accepting the memorandum on behalf of SU, our new acting Chief Operating Officer, Prof Nicola Smit, reminded us that Environmental Sustainability is one challenge that confronts and unites us all — across every faculty, service department and field of study. “It is not just a buzzword: it is about building a future where all living creatures and our planet can thrive. We no longer ask how this is going to affect us. The question is rather, how we (collectively and individually) will respond. Because environmental sustainability starts here, with each one of us," she said.</p><p>Prof Smit said SU is taking action to move from sustainability as a strategic priority and enabler to a responsibility shared by all. “Through our Environmental Sustainability Plan, we're aiming for carbon neutrality by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050. The good news is that we are already making inroads across our campus, which houses more than 487 buildings, where we are shifting to solar energy and launching water-wise initiatives, reducing waste to landfill across our campuses, and our faculties are researching green solutions.</p><p>“But the real power lies with you," she said. “As students and staff, we are here together to shape our future. Let's heed the call that rivers weep and forests fade beneath the weight of choices we make."</p><p>Handing over the memorandum to Prof Smit, SU's Student Representative Council's sustainability portfolio manager, Ocean Postman, said SU is a place for students to develop holistically, have enriched academic experiences and become well-rounded citizens. “Climate concerns us all and we would like to make this pledge along with the University to commit to sustainability goals, as individuals and as a collective."</p><p>Christine Groenewald, SU's engagement officer for sustainability development, and our environmental sustainability manager, John de Wet, from Facilities Management, organised this celebration together with the SRC and other organisations on campus.</p><p><br></p> |
| "Dinkbeeld: Smeltkroes" sculpture unveiled in front of the Endler | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11242 | | "Dinkbeeld: Smeltkroes" sculpture unveiled in front of the Endler | Development & Alumni Relations | <div>A new sculpture titled <em>Dinkbeeld: Smeltkroes</em> (in English Crucible) was recently unveiled in front of the Endler Hall on Victoria Street at Stellenbosch University (SU). Cast in patinated bronze, the work was created by renowned South African artists and SU alumni Anton Kannemeyer and Claudette Schreuders, and donated by SU alumna Dominique Enthoven and her husband, Adrian.</div><div><br></div><div>Kannemeyer explains that the piece began with the idea of a public bench. "Our starting point was the kind of bench you’d find in a park, at a bus stop, train station, near a memorial, or simply as a place to rest,” he says. “In South Africa, such benches carry historical significance—they’re symbols of racial hatred and exclusion. Historically, therefore, an explosive symbol that we wanted to portray without the figure, white or black.”</div><div><br></div><div>He continues: “A second source of inspiration was St Francis of Assisi, promoter of peace, simplicity and harmony. He is also known as the patron saint of the poor, animals and ecology. He is often depicted surrounded by birds. So, the idea took shape: a bench on which a diverse group of indigenous birds are peacefully gathered. It became a metaphor for knowledge, and for the preservation of that knowledge, a central purpose of any university.”</div><div><br></div><div><em>Dinkbeeld: Smeltkroes</em> forms part of a broader artistic vision that includes the <em>Think Bench</em>, a 13-metre sculptural public artwork that is now a permanent fixture on the lawn in front of the Faculty of Engineering complex on Banghoek Road. It was donated by GT Ferreira, Rand Merchant Bank founder and SU alumnus. The vision also includes cinga (meaning “to think” in isiXhosa), which is currently in the conceptual phase.</div><div><br></div><div>The initiative is led by Pieter Swart, Director of Special Projects at SU’s Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) and is driven by a deep belief in the power of the arts and the unique potential of the SU campus as a space to showcase art, particularly sculptures.</div><div><br></div><div>“Art is my passion and part of my focus within DAR,” Swart says. “The campus, as an extension of the town, offers an ideal platform to connect with broader initiatives like the Stellenbosch Art Mile and the Stellenbosch Outdoor Sculpture Trust.”</div><div><br></div><div>Swart says the idea for <em>Dinkbeeld: Smeltkroes</em> began under the tenure of former Rector Professor Wim de Villiers, who challenged him to expand the original Think Bench concept. “The vision was to create a series of sculptures interpreting the word ‘Think’ in Afrikaans, isiXhosa, and English, aligned with the SU's commitment to inclusivity,” he explains.<br></div><div><br></div><div>Swart says the sculpture is rich in symbolism. “The name refers to the process of melting and merging metals to create something strong and beautiful. The birds, each distinct, sit together in harmony, representing unity in diversity.”</div><div><br></div><div>According to Swart, several locations on campus were considered, including the Botanical Garden, but ultimately, the Endler was chosen. “It’s a space embedded in the arts and already home to works by Professor Larry Scully, a prominent painter and former head of Fine Arts, and Rudolf Gouws, sculptor. The location is highly visible and invites reflection.</div><div><br></div><div>For Kannemeyer, the title Smeltkroes speaks not only to the physical creation of the sculpture but also its deeper message. “A crucible is a vessel where metals are fused, as was used to cast this bronze. But metaphorically, a crucible represents difficult conditions that lead to transformation. Our hope is that Smeltkroes becomes a symbol of harmony for all, regardless of race, colour, or gender.”</div><p><br></p> |
| FMHS PhD candidate selected for global female science programme | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11244 | | FMHS PhD candidate selected for global female science programme | FMHS Marketing & Communication - Sue Segar | <p>When Carene Ndong Sima, a PhD candidate in the Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, was selected for the Female Science Talents Intensive Track 2025, she joined an elite group of 20 “exceptionally talented women" in science from around the globe.<br></p><p>Sima's selection to this prestigious programme grants her access to a transformative year of networking with outstanding women across all scientific disciplines. A key aim of the programme is to promote female leadership across science, business and society to boost the careers of early-career female scientists and researchers through personalised mentorship designed to help participants achieve “significant career breakthroughs."<br></p><p>The intensive one-year programme, targeting final-year PhD students and postdoctoral fellows, is sponsored by the Falling Walls Foundation. This Berlin-based not-for-profit organisation was established based on the concept of the fall of the Berlin Wall, with the mission to unite people dedicated to “tearing down the next walls in science and society." The foundation strives to “shape the future of humanity through impact-oriented ideas and discoveries, driven by a shared dedication for creating breakthroughs across borders and disciplines."<br></p><p>Originally from Gabon in Central Africa, Sima expressed her excitement about being chosen for the programme. Currently in her sixth year at Stellenbosch University, she arrived in South Africa in 2020, just before the COVID pandemic, as a master's candidate. After graduating cum laude in 2022, she is now in the final year of her PhD.<br></p><p>“When I received the email informing me that I'd been selected, my initial reaction was disbelief. Then it turned to excitement," she said. “I thought to myself, 'wow, I am really doing this.' I am so grateful for the opportunity to participate in this programme and to meet other women from all over the globe, and to learn about different cultures as well as to connect professionally with other women who are so good at what they do."<br></p><p>Sima's PhD research focuses on the pharmacogenetics and pharmacokinetics of anti-tuberculosis drugs, building on her master's work in human genetics that examined genetic susceptibility to TB.<br></p><p>Her dedication to TB research stemmed from an unexpected source. “I wasn't initially interested in TB. I was not aware it was such an important issue," she explained. “I was doing an internship at a hospital back home as a pathologist and my head of department started talking to me about the genetic susceptibility to the disease. It got me interested, and that is what brought me to South Africa. The rest is history.<br></p><p>“My selection to this programme really makes me feel I am on the right track," she added. “TB is still wreaking havoc and kills 1.8 million people every year. With it being a communicable disease, it is crucial for everyone that this disease is eradicated. I am really looking forward to this programme as I know I will grow from it and become even more motivated and inspired to do the work I do."<br></p><p>The Intensive Track Programme provides participants with numerous opportunities for personal and professional development through online and in-person workshops, mentoring, and peer-exchange initiatives. The candidates will also receive sponsorship to attend two high-level meetings in Berlin—the International Spring Gathering in May and the International Fall Gathering in November—offering valuable networking and learning experiences.<br></p><p>Regarding her future aspirations, Sima plans to become a principal investigator in pharmacogenetics research. “I would love to start my own research group back home in Gabon at the National Research Laboratory. I feel that I have learned so much, and, in addition to what I will learn on this programme, I am confident that I can start my own group to strengthen research capacity back home.<br></p><p>“Over the long term, my aim is to one day be the head of a research and development department," she said. “I'd love to head up an institution that does research innovation, development and implementation."<br><br></p> |
| Are you ready for Giving Maties Day? | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11230 | | Are you ready for Giving Maties Day? | Development & Alumni Relations | <p>Have you made your contribution? Shared the message? Encouraged others to get involved? Our annual #It'sGivingMaties campaign is in full swing, and we're counting on YOUR support to help us reach our goal.<br></p><p>Running until 16 April 2025, #It'sGivingMaties aims to raise R2 million for bursaries, student meals, and debt relief – ensuring that more students have the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their financial circumstances. </p><p>"With the rising cost of education, many students struggle with the harsh realities of debt and food insecurity. #It'sGivingMaties tackles these challenges head-on to ensure every student has the support to succeed," says Viwe Benxa, #It'sGivingMaties organiser at SU's Development and Alumni Relations Division (DAR).</p><p><strong>Season of giving</strong></p><p>Benxa explains: “We're doing things differently this year. We have expanded the event into a 'season of giving', allowing you plenty of time to support our students. The season will culminate on Giving Maties Day, set for 16 April, which will feature a series of social events across SU campuses."</p><p>Our Rector, Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, emphasises the importance of collective action. "I'm inspired every day by the generosity of the Maties community. Financial hardships should never be a barrier to success. I encourage everyone to take part in this season of giving and help us make a lasting impact."</p><p>"Thanks to generous support from our community and partners, the campaign is gaining momentum. We're proud to announce that Standard Bank has come on board as a sponsor, further strengthening our efforts to uplift our students, says Alwin Mabuza, #It'sGivingMaties ambassador and DAR fundraiser.</p><p>“Since the campaign's launch on 6 March, we've surpassed R70 000 in donations from individual supporters—a strong start toward our R2 million goal. With Giving Maties Day on 16 April fast approaching, now is the time to accelerate our efforts. </p><p>“Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference. If each supporter raises just R100, we will meet our target and transform countless student lives," he adds.</p><p>Funds raised will go to SU's Annual Fund, BridgeTheGap (BTG), which supports initiatives designed to address the most pressing needs of students. </p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">These initiatives are:</span></p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">#Move4Food</span> – Providing emergency food relief to food-insecure students</p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">#GradMe</span> – Assisting students with unpaid fees to secure their degrees</p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">#CaughtInTheMiddle</span> – Helping students who don't qualify for government financial aid but still can't afford their education</p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">#EndPeriodPoverty</span> – Ensuring all students have access to basic sanitary products</p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">#Action4Inclusion</span> – Supporting students who face financial barriers to registration and accessing their academic records.<br></p><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Here's a look at the events happening during the Giving Maties celebrations</span>:</p><p><strong>Forest of Giving (Tygerberg 9 April and Stellenbosch 15 April)</strong></p><p>Stakeholder groups decorate trees on Victoria Street with a student support theme, accompanied by live music performances.</p><p><strong>Staff #Groove4Good (16 April, Rooiplein)</strong></p><p>Staff divisions compete in a fun dance competition.</p><p><strong>The Amazing Chase (16 April, Rooiplein)</strong></p><p>Residences and Faculties race in creative soapbox cars on the Rooiplein.</p><p><strong>Matie Parent Virtual Trivia Challenge (16 April, Online)</strong></p><p>Parents of Maties test their knowledge in an online Trivia event.</p><p><strong>Show Your Colours (16 April, Social Media)</strong></p><p>Alumni are encouraged to wear SU colours to work and share their Maties pride on social media. </p><p><strong>Pokkel Dash and Prize-giving (16 April, Coetzenburg)</strong></p><p>Students team up to 'rescue' Pokkel from Maties sports teams, ending with a prize-giving ceremony.</p><p><strong>What can you do?</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://www.givengain.com/team/giving-maties-stellenbosch-university"><strong>Click here</strong></a> and<strong> </strong>select the initiative you would like to support.</li></ul> |
| Leka overcomes life-threatening illness to earn Master’s degree | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11189 | | Leka overcomes life-threatening illness to earn Master’s degree | Corporate Communication and Marketing/Korporatiewe Kommunikasie en Bemarking [Alec Basson] | <p>Early one Sunday morning in 2024, 26-year-old Leka Mhlophe, a Master's student at Stellenbosch University (SU), woke up to do her laundry, as she usually does. But this Sunday morning would be different. <br></p><p>Just as she came back from putting her clothes in the washing machine, Mhlophe fainted. Fortunately, the security guard at her residence saw what happened and quickly alerted her housemother (residential head) Thuli. By getting her to the hospital in time, they likely saved her life.</p><p>“God bless them both, I owe my life to their combined effort," says Mhlophe, who obtained her Master's degree in molecular biology at SU's March graduation on Tuesday (25 March 2025). She completed her studies while battling pulmonary emboli, a life-threatening condition that happens when blood clots block a blood vessel in the lungs. This can make it hard to breathe and reduce oxygen in the body.<br></p><p>Mhlophe, who hails from Pietermaritzburg, says she was very anxious when the doctor told her she would have to stay in hospital. <br></p><p>“I just started the second year of my Master's degree and hadn't fleshed out the rest of my thesis. And I was still struggling to come to terms with how dire my situation was. <br></p><p>“To make matters worse, my whole family is in KwaZulu-Natal, and I was very stressed about having to go through something like this without them. I was worried that I was going to be alone. The illness disrupted my momentum, both academically and otherwise, and I had to deal with the consequences.<br></p><p>“Emotionally, I was confronted with my own mortality. I hadn't always thought much about life and how quickly it could end. The fact that mine could have ended on a random Sunday morning was sobering."<br></p><p>Getting better was a case of two steps forward, one step back for Mhlophe.<br></p><p>“It was frustrating. I was always tired. I had to go get my blood drawn every week and have a check-up every other week to ensure my heart and lungs were healing well. I'd achieve a new milestone—like walking somewhere without stopping during a physio session or increasing my lung capacity—only to then catch a cold or the flu and end up back at square one."<br></p><p><strong>Support</strong></p><p>Despite her health struggles, Mhlophe soldiered on, determined to finish her Master's degree and reassured by the support of family and friends. </p><p>“I had my friends, so it wasn't too bad in the hospital. I really felt renewed affection for my friends and family and those around me who were checking in on me. It's not every day you get to see in real time the village in your life come together. The outpouring of love from everyone made me realise I must see this through."<br></p><p>Mhlophe fondly remembers the visits by her friends Monique, Jessie, Megan, Stacey, Rachiel and Tanya.<br></p><p>“I still have Unicorn (a unicorn Pegasus plush from Monique) and Owlette (a mini owl plush from Megan) that are poignant reminders of that time. Of my people inspiring me to try my best every day. When I left the hospital, Monique made sure I wouldn't have to move around too much initially by taking me shopping for ready-made meals, I'm so lucky to have her."<br></p><p>She is also grateful to her supervisors, Prof Michele Miller, Dr Wynand Goosen and Dr Giovanni Ghielmetti who were supportive of whatever progress she made during that time.<br></p><p>Although she had this support, doubt sometimes crept in, Mhlophe says.<br></p><p>“After the first month at home, and halfway into the second month, I was very doubtful. However, I tried not to dwell it too much. I tried not to get nervous about my studies.<br></p><p>“I accepted that I would probably have to apply for an extension and withdraw my intention to submit. Fortunately, my supervisors weren't overly concerned, so I focused on preparing my drafts and improving my writing. I also kept them informed of any developments to ensure they were aware in case I needed to reschedule the submission."<br></p><p><strong>Research</strong></p><p>For her Master's degree, Mhlophe collected mouth and nasal fluids of African buffaloes to detect mycobacteria (a type of bacteria that can cause diseases like tuberculosis and leprosy) in a group of these animals. She used this method because infection takes place through the nose and mouth. </p><p>Mhlophe says this group of buffaloes had been exposed to tuberculosis (TB) bacteria even though they came from areas where no TB had been recorded. “We were able to find that just under half of the animals in the study had TB bacterial DNA in their noses and mouths. It was an exciting discovery. We had been able to demonstrate the usefulness of the methodology for screening purposes, which ties into how early detection is key in effective disease management in animals." <br></p><p><strong>Simple joys</strong></p><p>Looking back, Mhlophe says her experience with a life-threatening illness changed her as a person and her outlook on life.</p><p>“Even though I gained a new appreciation for life, I realised that I was taking it too seriously. Because life is short, I now embrace the simple joys—lingering hugs, sending memes, taking breaks, and giving back to causes I care about. <br></p><p>“I may have reduced lung capacity and not be able to do as much as I would like, but I still show up for my goals every day, in whatever way I can. I'm no longer limiting myself."<br></p><p>Asked about her message to others facing similar life-threatening challenges while pursuing their goals, she says, “These things happen, and no one can plan for them. Make the most of the capabilities you still have and rely on your community too."<br></p><p>Now that she has overcome a major obstacle and obtained her degree, Mhlophe says she wants to get a cat or two and pursue her PhD in the Rare Disease Genomics Group at SU led by Prof Shahida Moosa. “I would like to give people hope and facilitate their journey toward a life of better quality and care. I also want to continue working very hard so I can help my mom finish building our home and look after my ageing family members. They've done a lot for me, and I want to return the favour."<br></p><p>When Mhlophe is not doing research, she plays video games, watches anime, and sings. She is also learning Japanese with her language exchange partner Keiko. As a nature and animal lover, Mhlophe regularly visits shelters and parks. Next on her list is a visit to the World of Birds, a wildlife sanctuary in Cape Town. <br></p><ul><li><strong>Photo</strong>: Leka Mhlophe at the graduation ceremony. <strong>Photographer</strong>: Stefan Els</li></ul><p><br></p> |
| SU bestows honorary doctorate on advocate for science | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11190 | | SU bestows honorary doctorate on advocate for science | Corporate Communication and Marketing/Korporatiewe Kommunikasie en Bemarking | <p>Stellenbosch University (SU) awarded an honorary doctorate to the former director-general of the national Department of Science and Innovation Dr Philemon Mphathi Mjwara on Tuesday (25 March 2025) at its March graduation. Mjwara received the degree Doctor of Science (DSc), <em>honoris caus</em>a, at a graduation ceremony for the Faculty of Science.</p><p>Mjwara was honoured for his outstanding achievements as science policymaker and advocate, and his exceptional leadership contribution to the strengthening and advancement of science at the national and international level. </p><p>In his acceptance speech, Mjwara said we live in a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is going to have a huge impact on our lives. He added that we will have to deal with the challenges of AI. </p><p>“These challenges will require the skills and solutions that higher education institutions and the scientific community can provide.</p><p>“I, therefore, wish to pledge my support as a newly appointed permanent representative of South Africa to Unesco (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) to continue to work with the science, innovation and technology community to ensure that what we have learned in South Africa about using knowledge for development and science for solving the problems I have referred to is important."</p><p>Mjwara concluded his speech by thanking SU, the science community and his family for their support.</p><p>The Dean of the Faculty of Science, Prof Burtram Fielding, congratulated Mjwara and said: “Dr Phil Mjwara is a visionary leader known for his significant contributions to the advancement of science, technology, and innovation within South Africa, the broader region and on an international scale. We celebrate and honour his dedication to fostering the development of science across southern Africa."</p><p><strong>More about Mjwara</strong></p><p>Over the past three decades, Dr Philemon (Phil) Mphathi Mjwara has contributed significantly to the development of South Africa's system of science, technology and innovation. As the former director-general of the national Department of Science and Innovation, he ensured that science was used to improve all South Africans' lives. In recognition of his efforts in this role, he received the 2020 Batho Pele Excellence Award for Director-General of the Year. </p><p>As part of his many contributions to the country's science, technology and innovation landscape, Mjwara led the team who conducted the first South Africa Foresight Exercise for Science, Technology and Innovation (SAForSTI). </p><p>Mjwara holds a BScHons (1984) and an MSc (1987) degree from the University of Fort Hare, as well as a PhD (1995) from the University of the Witwatersrand. His academic career included serving as professor of Science and Technology Policy at the University of Pretoria, and teaching Physics at the universities of the Witwatersrand, South Africa and Fort Hare. He has published and presented numerous papers on physics, technology analysis and technology foresight processes. </p><p>Mjwara serves on a number of advisory councils and review boards and was recently appointed as South Africa's permanent representative to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco). In his various positions and – perhaps most significantly – as the country's longest-serving director-general, Mjwara has made a major contribution to science policies geared towards supporting researchers and moving South African society forward. </p><ul><li><strong>Photo</strong>: Dr Philemon Mphathi Mjwara at the graduation ceremony. <strong>Photographer</strong>: Stefan Els</li></ul><p> </p><p><br></p> |
| SU honorary doctorate for music icon Jonathan Butler | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11187 | | SU honorary doctorate for music icon Jonathan Butler | Corporate Communication and Marketing/Korporatiewe Kommunikasie en Bemarking | <p>The internationally acclaimed South African composer and songwriter Jonathan Butler was awarded an honorary doctorate by Stellenbosch University (SU) at the institution's March graduation ceremony on Monday (24 March 2025). Butler received the degree Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil), <em>honoris causa</em>, at a graduation ceremony for the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.<br></p><p>Butler was honoured for his musical influence and contributions to arts and culture as a composer, songwriter and performer, and his dedication to creating platforms that ensure access to the arts for young people from marginalised communities.</p><p>In his acceptance speech, Butler said “this moment is a dream fulfilled, one that has come through beyond anything I could ever ask, think or imagine. It is a glorious day, one that I will carry in me for the rest of my life. I stand before you deeply humbled. I am filled with gratitude and joy."</p><p>He added that the degree is not just for himself, but also for his family.<br></p><p>Butler said what he lacked in formal education due to circumstances, he received through music. </p><p>“Music became my teacher, my guide, my compass. Music has taught me discipline, courage, creativity and resilience. The journey was not easy for me. I wanted to use music to bring the world together, to make this world a better place, to see change in people's lives, to see change in communities."</p><p>He told the new graduates that they will have their own race to run and their own trees to chop down. “Sometimes you will get weary and tired, and you'll have to stop and regroup. But I say, if you start right, you will end right.</p><p>Following his acceptance speech, Butler entertained the attendees by singing some of his songs.</p><p><strong>More about Butler</strong></p><p>Although he lived under the shadow of Apartheid and faced hardship while growing up in Belgravia Estate in Athlone, Cape Town, Jonathan Kenneth Butler was one of the first artists of colour to be played on South African radio and appear on national television at a time of severe racial segregation. </p><p>As the youngest of 12 children in a family that played music to make ends meet, he began touring at the age of seven when he joined a travelling stage show and was later signed up to perform on a string of hit recordings, turning him into a local teen idol. Butler later became one of the key voices in the international arena advocating for the release of Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners. </p><p>Having already made a name for himself in Africa and the United Kingdom (UK), it was not until 1987, when he toured as pop star Whitney Houston's opening act, that Butler was noticed in the United States. His final breakthrough came that same year with his Grammy-nominated hit single “Lies", which reached #27 on Billboard's Hot 100 chart and peaked at #18 on the UK Official Singles Chart. Around that time, his and Ruby Turner's cover version of the Staple Singers song “If You're Ready (Come Go with Me)" also reached #30 in the UK. He has continued his success with the release of over 28 albums including several gospel projects, with one that features the revered “Falling In Love with Jesus".</p><p>Despite his international acclaim, Butler has remained true to his roots. He is the first Global Entertainment Ambassador for the Lalela Foundation, which provides educational arts for at-risk youth. Through its arts curriculum and critical messaging, Lalela directly serves more than 5 000 South African learners per week. </p><p>Butler continues to make popular music in multiple genres and tours the world. On his latest album, <em>Ubuntu</em>, he realised another dream of having iconic artist Stevie Wonder perform on his cover version of Wonder's song “Superwoman". </p><ul><li><strong>Photo</strong>: Dr Jonathan Kenneth Butler at the graduation ceremony. <strong>Photographer</strong>: Stefan Els</li></ul><p><br></p> |
| Triple-Helix event boosts ties between Stellenbosch and Groningen Universities | https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11167 | | Triple-Helix event boosts ties between Stellenbosch and Groningen Universities | Sue Segar | <p>In a world facing much political turbulence, wars, and geopolitical uncertainty, it is more important than ever for universities globally to guard their academic freedom and work together to tackle the multiple problems facing humanity.</p><p>Massive challenges like energy transition, climate change and digitisation, as well as those laid out in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), require global solutions, and researchers from universities worldwide should continue collaborating to solve them.</p><p>This was the common consensus at a “triple-helix" networking event involving academics, members of government, and representatives of industry, which was jointly hosted by Stellenbosch University (SU) and the University of Groningen on 6 and 7 March 2025 on SU's campus.</p><p>The first-of-its-kind event at Stellenbosch, South Africa, attended by the leadership from both universities, representatives of the Western Cape government, the National Research Foundation in South Africa and the Deputy Consul-General of the Netherlands saw stakeholders from all three sectors brainstorming together to explore opportunities for innovative public-private partnerships for research and development that's locally relevant, regionally impactful, and internationally competitive. A previous similar event took place in Groningen on 10 April 2024.</p><p>The event focused on four specific areas – Energy Transitions, Digital Transformation, Biomedical Solutions, and Entrepreneurship and Innovation – where the universities have already been collaborating intensively towards solving social challenges. Three cutting-edge “moonshot projects" in energy transition, digital transformation, and biomechanical engineering have arisen from the partnership.</p><p>SU and the University of Groningen already enjoy a long-standing strategic partnership that spans the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, as well as the humanities and the social sciences. The comprehensive partnership, which dates from 2020, has, among other things, seen a range of co-presented summer schools focusing on e.g. financial inclusion, sustainability, polarisation and inclusive teaching, and co-teaching courses, as well as collaborations within several Arua-Guild Clusters of Research Excellence (CoRE).</p><p>Welcoming participants to the event, Prof Sibusiso Moyo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies at Stellenbosch University, hailed the partnership between the two universities, and called for a strengthening of the moonshot areas and the joint cluster of research excellence. She said that as part of their new vision, Stellenbosch aspires to be among the top 100 universities globally.</p><p>“We live in a VUCA world which is volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous - and this has an impact on universities in terms of threats to their sustainability and academic freedom and existence. We believe these engagements will help us have greater impact in our joint missions."</p><p>SU's Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Wim De Villiers described the event as “groundbreaking", saying it “speaks to a longstanding and valuable partnership".</p><p>“In these times of uncertainty, we want to move beyond traditional academic boundaries to the triple-helix approach and to set some big, audacious goals."</p><p>President of the University of Groningen, Professor Jouke de Vries added: “We are here because we have to work on the future of universities. Maybe we have to ask ourselves fundamental questions. Is it enough to be in our ivory towers as academics or do we have to change? While fundamental research is important, maybe we need to think more about applied research and the marketing of our inventions because the market is also important."</p><p>“As universities, we are confronted with the same global challenges. We're on the same planet. Our university can learn from other universities, and they can learn from us."</p><p>In a presentation on the Twin Transition, Rector magnificus of the University of Groningen, Professor Jacquelien Scherpen, gave insight into the complexity faced in the energy transition, including the question of embedding renewable energy into existing systems.</p><p>“We have markets based on old technology, but there is all this new technology. How do we create these new markets and regulate them properly? And will people accept these new technologies? These are just some aspects we face in the energy transition," she said, adding that researchers globally have a huge role in navigating this transition.</p><p>Deputy Consul-General Johan van de Hoef from the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, who attended the event, said: “In a fast-paced world where things change quickly, you simply cannot do things alone. We need to do them together. It's important to have trustworthy partners in Education and in Government. South Africa and the Netherlands are good partners. We have so many of the same problems, just in different locations. It's fantastic to see such a strong partnership and we must foster such collaborations."</p><p>In a “stock-take" of the event at its conclusion, Professor Vasti Roodt and Professor Robert Lensink, the University of Groningen ambassador for SU agreed that the collaboration has huge future potential.</p><p>“The relationship between our two universities is not just about the moonshots. Our comprehensive partnership is bigger than that," said Professor Roodt.</p><p>“If you think this is what it looks like after three years of intensive collaboration and project ten or twenty years into the future, the future for collaboration looks excellent."</p><p>Going forward with the partnership, the institutions will strongly focus and encourage the following:</p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Maintain Key Objectives (evaluate, improve, expand, intensify)</li><li>Stimulate research outputs</li><li>Align policies and funding for this phase</li><li>Build on the results of the Industry Relations events</li><li>Support CoREs led by ARUA and The Guild</li><li>Stimulate research cooperation at all levels</li><li>Prepare for Mastercard Foundation opportunities</li><li>Expand (educational) cooperation to enhance accessibility for (PhD) students: Industrial Engineering, Entrepreneurship / Innovation</li><li>Enhance reciprocity for students<br></li></ul><p>A previous joint statement after a delegation visit in 2024 can be found <a href="/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=10576">here</a><br></p> |
