Prof Baatjes Runs for the Rands

LESEDI MNISI

The Vice Dean of Learning and Teaching at the faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences of Stellenbosch University (SU) is once again running for change.

Professor Karin Baatjes undertook to run 49 kilometres (by 49 days after her 49th birthday) in an attempt to raise R49 000 for the iThemba Bursary fund.

“I feel a deep need to invest in students and also even school learners, so I have done various projects over the years to support education in its various forms.” says Baatjes.

Baatjes acknowledges that “R49 000 is not enough to sponsor a student’s [entire] fees”; however, she hopes the money raised could help fill any small financial gaps students may face.

about why social impact community morning is important for newcomers to engage in during Welcoming week.

Student communities took part in activities ranging from a beach clean-up for Helderberg Ocean Awareness Movement to making food packages for Rise Against Hunger.

“Ultimately it’s a valuable part of welcoming [that] newcomers enjoy every year and makes them feel connected to their Stellenbosch community," said Naude.

Ilke Olivier, Social events and affairs Heemstede HK, explained that giving back to the community should be seen as a privilege and that doing it with your residence makes it so much more fun.

“Universities have a social responsibility to develop wellrounded thought leaders who have broadened their horizons and feed what they have learnt and experienced into society,” said Hector-Kannemeyer.