Die Matie – 7 April 2021

DieMATIE WENNER VAN DIE ATKV-MEDIAVEERTJIE VIR BESTE KAMPUSKOER ANT

WOENSDAG 7 APRIL 2021

TAGTIGSTE JAARGANG | NO 2

Dit is al ‘n maand sedert studente terug op kampus is, en die Stellenbosse strate wemel weer. Foto: Francois Lombard.

Rising robberies on Campus LESEDI MNISI

C

ampus Security was called to Venustia’s student hub on Thursday night, 25 March, after the premises had been allegedly broken into.

According to Miaan van Zyl, third year BCom Law student and Vice-Prim of Venustia Private Student Organisation (PSO), her room was broken into and from it various items were taken.

The break-in occurred at approximately 21:30 and campus security presumes that the perpetrator jumped over the fence and entered the hub through an unlocked kitchen door. There were two members of Venustia inside the hub when this occurred.

“My tekkies, a pair of sunglasses and most [of] the jewelry I own was stolen and placed in my sports backpack [with my name on it]” said van Zyl. Banele Plaatjies, a final year BA Drama and Theatre student and HK of Venustia PSO, posted a WhatsApp status a while after the robbery asking for people to let the Vice-Prim know if they had broken into the hub in order to play a prank on her.

“At first we thought it was a prank, because things were only

missing from the [Vice-Primaria’s] room, which is situated in the center of the house. It’s very odd that the burglary took place with two members in the house.

What also made us think that it was a prank, was that the perpetrator passed my room and three others to get to Miaan’s room, which means she was the target.” said Plaatjies.

Upon further investigation

by Campus Security and those who were in the hub when the break-in occurred, it became clear that the kitchen door had not been locked.

This led Campus Security to make the presumption that the perpetrator jumped over the fence and entered through the unlocked door. Since van Zyl’s room faces the kitchen garden, it is the easiest to enter.

According to Plaatjies, Campus Security has not yet found any evidence regarding the break-in at Venustia.

This was not the first alleged robbery to occur in student accommodation this year. During the weekend of the 11 March, a fridge was allegedly taken from Huis Erica.

Another fridge was reportedly taken from Serruria during the week of 7 March. Moreover, a phone was allegedly stolen from Huis Russel Botman dur-

ing the same timeframe as the other robberies.

According to another source, who prefers to remain anonymous, various items (including clothing, jewellery and wallets) were stolen from Helderberg in April of 2020.

The perpetrator was caught and a case was opened against him. However, the perpetrators who stole from other residences have not yet been caught.

According to Queen Majikijela, a resident of Huis Erica and third year BA (Language and Culture) student, members of Huis Erica were unaware that such matters could be reported to Campus Security. Therefore, the incident was not reported.

“Today it’s our valuables, tomorrow they could kidnap us and hurt us,” Majikijela added.

When asked about the implementation of more security measures Plaatjies said, “We keep our kitchen locked at all times, there isn’t much that can be implemented at this rate. All possible measures have been implemented, we [should] just ensure all our doors are locked at all times.”

While it may be necessary for other residences and PSO’s to review the safety measures they have implemented, some students have indicated that they

would like for a system to be implemented which would make it possible for other residences and PSO’s to be informed when break-ins occur.

“I do feel it is necessary to be made aware [of any break-ins on campus], just as a general safety measure. Especially as not everyone is of a very cautious nature, this could allow them to be more alert and on the lookout for any suspicious activity, and take precautions,” Kelly Lin, a second-year BA Law student, said.

Lin further added that the most feasible implementation option might be to communicate via email or similar mediums, since in-person gatherings are tricky and should be limited.

“I think it is important to know to be alert. To acknowledge the fact that these things do happen, so one should never assume nothing can happen, but to prepare yourself for the worst and also to learn from mistakes made by other residences. If one sees another Res was unsafe due to certain measurements not in place, one can put that in place in advance.” Lynn-Mari Du Plessis, Lydia HK, said.

At the time of print, Campus Security and University officials were unavailable for comment.

COVID in die koshuise 2 Brand new 3 society A guide to nightlife 5 Breaking records 11

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NEWS

Koshuise eerlik oor COVID-19-maatreëls KARLA VAN DER MERWE

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a aanleiding van die eerste positiewe COVID-19gevalle in universiteitskoshuise, word baie aandag gerig op die koshuise en hulle maatreëls aangaande studente se veiligheid en die verhoeding van ’n groter uitbraak van COVID-19 onder studente.

Die Universiteit Stellenbosch (US) verskaf op hulle CO­­ VID-19-webblad ’n aantal basiese reëls wat koshuise moet volg om sodoende veilig teen volle k ­ apasiteit te kan funksioneer, waarop die kos­ huise dan verder self kan uitbrei volgens hulle behoeftes en grootte.

Dié universiteitsreëls sluit algemene reëls in, soos dat maskers in gemeenskaplike areas gedra moet word, dat vertrekke en areas slegs ’n aangewese maksimum aantal persone op ’n slag mag hê, sowel as dat studente hulle hande moet ont­ smet soos hulle geboue binnegaan.

Abdullah Karbanee, onder-prim van Metanoia, verduidelik dat daar in die koshuis se maatreëls vereis word dat gemeenskaplike areas nie meer as 50% van die kapasiteit, soos gestel deur die Suid-Afrikaanse Regering, mag oorskry nie.

Die gebruik van sekere gemeenskaplike areas (soos Metarga, hulle rekenaarlokaal) is selfs beperk tot diegene wat toestemming verkry het vanaf die HK-lid verantwoordelik vir die bestuur van lokale.

Die koshuis se huisbak word ook tot slegs twee individue op ’n slag beperk.

Volgens die universiteit se reëls moet iemand isoleer wanneer hulle vermoed dat hulle siek is, COVID-19-verwante simptome ervaar, of weens direkte kontak aan die virus blootgestel is. Karbanee sê dat aangesien Metanoia slegs en-

META-REG Inwoners van Metanoia is reg om COVID-19 aan te pak. Foto: Mia Laubenheimer

kelkamers het, studente wat simptome toon dikwels eers in hulle eie kamers sal selfisoleer. “ʼn Toilet en stort word in die badkamer naaste aan hulle eenkant gesit en daar word gereël dat daar vir die studente kos gebring word,” verduidelik Karbanee.

Marais Cloete, onder-prim van Dagbreek, sê dat elke seksie in hulle koshuis weer op die tweede vloer (buiten seksies agt, 14 en 18) oor ’n isolasiekamer beskik. Indien ’n student vermoed dat hulle siek is, moet hulle na die kamers beweeg, hulle kamermaat en seksie se HK-lid in kennis stel, en sover as moontlik ander studente vermy terwyl hulle trek.

Seniorseksies kan in hulle eie woonstelkamers selfisoleer en daar sal van dié studente se kamermaats verwag word om ’n ander woonstel se badkamer en kombuisarea te gebruik.

Indien ’n koshuisinwoner positief getoets het vir die virus, vereis die universiteit dat die student vir ’n periode van 10 dae, soos deur die Kampusgesondheidsdienste (KGD) bepaal is, moet selfisoleer.

Karbanee sê dat Metanoia weer in twee seksies kamers direk teen­ oor badkamers afgesonder het vir studente wat positief getoets het.

“Studente wat in die seksies woon, kan veilig by hulle kamers uitkom deur die stel trappe te gebruik wat verby die afsonderingskamers aan die einde van die gang is,” verduidelik Karbanee.

Studente wat in Metanoia woon, moet ook hulle koshuisvader, Gar­ ­ eth Cornelissen, en die KGD kontak as hulle positief getoets het sodat kontakopsporing so gou as moontlik kan plaasvind en die res van die koshuis in kennis gestel kan word van die geval.

Cloete verduidelik dat daar van

’n inwoner van Dagbreek verwag sal word om te selfisoleer indien die persoon bevestigde blootstelling gehad het met iemand wat simptome toon of positief getoets het. Die persoon sal ook die opsie hê om vir ’n toets te gaan indien hulle sou wou.

Albei die inwoner en hulle kamermaat sal geskuif word na afsonderingskamers waar hulle vir twee weke sal moet selfisoleer. Die hele seksie waarin die inwoner bly sal ook vir vyf dae onder inperking geplaas word en slegs ’n negatiewe toetsresultaat vir die inwoner wat moontlik siek is, sal daartoe lei dat die inperkingstydperk vroeër gelig word.

“Dié spesifieke COVID-19-­ regulasies het al getoon om effektief te wees om te verseker dat die verspreiding van COVID-19 in Dagbreek stop en dat diegene wat die virus opgedoen het, weer gesond word,” sluit Cloete af. “Ons het

volle vertroue dat dit nie net ons inwoners sal beskerm nie, maar ook die wyer US-gemeenskap.”

Lloyrenzo September, derdejaar-BA (Regte)-student en inwoner van Dagbreek, noem dat die maatreëls vir hulle baie deeglik deurgegee is en dat hulle elke week daaraan herinner word. “Van wat ek kan sien, volg die ouens hier [die maatreëls],” sê September.

Volgens Hannro Steenekamp, derdejaar-Bcom (Internasionale Besigheid)-student en nog ʼn inwoner van Dagbreek, is die reëls baie streng en voel hy dat alhoewel COVID-19 waarskynlik steeds in Stellenbosch en elke koshuis sal opduik, dit die beste is wat hulle kan doen om die virus uit die koshuis te hou.

In die slot van Metanoia se ­C OVID-19-regulasiedokument, soos verskaf deur Karbanee, word daar ook gestipuleer dat die koshuis se leierskap ’n omgewing wil skep en onderhou waarin hulle studente veilig is.

Die koshuis se leierskap hoop om met behulp van die uiteengesette regulasies die akademiese jaar so vlot as moontlik te laat verloop.

Janke Mostert, derdejaar-BA (Taal en Kultuur)-student en inwoner van Metanoia, noem dat haar daar ook oral in haar seksie handreiniger beskikbaar is en hulle orals hulle maskers dra tensy hulle in hulle kamers is.

“Ek dink Meta is die eerlikste koshuis tans. Die maatreëls laat my ongelooflik veilig voel,” verduidelik sy.

Alhoewel daar alreeds te kenne gegee is van gevalle in verskeie koshuise, is daar steeds deeglike maatreëls soos die bogenoemde in plek om diegene wat nog gesond is, sowel as diegene wat positief getoets het, veilig te hou.

Queer US-studente praat oor naamprobleme KARLA VAN DER MERWE

WEG MET DEADNAMES Cody van der Linde bedek hulle verkeerde voorletter op hulle studentekaart. Foto: Karla van der Merwe

Die Universiteit Stellenbosch (US) se Studenteraad (SR) het onlangs op hulle Instagramblad bekend gemaak dat hulle ʼn trans-taakspan gaan stig. Die advertensie, wat op 3 April op hulle Instagramstorie geplaas is, noem dat aansoeke tot 12 April sal oop

wees vir studente om by die taakspan aan te sluit. Dié groep sal verantwoordelik wees om te help om probleme wat transgender en gender nie-konformerende (gender non-conforming) US-studente op kampus ervaar, op te los.

Volgens dié studente is die grootste probleem wat hulle

ervaar dat die verkeerde name of titels op die universiteit se sisteem reflekteer. Cody van der Linde, ’n eerstejaar-B (Maatskaplike Werk)-student, verduidelik dat toe hulle by die US aansoek gedoen het, hulle aangedui het dat hulle verkose titel “Mx” is.

Hoewel die titel van "Mx" op hulle studentekaart verskyn, toon die sisteem nie hulle voorkeurnaam nie. Ten spyte daarvan dat aansoekvorms voornemende studente se voorkeur- en wettige name vereis, verskyn slegs Van der Linde se wettige naam op die sisteem.

“Ek het my voorkeurnaam gegee en daar is ʼn opsie om jou naam op SUNLearn by die instellings te verander, maar elke keer wat ek dit doen, verander dit net later weer terug na my wettige naam,” verduidelik Van der Linde. “Dit suck net aangesien baie van ons wat nie-binêr of [transgender] is en nog nie wettiglik ons name kon verander nie, nie die opsie het om ons voorkeurname te gebruik nie.” ʼn Ander student, wat eerder anoniem wil bly, vertel dat ’n mens egter nie sonder die toestemming van ʼn administrateur jou naam op SUNLearn kan verander nie.

“Ek voel [ʼn administrateur se toestemming] is onnodig omdat dit vereis dat [transgender] individue aan vreemdelinge moet uitkom,” sê hy.

Die probleem aangaande die name kom ook verder in klasse voor. Volgens Van der Linde gebruik dosente individue se deadnames (oftewel hulle wettige name waarmee hulle nie meer identifiseer nie) wanneer hulle aanwesigheid aanmerk en name uitroep.

“Ons is geforseer om ons deadnames te sê en die hele situasie voor almal te verduidelik omdat hulle gewoonlik vir ons sal sê ‘jou naam is nie hier nie’ as ons die name noem wat ons eintlik gebruik,” vertel hulle.

Albei Van der Linde en die anonieme student erken dat hulle verstaan dat die universiteit ʼn mens se wettige naam nodig het vir byvoorbeeld die druk van grade of vir ander administratiewe doeleindes. Van der Linde voel egter dat aangesien studente net hulle studente nommers kan gebruik, die naam wat hulle gebruik nie saak hoef te maak nie.

“Die universiteit kan meer stappe neem om te verseker dat

studente gemaklik is,” sluit die anonieme student by Van der Linde aan.

Op navrae aangaande die situasie met hoe individue se name op die sisteem verskyn, sê Martin Viljoen, woordvoerder van die US: “Die universiteit probeer om waar moontlik aanspreekvorme en titels – en studente se keuses daar rond­ om – te respekteer.”

Hy verduidelik egter dat die universiteit weens wetlike vereistes nie ’n student se amptelike naam of name op die stelsel mag verander voordat die korrekte wetlike prosesse nie gevolg is nie. “Studente het natuurlik die opsie om [hulle] name amptelik by binnelandse sake te verander. Indien so ’n dokument dan getoon word, kan die universiteit die [amptelike] name verander.”

Viljoen sê dat die stelsel studente wel toelaat om hulle voorkeurname te verander, maar dat die klaslyste wat deur dosente gebruik word egter eers sal verander as die dosent ’n nuwe klaslys van die stelsel aflaai.

NUUS

7 April 2021

Vlot Frans met

vlieënde vaandels AURELIA MOUTON

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New society for green-thumbed Maties LESEDI MNISI

Stellenbosch University (SU) has introduced a new society, namely Maties Gardening Club (MGC).

Their slogan “where nature and nurture meet” clearly encapsulates their vision and reason for starting. “[MGC] is being started to bring students together that want to garden, learn about gardening, just get closer with plants, form a community of planters and hopefully create a sustaining society,” said Alexa Koen, a second-year BCom Law student and MGC Head of Communications.

Koen further explained that the club is meant to show students how easy and meditative

it can be to grow their own food.

MGC will also allow students to learn more about gardening practices.

Members of MGC will be able to plant anything they want at the Welgevallen Farm and will have access to their plot at any time.

The club will go to the farm on Tuesday’s from 14:00-18:00 for maintenance.

MGC members will be able to either keep, donate or sell their produce.

Applications for the club are open until 9 April 2021 and there is no joining fee. More information can be found on their Instagram page; @matiesgardening.Further, Maties can apply for the club at bit.ly/stbGarden.

WENSPAN Willow-Ruby van der Berg en Jaco du Plooy. Foto: Aurelia Mouton

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ie debatspan van die Universiteit Stellenbosch (US) en die Universiteit van Kaapstad (UK) het eerste plek verwerf by die 7ème Tournoi inter-universitaire de débats en français (die sewende interuniversiteitsdebattoernooi in Frans).

Die span het op 26 Maart onder leiding van Jaco du Plooy, MA-student en dosent by die departement ­moderne vreemde tale, hulle opposisie tydens die virtuele finale rondte oorwin. Willow-Ruby van der Berg (student aan die US) en Mia Todd (student aan die UK) het die res van die span uitgemaak.

Dié debattoernooi is ’n internasionale Franse kompetisie wat tans in sy sewende bestaansjaar is en aangebied word deur die L’Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF), ’n organisasie wat internasionale betrekkinge tussen Frans-sprekende hoër onderwysinstansies bevorder. Vanjaar

het die kompetisie oor Microsoft Teams geskied en het die onderwerp oor sosiale innovasie en die volhoubaarheid daarvan gehandel. Afhangende van elke rondte se spesifieke vereistes, moes die spanne se argumente die onder­ werp verdedig of teenstaan.

“Niemand het regtig gedink ons gaan vêr vorder nie. Selfs ons het na elke rondte gedink ons is klaar,” sê Du Plooy.

Die span het in die Indiese Oseaan-streeksgroep deelgeneem en moes kompeteer teen ander streeksgenote, soos Kenya, Ma­ dagaskar en Komore. In die finale rondte moes hulle debateer teen regstudente van Panthéon-Assas Universiteit se Mauritius-kampus.

Dit is ’n besonderse oorwinning omdat baie van die lande waarteen hulle moes kompeteer Frans as huis­ taal praat terwyl al drie die spanlede Frans as hulle derde taal praat.

Todd sê dat die kompetisie ’n

baie interessante ervaring was. “Ek het op hoërskool gedebatteer, so ek het gedog dat ek weet wat om van die kompetisie te verwag, maar dit was baie anders as enige iets wat ek al voorheen gedoen het,” verduidelik sy. “Ek moes geweet het dat dit dinge meer sou kompli­ seer, maar dit het nie regtig gekliek totdat ek in die debat was en desperaat probeer uitvind het wat die opposisiespan sê nie.”

Sy gaan aan om te sê dat die span goed saamgewerk het ten spyte van die uitdagings: “Oor die algemeen was dit egter ’n wonderlike ervaring, en ek het dit baie geniet om met Jaco en Willow in verbinding te tree om ’n interuniversiteitdroomspan te vorm.”

Van der Berg meen ook dat die span baie uit die ervaring geleer het en sê: “Dis ’n wonderlike geleentheid om [’n] bietjie uit jou dop te klim en iets buite jou gemaksone [te] doen.”

KEEPING GREEN Maties Gardening member Keenen Gilbert getting his planting started. Photo: Supplied

Evening scams shock students TOM LEE

Unfortunately, Stellenbosch is familiar with certain acts of criminal conduct. However, it now seems as though a group of organised crime members has emerged in the small student town.

It is alleged that a group of individuals are targeting students through deceptive scams and ploys, leading to the theft of items such as wallets and phones. Many of the incidents allegedly occurred in the vicinity of De Lapa, Die Mystic Boer and Bohemia.

The events that took place have all been connected to a white Volkswagen Polo sedan. The latest reported incidents occurred on 26 March.

Leon von Moltke, a second year BSc student, was involved in one

of the incidents on 26 March. He fell victim to the scam, and his cell phone was stolen. The incident occurred outside of the Eikestad mall.

Von Moltke was allegedly approached by a man asking for directions to Die Mystic Boer. In addition to this, the man allegedly claimed to have been robbed of his belongings. In the process of speaking about the man’s supposed misfortune, it was Von Moltke who became a victim of the scam.

“While he was telling me about him being robbed, he grabbed my leg and tapped my leg. As he was demonstrating to me how he was robbed, he robbed me! I only realised after a few moments that my phone had been stolen,” said von Moltke.

Von Moltke said that he was in

shock as he genuinely tried to help the man who approached him.

Another student in her second year of BA (Social Work), who prefers to remain anonymous for safety reasons, had two similar encounters outside of Bohemia and De Lapa respectively.

The same Volkswagen polo was involved in the ordeal when a man in a pink shirt approached the source and friends, asking the group to order an Uber as his phone had gone flat.

The man (in a pink shirt) got out of a white VW polo, approached us and asked us to request an Uber because his phone had gone flat, this was not true as his home screen was visible.

At the same time, the white VW was still outside of the complex opposite Bohemia,” the student said.

When the source and her friends realised that this conduct was suspicious, they backed off and watched the individual approach another group of people. In that instance, the same questions were asked by the individual, however, it was paired with him touching one of the girls' legs. Her phone was taken out of her pocket, luckily only to be retrieved right after.

“We moved away but stayed close to a group of people who were being approached by the same individual who approached us. He used the same line on them, except this time he touched the one girl’s leg and then got hold of her phone. She managed to get it back.

The man immediately got back into the car,” the BA student continued.

The same men were seen later

in the evening, outside De Lapa.

They seemed to be using the same tactics on other students.

This time, when the police were called, no one arrived to aid the situation.

“The police were not reactive and simply asked what we wanted them to do about the situation”, the student added.

At the time of print, no comment had been made by SAPS, Stellenbosch.

Students must be aware of these apparent scams. It seems to be conduct committed whilst students are out and perhaps intoxicated.

Von Moltke warns students to remain aware of their surroundings when going out, and to be vigilant.

“I think it’s best for students to maintain social distancing and to be cautious of people in their space” von Moltke added.

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STUDENTELEWE

Adapt or go under: Running a student business during the pandemic

MARDENE VAN SCHALKWYK

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he past year has been challenging, but Stellenbosch University (SU) student entrepreneurs have proven their resilience. Jacobina Kalunduka, a third-year BAcc student, and Katja Marsiglia, a second-year BA (Visual Arts) student, are two such business owners.

“Our company was founded in 2020 with the sole purpose of hosting events centred around the arts,” said Kalunduka about Art for the Heart (AFTH), the business she co-owns with Nomagugu Moyo, a first-year BCom (Economics and Management Sciences) student.

“When the pandemic hit, we didn’t make money for a long time due to the fact that we were not allowed to host events. This made us rethink our whole business structure. The past year grew my abilities as an entrepreneur,” said Kalunduka.

Now, AFTH sells self-care packages tailored to students’ needs. The company kept working

MUSICIAN RILEY Performing at an Art for the Heart event in Windhoek, Namibia. Photo: Supplied towards their goal to connect lesser-known creatives with their target market by launching a YouTube channel during the lockdown. Until COVID-19 regulations allow AFTH to operate in Stellenbosch,

they host events from Windhoek, Namibia.

For Marsiglia, starting a business during the pandemic was a happy accident. Before the pandemic, Marsiglia was a waitress at

a high-end restaurant in the V&A Waterfront. With the emergence of COVID-19, she lost her job and was forced to find new ways of making an income.

“It started when my plumber saw some of my art and requested a piece. After that, I started posting my art. People were interested in buying, which was actually completely unexpected. It wasn’t planned at all,” said Marsiglia. Her art store, known on Instagram as @ kat.makesart, took off in January.

“I think people are consuming more fashion, clothes and interior items than before because they are spending less money on social activities. It makes sense to invest in home décor because that is where we are spending the majority of our time now,” said Marsiglia.

Overall, the pandemic challenged many businesses, but the opposite may have come true for Marsiglia.

If you are thinking of starting a business endeavour, take Marsiglia’s advice, “Having a student business is hard work but is easier if it’s something you’re passionate about.”

K

KAMPUS QUOTES

“I have to leave my cash at home, otherwise I’m like Mother Theresa in Mystics.”

– Student explaining why she doesn’t carry cash “Hoekom is my Google Translate heeltyd in Sesotho of Azerbaijani?”

– Gefrustreerde Afrikaanse student opsoek na ‘n Engelse woord “Aww, straight people are so innocent.”

– Gay friend to his straight friend after she explains her conversation with her crush to him “I’m going to take a nap and deal with this later.”

– Tired student “Gooi hom soos ‘n diskus.”

– Student op die dansvloer “Someone used my pot to fry potatoes, and now it’s full of oil; and I just wanted to make two-minute noodles.”

– Hungry res student

Your guide to unexplored Stellies nightlife SKYLER HENDRICKS

With the influx of Stellenbosch University (SU) students returning to campus, it has become a tricky venture to plan a fun night out. Due to COVID-19 regulations, some of the most popular pubs and bars in Stellenbosch can only allow a limited number of people to enter the premises.

This makes it difficult to decide on a place to spend your night, because you will either be stuck in a line for most of your evening, or your go-to bar will be too crowded for you to enjoy yourself. However, there are a few uncongested spots in Stellenbosch worth checking out.

CENTRAAL Centraal is a brand-new pub which recently opened its doors on 23 March this year. Centraal is located on Plein Street on the ground level of Eikestad Mall. If you are looking for a more sophisticated atmosphere without paying an arm and a leg, this is a good place to consider.

“We are an upmarket venue with great prices to match. Most of our beer is R35 a draft, to put it into perspective! We focus on

a happy vibe where anyone over the age of 18 is welcome. We’ll be doing some live events as soon as Covid-19 regulations allow us to do so, so stay tuned!” says John Sutherland, manager of Centraal.

THE COURTYARD CAFÉ Courtyard Café is another hidden gem that Stellenbosch has to offer. This restaurant and bar is located on Blom Road, next to the PJ Olivier art centre.

“Courtyard café has always been one of my favourite watering holes in Stellenbosch. The beer is on tap, the food is tasty and good value for money and the beer garden is always relaxing,” says Steph ‘DJ Phanny’ Fichardt, Courtyard frequenter. DJ Phanny has recently been doing weekly Wednesday gigs at Courtyard Café.

“That Eclectic, a creative collective I run with a friend, recently hosted a hot-wing eating competition /general knowledge quiz there and it was such a blast. There were many smiling faces throughout the day, and it was such a pleasure to collaborate with the folk from Courtyard Café,” says Fichardt.

THE MEETING PLACE The Meeting Place is a quaint

restaurant and bar located on Dorp Street, Stellenbosch. It has a lot to offer in terms of live events, open mic evenings, thrift markets and even drink specials!

“At The Meeting Place, we mostly attract trendy post-grad and young working individuals.

However, we aim to make the space as comfortable as possible for people from all walks of life,” says Andréa Van der Merwe, manager of The Meeting Place.

Every Thursday evening The Meeting Place hosts live acoustic performances by the best local talents followed by DJ sets every Friday evening.

The Meeting Place also gives upcoming artists the opportunity to perform through their “Bedroom Superstars” open mic evenings which occur every second Wednesday.

As for drink specials, there are two-for-one specials available on gin and tonic as well as brandy and coke. There is also a vodka and Red Bull special.

“The Meeting Place has a unique aesthetic with a vibrant and comfy atmosphere that feeds off the dynamic presence of clientele,” says Van der Merwe.

Instead of resorting to the usual Stellenbosch bars, give these three spots a try and be safe.

THE COURTYARD CAFÉ One of thehidden gems of Stellies that is not too congested or overcrowded. Photo: Supplied

STUDENTELEWE

7 April 2021

FILM REVIEW: A CLOCKWORK ORANGE (1971)

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Recipe: Pea Fritters

MARIANNE STEWART

Director: Stanley Kubrick Running Time: 137 minutes Genre: Crime | Drama | Sci-Fi Age Restriction: 18 SVNL Starring: Malcolm McDowell, Patrick Magee, Michael Bates If you are into a combination of the 19670s aesthetic intertwined with crime and sci-fi, Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange” will most definitely tickle your fancy.

This futuristic, dystopian crime film is based on the classic 1962 novel, “A Clockwork Orange” by Anthony Burgess.

The film follows the main character, Alex DeLarge (Malcolm McDowell), and his gang, the Droogs – Georgie (James Marcus), Pete (Michael Tarn), and Dim (Warren Clarke).

Alex, a British teenager, is obsessed with the composer Ludwig van Beethoven, which is quite strange considering his ultraviolent, manic, sadistic, and overall disturbing qualities.

Alex, together with his delinquent juvenile friends, goes on sadistic killing sprees when they are bored at night.

THE DROOGS A still from Kubricks’ Clockwork Orange, depicting the Droogs sitting in a bar drinking milk. Photo: Supplied Before these killing sprees, the Droogs go to the Korova Milkbar, where they consume milk that contains drugs (LSD, synthetic mescaline and adrenochrome) called “milk-plus”. “Milk-plus” exhilarates Alex and the Droogs to a realm of euphoria, which then gives them the thrill to commit these ultraviolent murders.

One night, Alex gains access, by forced entry, into a wealthy old lady’s mansion, where he then attacks her with a phallic piece of art. While the Droogs await their

leader, the police show up and the street gang runs away and leaves Alex to fend for himself.

After this incident, Alex’s life spirals down into a very dark and dysfunctional abyss.

He is sentenced to 14 years in prison, but he is unaware that prison will be a breeze compared to the psychological torture that awaits him.

Warning: this film contains sexual violence, nudity and psychological torture.

HEALTHY AND EASY What we love about this recipe is that it is so simple to prepare and you can whip it up in minutes. Photo: Supplied INGREDIENTS 3 Eggs 100ml Milk 1 tsp Lemon juice 1 can Peas (substitute with corn if preferred) ½ cup Cheddar cheese Salt and pepper to taste METHOD 1. Whisk eggs and milk together in a mixing bowl.

2. Add lemon juice 3. Strain the peas (or corn) and add

to the mixture.

4. Add cheese.

5. Add salt and pepper to taste.

6. Spoon the mixture into an oiled pan and fry for approximately two minutes on each side until golden.

PRO TIP Add parsley, mint or basil to the mixture for extra flavour.

Serve as a veggie burger patty or as an addition to a green salad – Kristie Truter

Campus closet: mask up!

Students are all masked up on campus in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. Mia van der Merwe photographed students wearing their trendy masks.

Skater Boy Cool and convenient. This outfit consists of a pair of fun jeans with tears, rips and patches with wording.

It is paired with a white-tee and some funky, colourful sneakers that ties the look together. A basic black mask is used, which does not further interfere with the other colours. This outfit is fun and funky with colour in all the right places.

‘Sporty Spice’ Two tones for the win! The two major colours being shown off are black and blue. This sporty ensemble is all black with blue running shoes and blue details, making it picture perfect. Another black mask is paired with yet another outfit, keeping the outfit simplistic. The blues pick each other up, resulting in a perfectly seamless look.

Pastel Baby

Chic and Sleek

Preppy Patterns

“I keep in touch with my free-spirited self through my colour choices, stay groovy baby.” A pastel green shirt is paired with a light denim jean and white sandals, which could easily wash anyone away. However, in this case a solid brown belt holds the outfit together. A cute picnic blanket inspired mask is paired as a finishing touch.

Coco Chanel said, “The best colour in the world is the one that looks good on you.” All black is the epitome of less is more; it’s sleek, chic and looks good on everyone. In this case a wild card is being pulled with a fun purple patterned mask, paired with a textured all black ensemble. Round it off with some accessories and you will make the heads turn.

Classy and confident. This outfit consists of a horizontally detailed white knitted jersey and black patterned pants. Made complete with a pair of comfortable sneakers, this outfit emits style and convenience. The patterned ensemble has clean lines, but is challenged with a monotonous camouflage mask, giving the outfit some spice.

DAG & NAG

6

Dag & Nag Soco shaking things up AURELIA MOUTON

C

ape Town band, Soco, formerly known as the South Easters, are back with a bang as they kick off this year with their new single “Stuff and Things”. Formed in 2014 in their drummer’s garage, the five-piece band has earned their street-cred among the easy-going, plaid-clad, live music mob of Stellenbosch.

The group of friends, David Derman (vocalist), Oli Amos (bass), Jason Winde (drums), Chris Cloete (keys) and Xander Combrink (guitar), describe their sound as a product of an odd ­assortment of musical backgrounds. The members of the band took music as a subject in school and have varying degrees of training in classical and jazz music, having mostly played in swing ensembles.

"Having primarily played in heavily jazz and swing influenced bands for a large portion of our lives, and with all the members of the band listening to and playing a wide variety of genres, Soco’s sound is definitely an interesting one. With roots in blues, pop-funk, folk and neo-soul music, our influences range from Kaleo, John Mayer and the Black Keys to Tom

CAMPUS COOL KIDS SOCO ROCKING THE COURTS Photographed while filming a music video for their cover of “ This Love” by Maroon 5. Photo: Regan George Misch, Milky Chance, Lauv and Anomalie,” said Combrink.

With each member bringing the vibe of what inspires them, the band has a nuanced undercurrent to their music. The result is a sound crafted by an interestingly intricate mix of genres and lyrical inspirations.

“Soco’s sound has certainly come a long way since the release of ‘Salute the Sunset’. The chilled, laid back sound soon morphed into the harder, more blues-inspired driving track titled ‘Illusion’ and is currently taking on something quite exciting as our new music approaches its release,”

said Combrink about their journey from their first releases to the music currently in production. ­ The band’s music is produced inhouse by Winde and Amos, who jokingly refer to their final mixes as ­“suitably mediocre”.

Derman, Amos and Combrink are proud Stellenbosch University

(SU) students, while Cloete studies medicine at UCT and Winde pursues sound engineering in Cape Town.

"Soco is essentially a group of good mates who really enjoy playing and creating music despite each of us following very different career paths," said Derman.

Fan and friend of the band, Wilmie Conjé, BSc (Biodiversity & Ecology) graduate from SU, said, “You can literally hear the passion when they play – whether it’s their own compositions or covers. They are all solo musicians in their own right but, their styles are so complementary!”

When asked what is next, the band said, “Soco will always be a melting pot of ideas. It is an extremely exciting creative environment to be a part of and to be honest, we’re not even sure what could jump out next! Rest assured it will be music, videos, photos and stories that Soco have poured their lived experience into, that bring together who we are and that we are extremely proud and passionate about!”

Soco can be found on Instagram at @soco_official_, and as The South Easters on Spotify and Apple Music.

Germany to Stellies with cello and piano JACQUES MARAIS

The Karlsruhe Concert Duo from Germany has travelled the world and has been to over 70 countries – on all seven continents. Reinhard Armleder, cellist, and Dagmar Hartmann, pianist, are the two members of this musical duo.

During their first tour in South Africa, 11 years ago, they fell in love with the country and said that they “have always found a very interested and enthusiastic audience” in it. Now they have returned to take the podium at the Musikhaus W. Heuer in Stellenbosch for the third time on 7 April.

The exciting programme consists of pieces from the likes of Beethoven to Gershwin. “We would like to strike a bridge from the classical to the romantic to the modern, from the composers of the first half of the 20th century,” they said.

The duo says that they are ­genuinely happy to be able to

perform in South Africa, despite the ­pandemic. For most of us, the virus has stopped all music and placed a long rest on the world as we knew it. Armleder and Hartmann’s s­ tories are no different.

Although they have used this time since the middle of last year to expand their repertoire, they have not been on any concert tours at all.

When asked what advice they would give to other musicians, especially in the time of the pandemic, they replied, “We would like to advise you not to be discouraged, to work constantly on your instrument and to develop yourself further.”

The duo also mentioned going to live concerts, speaking to professionals, practising, taking part in masterclasses – a few of which they have offered and are planning to offer – and setting goals. “As a musician, you never stop learning, you learn for a lifetime. We still do this with enthusiasm and ­great joy.”

GERMANY’S DYNAMIC DUO The Karlsruhe Concert Duo back in Germany. Photo: Karlsruhe ­Concert Duo They are hopeful of finding many guests at their performance.

Contact Musikhaus W. Heuer to get your tickets for R180 each, only

35 tickets are available. The show starts at 19:00 on 7 April.

DAG & NAG

7 April 2021

7

Kloudink finds their rhythm SKYLER HENDRICKS

K

loudink, an indie-pop duo, originating in the Garden Route and advancing through Stellenbosch, prepares for a performance at Cape Town’s renowned Raptor Room on 8 April and at Aandklas on 14 April. Kloudink consists of two refined musicians – Theo Mulder, lead vocalist, and Johan Theron, lead guitarist.

The kaleidoscopic duo has made a large impact with their indie style music, which resonates with listeners in Stellenbosch, Cape Town, the Garden Route, and even globally. Their song, ‘Winter’, has 1 million streams on Spotify, which attests to the boundless reach of the local band.

Mulder and Theron, both found themselves in unrelated music scenes before the pair were introduced to one another. They formed Kloudink in 2018. When asked to describe the duo’s sound, Mulder said, “The older sound is definitely surfer slacker indie type of stuff – mostly guitar-based. These days we gravitate more towards darker indie alternative sounds that are more produc-

tion based.”

The creative process behind Kloudink’s song assembly starts with a small spark. After this spark is broken down, it catches flame and causes some interesting and unexpected changes – this is the twosome's favourite part of song production.

Forming a band in Stellenbosch while trying to juggle studies, practices, and everything in between, is a tricky task. This, however, becomes a viable prospect once you learn how to balance all your responsibilities.

“Stellenbosch has had its ups and downs for us. It can be easy to slip into an unproductive state.

That was a big learning curve.

But I feel like we’ve finally found a rhythm that works for us,” said Mulder.

A major theme conveyed through Kloudink’s upcoming music is letting things happen at their own pace. Through both the instrumental and lyrical value of each track, Kloudink stresses the importance of being patient with yourself and others – although this is a rather trying act. In this respect, however, Mulder says that “practice makes perfect”.

Kloudink is currently hard at work on a bunch of new projects.

GARDEN ROUTE GANG The indie-pop duo during a neon-themed photoshoot in Cape Town. Photo: Lorcan Berg An array of new music, various live performances, and even merchandise is on the horizon for the duo!

For now, however, be sure to secure a ticket to Kloudink’s ­Raptor Room and Aandklas shows. Tickets are available on Quicket. For

Aflos-aand alweer by Aandklas TIAAN BOOYENS

“Dis soos ’n deurgangsritueel om in Aandklas te speel,” het Joshua Swanepoel, voorman van die musiekgroep Aflos, gesê voor hulle optrede by die kuierplek op Woensdagaand 31 Maart. Dié opkomende kwintet is vasbeslote om ’n goeie tyd te hê en dit met hulle medestudente te deel. Aflos het met gees en uit volle bors lekker geraas gemaak op die aand voor die een jaar herdenking van hulle eerste EP “Out on a Bender”.

Van die begin af was Aflos aan die brand. Ian Neethling, ’n sagteware-ingenieur wat sy musiekdrome probeer waar maak, het die verhoog vir Aflos geopen met liedjies van John Mayer, Vance Joy en vele ander snitte te same met van sy oorspronklike musiek.

Daarna het Aflos se indie-punkrock-klanke deur Aandklas se luidsprekers geresoneer soos talle plaaslike kunstenaars voor hulle s’n ook het, insluitende Desmond & The Tutus en Koos Kombuis.

Aangesien die meeste van die groepslede musiekstudente aan die Universiteit Stellenbosch (US) is, is dit nie verbasend dat hulle mekaar gevind het nie. Buiten vir Swanepoel, bestaan die groep ook uit Jess Meissner, Ben Hatch, Renier van Rooyen en Chris Burgess. Swanepoel betower die gehoor met sy stem en kitaar, Meisnerr (die groep se bestuurder) is die klawerborden baskitaarspeler, en Hatch is

more information on Kloudink, search for the duo on Instagram, Facebook and streamed on Spotify @Kloudink.

LIT MATIE ’n ons

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Stuur jou gedig na alexanderbrand98@ gmail.com.

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AFLOS IN AKSIE Die groep in aksie by Aandklas op 31 Maart 2021. Foto: Mienke Marais ook ’n kitaarspeler. Van Rooyen is ook ’n uitstekende sanger en sing net so goed soos hy baskitaar (en tamboeryn) speel terwyl Burgess die dromme meesterlik tref. Die groep het vanaf hulle ontstaan verander soos hulle die aflosstokkie oorgegee het aan die lede wat tans in Stellenbosch naam maak.

Volgens Meissner gaan die groep binnekort van hulle musiek begin opneem. Sy werk daaraan om ’n opname van hulle eerste vollengte album, waarvan vyf van hulle snitte reeds aan gewerk word, moontlik te maak. “[Die opname] het nog nie begin nie, maar dit gaan gebeur,” sê sy.

Swanepoel, die skrywer van die

meeste van Aflos se lirieke, het ook hulle opkomende enkelsnit, wat hulle later sou die aand opgetree het, genoem.

Ten spyte van die paar verkeerde woorde en akkoorde, was die rustige en rooskleurige “Story of a Girl” ’n onmiddellike treffer onder die aanskouers (so-wel as die muse agter die lied, wat self in die gehoor gesit het).

Later het die oorspronklike groepslede ook ’n moet-luister Aflos headbanger, “A Bit Dark”, opgetree.

Na dié ongelooflike vertoning van die aand, behoort Aflos al verblyfreg in Aandklas te kry as hulle voortgaan soos hulle op verlede Woensdagaand het hulle naam

begin al hoe bekender op kampus raak. Een aanhanger het selfs ’n plakkaat gemaak wat lees: “Father my children, Aflos”.

Soos die kroeggeluide voor hulle optrede meer luidrigtig raak, sê Meissner: “Hierdie is die soort dinge wat ons wil hê moet gebeur [wanneer mense ons musiek luister].”

Die skaregunsteling van Aflos se eerste EP, “Wasting Time”, gaan juis oor ’n goeie tyd saam met goeie geselskap.

Probeer die somer lewendig hou deur ’n oomblik of twee van jou studentelewe met Aflos as agtergrondmusiek te leef.

afrikaans my geestesstem loop in kringe nes Saul agter Oupoot aan, want alles voel bitter dringend wanneer Afrikaans weggaan oorweldigend is dié gevoel van taalkundige lamheid, want dit wat ek sê en bedoel is in ‘n bly wende stryd ek word deur taal wat verander verward, maar ook verlore soos ‘n dorre koggelmander op teerpad sonder spore my spraak is my suurstof, my lug ek kort dit nes ‘n kar sy wiel, maar sodra my taal my ontvlug is ek net lyf sonder siel

8

REDAKSIONEEL

Oor aanhou beweeg en geraas maak

G

edurende my vier jaar op Stellenbosch was daar jaarliks dieselfde patroon vir die eerste kwartaal: in die eerste week is dit nuwelinge met hulle “Minêêêrva”, “S-o-n-o-p, that’s S-o-n-o-p” en “Arrie, Arrie, Arrie”.

In die tweede week is daar ’n geskarrel om die regte klasse te vind, en hier na die derde week se kant toe begin jy die maroen hemde op kampus sien.

Van al die dinge wat ’n mens kan mis op kampus – die prentjiemooi berge, die topklas koffie,

die besonderse wynplase – het ek nie gedink dit sal die studente wees wat my na die Eikestad sou laat verlang nie. Die Mini’s en die Fiats was dan gedurende my tyd op kampus uiteraard dikwels die rede vir my valse hoop om ’n gratis parkeerplek te kry. Wat my egter laat glimlag het, is om die aand voor druktyd in die Neelsie te kom en weer gesprekke te hê om af te luister en omring te wees met ’n groep mense wat ook nog besig is om die lewe uit te pluis.

Vir my is dit dus die mense wat

GORRELKOP

Die kommentaar waarvoor almal bang is en nooit wil sê nie.

Gorrel is nie verantwoordelik vir enige ongerief veroorsaak nie.

Nie ‘cool’ nie DIE grootste raaisel in Stellenbosch: die weer. Gorrel loop in plakkies en khaki’s net om begroet te word met ysige temperature in Fharga. Gorrel se enigste verduideliking hiervoor is dat die klimaat akklimatiseer met party van die moods van Gorrel se lektore.

Vida vir wie GORREL was nog altyd ‘n fan van Neelsie koffie. Toe Gorrel onlangs met sy weeklikse kof-

fie-eskapades in die Neelsie rondloop, het hy probeer om die nuwe koffieplek uit te probeer waaroor die Gorrelinas so op Instagram spog. Daar het egter ‘n suur smaak in Gorrel se mond gekom toe hy die prys sien, Gorrel sal maar hou by sy Nescafé.

Gorrel sukkel om voor te bly GORREL se eposinboks loop al klaar oor met opdragte en dreigemente van sperdatums, maar dan sal elke Piet nog kom met dieetvraelyste ook.

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE AND REPORTING ERRORS Die Matie is onderhewig aan ’n gedragskode wat by die SR-lid vir Media beskikbaar is.

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Klagtes moet volgens die uiteengesette prosedure binne veertien dae ná publikasie aanhangig gemaak word.

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KONTAK ONS / CONTACT US E-POSADRES diematie75@gmail.com POSADRES Langenhoven Studentesentrum; Privaatsak X1; Universiteit Stellenbosch; Matieland; 7602 WEBADRES w w w.diematie.com FACEBOOK w w w.facebook.com/ diematie INSTAGRAM @diematie OPLAAG 4 000 VOLGENDE UITGAWE 21/04/2021 ADVERTENSIE diematieads@gmail. com ARGIEF Vorige uitgawes van Die Matie is in die biblioteek beskikbaar

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die plek maak. Die herinneringe, die sukkel, die lag, die pret, maar die meeste van alles, die lewensles: om te besef almal gaan nie altyd op dieselfde manier as ek dink nie, en ek gaan nie altyd reg wees nie. ’n Mens smag aan die een kant om net weer terug te keer na ’n normale lewe: om uit volle bors te kan sing by ’n Die Heuwels Fantasties-konsert en om die Woordfees soos normaalweg te ervaar. Aan die ander kant, hoor ’n mens week na week hoe die gevalle in Stellenbosch styg; die gevaar bly daar

dat jy iewers onwetend aangesteek kan word, en dat jy dalk iewers ’n ernstige siekbed kan veroorsaak.

Ons is immers steeds in ’n pandemie, en ’n mens sal daarteen moet waak om jou in sosiale interaksies te verlustig.

Volgens die nuutste data, is die COVID-19-gevalle steeds besig om te styg, en week na week kom die gevaar al hoe nader. So tot studente eendag voor in die ry kom vir die vaksines, moet ons maar doen wat ons kan om mekaar te beskerm.

Intussen moet ’n mens maar vrede maak met die feit dat dinge vir die volgende paar maande onvoorspelbaar gaan wees. As daar iets is wat die pandemie my geleer het, is dat niks ’n gegewe is nie.

Wie sou byvoorbeeld laasjaar in Februarie kon dink ons gaan in die situasie geplaas word waar ons met ons oë ’n ongemaklike glimlag moet maak omdat die maskers ons nie toelaat om met ons Colgate-glimlagte te pronk nie?

Intussen is dit maar net vir aanhou beweeg en geraas maak.

Die voedselpiramide is altyd in wanbalans as Gorrel hom verlustig aan DCM-donut. Gorrel se sweetpakbroek is al kledingstuk wat nog vir hom pas.

is Gorrel baie bly om te sien (en hoor) dat kampus weer lewe gekry het. Hier en daar het Gorrel ’n bietjie geskrik en gewonder of hy katte hoor baklei, maar die optredes was meestal puik! Gorrel is net dankbaar dat die deelnemers in eerstejaar is – hulle het nog baie tyd om hulle ware gawes en talente te ontdek.

beter nie. Gorrel is daar uit, met spice op sy springmielies en al, sonder om ’n fliek met n oog te sien – en met die wete dat Gorrel nie gereeld genoeg flieks toe gaan om te betaal vir ’n lidmaatskap nie.

Lectures overload Gorrel is annoyed with lecturers who have used hybrid learning as a reason to give more work.

If the timetable says that Gorrel has three lectures a week, there should only be three. What Gorrel doesn’t enjoy is getting four hourlong powerpoints and still being expected to go to an in-person lecture all in one week.

Is dit blêr of is dit sêr ?

Met Molassesêr wat weergalm deur die strate van Stellenbosch,

Geen flieks vir Gorrel nie Laasweek het Gorrel hand-aanhand met sy Gorrelina gestap na Pulp Cinemas, opgewonde om te fliek. Maar, swaar teleurstelling het vir Gorrel gewag met die nuus dat mens deesdae ’n Pulp lidmaatskap nodig het om fliek te kan kyk! Dis nou glo ’n nuwe instelling, maar nuut is ook nie altyd

Stellies doesn’t do deals Gorrel het onlangs opgelet dat die Stellies klere-handelsmerk van hulle produkte verkoop vanuit mobile winkeltjies. Alhoewel Gorrel vir Stellies tien uit tien gee vir innovering en aanpasbaarheid, het hy sy bedenkinge.

Is daar studente wat met ’n los R700 rondstap om hoodies te koop in Victoria straat? En as daar is, kan hulle vir Gorrel ook een koop?

OPINIONS

7 April 2021

9

It’s time to redefine our understanding of BBBEE MARZELE BOSCH

A

ffirmative action and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) have always been contested subjects among South Africans. There are certain groups of disenfranchised white South Africans who claim this to be “reverse-apartheid”. While it is better not to engage with these far-right groups, who often manipulate data to create an imagined crisis, it is important to be critical of the language used in more socially aware groups of all races.

Affirmative action is frequently thought of as preferential treatment, consciously or unconsciously. Through changing the ways in which we conceptualize black economic empowerment, we will be able to create a more equal South Africa for all its citizens.

Earlier this month, the Western Cape’s Minister of Education, Debbie Schäfer, tweeted a screenshot of a prospective medical student’s final matric results along with an alleged rejection letter from University of Cape Town (UCT). This top pupil received distinctions in all his subjects, graduating with an average of 96%. The obvious subtext being that he was rejected because he is white. Subsequently, it unfolded that this pupil was given a place based on merit but de-

clined the offer to attend UCT. Schäfer’s falsehoods and misinformation, created a platform for a barrage of racist remarks, all perpetuating the myth of white victimhood in South Africa. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated event.

Whenever there are discussions around access to opportunities for white South Africans, BBBEE is always portrayed as the perpetrator.

What I find even more disconcerting, is that these claims are never based on empirical evidence. A quick google search will reveal that in December 2020, the unemployment rate stood at 32.5%.

According to Stats SA, unemployment was concentrated among youths and black Africans, with black African women being the most vulnerable group. According to the Stellenbosch University (SU) review of 2019, 56.6 % of registered students were white while only 21.0 % were black. Coloured students made up 18.1 % and Indian students made up 3.2 % of the student body. Asians were the least represented at only 0.3%.

The South Africans crying “reverse racism” remain steadfast in their convictions, no matter what counter-evidence you provide trying to dissuade them of these delusions. They tend to twist the realities of life in South Africa to

create a specific narrative; white South Africans are being discriminated against in all sectors of society. This fear-mongering narrative disregards the reality of South African citizens who are still confronted with institutional racism and inequalities.

I like to think that, as one of the top tertiary education institutions of South Africa, most SU students do not oppose BBBEE, but are committed to structural changes to bring about equality. However, it might be time to challenge the ways in which BBBEE is conceptualized, even when you are an advocate for affirmative action. Before I continue onto my next point, I want you to imagine explaining BBBEE to a foreigner. Pay close attention to the framework and specific words you use choose.

BBBEE is often conceptualized as special or preferential treatment.

This narrative creates the idea that target groups need extra help and that, maybe, they would not be able achieve this level of success on their own. This further alienates BBBEE target groups, who must constantly prove that they deserve to be here. Understanding BBBEE as special treatment relies on the assumption that social rules are equal and fair, and certain groups need extra help to succeed. This

Marzele Bosch is currently doing a post graduate degree in Political Science also serves as an easy scapegoat to avoid confronting one’s privileges.

BBBEE should be viewed in terms of social equality. It is important to admit that the playing field is unequal. No one needs preferential treatment to be successful,

what people need are equal access to opportunities. In order to bring about meaningful and sustainable structural changes, we need to change discourse around BBBEE and consider what true inclusion entails.­

2016 Language Policy intended to ­include not exclude FLAVIA DAVIDS

Flavia Davids is currently a second year law student.

The Stellenbosch University (SU) Language Policy has once again become the topic of national controversy. The Afrikaanse Taalraad issued a statement in which it alleged that first-year students from the Minerva and Irene ladies’ residences, respectively, were told that

they were forbidden from speaking Afrikaans as per the university’s language policy. The statement, which was issued on 5 March 2021, sparked further controversy when it elicited a response from Democratic Alliance (DA) party leader John Steenhuisen.

Steenhuisen, and other like-minded individuals, have claimed that the language policy is a violation of Afrikaans-speaking students’ constitutional rights, and have implied that the policy’s intention is to do away with the language at SU entirely. The par­ty­ has also mentioned that it plans to lodge a formal complaint at the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) and ultimately to Parliament.

While it may be the obvious question that comes to mind, one that we feel requires an answer this very minute, it is not our job to discern whether the language policy was misinterpreted by the Irene and Minerva newcomers, or whether these events were merely taken out of proportion. Rather, we have to ask ourselves what it exposes about the campus community’s attitude towards inclusion of non-Afrikaans speakers.

We need to ask ourselves why it was necessary that SU implemented the 2016 policy to begin with. As reported by Daily Maverick, the university implemented

the 2016 language policy because “students were struggling to fully understand Afrikaans or dual-medium lectures and were feeling stigmatised by real-time interpretation (into English only). Many students felt excluded from campus life, citing Afrikaans residence meetings and events as examples.”

In short, the use of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction in a tertiary institution like SU had proven itself to be problematic and excluded people in not only academic spheres, but in social spheres as well. In an institution like SU, which prides itself on its vibrant campus life, exclusion poses a huge threat to the university’s “saam vorentoe” mantra.

However, was it the policy’s intention to do away with Afrikaans entirely? No. Has it done away with Afrikaans entirely? Also no. The policy itself says that the university would be using English “routinely, but not exclusively in its academic, administrative and social contexts.”

The Language Policy of 2016 was the university’s attempt (a rather late one, in fact) at further implementing the values of integration and inclusion. In an institution with welcoming cultures rooted in predominantly Afri-

kaans traditions, where everyone knows what the term ‘Klein Saterdag’ means and rugby has an importance that is almost deity-like, the Language Policy should not be equated with the erasure of Afrikaans in the Stellenbosch community. How can it when its seat at the table is fixed?

The language policy poses a unique challenge to Afrikaans speakers to extend an invitation to those who do not speak Afrikaans.

It poses the challenge to embrace inclusion and integration to form a campus culture that is not only accepting of diversity, but celebratory of it. The DA’s allegations are an insult to the Afrikaaans speakers at SU who have tried to include English speakers.

The answer is in the attempt.

The Language Policy does not threaten the erasure of Afrikaans at Stellenbosch University. The language policy of 2016 is SU’s attempt to redress and rectify deeply entrenched division, and it is a change that is not only required but should be welcomed. The question of course, is whether the Stellenbosch community is up to the challenge of embracing inclusivity and whether it will extend an invitation to others at the table.

CANVAS/OPINIONS

10

A Change for Prof Deresh FLAVIA DAVIDS

A

fter three decades at the University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN) as both a student and a scholar, Prof Deresh Ramjugernath decided that the time had come for a change of scenery. This change came in the form of a new position at Stellenbosch University (SU) as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) of Learning and Teaching. He succeeds Prof Arnold Schoonwinkel, who served SU for nearly forty years.

When asked what his first thoughts were when he heard the exciting news, Prof Ramjugernath said that it took a bit of time for reality to sink in. However, once the news had properly sunken in, the excitement of his new position hit this born and bred ‘Durbanite’ with the strength of an uShaka Beach wave.

“I was looking forward to getting started. It was an exciting opportunity to have a bit of a change in terms of location, environment and also institutional culture,” said Ramjugernath, who at 48 is one of the youngest people to hold the position of DVC of Learning and Teaching at Stellenbosch University, since the late Prof Russel Botman who attained this position at the same age in 2002.

In light of Prof Ramjugernath’s many achievements, it is unexpected that he almost never entered academia at all. During the final year of his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering at UKZN, Prof Ramjugernath worked as a tutor and practical demonstrator for the undergraduate students in the engineering department. One afternoon while he was demonstrating a practical, he was approached

by Emeritus Professor David Raal,

Stellenbosch University’s new Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Teaching and Learning Prof Deresh ­ Ramjugernath­, who started at SU on 1 Jan 2021. the module coordinator, and asked whether he had thought of staying on at the university as a researcher, to which he replied with an almost definitive no.

This took the professor of chemical engineering by surprise as he thought that Ramjugernath had a fantastic academic ability and that he would fare well as a researcher. After a holiday spent doing research for Raal and discovering that he enjoyed it. Ramjugernath “caught the bug” for research and later registered to do a Masters

degree under Raal’s supervision.

He would afterwards complete his doctorate under Raal’s supervision as well. Upon the retirement of his mentor, Ramjugernath started lecturing Raal’s modules on a parttime basis. ­ This kick-started his career in academia.

“It was never my intention to become a scientist and researcher nor an academic, but just by one person intervening and seeing some ability in me and encouraging me to pursue [it] t­ hat led me onto this journey,” said ­Ramjugernath.­

It is often said that the mark of a true leader is one that can lead by example. Prof Ramjugernath believes in this phenomenon. He recognises that to lead ­effectively, a leader must behave in such a way that they influence others to be the best possible version of themselves; to have integrity, a sense of responsibility and a mindset to move an institution forward, not backward. “Lead by example” is the mantra on which he bases the way he leads his life.

Although he is a hard worker,

Prof Ramjugernath recognises the value of taking time to rest. In his free time, he is an avid sports player and spectator. Among his favourites are cricket, tennis, squash and soccer. Prof Ramjugernath said that although rugby is one of his favourite sports, he does not believe that he has the proper physique for the sport. He backs the Proteas in cricket matches, he’s invested in the success of our Springboks and supports Ferrari in Formula One. Ramjugernath is not only interested in sport, but he also has an appreciation for the arts, particularly music. His favourite songs vary from time to time, but his alltime favourite artist is Canadian singer Bryan Adams, who has produced hits such as “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You”, “Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman?” and fan-favourite “Summer of ’69.” For a change of pace, one of his current favourite songs to listen to is “Fall On Me” by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and his son Matteo Bocelli.

Ramjugernath is a self-described “intense reader” of articles and biographies.

His current read is former President of the United States Barack Obama’s A Promised Land. He has spent a great deal of time living abroad, in Europe and North America ­respectively­.

When asked what his thoughts were on Stellenbosch’s tempestuous weather, Ramjugernath who is fully acclimatised to the humidity of KwaZulu Natal said that the change in weather was not ­discomfiting.

In addition to being the DVC of Learning and Teaching, Prof Ramjugernath has also served on several boards and i­ nstitutes.

Inclusive Multilingualism

TIVAN LEAK & WILLIAM SEZOE

Imagine a world in which everything is singularly centred around efficiency. Anything that hinders efficiency is immediately dispensed with. In such a world, there is no room for multilingualism, because multilingualism may be regarded as a hindrance to efficient and productive communication. Such a world is black and white, devoid of colour.

Culture and language form an integral part of an individual’s identity. Multi-culturalism, and more specifically multilingualism, brings colour to our world. It might not be the most efficient and productive method of communication, but it sure is colourful.

It feels as though we fail to acknowledge the importance of multilingualism, and by extent multi-culturalism, at Stel-

lenbosch University (SU), and the ripple effects that the university has on communities throughout the province and the country. Multi-culturalism is an indispensable asset to South Africa. There is something beautiful about ­people communicating in their mother tongue – laughing, arguing and sharing stories.

Why is it then that we are so eager to dispense with colourful multilingualism at SU in favour of a single-medium black and white approach? We believe it is because of the dominant role that Afrikaans has played in resisting the hegemony of English on campus and the stigma surrounding Afrikaans.

The problem with the environment at SU is that it is hostile to multilingualism. This is evident in the moot language policy of 2016 and the draft review, which is currently open for comment.

The 2016 language policy and the draft review are lacking in scientific rigor and academic competence. This is contrary to the expectations one might have of a world class academic institution such as SU which, as De Villiers reminds us, is in the top 1% of research universities in the world.

Prof. Wim de Villiers argues in an open letter (published on 3 April this year on Netwerk24) that SU “does more in and for Afrikaans than most other universities”. When listening to statements like these, and reading the policies, it might seem as though the university is committed to promoting inclusive multilingualism.

What we have seen thus far instead, is a lack of consultation with relevant academic authorities, basic definitional errors, an accountability void, and the reviewing of a policy in the absence of reliable

empirical feedback of its successes or implications. This makes both the language policy and the draft review seem like superficial last-minute initiatives to get supporters of multilingualism out of the university management’s hair.

We are not demanding impossibilities. What we demand, merely, is that the university should recognise the strength we have in our diversity. In practice, we call upon the university to help foster an environment that enables inclusive multilingualism to the benefit of all students. This can be achieved by setting measurable goals, consulting with relevant parties, providing explicit mechanisms for measuring outcomes and by rectifying transgressions of an appropriate language policy.

We as students can support each other to keep our ideal of inclusive multilingualism alive. We

must be tolerant of our fellow students and attempt to learn each other’s languages, rather than exclude them.

Undoubtably, another important part of achieving inclusive multilingualism will be the promotion of indigenous languages on campus, specifically Xhosa, and the preservation of Afrikaans as a scientific language.

We should keep in mind that the language policy has a ripple effect on society, especially with regard to education and the training of future teachers.

Achieving inclusive multilingualism might seem unattainable, but we can guarantee you that uphill battles have been fought on steeper inclines.

We still have a lot of fight left in us.

SPORT

7 April 2021

11

Miré Reinstorf: Leaping to new heights M KERSTIN LEE

iré Reinstorf, a first year BCom (Actuarial Science) student vaulted into the history books with her record-breaking jump of 4.12m in her u/20 age group. She competed at a Boland Athletics event in Dal Josafat, Paarl on 17 March, where the previous record of 3.95m had been held since 2001.

When asked about how she felt about breaking the record she said, “I don’t really focus on breaking records, I focus on my height and jumping the best I can.”

It was in Grade 8, when her passion for pole vault was + realised, after her athletics coach and her mother encouraged her to give the sport a try.

Reinstorf had no knowledge of the correct technique she needed to undertake and the strategy she needed to employ for pole vault. She was reluctant to try a new sport, not knowing that she would break the record in her age group five years later. When the shift from high school to university arrived, she was adamant to keep up pole vault which not only showed

her passion for the sport, but a long–term commitment to accomplish her goals.

Reinstorf displays a huge sense of diligence and sacrifice regarding her academics and her training, and the balancing act that follows. She has a routine in place which begins at 06:00 and consists of many activities including a twohour training session from 17:00 to 19:00 where she works on her technique.

In between the rigorous training, she devotes her time to her studies in order to keep up with the workload. A schedule like this can take its toll on anybody. Her family and her close-knit group of friends show her great support and only want to see her achieve her goals.

Although she exudes great talent, she takes each day as it comes and does not place too much pressure on herself. She chooses instead to focus on exceeding her own expectations.

She aspires to qualify for the World Athletics u/20 Championships held in Kenya, and the 31st International University Sports Federation (FISU) World University Games

which are going to be held in China this year. She would need to jump 4.2m to qualify. With her level of commitment and diligence, this might soon become a reality for her.

Her personal strategy involves an internal assessment of the jump. “Before I jump, I visualise

myself doing it two or three times and then I go onto the track. I go through my mind again and focus on what I have to go through in the jump,” she says.

Reinstorf’s humble demeanour is an integral part of her success.

She does not shut herself off to

altering her form and technique.

She believes that learning from her mistakes has resulted in huge improvements in her subsequent jumps.

Reinstorf is an athlete whose success is only beginning, which makes her someone to look out for.

HIGH UP MIRÉ AT THE BOLAND ATHLETICS EVENT IN DAL JOSAFAT Photo: Supplied

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE

Karla van Rensburg spoke to F1 fans about season predictions w

SANESHAN REDDY First year BCom (AccSci)

JOHAN SCHOEMAN Postgraduate LLB

TAMRYN BATES First year BAcc

DIRK TROOST Second year BEng (Industrial)

I think this season is going to be dominated by the battle between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.

As a Max Verstappen and Red Bull fanatic, I’m always backing the Bulls. At Imola, be sure to look out for Perez and Verstappen challenging the Silver Arrows and the Mercedes team.

After an exciting season opener at Bahrain, I predict that Max is going to arrive more determined than ever to beat Lewis, and I strongly believe that he will achieve this.

I am a big Max Verstappen fan, and I’m hoping he can challenge Lewis Hamilton for the championship. In the midfield I’m rooting for Ricciardo and Norris at McLaren.

RAFFIE VAN DER WESTHUYZEN Third year BA International Studies I really really want Max to win, because I think he has a good chance, but I think in the drivers championship, Mercedes will win.

New challenge for e-sport gamers EMMANUEL EKENE OKERE

Maties Sport is introducing a free online gaming challenge for both students­ and staff members, ­scheduled to take place this month.

The first phase of games will be played on 10 and 11 April, while the final phase will be played on 17 and 18 April.

On match days (Saturdays and Sundays), games are played from

10:00 to 16:00. Students and staff members of Stellenbosch University (SU) are encouraged to register and be part of this exciting tournament.

The e-sporting challenge takes place in two categories: E-sport and Chess. The games in the E-sport category include: FIFA 21, Counter-Strike and League of Legends. The matches can be played in

teams or as 1 v 1 contests.

For FIFA 21, 1 v 1 matches will be played on PS4 Consoles.

Counter-Strike will be played on PC, only on 10 and 11 April. The League of Legends game will take place over two weekends, and will be played in teams of five.

The chess games will be organized at a three-challenge level.

The first is a blitz format with four

players per team. The second will be the preliminary seven round Swiss tournament, followed by the final Knockout phase.

According to organizers, all online gaming will be streamed.

Participants who have signed up, have received communication about further details of the event.

Visit their Instagram page, @matiessport, to check out the

­flyers for more information.

Live commentary for chess games will be broadcasted on both weekends on the following platforms: https://www.aclchess.live/, https://www.facebook.com/africanchesslounge , https://www. youtube.com/user/Africanchesslounge1, https://www.twitch.tv/ aclchess.

WOENSDAG 7 APRIL 2021 | GR ATIS

All good things come to an end BRYNLEY VAN AARDT

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fter a tough day at the office on Monday evening, the FNB Maties are currently sitting on their first Varsity Cup defeat in three years after the FNB UCT Ikeys (Ikeys) put an end to the Stellenbosch side’s 25-match winning streak at the tournament.

After an opening try by the Ikeys in the seventh minute and a successful penalty kick in the 13th minute, they were able to stay at an eight-point lead until the 26th minute, when Maties captain David Brits was able to make it over the try line after a great scrum by his team.

A successful conversion by Nevaldo Fleurs was able to then bring the score to 8 – 7 in favour of the Ikeys.

Despite having over 60% of the possession in the first half, Maties continued to struggle against a 13-man Ikeys team who had been handed two yellow cards. Another successful penalty kick, as well as a try in the last minute of the first half by Devon Arendse, saw Ikeys leading, despite the disadvantage with 16 points to 7, after another failed conversion.

As play continued in the second half, the yellow cards did too. With a danger tackle in the 41st minute, the Ikeys’ yellow card tally went up to three for their first match of the season.

Two penalty kicks later, Maties were able to add another 6 points courtesy of Fleurs’ boot to bring the score to 16 – 13, still in favour of Ikeys.

Another yellow card – but this time to Maties’ Matthys Kitshoff, saw Ikeys take advantage of the extra man and add another seven

THAT’S FIVE POINTS Captain David Brits crashes to Maties’ first try on their opening Varsity Cup match against UCT Ikeys. Photo: Supplied points to their tally. Their second try of the game was aided

by a successful conversion from this matches Player that Rocks

James Tedder.

Ikeys kept up the momentum,

expanding their lead with another penalty adding three points to bring the score to 26 – 13.

After a fourth yellow card was handed to Ikeys, an opening was left for Maties. This opportunity saw Mitchell Carstens scoring a try in the 73rd minute followed by a conversion by Fleurs. This now brought the score to 26-20, meaning a single converted try would put Maties in the lead.

However, after a breakaway, Ikeys were almost able to extend their lead, but a dropped ball in the try zone after an impressive tackle saw Ikeys only rewarded with a penalty for their efforts.

Despite an impressive play in the final minutes by Maties in an attempt to steal the win, another penalty against them saw Ikeys kick the ball out and claim their first win against the Stellenbosch side since 2014. “[Monday] night was obviously not the result we wanted, or the start we wanted either. However, it is part of the game. It can take you to a dark place, but things can also switch around very quickly, so we haven’t lost hope. We are not going to ponder on it too long - we don’t really have the time to do that.

So, we are looking forward to the next game and hopefully we can change things around,” Brits said.

The Maroon Machine will be continuing their quest for Varsity Cup glory on 8 April when they take on FNB UWC in the second round of the tournament.

A strong FNB Wits team will also be waiting for them on Saturday 11 April as they finish off round 3 before taking their leave of the Varsity Cup village bio-bubble for the first time.

From maroon, to green and gold EMMANUEL EKENE OKERE

Sian Moore, fourth-year BSc (Sport Science) student, recently made her debut for the SPAR Proteas at the 2021 SPAR Challenge Tri-Nations series. The goal shooter, who has five caps to her name, is excited about her netball journey.

Moore made her debut appearance during a ranking test series in preparation for the 2023 Netball World Cup. The Proteas played against Uganda, which is

ranked seventh in World Netball and ­Namibia, which is ranked 23rd.

She has also played for the Southern Stings in the Telkom Netball League (TNL) series, where she made her debut last year. “I made the Southern Stings team for this year too, which is a fantastic feeling,” she said. She also played the University Sports South Africa (USSA) tournament and Varsity Netball for the Maties Netball team.

Moore’s journey began in her

matric year when she attended a talent identification workshop organized by Maties Sport. After the trial, she was selected for the high-performance team, which is remarkable for a first-year student. “I love the game. I enjoy our training sessions and all the hard work,” she said.

When asked about the impact of lockdown on the game, the newly capped Protea said that it was a stressful time with so many restrictions in the world of sport.

“It was difficult to stay fit and to maintain focus, motivation and drive,” she said. New protocols have to be followed during game – sanitizing, completing health checks, hand washing and clearance checks before training sessions have become the norm.

Moore acknowledges that the Maties and the Proteas have different levels of intensity during play.

There is more pressure when playing netball at a national level, com-

pared to varsity level, she admits.

She feels that playing for the Maties was a good platform to prepare her for higher intensity games.

Moreover, she believes that you should give your best whenever you are called to play on the court.

When asked to give a few words of encouragement to new Maties students, she said, “Dare to dream, make a plan and get there.

Don’t let adversity deter you from achieving your goals.”