16 August 2023

Who are YOU voting for?

AURELIA MOUTON

As election season descends upon the student body of Stellenbosch University (SU) questions about the role of the SRC, the voting procedure and voter turnout arise. Die Matie corresponded with the (SU) Electoral Commission (TEC) for the 2023/2024 election term to discuss these matters and more.

Bridget Massey, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission and third year LLB student, explains, “The act of voting is the cornerstone of a democratic country and in this case, students have their say in who is elected into student leadership and the decisions that those leaders will make. Student voting is a powerful way for individuals to exercise their rights, voice their opinions and shape the future of this University.”

Massey further emphasises that, “a decline in voter participation poses a serious threat to the life and culture of Stellenbosch University” and that there are a myriad of issus that need to be addressed but can only be resolved with student input.

The student leader election process is three-fold: Firstly, there are the SRC elections, which the Electoral Commission manages. Secondly, ex officio body elections which include the Academic Affairs Council, Prim Committee, Senior Prim Committee, Societies Council, Tygerberg Student’s Representative Council, and the Military Academy. Thirdly, there are the elections of the Faculty Student Committees, Societies and House Committees.

The SRC election occurs in two stages; campaigning and voting. The Electoral Commission explains: Voting takes place through the My.SUN voting platform which can be found under the “Campus” tab. Voting will open on 24 August and will close on 31 August at 23:59. Every registered student at Stellenbosch University will have access to vote in the SRC elections. Voting is completely anonymous and secure, and each student will be allowed to vote for a total of 9 candidates during the SRC elections.

Wandile Sebothoma, TEC Public Relations Officer and fifth year MBChB student says, “The resources that students need to support their studies ie. financial aid, academic assistance, and study facilities can only be allocated if upper management is aware of the needs of students. The only way the rectorate would be made aware of the shortfalls of residence catering, bursary and registration issues,

transport to move-in/go to class, and safety on campus is through the voice of the SRC - our direct line of communication [is] to rectorate, not always the HC in charge of our immediate area. Students should vote so they are sure the person who will represent their needs is competent to fill the role and has the best interest of the student body at heart.”

The TEC highlights that the voting process is a constitutionally mandated element of student leadership at SU and “not a fruitless administrative task”.

“Disengagement from this process threatens the democracy of leadership at Stellenbosch and brings into question the calibre of leaders appointed,” says Palesa Makena, TEC Electoral Officer and fifth year MBChB student.

With a voter turnout of 2618 students, only 8.83% of the entire SU student body, in the 2022 SRC election, voter apathy appears to be a massive hurdle the Electoral Commission has to overcome in its attempt to conduct a fair, legitimate and productive election .

“Voter apathy is a reality faced by the TEC in previous years, however, the role the TEC must play in improving voter outcomes is not clearly defined. This is a multifaceted problem, which requires a series of interventions to remedy the

situation, one such intervention might be demonstrating ‘cause and effect’. Most people, and I speak not only with regards to myself but a greater student demographic on Tygerberg perhaps fail to see the valuable role played by the TSRC and how they shape the day-today lives of students”, says Fezaan Desai, TEC Administration Officer and third year MBChB student.

Desai suggests that “active engagement with more students (especially students new to campus), perhaps in smaller groups, and informal settings might go a long way in remedying the situation…”

Massey believes that a “comprehensive voter education system through co- and extracurricular activities” has to be prioritised to draw voters in and have them make informed decisions.

“The Commission recommends that the SRC should appoint the 2024 Electoral Commissioners at the same time or immediately after the SRC managers are elected so that ample time for voter education can occur. In certain environments within the university, such as Residences, voter turnout and participation are far greater than in non-resident students and I think that this is due to the residences creating a sense of community. A sense of community within the University on a larger

scale needs to occur,” Massey states.

She further says, “And even if the Electoral Commissioners were elected earlier, it is important to realise that it cannot just be the Electoral Commission who strives to educate voters and increase voter turnout. There needs to be a buy-in from student leadership structures, residences and most importantly, Stellenbosch University management to create a comprehensive voter education system.”

When asked if they believe there is a direct correlation with low voter turnout for SRC elections and what we see nationally, in terms of political apathy from many young people, Fina Macuacua, the Director of Finance and Logistics for the TEC and final year BAgric (Business Management) responded, “Yes... When it comes to campaigning, many parties make a lot of promises, and they all think that they can do better than the current ruling party but once they are in power, they don’t do as they said they would. The same thing happens in the University’s elections. The prospective leaders see the mistakes of the current leaders and promise to do better but I don’t think that they ever do the research on how the mistakes come to be. So, they always think they can do better and when they are finally elected, they also follow the same

path. This is because of the lack of research backing up their promises. Students see the same pattern occurring every year and this makes them lose hope. The same thing happens nationally. People do not want to vote because they don’t trust that they will do as they promised.”

Massey also added that, “there definitely is a direct correlation between low voter turnout for SRC elections and what is seen nationally when it comes to political apathy for many young people.”

She continued, “The voter turnout in the first democratic national election in 1994 was 86,87%. In 2021 the voter turnout was 45,86%. 2024 marks 30 years of democracy in South Africa. I think that hope for change in the country has disappeared due to the loss of trust in the government and the challenges that the country faces, such as high rates of unemployment, lack of access to education and gender-based violence. I think there is a dominant idea that “nothing will change” and that “my vote won’t make a difference”. We are all aware of the issues that Stellenbosch University has faced in the past, especially last year, and the fact that redress and transformation have been slow to change. I think that the institution itself and the SRC need to reassure learners and the student community that Stellenbosch provides education in accordance with the Constitution and the rights enshrined in the Bill of Rights and in a setting free from discrimination.”

As the 2024 national elections draw near, only 13,87% of people aged 20 to 29 are registered to vote as of 16 August 2023, according to the Electoral Commission of South Africa.

Die Matie urges all its readers to register to vote in the national election and attend caucuses and vote in the upcoming SRC elections.

The Electoral Commission has narrowed down six themes that it would like candidates to focus on during their election run and caucuses: bridging the gap between promises and practical change (22 August), inclusive and progressive leadership: striving for advocacy of the diverse Stellenbosch experience (23 August) on Tygerberg campus, academic and financial exclusion (24 August), what do power and representation look like as an SRC member (25 August), racial reformation and multiculturalism at Stellenbosch University (28 August), and GBV and LGBTQIA+ (29 August). The general caucus will take place on 30 August.

WHAT’S GOING ON, SA? After 29 years of democracy, youth voter turnout remains declining and at university level young people are disinterested in campus politics.

PHOTO: Die Matie Archive

NSFAS: The gift that keeps on taking

LESEDI MNISI

Stellenbosch University’s (SU) Student Representative Council (SRC) has called on students to join a march to Parliament which will take place on 16 August. This march is meant to demonstrate disapproval of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme’s (NSFAS) direct payment system. The SRC plans to hand a memorandum over to Dr Blade Nzimande, along with a petition.

The demonstration will also serve as a way to make other concerns that students have regarding NSFAS’ recent decisions known. These decisions include: issues with the direct payment system, the R45 000 accommodation cap, defunding of students and administrative issues faced by students still waiting for their funding status.

According to Martin Viljoen, SU spokesperson, there are various concerns that SU shares with students. These include the fact that “student debt may impact the 2023 graduation and 2024 registration processes, students losing their private accommodation, students mental health and academic performance that can be affected by these challenges.”

Viljoen further added that SU “remains committed to working with and supporting students in need. This includes students affected by changes to the [NSFAS] funding, which has repercussions for food security, housing allowances and access to funding (including direct allowance payments).”

In their commitment to supporting such students SU assisted students in need with accommodation and meal allowances to the value of approximately 21 million rands. These funds were sourced from

donor, internal and institutional funding according to Viljoen.

NSFAS rolled out its direct payment system in June and has already started paying some funded students. However, students, institutions, and political parties alike are still making their disapproval of this system known.

One of the main issues with this new direct payment system is that the companies that have been appointed to make the payments will, according to a tweet by the SRC, “walk away with millions of rands [which shows] that it is not students benefiting from this new scheme but rather the companies appointed.”

A statement released on 13 August by the Deputy Chair of Administration, Mzwakhe Bolotina, with the Democratic Alliance Student Organisation (DASO) at SU, said that they support the SRC’s “calls for peaceful demonstrations outside [of] Parliament.” It further urged “[all] students at SU to participate in the peaceful demonstration to show their concerns and solidarity.”

Further, the DA has called on

the Public Protector to prioritise its investigation into the contracts NSFAS has awarded to students. This is in terms of the direct payment system, as well as the defunding of students by NSFAS.

In a statement released on 1 August, NSFAS said that 456 403 funded students at universities as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges were paid on 25 July. This was done through the direct payment system “to students whose registration data was uploaded successfully.”

Further, according to this statement the cutoff date for the submission of registration data was 23 July. NSFAS also claimed in this statement that its attempts to ensure a “[fully] functional studentcentred model” is being “hijacked by thugs.” They then added that they can “confidently confirm that claims circulating across various digital media platforms stating that NSFAS paid wrong and large amounts of money to students are false claims meant to discredit the scheme's new system.

How the taxi strikes affected SU

LAURA MUTYAMBIZI

The recent taxi strike in the Western Cape was implemented on 3 August by the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) which arose from the tension between the taxi industry and the City of Cape Town. The strike quickly turned violent as petrol bombs were being thrown at buses, trucks, and private vehicles. This affected the flow of traffic on major highways in Cape Town and surrounding economic hubs,which led to many people looking for alternative routes. In addition to this, many commuters who rely on taxis were forced to look for alternative transport or walk long distances, often in the dark and in fear of danger. There were security short postings because the security staff could not travel to the Stellenbosch University (SU) Stellenbosch, Tygerberg and Bellville campuses.

According to Nicolette van den Eijkel, Chief Director of SU Facilities Management (SUFM), “The service provider initiated a pickup and drop-off service, and his vehicle was damaged by stone throwers on more than one occasion.” This further affected the security short postings. In order to combat the short postings, SUFM provided alternative accommodation, meals, and toiletries to staff who could not return home at night. Van den Eijkel stated that “there is no change in the crime trend of the past week in comparison to previous weeks.” Additionally, the student shuttle

could not operate, which had a major impact on students studying on campus at night, particularly those who do not live in Stellenbosch Central close to campus. This was extremely frustrating to students relying on the shuttle to travel to and from campus.

Owami Gumbi, first-year BA (Humanities) student stated, “[I] frequently use the shuttle service as I stay off campus.” This was a huge inconvenience because he had to become more aware of the time he left campus so he would not be walking during dark hours. This also affected his academic schedule as it is more convenient to work on campus during loadshedding hours.

More importantly, many faculties had to make class adjustments as some lectures were delivered online, or class recordings were made for students who could not attend classes in-person. Hybrid teaching, reminiscent of the Covid-19 time, was implemented throughout the last week, as SU lecturers and tutors attempted to minimise the impact of the strike on the academic programme.

“I was impressed by the University’s swiftness in responding to the situation - probably because Covid gave us a lot of practice in adapting quickly. A lot of lecturers were also able to lean on old recordings from the pandemic days. Overall, there was very little disruption in our learning as lectures were placed online and recordings

NSFAS plans to continue with its new system “despite the ongoing deliberate media smear campaign to discredit the payment platform.”

During a meeting between Dr Nzimande and the Board of NSFAS on 8 August NSFAS confirmed that 86% of the students who had been paid through the direct payment system had been able to “successfully authenticate themselves and receive their allowances.” They further said that they are “reviewing and assessing” the remaining students who could not receive their allowances as they had not “fully authenticated themselves.” At this meeting NSFAS reported that the direct payment system would “reduce instances of unauthorised access to beneficiaries allowances, payment of ghost students, inconsistencies and delayed payments of allowances.”

NSFAS further reported that its direct payment partners were “appointed through a fair and compliant procurement process.” They also noted that the partners they appointed are sponsored

by banks that are in possession of commercial banking licences. They assured Minister Nzimande that their partners are all compliant Financial Service Providers.

This report was in response to concerns raised that NSFAS’ partners for the direct payment system were not in possession of banking licences as per a finding by the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA).

Another rising issue that is yet to be dealt with by NSFAS, is that of provisionally funded students funding statuses changing unexpectedly. This is different from students who have been defunded. Defunded students are those who were funded by NSFAS and had been receiving their allowances but were removed from NSFAS funding lists due to findings of alleged fraud committed by the students in their applications for funding.

The provisionally funded students are those who are on the final stage of their application and are awaiting their allowances; however, many of them have found that they have been moved back on the application stage. An anonymous SU student, whose identity is known to and has been confirmed by Die Matie said that this is something that has happened to them.

“I was provisionally funded [stage 6] and as of August, it [the website] randomly stated “registration received” [stage 1], this was very concerning for me as i was not informed of any changes. I went to the NSFAS office on campus and they said I was on the funding list; however, I am still disheartened as I am not getting any funding due to these changes.” the student said.

attacked on N2

were made available for students who couldn’t make it to class due to the riots. It felt like the University was very pre-emptive and considered our interests before we even had to ask, and that was quite refreshing,” said Alexandra Hoek, first year postgraduate LLB student.

Bonolo Tlhapane said, “I thought that it was heartbreaking to see the incident resort to violence and the rise in criminal acts during that time. Further how the strike really affected those who needed taxis the most to get to work and make a living. It’s disappointing that innocent civilians and the poorest in the country were caught in the crossfire.”

Lastly, the taxi strike affected the SU campus cleaning services according to Hein Swanepoel, Senior Director of SUNCOM. He stated that working hours were adjusted to consider the staff’s transport arrangements, and part-time workers had to be contacted where necessary. However, there was a greater impact on the Tygerberg Campus as only 7% of the cleaning staff were at work daily. This led to only critical services, such as cleaning the bathroom and refuse removal, to be tended to.

The taxi strike ended on 10 August as Santaco and the City of Cape town had to come to a resolution. And this means it is back to business as usual, classes will resume in-person, the shuttle will be operating and SU staff has reliable transport again.

On Saturday 22 July at around 13:00, Lucilla Vlok, a third-year student, had a traumatic experience on the N2 in Cape Town.

Vlok is a 22-year-old student studying Digital Marketing and Communication at Inscape Stellenbosch. She plans to pursue her honours in Strategic Brand Communication next year. She has been described as a strong and determined individual.

Vlok was on her way to fetch her friend from Cape Town International Airport when a stone was thrown into the window of her car. “I heard a loud crashing sound,” Vlok said. “I first did not know what was going [on], but as soon as I looked in the rear mirror of my car, I saw large amounts of blood dripping from my jaw down my body.”

“I started to look around me to see what happened. [I noticed] the big rock on the passenger seat, and the window on my side [was] completely broken. I gathered [the perpetrator] threw it,” Vlok added.

Vlok proceeded to phone her friend as well as her father, and drove to the airport thereafter she was sent in an ambulance

to Stellenbosch Mediclinic.

“I have talked to many police officers, and they came back to me the next day saying that they are patrolling in that area,” Vlok said. After a few days had passed since the incident, Vlok was informed that the police had shot one of the suspects.

“From today (12 August 2023) I have not heard [from] them again, which I really think needs more attention,” said Vlok.

Following the trauma of this ordeal, Vlok commented on how the experience impacted her dayto-day life. She said, “I always heard stories of people that went through such scenarios, but never did it happen to someone close to me or with me. It just gives you a different perspective on life [and] how you need to appreciate every minute of every day as such things can happen very quickly.”

When asked about what advice Vlok would give following her traumatic experience, she said, “To look out ahead when you see danger, to be aware of your surroundings and when you are trapped in a situation to try and stay calm to find a way out.”

PHOTO: Emma Cochrane

Free pads now available on campus

TEGAN GIBAUD

There has long been a demand for free sanitary products within schools and universities. Stellenbosch University (SU) is taking the step towards this by providing free menstrual pads. They can be found in the women’s bathroom on the ground floor of the Jan Mouton Learning Centre, as well outside of Tinie Louw. The sanitary products will be dispensed from vendinglike machines. This will grant students-in-need access using an independent card system, and these cards will be distributed by student leaders, residence heads, and social workers. This system will also be set up on the Tygerberg campus.

Die Matie asked Viwe Benxa, a Bridge The Gap ambassador, what prompted this initiative. He responded, “We saw, and know that there is a need on campus. Most communities and stakeholders are always having pad drives in order to alleviate some of the access to pads issued on campus, and we wanted to be part of the solution. These machines are creating a solution to the period poverty in our country and on our campus.” Benxa also shared that one of the Bridge The Gap initiatives is called End Period Poverty, and that you can read more about this at ‘matiesalumni.com’.

South Africa faces a period poverty crisis, which is described as

a lack of access to sanitary products, usually due to financial limitations. This can negatively impact a woman’s life as access to sanitary products are crucial to manage menstruation. The negative impacts range from missing school or work, to being susceptible to infection.

Aurora Marco is the co-founder of The Cora Project, a womenled NGO focused on supporting menstruators in underprivileged communities. She is also the founder of Aurora Wellbeing. Marco shares that period poverty isn’t spoken about enough as it is visibly hidden and still treated as a taboo topic.

“Women’s health is a human right, and without human rights, society goes nowhere,” Marco states.

The Borgen Project, an antipoverty NGO, estimates that 7 million South African girls cannot

WhatdoesWomen’sDay mean to you?

A recognition of the struggle of women, past and present. A day to honour the sacrifice of women who fought for the rights of modern women.

- Ash Harding,

BSc

(Human Life Sciences with Psychology)

Electoral Commision v Lydia Residence

AMBER APRIL

afford to buy sanitary products and globally, the World Bank states that at least 500 million women and girls lack the facilities they need during their periods. Period poverty is not just a lack of access to sanitary products, but also the lack of access to menstrual hygiene education, private toilets, handwashing facilities and waste management.

“This is a real adversity of many women on our campuses and in our country. Menstruation is not a choice and we should be trying to help those [who] cannot afford to get access,” Benxa states. Marco shares that when governments fail to support underprivileged menstruators, NPOs and NGOs have to step in. This is why organisations such as The Cora Project, pad drives, and access to free sanitary products are so important.

On Friday 4 August the hearing for the Electoral Commission and Another v Lydia Ladies Residence and another was set down. The hearing took place in the Old Main Building at Stellenbosch University (SU). As per Rules of Procedure laid out by the Student Court, the hearing was to take place in an open court whereby any person from the student community could attend.

The preliminary judgement of this case was handed down on Friday 31 March. The issue at hand was whether Section 53 of Lydia Residence’s Policy on Election of the House Committee during COVID-19 was consistent with the Student Constitution of SU in 2021 (Student Constitution).

On 12 May 2023, the Appeal Court laid down a judgement in respect of an appeal to the preliminary judgement. The Appeal Court held that the decision of Student Court is not appealable, therefore the appeal and the cross appeal were dismissed.

The hearing was heard on the merits of the case, which was that the tallied election results

rewo Happy Women’s Month, SU!

for electing the Lydia House Committee was not published. Rather, it was kept in the possession of the Residence Head in the case that a replacement was required. The issue was whether this non-publication of the results was unconstitutional in terms of the Student Constitution. Then the question was whether residences are open to establish their own practice with regards to election, or whether a decentralised model of election applicable. The applicants noted that a culture of secrecy undermined the student constitution which aims to provide maximum access to information for students. Chapter 3 of the voting policy noted that no verification of tallied results can be made of the validity of the outcome.

In closing, it was noted that the Student Constitution is to be seen as the superior in comparison to any Residence Constitutions and rules.Student court has noted that judgement is to be delivered within two weeks from the matter being set down for hearing. The case has been heard in front of Student Court for 11 months.

It is a date of significance for all of South Africa, and it is of great significance to me as equal rights is something I want to fight for.

- Thomas Muir, BA (Law)

I’m non-binary, but AFAB (Assigned Female At Birth). Women’s Day — I think — is, or should be — a celebration of female presenting and minority genders. A celebration, and also a space to raise awareness of the challenges faced by non-male individuals.

- Morgaine Puttergill, BA (Humanities)

Women’s Day is celebrated on 9 August every year. This day commemorates the protest of the unjust past Apartheid laws, specifically referring to the 1956 march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, where approximately 20 000 women stood together against the pass laws set out by The Population Registration Act of 1950. This brought members of the Federation of South African Women together to march and stand in powerful silence outside the Union Buildings for 30 minutes.

This year, Die Matie asked students from Stellenbosch University (SU) what Women’s Day means to them, and asked them to share which women have been significant in their lives.

I've always connected a lot with teachers, one of my high school teachers is really important to me. She was really kind to me, and supported me to stay in school even when my mental health was bad enough that other teachers wanted me to drop out. She always made time for me, emailed me in the evenings and over weekends when I needed support, and stayed in touch after I left school too. She was a role model to me. And I really hope that I can be more like her one day. More embracing of others, more accepting and caring, and pouring out love for others.

- Morgaine Puttergill, BA (Humanities)

My mother because she’s my best friend.

Women’s day is a day to celebrate women, and their individual and collective power.

- Jared Mc Arthur, BA (Humanities)

This Women’s Month, take a moment to appreciate the women of the past who strived towards equality for all, the women of today who have touched your life, and the women of the future, who will carry on the legacy of being strong, loving and impactful.

My grandmother. I have always had a very close relationship with my grandmother and I don't know what I would do without her.

- Thomas Muir, BA (Law)

- Jared Mc Arthur, BA (Humanities) ow e r .

My Mother. She is an incredible woman who works insanely hard to support me and give me every opportunity I could want.

- Ash Harding, BSc (Human Life Sciences with Psychology)

o .rew

THE PATH TOWARDS ENDING PERIOD POVERTY The new pad dispensers in the Jan Mouton

PHOTO: Charlotte Moss

womanWhoisasignificant inyourlife,and whyisshesignificantto you?

INGE VAN DER WESTHUIZEN

Student

Life

Hi Maats! Die Matie here, and welcome back! It’s been quite the week...

<3 With winter coming to an end and spring flowers in bloom, it’s time to stop and smell the roses, well that is if you can still smell... as predicted in the previous, “Die Matie Says” most Maties have a bad case of the sniffles... pro-tip: a glass of Corenza-C does wonders for the body;)

<3 In case you were wondering why your episode of Love Island just wasn’t loading, it turns out that an underwater rockfall broke the cables. How horrible?!

<3 Also, did you guys know, DIS DERBY! Because we heard some Oros-mannetjies and smurfs were battling it out last week. This coming week the Dagbreek and Wilgenhof manne will go head to head, hopefully no one gets painted this time. Talk about a fashion crime!

Totally kiln’ it at The Pottery

When asked to describe The Pottery in three words, “live life creatively” was what Dillion Marshall chose to go with. It perfectly sums up the vibe that has been cultivated at this new ceramic café on Ryneveld Street in Stellenbosch. Marshall decided to go off the beaten path and not

take over his mother’s business, which is the highly successful Wonki Ware. He embarked on his own journey to create something special. Marshall, alongside his wife, Jocelyn Marshall, came from humble beginnings. The Pottery, as we know it, started in a factory with a leaky roof. With hard work and perseverance, the couple turned it in something beautiful. All of the ceramics are uniquely

made,” says Marshall. It goes through the hands of five different people, making each product special. The Pottery has an authentic atmosphere, inviting all to feel welcome and at home when they walk through the doors. Marshall describes Stellenbosch as a “place he has always wanted to come to,” as the town “breeds a group of creative and artistic people.” So, the heart behind

coming to this lovely little town was that the brand would suit the vibrant community. The Pottery has the potential to be the new hub of students everywhere, with stunning ceramics from Wonki Ware lining the walls, and bright pastel colours spotted everywhere. These can be purchased individually and are not merely there for aesthetics. Walking in, patrons are met

with “Good Vibes Only” on the floor – a concept capturing the feel of the space. With multiple places to sit, such as the outside deck facing Ryneveld Street, the main part of the café, and the cool courtyard outside; it is truly possible to make use of the space as you wish. Whether you want to catch up with friends or let your creative side loose. The Pottery is suited for all your needs. When asked about what he thinks would appeal to students, Marshall says, “In this day and age, the diversity of how people socialise has changed people are enjoying different avenues of socialising. And I feel the combination between ceramic painting and having a cocktail or [a] glass of wine is very appealing.” The menu truly caters for everyone, offering cocktails, coffees, and organic, fresh food. Marshall refers to The Pottery as “hip and happening” which truly summarises exactly the energy that it exudes. The Pottery also has big plans for events in the future. They intend to bring in live music for everyone to enjoy while they paint their ceramic wares. Not only that, but pottery classes are in the works for people to learn the art from scratch and get the funkiest ceramic keepsake out of it. Marshall hints to keep an eye out for a spring party, hosted by The Pottery in September. Check out their official Instagram, @the.pottery, for more updates.

‘She has life’: Alison Botha on GBV

Trigger warning: Gender-based violence and sexual assault.

A Women’s day event was held at the Neelsie Cinema on 9 August.

It was hosted by AfriForum Jeug, a South African civil rights foundation. This event brought Stellenbosch University (SU) students, as well as the community of Stellenbosch, together. A panel discussion was held about recovering from gender-based violence (GBV) and a presentation done by GBV survivor, Alison Botha. For those who are not familiar with this remarkable woman, she survived a horrific abduction involving rape, 32 stab wounds to her abdomen and 16 lacerations to

her neck. This was inflicted by two infamous men, Frans Du Toit and Theuns Kruger, and happened in Port Elizabeth, 1995. 30 years later, Botha continues to inspire many with her remarkable survival story. Botha discusses her recovery and gives advice on how she deals with her trauma. She does this with years of experience as a motivational speaker, which was sparked by her attack. Her advice encourages all students that have suffered from GBV to open their minds and allow the opportunity to grow from the bad things that have happened to them.

“I never let those men have power over me or my mind,” says Botha. Botha enthusiastically shares her ABC’s (Attitude, Belief and

Choice) in her speech. She wants to make a difference in the lives of those who have had a similar experience. An attitude of value and selfworth is what Botha needed to survive her ordeal and she encourages everyone present to value themselves. She says that at the time, although she did not think she had enough belief in herself, 1% of belief kept her alive. Every day you have a choice to make, and Botha says that after her ordeal she chose how to respond to her trauma. She chose to be in control and not allow anyone or anything to get in the way of that.

In an interview with Botha, she shared her best piece of advice for young people dealing with

this kind of trauma, “[they] should stop allowing the person who has hurt [them] to have more power than they deserve. Find the things you can learn from and take the good from the bad experience [...] Take charge of your life and your future.” She also has a book titled I have life It is available for purchase online or in stores. It is a detailed version of her journey as a survivor of GBV. You can visit her Facebook page, AlisonABC, if you are interested in a signed copy of her book:

PHOTOS: Emma Jane Metcalf & Margaret Louw

PHOTO: Abigail Baard

HANNAH DEL CUORE

REBACCA ROSSOUW

The Stellenbosch music scene is filled with something for everyone. If you’re a music lover there’s probably no festival you haven’t heard of. Well, let us introduce you to Simonstock, a niche music showcase, hosted in the Simonsberg quad on 12 August.

Simonstock has existed since the 90’s and is named after the famous Woodstock festival. Die Matie spoke to Kyle van der Merwe, one of the festival’s organisers. According to van der Merwe, “Simonstock’s main purpose is to showcase the musical talent in Simonsberg and allow every resident the chance to live out their rockstar dreams.” And there were certainly many rockstar dreams present on stage. Barbie and the Kens had the crowd singing along to pop and indie favourites. The band prides itself on their ability to read the room and play music people want to hear. (Yes, they did play Wonderwall.) Their ambitions stretch beyond Simonstock and they hope to one day, “Make the type of music that can top the charts.”

First-year band, Five Seconds

Simon says…Rock on!

of Blou, also had their fifteen minutes of fame on stage. For a band who only played together four times before performing, they weren’t half bad. Lead guitarist and vocalist, JG Wegner, even pulled out his harmonica for a Bruce Springsteen number.

Then, of course, it was the Headliner — The Residents, a Simonstock favourite with this being their third performance at the festival. Both festival organisers, van der Merwe on the guitar and Johan Olivier on the drums, played for the band and highlight that the festival gives them the opportunity to do what they love (while getting applauded for it). They see Simonstock as their ‘Genesis’.

Christiaan Timmerman, The Residents vocalist, describes their music as “loud, negative music” which, surprisingly, was a great hit with the crowd. The band calls themselves a “guaranteed encore” which they definitely proved with their energetic performance that drove the crowd wild, although it might also have something to do with Timmerman pouring Jägermeister down the throats of fans close to the stage.

The band first started practising in the same garage Francois van Coke started Fokofpolisiekar in. This could only mean good things for the band who plan on staying together after graduation. In their own words, “We enjoy making music, and we’ll keep making it together until we don’t enjoy it anymore.”

All in all, Simonstock has immaculate vibes with a crowd consisting of everyone who knows what an electric guitar is — and even if you don’t, Simonsberg acapella also opened the show. Everything from Red Hot Chili Peppers to Ed Sheeran is fair game on the Simonstock stage with the tiniest bit of edge sprinkled in. As Timmerman shouted to the crowd: “F**k your sing-alongs.” Van der Merwe hopes the festival grows in the coming years and emphasises that it’s not for profit. The focus remains on Simonsberg residents and their rockstar dreams. Die Matie definitely recommends putting this event on your calendar for next year and keeping an eye on the bands birthed from the festival. As one of the Kens from Barbie and the Kens put it, “We’re not done yet.”

How to: give the budget a chance at house dance

You have the dress, the hair, the nails. Question is, do you have the funds?

One of the most daunting aspects of a house dance can be the costs of attending one. On top of the tickets, the additional dress, suit, hair, and makeup, can be a pretty pricey business. Your night of fun and fancy-dress does, however, not need to break the bank. There are many budget-friendly and often more sustainable options that will make your house dance special and memorable.

Rent, borrow, rewear, or buy an outfit second-hand. Not only does this cost significantly less than buying new, it also doesn’t feed into the vicious cycle of massproduction and overconsumption. By wearing a friend’s matric dance dress, or that suit your dad wore

in the nineties, you will have an outfit with more character and you will still look amazing.

It is also important to not restrict yourself to conventionality. Get creative when dressing. Wear traditional clothing from your culture, or style an item you have worn before differently.

Another tip is to make use of student discounts! Many businesses in Stellenbosch offer lower prices to students, or have discounts during house dance season. There are also multiple wonderful small student-run businesses on campus and in residences that offer services like hairdressing, nail art, or photography at reasonable prices. Keep an eye out for advertisements for these student-run businesses on notice boards around campus, and on social media.

When in doubt, phone a friend. Ask a friend to help you with your hair or makeup, or borrow a pair of shoes from them. Supporting a friend in even the smallest way can ensure that they too have the opportunity to enjoy a house dance without the added financial stress. When it comes to photography and transport, splitting the cost amongst a group of friends can also lower your expenses significantly. Spending quality time and dancing to your favorite songs with friends is what your night is about after all.

House dance season is a funfilled and exciting time of year that most certainly does not need to cost you an arm and a leg. Make sustainable choices, help friends where you can, and prepare to show off your best moves on the dance floor.

PHOTOS: Supplied

PHOTOS: Sebastiaan Whitward

ALMÉ HUGO

LENÉ VORSTER

The time is upon us, the event of the year for all up-andcoming bands, and live music enthusiasts alike. Aandklas’ annual Battle of the Bands is back again. A handful of musicians take to the stage and compete to determine who has what it takes to survive the Stellenbosch live music scene. This time, with a grand total of 13 bands competing.

Each band participating in the battle is required to perform 2030 minutes of original music, making this event the best place to unearth a new favorite band. You might even discover a new genre yet to be explored, seeing as every type of music is allowed. Multiple judges critique each band on a wide range of different aspects such as; their originality, the interaction between the band and the crowd, performance on stage, overall technique of the band, and the style and structure of their songs. The bands who manage to garner the best score are moved on

to the next round. Once the final round rolls around the remaining bands will go head-to-head to determine who will reign supreme and be crowned the winner of 2023’s Battle of the Bands.

Cistamatic and Cape Riot, two bands that performed in the first heat of the battle, have been chosen to move on to the next round. Avalanche and Downtown Gypsies, who performed in the second heat, advanced as well. In the third and final heat of the first round three of the five bands who performed were selected to partake in the next round. Anny Whyte Band, The Govt., and Tussen Die Lyne, were the last band to perform in the evening.

Renée van Niekerk, the vocalist of the band, commented on their performance, “[They started] us off at 11pm […] The pressure was on.

[…] Soon we grew a crowd of 10 people into 140. We had so much fun, and the excitement carried far into the night. So yeah, magic.”

Aandklas has a specialty for hosting bands, which they most definitely make use of. They

play a crucial part in keeping Stellenbosch’s live music scene alive and kicking. 23 Renegades, one of the bands that performed in the first heat, commented on the Aandklas atmosphere.

“We really had fun and we were so happy about the support and energy that the crowd gave us, it’s what we love about Aandklas. No matter who you are at the battle of the bands, if you’re good enough the crowd will respond well.”

Last year’s semi-finals included Face Jackson, Splinter Die Band, The Stone Cherries, and the progressive heavy metal band, Prodical, which managed to secure the win. Many of the bands that have taken part in this event have gone on to play various gigs across Stellenbosch and the rest of the country, making the Battle of the Bands the perfect stepping stone for musicians looking to enter the world of live music.

With the semi-finals taking place on 16 and 19 August, the finals on 26 August, and seven bands remaining, the last few rounds are shaping up to be one hell of a show.

KRIS BENCE

AANDKLAS BATTLE OF THE BANDS 2023: BACK AND BIGGER THAN EVER!

PHOTOS: Shutterbug photography, @shutterbug.png on Instagram

PENSEEL-POËSIEAAND: SKRYWERS STEEK VLAM AAN VIR AFRIKAANS

kortverhale. In 2022 is daar meer as 150 skryfstukke ontvang waarvan slegs 70 gepubliseer is.

Die samekoms van eendersdenkende mense, die smaak van wyn in jou mond, en die geluid van kuns en kreatiwiteit wat deur jou ore lui – wat meer wil ’n mens hê? Liefhebbers van die Afrikaanse digkuns het Donderdagaand, 3 Augustus, in die Oude Leeskamer versamel en op die punt van hulle stoele gesit om te luister hoe die nuwe generasie se skrywers hulle meesterstukke voorlees. Gedigte oor liefde en die dood, verhoudings en woorde, en selfs ’n ode aan ouma en haar sjokolade koekies is voorgedra. Daar was iets van alles en iets vir almal.

Die jong, innoverende studente van Stellenbosch se vlam vir Afrikaans brand helder en is vasgevang in die 2022-Penseelbundel. Penseel is ’n studentegedrewe, Afrikaanse digbundel wat bestaan uit gedigte en

Dié handjievol gekose individue het die geleentheid gehad om Donderdagaand hulle gedigte voor te lees en met trots hulle kuns met die wêreld te deel.

“Dis ware appreciation,” sê Lienke Norval, tweedejaar-BAstudent in geesteswetenskappe, wanneer sy oor die aand praat.

“Ek waardeer geleenthede soos Penseel verskriklik baie, want dit gee vir die mense wat skryf as ’n passie sien ’n plek om te wees en ’n plek om gepubliseer te word.”

Norval se liefde vir skryfwerk is beslis nie ’n nuwe passie of ’n tydelike stokperdjie nie, maar eerder ’n gawe wat al van kleins af begin het: “My ouers het baie embarrassing videos van my wat as vyfjarige gediggies vir hulle doen.” Norval noem dat sy beplan om haar honneurs in joernalistiek te doen, maar indien haar toekoms nie uitwerk

soos sy beplan nie, sal sy altyd aanhou skryf – waarookal sy is. Anouk Cronjé, derdejaar-BAstudent in geesteswetenskappe, se werk verskyn nie net in die 2022-uitgawe van Penseel nie, maar sy is óók die redaktrise. Haar waardering vir Afrikaans en digkuns het reeds in haar tienerjare begin en sy noem dat sy hoop om ’n doktorsgraad in Afrikaans en Nederlands te verwerf. “Ek sal altyd aanhou skryf.” Haar gunstelingskrywers, onder andere, is Loftus Marais en N.P. Van Wyk Louw. Die Penseel-poësie-aand was ’n groot sukses en daar is geen twyfel dat die studente van Stellenbosch ’n passie en talent vir die Afrikaanse digkuns het. Hulle bars van opgewondenheid oor die toekoms van Afrikaans. Wie weet, dié skrywers mag dalk net eendag jou nuwe gunstelingskrywer word!

GOODNIGHT AND GOODLUCK

HAVENGA & EBEN LABUSCAGNE

On 4 August the South African electronic band, GoodLuck, performed a sold-out show at Daisy Jones Bar. The band consists of Ben Peters, Tim Welsh, and Juliet Harding. Harding is the lead vocalist who most people will recognise as the face of the band. She loves to chat about music, travelling and selflove, but sometimes she wishes that she gets more questions about her cats (this is then when her eyes really light up).

“We truly love Stellies — the people, the nature, the culture, and the food. Especially performing at Daisy Jones as it is one of the top venues in the country.” Although they get to have a blast partying with students; Harding does miss the age where none of her friends had to go to work. The age where you can go out with your friends for a drink, go hiking, or visit the beach. In honour of Women’s Month, Harding explains that there is still a lack of representation especially in the music world. “There are a lot of festivals we perform at where I am the only woman on

stage. We try to give opportunities to up-and-coming young female artists, and it is important to be conscious about it.”

GoodLuck is finishing up their last local tour before heading to the UK and Vietnam. This includes a first-time tour to Manchester and a festival in Vietnam with 20 000 people. Harding cannot wait to visit the famous Hanoi food markets in Vietnam again. As they will be driving around in the UK, they want to make time to do something fun each day.

“For me to be visionary is to have self-love. It is important since you cannot give something that you don’t have. There are a lot of people who never feel worthy, and it does take time. It was only recently in my career that I came to a place where I could truly say I practise self-love,” says Harding.

The crowd enjoyed every second of GoodLuck as they brought a type of energy that puts the whole venue in a good mood. They performed old classics, some new songs, and one of their favourite songs to perform, “Be Yourself.”

Peters, who is the producer and electric percussionist, highlights the importance of collaboration when producing new work. He says it keeps their approach fresh.

“Sometimes it’s another artist, but it can be an instrumentalist or a songwriter. Sharing the burden of the inception of a song definitely helps prevent getting into a holding pattern.”

Outside of South Africa, Goodluck has an established fansbase in Europe. Peters says the response from them, and their place in the music scene there, is rather different from their position locally. He points out the relative difference in industry scale and advancement. However, in their lack of exposure to the Euroindustry norms, they have found a niche that appreciates their vastly different industry context.

“We [have] come along without any intention of proving anything because we know how far below the level we are. So, we don’t play by any of the rules that the bigger dogs subscribe to.” In their self described “naivety,” Goodluck bring to the fore what few big name acts can claim; a less experienced, yet self-forged musical identity.

The group, in between touring across South Africa and abroad, have been working on an album. While no release date has been confirmed, it is sure to be an exciting step in their ever vibrant release history.

ANE

PHOTOS: Supplied

FOTOS: Emma Olivier

SU ACAPELLA: SOULFUL SONG AND STANDING OVATIONS

While you may hear the word “acapella” and internally cringe, remembering that one kid who really overdid it with the cup song after Pitch Perfect was released, imagine instead a better picture that may set your mind at ease: a music-filled night at the Conservatory on Victoria Street. Surrounded by the rich history and even richer acoustics of the Endler Hall, the SU Acapella 2023 competition has been about coming together in a show of unity while celebrating SU tradition.

Soulful and powerful, many of the SU Residences took to the stage in full force during the semifinals on 8 and 9 August. In a spectacular display of energy, talent and standing ovations, Endler Hall came alive with vibrant sound, so much so that the passion was almost palpable.

Featuring a diverse array of genres and languages throughout the competition, a large emphasis was placed on producing a proudly South African feel, mixed with that good old Matie spirit. It’s not hard to see why. After all, where else would you be able to watch a group start soulfully with Michael Jackson’s Man in the Mirror and somehow end up dancing to Sister Bethina?

With auditions taking place way

back in March and an Acapella camp mid-year, this has no doubt been an extraordinary journey for the participating groups. Dylan

Lee, head of the Simonsberg Group and 3rd time performer, remarked on his team’s hard work during their intense rehearsals

WOMEN IN MUSIC

In honour of Women’s Month, Die Matie has curated a playlist featuring some of the wonderful women in music

but also on their main intention.

“If it sounds good, if it sounds bad, we’re just there for a good time,” Lee stated while elaborating

on how the competition has created an established space for men in residences to have fun, express their most authentic selves and, as he put it, “just sing.”

Head judge Merna Nicholls, along with her fellow judges Jerobiam Julies, Blaine Josephs and Jade Paige, remarked on the competition so far and the success of the semifinals. “You feel like you grow with the groups,” Josephs commented as the judges mentioned how fantastic it was to watch the performers improve over the course of the competition and implement the advice that was given to them.

The judges additionally commented how amazing it was to watch the groups participate in the acapella tradition in new and exciting ways. They “[brought] it back alive,” Paige stated, as they reminisced on their own days of singing acapella.

The competition will ultimately culminate on 19 August where the teams Sonop, Osloff, Simonsberg, Aristea, Metanoia, Eendrag, Nemesia, Hippoyini and Dagbreek will battle it out in the final round. With the title of “winner” bestowed only unto one, the groups will have to be in top form. Some would even say, they’d have to be pitch perfect.

OORWINNINGSGEDIG

Reike Fereirra

Hoekom voel alles so swaar?

Die swaartekrag

Sleep my tot binne my graf

Die Dood roep my naam

Hy terg my met lewenslange rus

Ek weier om ʼn slagoffer te wees

My hande strek na die hemele

Asseblief help my op

Ek is moeg gehuil

Vervelig is my soute trane

Van oog, na wang, na mond

ʼn Bekende roete vir my hartseer

Maar ek skree:

Rus in vrede jou verdrietigheid!

Vandag juig ek geluk

Vandag begrawe ek die diep donker gat in my hart

JADE WAINWRIGHT

PHOTOS: Kris Bence

In the News Room

As I wrote the front page article I wondered to myself what happens when a nation’s youth has given up? Hear me out... I am not saying we have given up already, but I am saying that it’s beginning to look like we have. As I ponder the state our nation finds itself in, I wonder what solutions we have when all the university educated young adults want to leave and never come back.

I am guilty of it too; those fantasies of jumping in a plane to whatever so-called “first world” country has the least hassle for visa requirements

and a good average entry-level salary for journalists (doesn’t exist!). I worry about the energy crisis, the sanitation crisis, the education crisis, crime crisis, etc., etc., etc... ad infinitum. Or rather: ad nauseam. You get it. I worry, because we don’t vote and we don’t read the news (except those snippets on Instagram, or some aunty’s forwarded Whatsapp message). We never paid attention in Life Orientation when the teacher explained your rights AND your responsibilities. I listen to peers who tell me that they don’t believe that they can make a difference in

Journo of the Edition: Taro Samuelson

this country. They are just one person after all, right? With the national election around the corner I fear we might let slip through our fingers the opportunity to contribute and engage meaningfully as active and informed citizens of our country. Like I said, I am not saying we have (past tense) given up... I am saying let’s NOT give up. Let’s read the news, even if it is once a week... as long as it’s news from an objective, factual and constructive publication. Might I suggest the Daily Maverick or GroundUp News? For our Afrikaans readers,

Vrye Weekblad is as relevant and groundbreaking as it was 30 years ago. Get registered to vote and read party manifestos before you decide to give in to the lure of identity politics. Compare what parties promise and what they actually do. Shut out the noise and think for yourself. Twitter is not the place to shop for a political party and it is certainly not the place to have a civilised debate. If you have thoughts and opinions, send them in to us or join a debate group. Learn to have these conversations in a way that is productive. Exit your echo chamber! Talk

to people who don’t look like you, or talk like you or think like you. Expand your horizons and be open-minded and comfortable with the fact that you don’t know everything and/or you might be wrong. Challenge your biases, be they unconcious or not, and tackle those preconceived notions or archaic narratives you hold of others. Breathe and remember:

I love running; it’s always my escape when my studies become too stressful.

I believe magic is real, it happens when you make your friends smile.

My favorite pastime is reading — a book is the most palpable form of dream.

I really enjoyed being a theatre kid, and I love watching plays when I get the chance.

ARGIEF / ARCHIVE

All editions of Die Matie from 1941 to 2011 are available online in PDF format as part of SUNDigital Collections on the SU Library’s website. Other editions of Die Matie are available on Issuu. Please visit https://issuu.com/diematie

Other editions of Die Matie are available on Issuu. Please visit https:// issuu.com/diematie

KLAGTEPROSEDURE EN FOUTRAPPORTERING / COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE AND REPORTING ERRORS

Die Matie is onderhewig aan ’n gedragskode wat by Studenteregering by die Afdeling Studentesake beskikbaar is. Klagtes oor Die Matie se inhoud moet volgens die uiteengesette prosedure binne veertien dae ná publikasie aanhangig gemaak word.

Die Matie subscribes to the Press Code of Ethics and Conduct for South African Print and Online Media.

If we do not adhere to this code, please contact the Press Council of South Africa at presscouncil.org.za/https://www.

If we do not adhere to this code, please contact the Press Council of South Africa at https://www.

RAAK BETROKKE / HELP OUT KONTAK ONS /GET INVOLVED

To get involved as journalist, reach out to us on any of our social media platforms or send an email to 21801886@sun.ac.za

CONTRIBUTORS

LAYOUT: Helena Reid

PROOFREADERS:

Simone Christain

Theodora Njati

EMAIL diematie75@gmail.com

WEBSITE www.diematie.co.za

INSTAGRAM @diematie

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FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/diematie

Editorial staff

Editor-in-Chief Aurelia Mouton

Layout Editor Jaime Watkins

Photo Editor Emma Jane Metcalf

News Amber April

Student Life Jani Roux

Dag & Nag Kobus Erasmus

Sport Kezia Daniels

Sub-editor (Eng) Alison Hermanus

Sub-editor (Afr) Aldo Horn

Social Media Emma Hamman

Online Jani Roux

Managing Editor Tiaan Booyens

Financial Manager Emma Cochrane

Abigail de Klerk

CHICKEN OR EAGLE?

A SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST

The rivalry between Helshoogte and Eendrag continues. The neighbouring residences’ annual Derby Week kicked off with a bang on Sunday 6 August. What followed was an exciting week of sparring between the Hoenders of Helshoogte and the Eagles of Eendrag, with matches taking place all over Stellenbosch. This year’s tournament marked the 20th anniversary of Derby Week. Prior to the start of Derby Week in 2003, Eendrag and Helshoogte were opponents in several rugby fixtures, but never under the banner of a derby competition. Since the official inception of Derby Week in 2003, the competition has grown to include a variety of activities, including chess, dominoes, debating and e-sports. Touchies, tug-of-war, soccer, squash and ultimate frisbee also had their place on this year’s calendar, as did netball and basketball. This longstanding event has become something of Helshoogte and Eendrag lore. Each year, residents and spectators alike look forward to an exciting week filled with banter, buffoonery and a lot of body paint. Derby Week 2023 was no different. After the tournament is over, there is also something about the derby that lingers. It seems that, despite the fact that the derby is, in fact, a competition, it is not as clear cut as that. The goal of Derby Week is not so much the pitting of the residences against each other, nor is it about the creation of a winner and a loser. Derby Week is a great week of competitiveness, engagement, participation, fun and new friendships. And also body paint. As it has been doing for the past 20 years, Die Matie bore witness to the longstanding tradition between Helshoogte and Eendrag.

FLAVIA DAVIDS

PHOTO: EMMA JANE METCALF

PHOTO: KEZIA DANIELS

PHOTO: UYANDA TYUSHA

PHOTO: SEBASTIAAN WHITWARD

PHOTO: SEBASTIAAN WHITWARD

PHOTO: SEBASTIAAN WHITWARD

PHOTO: KEZIA DANIELS

The usual chaos of men's res netball

The derby was running hot, and as the stakes of the yearly duel between Eendrag and Helshoogte got higher by the day, so did the gees. Orange and blue jerseys lined the netball court at Rhenish Girls’ High. The umpires were hard-pressed to keep up with the battalion of netball-yielding men. The game started with blazing speed, and Helshoogte immediately adjusted their strategy to match Eendrag’s strengths. “This wasn’t our original team, but I put the players in during the first quarter and it worked,” explained the blue team’s coach, Megan Nel. This quickly led to Eendrag stumbling from their game plan, and Helshoogte quickly took the lead; already ten points ahead by half-time for a score of 13 – 3. Nobody in the crowd, neither the blue nor orange side, lost their spirits. Loyal supporters lined the field with signs and posters, which helped the teams keep up their energy in the fast-paced game.

Each team possessed unique strengths and the quickest path to victory was to capitalise on the weaknesses of the opposing team. Helshoogte’s defence was eager to take the ball, and Eendrag’s coach, Luciano Visagie, recognised that this is where they could have redeemed the score. “Our defence was strong, I think the issue was when the ball reached the circle – that’s where we lost. If we scored with each of the balls that reached the circle, the score wouldn’t have reached twenty.”

The ball travelled far and fast, and the supporters had to strain to keep up. The umpires had to work to keep their heads in the breakneck game, as stepping and handling errors often halted the mostly inexperienced men’s plays.

“Helshoogte played the game. They managed to pause, slow down and play effectively by following technique,” admitted Visagie, “Our players allowed the adrenaline to dampen their skills.”

In the second half, Helshoogte’s growing progress was slowed as

Eendrag settled into their best tactic against the blue team. By playing the outside of the court, Eendrag managed to slow the game down and play an impressive last quarter. Though, the blue lead was just too great to close right at the end, and the whistle blew with the game at 25 – 8 for Helshoogte.

The match, even though mostly realised by inexperienced players, was competitive throughout and an exhilarating watch. A netball match between two men’s residences certainly kept the derby spirit and the sportsmanship healthy. With the derby scale still tipped to Eendrag’s side, the trek to the netball court warmed up both residences for a thrilling derby final.

"Dis al" for Helshoogte and Eendrag derby

The tensions between neighboring Stellenbosch University (SU) residences Helshoogte and Eendrag came to a head during the derby’s final rugby fixture at Danie Craven Stadium on Friday 11 August. Eendrag had an ambitious start at the beginning of Derby Week’s final fixture, gunning for the try line right after kickoff. Their play was quickly countered by Helshoogte’s defense. After a series of major tackles from both sides, Helshoogte continually applied pressure and scored their first try, together with a successful conversion within the first 12 minutes of the first-half. With the confidence boost from the first try and conversion, Helshoogte broke through Eendrag’s defense line and scored a second try, but ended up narrowly missing the conversion.

During the match’s second half, Eendrag made several attempts at closing the point gap. After several handling errors made by both teams, Eendrag was able to put 5 points on the board. Within the last 7 minutes of the match’s second half, Eendrag was still trailing 10 points behind Helshoogte.

What started off as a case of survival of the fittest eventually created a champion out of the Helshoogte team with a final score of 15 – 5. The men in blue’s victory was met with great excitement by its supporters. “I’m super proud of the Hellies gents,” said Tauf Christian, incoming head mentor of Vesta PSO and second-year BA (Humanities) student at SU.

“[Helshoogte] pushed through really well in the first-half, although the second half proved to be a bit more challenging. The guys were tired and we could see it. Their game was lacking, but otherwise they did well.”

Sergio van Rooyen, first-

THE CHICKEN'S GOT THE WIN IN THEIR COURT

SAMUELSON

TARO

The derby between Eendrag and Helshoogte is everexciting, ever-growing, and ever-unique. This year, tennis took a shining role in the annual competition, and helped tip the scales to the team that craved the trophy the most.

Under the winter sun in Stellenbosch, the two men’s hostels met on the tennis courts. Each was ready to give it their all. Supporters riled up players from all around the fields, the players kept their focus, and as a result they produced exceptional games.

With both teams ready to warm up the courts, the first two games struck one-all on the scoreboard. Helshoogte proved their hunger for the win with an 8 – 0 game. They made it clear they were ready to make their mark. However, Eendrag leaned into their opportunistic mindset and broke through each of the other singles games, taking three wins 8 – 6.

Eendrag’s players boasted a water-tight defensive game strategy, and were able to hold most of their serves throughout. The Orange house had a few dire moments in some of the games, but managed not to let the Blue’s lead affect their levelheadedness. They closed the gap each time, then stretched it just enough in their favour.

Helshoogte managed to counter with a confident

and hard-serve style, and they kept their focus on their attacks. Skillful serves and fastballs that kept the crowd's necks moving led them to their first victory at the start of the day. The following losses could not make them lose faith in their strategies.

For the closing part of the match, with the crowd enthralled with the blur of rackets, the doubles tournament started at an electric pace. Eendrag fought hard and played more aggressively than in the singles games. Their pace, fuelled by the adrenaline from their lead, quickly proved unsustainable. Arms swung wider and their serves were strong, but their defences declined just enough for Helshoogte to close in on Eendrag’s lead.

Helshoogte’s coordination proved a better strategy than Eendrag’s for the doubles. Their teammates worked to keep the Orange side on their toes throughout the game, and Helshoogte dominated both games with 8 – 4 and 8 – 5 scores respectively. Both residences had three games in the bag. They looked to the points to settle the day without a tie. Eendrag acquired 33 points throughout the tournament. But Helshoogte pulled ahead with 42 points, and subsequently added a few more points to the Blue derby scoreboard.

year BEd (Intermediate Phase Education) student, also commented on Eendrag’s performance in the final rugby fixture. “We all expected Eendrag to win because they already had the trophy. What’s ironic is that we all expected Eendrag to win, but Helshoogte caught them off guard,” he said. "Eendrag had good possession of the ball, but couldn't get anything out of Helshoogte’s defense.”

Despite the Helshoogte victory in the final fixture, Eendrag bravely defended their title as winners of the derby. This win made it

their 13th consecutive win since the derby first started in 2003.

“I think the win speaks to Helshoogte’s mentality and to our never-say-die attitude,” said Lusanele Nelani, House Committee member of Helshoogte and final-year BA (Law) student at SU. “[Eendrag] may have taken the derby, but they can’t take away our pride, our respect, and our love for one another. The fact that the boys could go out and absolutely demolish from the first to the last minute was an amazing thing to witness.’’

TARO SAMUELSON

FLAVIA DAVIDS & MISHA FRAY

Photo: Sebastiaan Whitward

Helshoogte Mens

team Photo: Sebastiaan Whitward

ORANGE YOU GLAD player blocked Photo: Sebastiaan Whitward

BACKING THE BOYS supporters stand Photo: Sebastiaan Whitward

Battle of the bergs:

Simonsberg vs Helderberg derby

KEZIA DANIELS

In the spirit of derby season, Simonsberg and Helderberg held their derby in the first week of August. It was known as the Battle of the Bergs, or as Simonsberg’s residents called it: “Daar is net een berg.”

Here are the results of every event that took place:

Ultimate Frisbee : Simonsberg 15 – 3 Helderberg

Bowls : Simonsberg 5 – 1 Helderberg

Football/Soccer : Simonsberg 0 – 1 Helderberg

Squash : Simonsberg 4 – 0 Helderberg

Boxing : Simonsberg 3 – 2 Helderberg

Golf : Simonsberg won by default

Night Cricket : Simonsberg won – 24 runs

Rugby : Simonsberg 3 – 34 Helderberg

Pub Games : Simonsberg 4 – 1 Helderberg

Overall, it was a successful Derby ‘23 for the Simonsberg men as they've come out on top as the "only berg".

Photos: Kyle van der Merwe

ONE OF ONE belt in hand

Photo: Kyle van der Merwe

ON TOP players carry in

Photo: Kyle van der Merwe

IN THE EYE opponents

Photo: Kyle van der Merwe

BATSMAN Simonsberg mates

Photo: Kyle van der Merwe

HANDY another batsman

Photo: Kyle van der Merwe

GET LOW it's hard to miss

Photo: Kyle van der Merwe

HUDDLE UP both teams in action : Kyle van der Merwe