Letter to the editor
On the 9th of April Palestine Solidarity Committee at UP organised an interfaith dialogue on Palestine, in collaboration with the Centre for Faith and Community. The event brought together panellists from diverse faith backgrounds: Reverend Frank Chikane (Christianity), Professor Steven Friedman (Judaism), Na’eem Jeenah (Islam), and Karuna Mohan (Hinduism). The discussion focused largely on the role of faith in activism and was moderated by Prof. Tanya van Wyk from the Faculty of Theology and Religion.
A central theme that emerged in the dialogue was the shared ethical foundation across different religions, a common framework on which we can build a future rooted in justice, dignity and coexistence. Rev. Chikane reflected on how his Christian faith led him to prophetic activism against the brutality of Apartheid. This corresponded directly with Na’eem Jeenah’s point that to combat the weaponization of religion by oppressors, we must “weaponize” religion for the cause of justice and solidarity, against those who wish to divide us. Prof Friedman highlighted the way Zionists have perverted religious texts and turned them into a license for apartheid and genocide. He emphasized that this exploitation applies to all religions and in order to fight it, we need to re-establish religion as a system of values that defines our humanity as opposed to an exclusive identity that separates us from others. This means that we cannot remain indifferent to oppression regardless of where and to whom it is happening. People of faith who believe in the principles of compassion, justice and equality that unite all our religions, have a responsibility to retrieve and reclaim faith from those who have perverted it.
Faith-based organisations like churches, mosques, synagogues and temples have a moral duty to take a firm stance against oppression and injustice. Karuna Mohan mentioned the South African Hindu Maha Sabha’s motto: “Vasudhaiva Kutumbukam” (the world is one family). The internalization of such a profound principle of unity forms a potent force for solidarity with all oppressed people around the world. Similarly, when Christians truly embrace the inclusive love of Christ, and when Jews and Muslims commit themselves to a politics of
hope and compassion that is embedded in both Islam and Judaism, then together we can create a social fabric that cultivates peace at home, in Palestine and across the globe. Therefore, interfaith solidarity against the greatest moral issue of our age, the genocide in Palestine, not only makes us stronger in our struggle but also make us better Christians, Muslims, Jews, Hindus, and essentially better people.
South Africa already has an interfaith movement to offer to the world. In December 2023, South African Jews for a Free Palestine (SAJFP) held a “Shabbos against genocide in Palestine” service at the Claremont Mosque in Cape Town, which also coincided with the second night of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. Over 50 Jews, Muslims and Christians came together to hold this interfaith service. Imam Rashied Omar of the Claremont Mosque highlighted how slim the possibility is for hosting such a gathering anywhere else in the world, so we shouldn’t take it for granted. We should celebrate it. Anglican theologian Michael Worsnip said in his speech, “If Jews, Christians and Muslims are not standing first for humanity before anything else … then their faith is useless. If we are not standing for humanity, what is the point?” Through an interfaith dialogue on campus, we wanted to strengthen these bonds of solidarity across different faiths and remind students the ‘point’ of it all, that our beliefs should serve a purpose that is greater than ourselves: justice, equality and freedom for all. The discussion ended with a prayer drafted by Prof. Stephan de Beer, the Director of the Centre for Faith and Community.
As the PSC-UP, we would like to keep this spirit and consciousness alive on campus through an Interfaith Forum for Social Justice. This will be a collaborative effort between students, academics and religious communities. The aim is to have people from different faiths come together to have open discussions and possibly find solutions to modern-day issues, ranging from Palestine to various socioeconomic injustices we face in our daily lives. We are living in an age of moral ambiguity, where everything is relative and anything can be true and righteous. So we turn to our spiritual leaders - our priests, pastors, imams, rabbis and gurus - for guidance. However, this immense
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power cannot go unchecked; we must hold them accountable on whether they practice what they preach by taking a stance against oppression and injustice.
Students can get involved in this initiative by speaking to their faith leaders and communities about participating in interfaith discussions relating to political and socio-economic issues. We would like to build this project together with UP students, so please share your ideas with us through our Instagram page: @psc_up. In our bio you can also find a link to join our Whatsapp group. Together we can show the world that our generation, united in purpose, can create a more just and humane world. However, we need to start, first and foremost, with a common vision, which we hope to build through an Interfaith Forum on Social Justice.
~ Gülce Aksoy
Apology
In the previous edition of PDBY, we mistakenly published the incorrect photo in accompaniment to the article about Coach Sihle “Sigz” Ntuli titled “A Sit-Down with Coach Sigz”. This has been corrected in the online version of the paper, and the correct photo is also published here. We apologise for this error.
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Visual: Coach Sigz (Sourced)
Mayhem in Thuto: The Reality of the First Student Forum of 2025
Relebogile Manana
On 9 April, the University of Pretoria’s first Student Forum since 2023 proved to be a chaotic and seemingly unorganised evening, which many attendees would describe as anything but productive. Despite having the intention of holding the SRC accountable for the first quarter of the academic year, the forum quickly became a night of confusion, disorder, and heated political clashes.
Held in Thuto 1-1, the forum opened with the presence of various Faculty Houses, structures, and societies, including political groups like the EFFSC and the unregistered, unrecognised society SASCO. The EFFSC made an expected dramatic entrance, singing as they entered with fewer numbers than one would have anticipated. Meanwhile, representatives from TuksRes such as House Nala, Mopane, Madelief, and House Khutso, among others, were present, with Tuks Ekhaya members being the last residence to arrive and the first to leave.
The Constitutional Tribunal’s Chief Justice Omila Toto opened the proceedings as the presiding officer, emphasising the forum’s purpose as a space for transparency, accountability, and dialogue. SRC Deputy Secretary Sakhile Masemula took to the podium to mark attendance and confirm quorum, urging those in attendance to take themselves and the platform seriously.
Before meaningful discussion could begin, a member of SASCO raised a point of order, arguing that proper procedures were not followed for the convening of the forum. Specifically, the member argued that the required 14-day notice had not been given on appropriate platforms, mainly ClickUp, to notify students about the gathering in a timely manner. This grievance goes against the Constitution for Student Governance (CSG). Masemula defended the oversight, claiming the CSG had been amended by the Temporary Student Council (TSC). This sparked an immediate outburst of objections with EFFSC and SASCO members disputing which version of the CSG was in effect for the forum. One EFFSC member said, “Which rules are we even using, some are using 2022 and others, 2023.” Chief Justice Toto clarified that the amended 2024 rules were in place, although that did very little to calm the chaos.
Regarding Masemula’s claim about the amendment of the CSG, the SRC released a
statement clarifying that it is false that the CSG was amended by the TSC. The SRC clarified that the amendments were made on instruction from the Council of the University following the outcome of the 2023 elections. In the statement released on 11 April, they apologised for any confusion or inconvenience caused. Confusions such as this one set the tone for the rest of the evening. One SASCO member argued that the forum should be collapsed due to the late notice, pointing out that the communication about the event was only shared on the SRC’s Instagram on 3 April, which does not follow the required notice as set in the CSG.
The SASCO member remarked, “That is why it is empty.” Masemula admitted to the delay, owing it to the resignation of the SRC Media, Marketing, and Communications (MMC) officer, and claimed that technical limitations prevented the required ClickUp post to students. Many of those present added to the disorder and used the forum as a space to air grievances rather than engage in the structured manner that the forum was meant to take place. Some attendees resorted to completing their assignments, further adding to the lack of engagement with what was taking place. When Law House arrived after the initial 10-minute recess, it was evident that the forum had long lost any coherent rhythm.
SRC Members’ Presentations
The forum eventually limped into the next phase of proceedings, being the presentation of quarterly reports by the relevant SRC members.
SRC President Vhutshilo Muambadzi took to the podium, highlighting issues addressed by the SRC such as registration support, financial aid, and historical debt relief. However, an EFFSC member interrupted her presentation, saying that she was deviating from the written quarterly report that was made available to students online. Despite the criticism, Muambadzi defended her stance, explaining that the quarterly reports available online did not capture the full scope of the SRC’s efforts.
This defense prompted more backlash. A SASCO member warned, “If you continue [with] this, President, you are going to create a chaotic sitting.” He continued, “This presentation that the president is doing is very disingenuous because it will allow for the following members to come on stage and do the same thing. The president must present the quarterly report that students were given access to, not what she is reading now.”
Muambadzi then used the available quarterly report for the remainder of her presentation.
Deputy President Tshiamo Makunye followed with a speech centered on justice, transformation, and SRC autonomy. He described previous SRCs as “toothless dogs” and advocated for nationwide student leadership collaboration. He made comments regarding food pricing, financial strain for missing middle students, and academic exclusion. Tensions reached a peak when a member raised concerns about transport for students to Mamelodi and Pretoria West campuses, claiming that the forum resembled an EFF meeting. A notable eruption took place when an EFFSC member responded to the point of order with a sexist remark which escalated to a loud verbal dispute, one of many for the night. Several other SRC members took to the stage with mixed success. SRC Secretary Eulene Bornman offered a concise report, beginning by clarifying that the compilation of each section of the quarterly report was done by each SRC member on their own and they are held liable for their own remarks. Deputy Secretary Sakhile Masemula then returned to speak on what the audience seemed to be hearing for the 100th time, echoing what his fellow members had spoken about. This included the SRC Help Desk and the “A Re Ageng Bokamoso” fund. However, controversy sparked again when he changed a statistic from 100% as stated in the quarterly report to 78% in his speech, prompting audience members to accuse the SRC of being dishonest and manipulating data on said report.
Throughout the evening, attendees became more annoyed by the proceedings. By the time the SRC Treasurer and Study Finance Officer presented, many felt like the forum had strayed far from its intended purpose. Study Finance Officer Betrice Mabena gave a brief report on student aid and registration. After the forum, she declined media questions regarding her statement about assisting masters’ students register, saying that she had been feeling emotionally overwhelmed. Societies Officer Thabo Matsimela attempted to highlight upcoming plans, but another point of order reminded SRC members that the forum was meant to reflect on the first quarter and not future objectives.
Forum Suspension and Adjournment
Eventually, and to everyone’s relief, Chief Justice Toto brought the session to a close, citing safety concerns for students returning to their residences as the reason for adjournment. By this point, only a handful of the planned SRC presentations had taken place. The forum failed to address questions with or without notice, and many matters were left unresolved.
Student feedback on the forum painted a bleak picture. Those who attended criticised the SRC for using the constitution to deflect questions and failing to facilitate any meaningful dialogue. Others blamed the political groups for hijacking the platform. Some commented on the lack of control the Constitutional Tribunal had over the disruptive behavior, leading to procedural failings.
Matsena Koketso, a student attendee, strongly criticised the forum’s legality, arguing that the lack of proper communication made the whole session unconstitutional. He called for the resignation or suspension of Deputy Secretary Masemula, labeling him as “incompetent” for mishandling such a simple but critical event. In a post-forum interview, Masemula defended his actions, saying that despite communication challenges, the SRC tried its best to inform students. He cited campus visits and online promotion efforts, and defended the timeline of initiatives such as “A Re Ageng Bokamoso”, pointing to the SRC’s official inauguration in late January as a limiting factor.
The events of this forum highlighted very obvious gaps in communication, lack of procedural enforcement, and the limited unity among student groups. The forum was meant to promote transparency but ended up exposing operational shortcomings within student governance at the university. With the continuation of the forum still set to take place on 25 April, expectations are high for a more structured, constructive session. Whether or not this will be achieved remains to be seen.
A Mother’s Fight, A Nation’s Outrage: How Cwecwe’s Case Took South Africa by Storm
Relebogile Manana & Mpho Mahlangu
In a country grappling with the deep scars of gender-based violence, the story of sevenyear-old Cwecwe has reignited a powerful movement for justice and protection of South Africa’s most vulnerable. A tragic incident in which Cwecwe was allegedly sexually assaulted on school grounds at Bergview College in Matatiele, Eastern Cape has become a rallying cry for millions.
The #JusticeForCwecwe campaign, which started as a local call for accountability, has grown into a national movement with South Africans from all walks of life coming together to demand action. The campaign has highlighted the urgency South Africans have in regards to addressing systemic failures in schools, law enforcement, and government structures that are meant to safeguard women and children. The alleged rape of Cwecwe once again brought to light the unsafe conditions many South African children face, even in places meant to nurture and protect them.
According to Cwecwe’s mother, Thandekile Mtshizana, not only did the school fail to respond appropriately to the allegations, but also issued a transfer letter instead of offering support or cooperating with legal authorities. This response by the school then prompted Mtshizana to speak
out, becoming an advocate for justice for her daughter and all victims of GBV.
After Mtshizana brought this story to the public, outrage quickly ensued. Protests erupted across the country from Matatiele and Johannesburg to Cape Town and Pretoria. Thousands took to the streets holding signs, chanting for justice, and demanding that GBV and femicide be declared a national crisis. At the heart of this wave of resistance were South Africa’s students.
On 1 April, students at the University of Pretoria, led by the Economic Freedom Fighters Students Command (EFFSC UP), mobilised in Hatfield to protest the injustices faced by Cwecwe and countless others. The streets echoed with powerful messages against rape, child abuse, and the ongoing culture of silence. The turnout was substantial, showing the strength and potential of student activism in driving social change.
EFFSC UP echoed its broader political affiliate’s stance on social justice, saying, “Rape will never find expression in our society.”
This message was shared widely on social media, contributing to growing awareness about the case.
Students shared personal reasons for their participation. Eddy Mailula, a second-year Political Sciences student, emphasised the importance of showing up for others, “Not participating in the marches and protests can be seen as passive acceptance. When we choose not to use our voices, we contribute to the problem.” She also voiced the fear that many South African women live with daily. “It makes me scared. It leaves me with the fear of asking if I’ll be next. I don’t feel valued by law enforcement. If so many cases have not received justice, what makes me the exception?”
Nompumelelo Mashabane, a student studying BSc GeoInformatics, added, “By participating in these protests and marches against injustice, students are showing empathy, solidarity, and support to those that are directly affected by the matter. Students also have the power to make an impact as the future leaders of our country. So their participation drives changes that can make society better (and safer) for everyone. The EFF march made a difference.”
The solidarity did not stop with university students.
On 11 April, the advocacy group Women For Change South Africa organised a
major demonstration at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. Protestors submitted a petition that had been passed all over social media, calling for the government to officially declare GBV and femicide a national disaster. Thousands have joined the campaign online and offline, using hashtags like #JusticeForCwecwe, #StopRapeCulture, and #ProtectOurChildren to spread awareness and pressure decision makers. What started as a local cry for justice has grown into a movement fueled by a shared pain and a collective will to create lasting change. The Eastern Cape Department of Education responded by closing Bergview College, citing failures in compliance and safety protocols. But for many South Africans, this is only the beginning. There is a growing consensus that symbolic actions are not enough. Real structural reform is needed in education, policing, and the justice system at large.
The #JusticeForCwecwe movement has shown South Africa’s deep yearning for justice, safety, and accountability. It has also demonstrated the role that young people can play in shaping a more just society. By turning pain into protest and fear into advocacy, South Africans have reminded one another that when injustice is allowed to thrive, nobody is truly safe. In the words of many protestors, “An injustice to one is an injustice to all.”
Visual: Sourced
Visual: Kerri-Anne Swanepoel
2025 TURF Symposium
Empowering Undergraduate Research to Shape the Future
Jason Visser
The Tuks Undergraduate Research Forum (TURF) in the Faculty of Health Sciences marked a transformative moment on 28 March as students, researchers, and academic leaders gathered to redefine the boundaries of undergraduate education. The event was designed to shatter traditional assumptions about research, proving that it is not a privilege reserved for postgraduates. It is a vibrant field where every curious mind has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully. The symposium was a living example of how university life can transcend mere academic degree programmes, nurturing an environment where inquiry and innovation are celebrated from the very first day.
The day began with an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement as the attendees arrived at the venue. Prof. Tivani Mashamba Thompson welcomed everyone with warmth and a sense of purpose, setting the tone for a day that would blend intellectual discourse with the practical aspects of research. Prof. Vanessa Steenkamp delivered a keynote address that resonated with everyone in the room. In her memorable words, she highlighted the transformative power of undergraduate research: “Undergraduate research empowers students to become active, innovative problem-solvers by enhancing critical thinking, resilience, and communication skills while bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application. It transforms education into a dynamic, impactful experience that prepares students for both professional and societal challenges TURF offers a platform [for undergraduate students] to engage in research activities, enhancing their academic and professional
UP Ovuwa Wows Audience at Annual Dzivamisoko Concert
Lutricia Phiri
On 26 April, SAFTA award-winning ensemble UP Ovuwa hosted its annual function, leaving the audience stunned and deeply moved. Many UP students, proud parents, Ovuwa alumni, and other supporters gathered at the university’s Musaion Theatre to celebrate Africa’s rich cultural diversity and traditions. This event has become an annual highlight for many.
Teacher and mother Mrs Phumaza attended the concert and shared her experience. “This was not my first time attending Ovuwa’s annual performances, and I always enjoy watching them. It helps me keep up with new skills I can pass on to my students.”
PDBY spoke to Luthando Mapanga, UP Ovuwa’s Head of Communications and Marketing, social media administrator, and UP student. He explained that the event was Dzivamisoko, which translates to “April” in Tsonga. Mapanga said, “We lost numbers; some graduated, but we [also] welcomed new members. About 80% of the choir is new.” He expressed his pride in how the group managed to put together such a remarkable performance despite recent changes, noting their “hard work, excellence, and perfection”. Mapanga also reflected on the ensemble’s first-ever SAFTA award, calling it “a great accomplishment”. He looked back on the group’s journey, recalling how close they came in previous years before finally achieving the win.
Each performance was met with thunderous applause that built people’s excitement throughout the evening. Amid the enthusiastic cheers, audience members showed their appreciation by placing money on the stage – a traditional gesture of support for an outstanding performance. The support from Ovuwa’s alumni was also evident and appreciated throughout the evening.
PDBY also caught up with Bojane, an audience member, who said that she had heard about the ensemble from a friend. She enthusiastically declared the opening gumboot dance as her favorite, describing the performance as “on fire”.
The 2025 Dzivamisoko concert reaffirmed UP Ovuwa’s status as a cultural force, bridging the gap between generations through performance, language, and tradition. With fresh faces, enthusiastic leadership, and unwavering support, the ensemble continues to honour Africa’s cultural heritage while setting new standards of excellence in the performing arts.
development. Furthermore, TURF facilitates exposure to research methods across health sciences disciplines, fostering students’ abilities to develop and lead transdisciplinary research projects under mentorship.” Prof. Steenkamp concluded, “The future belongs to those who dare to question, explore, and innovate. Let’s empower undergraduate researchers to lead the way.” These words encapsulated the essence of TURF and set an inspirational roadmap for both current and future research enthusiasts.
Throughout the day, the programme featured a series of engaging sessions that featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, and student research presentations. Many of the exchanges were both thought-provoking and candid, allowing attendees to engage directly with complex issues and real-life challenges. One of the most impactful sessions was the panel discussion that addressed “Identifying and overcoming barriers to undergraduate research”. This session was a turning point for many as it not only answered pressing questions, but also encouraged students to reconsider their preconceived notions about research. Current Health House Chairperson Precious Tlhwaele reflected on how the discussion had transformed her perspective She shared that she had once viewed research as an arena that was accessible only after formal studies when one had become an expert in a specific field. However, through the lively exchange of ideas at TURF, she discovered that every undergraduate idea holds the potential to contribute to a bigger cause. Tlhwaele’s call for increased visibility of the initiative highlighted the need to bring these opportunities to a wider student audience, emphasising that proactive and widespread promotion could open doors for countless others who are eager to participate.
TURF Vice Chairperson Penelope Modipane expressed her appreciation for the range of experiences presented during the discussions. She noted that hearing from students across various schools within the faculty was not only enlightening, but also a testament to the diverse challenges faced in conducting research at an undergraduate level. Modipane was particularly enthusiastic about the possibility of adding more in-person workshops, believing that they could deepen the learning experience and foster participation in research courses. Her insights reinforced the idea that experiential learning is a cornerstone of TURF’s mission, one that encourages students to push the boundaries of their academic pursuits. Furthermore, Thando Tshabalala, a TURF Committee Member, expressed that he enjoyed the panel discussion the most and said that “[there should be] more research opportunities for undergrad students to gain experience”.
The symposium’s environment was one in which academic rigor met genuine human connection, fostering a spirit where every participant felt valued and inspired. The symposium showcased that when students are given the chance to explore and innovate within a supportive framework, the boundaries between academic learning and real-world impact begin to blur. The collective sentiment among the participants was that research should be an integral part of the undergraduate experience, transforming education into a dynamic platform for personal and professional growth.
As the event drew to a close, the shared hope was that initiatives like TURF would continue to gain momentum, eventually paving the way for a future where every student is empowered to shape the world through curiosity and innovation.
Tuks Takes the Stage: Step It Up 2025
Hannah Hambly
On 25 April, UP’s annual Step It Up event was held in the Amphitheatre. The event consisted of performances from residences, day houses, faculty houses, and societies, where they showcase their talents through creative choreography, engaging narratives, and impressive vocals. The structures that competed in the final after having made it through Step Outs were Asterhof, Azalea, Blossoms Delight, Curelitzia, Erica, House Mags, House Mopane, House Nala, House TAU, House Ukuthula, Madelief, NatBitHealth, OP Village, Towvidus, and Victarina.
The event was judged by four judges whose tables and chairs were set up in the centre of the venue as they waited for the participants to begin their performances. Lively music and shining lights welcomed the audience, and they came in excited and ready for the show. Although most of the audience arrived after the first few structures had performed (most likely timed for the exact structure they wanted to see), there was an extreme amount of security guarding every possible entry point. The audience was introduced to the event, and they received a welcome from “executive and senior management”. In the introductory speeches, it was said that Step It Up “[is] one of the critical events at UP [that] promotes student life and helps them wind down”.
The first performers were OP Village with the theme “Mad Scientist”. Throughout the show, they revealed themselves to be wearing matching green shirts and white lab coats. It was a funny performance, and the highlight was the man who had his lines written down on his hand, resulting in giggles from audience members. The hosts, although entertaining, were perhaps a bit delayed in taking to the stage, resulting in the potential loss of audience interest. The next performance was titled “Murder on the Dance Floor”, performed by Victarina. They opened with immense energy that was almost blinding when combined with the stage lights. Their costumes were impressive and their story was compelling, which made for an overall great show.
An interesting performance was that of Blossoms Delight, with their theme being based on Gladiator. The music was engaging and the participants were passionate, making sure the whole audience was involved. House Nala’s performance, “Cycle for Africa”, was full of intricate moves and colourful costumes. All of the participants danced in uniformity and were engaging in their storytelling while “travelling” through Africa.
Curelitzia’s performance of “Just Jazzercise” had outstanding scenes, and the participants kept coming until they filled most of the stage. It was full of pop culture references, and it even went as far as to reference a crowd favourite film The Princess Diaries. Their outfits were impressive, especially with the innovative idea of having the lights reflect off their shirts. Asterhof and their performance of “The Aster Cowgirl Cheerleaders” was contemporary and combined ACDC’s “Thunderstruck” with the use of pom poms.
When asked what qualities make a performance stand out,
Culture External of Stuku Charline Makhado said, “Mostly the formations, the moves, how in sync they are… and the energy they bring.” She said that this is especially important because “it’s more of a dance competition than singing [because] we have acapella at the end of the day”. When asked what themes stood out to her this year, Makhado added, “The ones that really stood out for me [are] the Gladiator theme, [and] the soldier theme by the girls.” She said that what stood out for her most was that “everyone tried to bring out their creativity” and “show all the work they have put in” Overall, the event was an astounding success. Here is a list of the winners for various categories:
Overall Winners
1. House TAU
2. House Mopane
3. House Ukuthula
4. Curelitzia
5. House Mags
Overall Most Multicultural
1. House TAU
2. NatBitHealth
3. Azalea
Overall Band Accompaniment
1. House TAU
2. House Ukuthula
3. House Mopane
Overall Best Theme
1. House Ukuthula
2. House Mopane
3. House TAU
Overall Best Choreography
1. Curelitzia
2. House Nala
3. House Mags
Most Creative Use of Costume
House Ukuthula
Best Stage Presence
House TAU
Best Challenge Showcase
House Mopane
Best Social Media Presence
Curelitzia
People’s Choice Award
Morula Legae
Overall Best Ticket Sales
Curelitzia
Visuals: Cletus Mulaudi
Visuals: Cletus Mulaudi
There’s Smoke Everywhere: The Vaping Situation on Campus
Mpho Mahlangu
In recent years, vaping has become increasingly popular on school campuses, raising concern among some and excitement among others. As the popularity of e-cigarettes continues to rise, PDBY asked multiple students whether or not they think the vaping situation on campus is getting out of hand, and many had a lot to say about this question. While some students support vaping on campus, others are against it, or rather how it is done. However, due to the controversy surrounding the topic, the students asked to be kept anonymous.
When asked about their thoughts on vaping, one student mentioned, “I do not think there should be rules restricting people from vaping in lecture halls and bathrooms simply because I do not think vapes are harmful and they do not have an irritating or triggering scent like cigarettes. People should be allowed to do what they want as long as it is not affecting anyone.”
However, another student said, “Vapes should have allocated areas. Not everyone wants to be subjected to the smoke, especially individuals with underlying health conditions like asthma. In addition to that,
having random gusts of toxic flavoured air is highly annoying. It is also just rude to have strangers blowing [smoke] in your direction.” The student expanded on her answer by saying, “The vaping issue on campus is not slowly getting out of hand. It’s already out of hand, and sadly, the university is enabling them. Students can purchase vapes on campus at the cafeteria! Without considering the health implications or nuisance for others, the school makes these products readily available. Restricted substances like alcohol can only be consumed in certain areas on campus, i.e. the cafe of purchase, but they turn a blind eye when it comes to vapes. Even when it comes to cigarettes, there's no one ensuring that individuals adhere to the rules, and it leads one to doubt if the institution would ever be able to contain the widespread kanker that is vape culture.”
Another student expanded on this idea by saying, “Places like lecture halls and bathrooms are shared environments, and vaping there can be uncomfortable for others, especially people with respiratory issues. Others just do not want to be exposed to such [environments]. If cigarettes have designated smoking areas, it makes sense for vaping to follow similar rules. Even though some people argue vaping is not as harmful, it still releases chemicals into the air and can be annoying or even triggering for others. Allocating spaces would balance the rights of
Peer Advisors: The Unsung Heroes of Student Support at UP
Peer advisors are some of the least approached staff at the University of Pretoria (UP). Many students are unaware of who they are and what they offer. But what exactly is a peer advisor, and why do students need them?
PDBY spoke to FLY@UP Coordinator Tayla Jonker who explained, “Peer advisors at UP are senior students who have experienced the ups and downs of university life. They understand firsthand what it’s like to face academic and personal challenges, and, importantly, they’ve taken steps to seek out the support available to them.” Jonker added that peer advisors are not only academically resilient; they are also empathetic. This makes them the ideal candidates to assist others. Their personal journeys equip them with the skills to support students through guidance that is rooted in understanding, relatability, and lived experience.
Peer advisors do not just play a role in student life and well-being; they also serve as a bridge between students and the Academic Success Coaches (ASCs). Yandiswa Tyandile, peer advisor for the Faculty of Humanities, said that their role includes, “Helping students navigate ClickUP, create timetables, select modules, manage their time, plan and prioritise their work, host peer [gatherings], and encourage students to do their best”.
ASC for the Faculty of Theology and Religion Dana Mahan spoke about the distinction between a peer advisor and a success coach. “The work of a success coach and peer advisor is similar in mission, supporting UP students as they pursue their qualifications. [However, it is] different in scope. A coach also deals with a lot of institutional admin, thus protecting the peer advisor’s time, which is better spent directly with students.”
Mahan added: “Together, success coaches and peer advisors support students one-on-one and in groups, using various communication tools to equip them academically. Peer advisors in particular bring unique value because many success coaches were never students at UP. Peer advisors, on the other hand, consistently see campus through the eyes of a student, making the support they offer more relevant and meaningful.
Many students do not realise that they can get the guidance they need from peer advisors. There is a common assumption that students need to handle university life alone. If that were the case, why does every faculty have peer advisors? Akhona Mngomezulu, peer advisor for the Faculty of Health Sciences, explained that peer advisors are chosen by ASCs to make life easier for students. Mngomezulu said, “Every faculty needs to have a student advisor because students should have someone to reach out to when they face challenges. That’s what we’re here for.”
Jonker explained, “Every faculty at UP is unique, with different teaching styles, assessments, cultures, and academic expectations.”
This is why each faculty has one to three peer advisors, depending on the student population. This structure ensures tailored support that
aligns with each faculty’s specific requirements.
Peer advisors work closely with the ASCs who are assigned to specific faculties. This is done in order to form a cohesive support team. This collaboration ensures that students receive consistent, faculty specific academic and wellness support. It allows them to connect with someone who truly understands their academic environment.
FLY@UP plays a major role in student life, ranging from academic support to holistic well-being. Jonker shared that FLY@UP was originally launched as a purely academic support initiative. However, in 2024, it became part of the Department of Student Affairs, reflecting a broader commitment to overall student wellness. This transition acknowledges that student success goes beyond academics. Support can come in various forms: friendship, mental health resources, leadership opportunities, access to essentials, and community engagement.
According to Jonker, the main areas that FLY@UP are involved in are:
● Academic Support: “Still the core mission. FLY@UP works closely with the ASCs and lecturers, especially in high-impact modules, to ensure students have the academic help they need to graduate on time.”
● On Campus Activations: “Events like the thrift activation provide essential items for free, easing financial strain and promoting dignity.”
● Student Engagement: “FLY@UP collaborates with student structures and hosts campus events to foster community and connection.”
● Digital Communication: “Active presence on social media helps reach students where they are, keeping them informed, supported, and engaged.”
Even though support structures like House Committees, Faculty Houses, and student representatives exist, it is crucial for students to make use of all available resources, including their peer advisors.
When asked what advice she would give to students, Tyandile concluded by saying, “Keep fighting for your goals and never give up. Even if it seems like you are not getting the results you are working for, keep pushing. Have faith in yourself, and it will all be worth it in the end.”
people who vape with the comfort and health of everyone else. It does seem like the vaping situation on campus is getting out of hand. It has become really normalised, especially among younger students, and it is not uncommon to see people vaping in bathrooms, hallways, or even mid-lecture. That kind of casual use can create a tricky environment [for students by exposing them to] peer pressure, nicotine, and general disrespect for shared spaces.”
While some have strong opinions on the matter, others think that “it is not that deep and should not be made deep”. A student said, “I have not noticed anything terrible, but due to the fact that I was previously in high school where smoking on school grounds was not permitted, it is a bit of a shock to me. But the situation with vaping seems totally normal and under control to me.”
It seems what is normal to some is not normal to others. The Cleveland Clinic released a statement explaining the short-term effects of vaping. These include coughing, shortness of breath, eye irritation, headaches, a dry and irritated mouth and throat, as well as nausea. While vaping is considered less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, it is not without risks. However, as shown by the interviewees’ answers, people have differing opinions on the subject. We all just need to make sure that we respect each other.
Ghost Town Groenkloof:
UP’s Neglected Campus?
Ompha Mudau & Jason Visser
While Hatfield campus is home to multiple societies and campus-wide events, Groenkloof offers fewer activities and promotional efforts, making it more difficult for students there to stay informed on UP affairs. A recent PDBY survey found that some Groenkloof students rely on WhatsApp groups for campus news instead of official channels such as ClickUp or official Instagram accounts. Respondents described these methods as reaching a limited audience. Physical posters are also frequently overlooked unless they are actively sought out.
According to one survey participant, “We never have those big events or even proper care of the campus.” This sentiment was echoed by Ecstasy Masingi, Culture Officer for House Education, who noted that while Hatfield‑based events are plentiful, her efforts to engage Groenkloof students face logistical hurdles. “It’s a dominating opinion that many students, including myself, share,” Masingi said. Respondents expressed interest in more academic seminars on site and in having university services visit the campus on a regular basis.
FLY@UP has made remarkable strides in bridging this gap: the team consistently brings its full suite of activations to Groenkloof and all other campuses, ensuring that students everywhere can participate in their signature events. FLY@UP coordinator Tayla Jonker told PDBY that every activation, from career fairs to wellness workshops, takes place at Groenkloof alongside Hatfield, Onderstepoort, Hillcrest, and Prinshof. The only exception is the thrift activation, which Jonker explained is exceptionally labour-intensive and costly to stage across multiple locations. “FLY@UP does not have the capacity to facilitate it at the other campuses,” she said, underscoring both the team’s broad reach and the one practical limit on expansion. PDBY also acknowledges that until recently, its printed editions were not delivered to Groenkloof. Since being notified of this, the publication has ensured that each new edition is stocked in the Groenkloof Library, providing students with reliable access to the paper.
Overall, PDBY’s survey results point to a communication gap and uneven distribution of events and resources between campuses. Students at Groenkloof continue to depend primarily on informal peer networks for updates, suggesting that adjustments to information channels, campus programming, and distribution practices could address their expressed needs.
Seeing the Brain: A New Vision For Diagnosing Tumours in Africa
Prof. Llewellyn Padayachy and the Brain Tumour and Translational Neuroscience Centre at the University of Pretoria (BTC@UP) are making interesting developments in the field of neuroscience Recently, they have been developing non-invasive mechanisms to detect brain tumours, which often results in early diagnosis and a better outcome for the patient. These developments were done in response to the prevalence of brain tumours in Africa. It has been estimated that about 227 per 100 000 people have had brain tumours between 1960 and 2017. These tumours are difficult to diagnose or are diagnosed late because of the limited access to advanced imaging and molecular testing, as well as a shortage of trained neurosurgeons in Africa.
Prof. Padayachy is an award-winning neurosurgeon who has been internationally recognised for his expertise in minimally invasive surgical techniques. He received his Fellowship of the College of Neurosurgeons of South Africa (FCS Neurosurgery) with distinction and was awarded the Roland Krynauw medal. He obtained his Master
of Medicine and PhD from the University of Cape Town. Prof. Padayachy also had a postdoctoral clinical fellowship at the Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Oxford for his outstanding work. This resulted in him being awarded the Hamilton Naki Scholarship. He is currently a clinical professor and Head of the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Pretoria, as well as chief specialist and paediatric neurosurgeon at Steve Biko Academic Hospital.
To address this health risk, they investigated whether the eye could be used to discover ailments with the brain (a so-called “window to the brain”). The BTC@UP has developed a Neuro-Ophthalmology Laboratory to provide access to these ambitious diagnostic mechanisms, which would be inexpensive and minimally invasive. This would help alleviate the difficulties of limited access to advanced imaging and late diagnosis. It includes ultrasound, infrared pupillometry, and optical coherence tomography to view the brain through a person’s
eye. As a way to address challenges, the centre has identified three groups through which they conduct research: the Early Detection and Epidemiology group, the Surgical, Adjunctive, and Neurorehabilitation group, and the Translational Neuroscience group.
The first group is centred around early detection and aims to build a database that lists brain tumour patients to validate the data. One of the challenges in Africa is that there is a lack of brain tumour registry, and the number of reported cases may be inaccurate and underestimated. The second group focuses on safe, effective brain tumour resection and aims to ensure the positive impact of neurorehabilitation. The final group focuses on the chemical, molecular, and anatomical pathology markers.
Prof. Padayachy and the BTC@UP are making a positive difference to bring early brain tumour detection to people who have limited access to these diagnostic tools. The centre is bringing earlier diagnoses to people who need them the most and it gives them better chances of survival.
Visual:Veanné Viljoen
Lutricia Phiri
Hannah Hambly
Visual: Kerri-Anne Swanepoel
Visual: Tayla Jonker
Visual: Nicole Hagemann
Witches! Where you at?
Sivenathi Makhanda
Icall upon the power of the moon, the sun, and the stars. Bring me glory, beauty, and power! Bring me witches! Whether it is Marvel’s Wanda Maximoff, The Vampire Diaries’ Bonnie Bennett, Wicked’s Elphaba the Wicked Witch or Glinda the Good, the people yearn for powerful, magical women on our screens.
The definition of a witch has not always been the same. However, it has almost always been used to refer to a woman possessing some sort of magical ability. Although, that may be changing. Originally, a witch referred to a woman who had made a deal with the devil to receive power. This woman would use witchcraft to fulfill his orders by bringing misery and pain to the townspeople in the form of sickness or droughts. As time moved forward, the portrayal of witches became positive, and the term “witches” began to refer to women who had magical abilities. Whether these women were good or evil was no longer a requirement for their magical powers. It had more to do with how they had obtained and used their powers. Under the influence of various things such as Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) and current ideas of gender, the word “witch” has shifted away from being applied solely to women. Although it does still apply largely to women, it has more so turned into a descriptor of someone, regardless of gender, who practices witchcraft.
To better understand what a witch is and what it means to be a witch in the media, the history of witches is helpful. Amy Leonard, a historian who studies women and gender from the early modern period, says that “witch” had two definitions in the 15th century. The first part of that definition described any person who practiced magic, and the second described a person who was a heretic and had forsworn Christianity. These people were considered evil, and the word “witch” was used to describe a criminal offence.
In a Tufts Now article by Heather Stephenson, she claims that about 75% of all people accused
The Weight of the Cape: The Mentality of Heroes
From the ancient epics of Homer’s Odyssey to modern-day superhero blockbusters, the concept of heroism has captivated our imagination for centuries. But what lies at the heart of heroism? What psychological foundations drive individuals to embark on extraordinary quests, defy overwhelming odds, and inspire others to do the same? In his thought-provoking book Heroes, Legends, Champions: Why Heroism Matters Andrew Bernstein argues that heroism is not merely a product of circumstance or chance, but it is rather a manifestation of fundamental human traits and motivations. This article will explore the psychological foundations of heroism, examining the traits and motivations that define heroes while shedding light on why heroism continues to matter in our daily lives.
the realm of superheroes and mythological figures. True heroism is often found in everyday acts of courage, compassion, and resilience that shape our communities and inspire others.
Healthcare professionals, activists, educators, and individuals who demonstrate kindness and generosity are examples of modern-day heroes who embody the true spirit of our time. Their actions remind us that heroism is not about extraordinary feats but rather acts of courage and compassion that make a difference in the lives of others.
According to Bernstein’s book, heroism is rooted in fundamental human traits and motivations. One key aspect of heroism is the ability to overcome fear and adversity, as exemplified by Odysseus’s journey in the Odyssey. Despite facing numerous challenges, including the wrath of the gods and the temptation of the Sirens’ song, Odysseus perseveres, driven by his determination to return home and reclaim his rightful place as king. His resilience in the face of adversity is a hallmark of his heroic character, and it is this quality that inspires others to follow this example. The concept of heroism extends far beyond
These heroes are driven by a deep sense of justice, a commitment to upholding what is right, and a willingness to put others before themselves. Their selflessness and determination serve as a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity and inspire positive change. By recognising and celebrating these everyday heroes, we can foster a culture of empathy, kindness, and resilience that promotes a just and compassionate society.
The concept of heroism is complex and multifaceted, encompassing a range of motivations, actions, and traits, such as resilience, determination, courage, and compassion. By examining the examples of heroes from literature and everyday life, we can gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be heroic and how we can utilise these qualities in our own lives. Heroism is not limited to grand gestures or mythical figures. It is present in the everyday actions and decisions that shape our world and inspire others.
This shows that her power must be contained within her home, implying that a woman's power is great for housework, but dangerous anywhere outside of it.
In later portrayals of witches, these women are shown as heroes. Their magic is used to fight evil, and as witches, they are seen as the “good guys”. There are witches like Bonnie Bennett and Hope Mickelson who are not afraid to use their powers for selfish or selfless reasons. Conversely, in American Horror Story: Coven, we get to see power-hungry witches who are not afraid to use their magic for their personal gain.
Marvel’s most popular witches, Wanda Maximoff and Agatha Harkness, both have unique pasts and motivations, as well as their fair share of villainous moments. What’s interesting about the way they are portrayed is that despite being the “evil witch” (even if it was only for a moment), their stories are told from their points of view. This paints them in a sympathetic light for the viewers. Powerful women, even those who use their power for personal gain or to hurt others, are still deserving of being centre stage and receiving sympathy. Witches are no longer one-dimensional characters whose only purpose is to spread misery and pain for the townspeople; they are fully fleshed out characters.
The way that witches have been portrayed has definitely changed, but is it enough? There is a clear lack of diversity in witches and the forms of witchcraft shown in mainstream media. Most mainstream witches are white women, and most witchcraft is of European origins. NonEuropean magic is often villainised and shown in a negative light. There needs to be more diversity to showcase people of colour or queer people as witches. There needs to be more magic that is rooted in African, Australian, Asian, or South American roots. Not only should there be more diversity in how witches are portrayed, there should also be more witches in general. The people yearn for the witches!
Roots Afrofuturism
Erero
What a gift storytelling is! A whole world can be created through your imagination where the possibilities are endless! There are many different branches of fantasy and science fiction, and a shining star of this generation is Afrofuturism.
Afrofuturism is a genre of stories that are told with the influence of fantasy and fiction for black people. Storytelling has always been a huge part of African culture and is common in cultures and countries across Africa. From The Tortoise and the Hare to Black Panther, Afrofuturism has always been prominent in black culture.
Conventional science fiction focuses on highlighting futuristic concepts while still displaying core worldly elements. For example, Star Wars is a famous sci-fi film series that is set in a fictional galaxy and features futuristic vehicles, weapons, and alien characters. However, the plot addresses relationship conflicts and war, which are modern day issues we face.
As mentioned by Bookshy, Afrofuturism is different from conventional sci-fi in the sense that the science element of this genre may not be the stereotypical idea modern science. Instead of flying cars and mad scientists, Afrofuturism
may focus more on magic and talking animals. However, it is still a world that has been reimagined. The evolution of Afrofuturism is one that has allowed for relatability while keeping core elements of sci-fi. Russell Contreras from Axios describes this evolution as old stories told in new ways. If this is expanded, it encompasses the idea of not forgetting about your roots. Common themes in Afrofuturistic stories are liberation, fellowship, and victory. The general idea is to promote the upliftment of black people while including the element of idealism and impracticality.
Storytelling goes beyond written pieces and expands into other forms of art such as music and dance. Afrofuturism exists in these art forms, as seen by Missy Elliot being a strong representative in the musical scene, or Esie Mensah, a dancer and choreographer who explores Afrofuturism in her work. Creativity is global, and it allows for representation in art so that viewers feel connected to their roots and included in the world. To be loved is to be seen, and what better way to fall in love with the arts than through a form that encourages you to reimagine your world where the possibilities are endless. This is what it means to be empowered and freed through fantasy.
of witchcraft were women. In an article for The Wild Hunt, Erick DuPree links the portrayal
portrayal of the stereotypical witch. One of the first positive portrayals of witches was
Bewitched that portrayed witches in
her power is reflective of her
Visual: Nicole Hagemann
Tshepiso Makhetha
Promise
Background visual: Boinkgantshi N. Songo
Visual: Sourced
Are Your Lecturers Human? A Deep Dive into the Alien Infiltration Theory
Mashapa Ramokofi
There’s something weird about Dr J.
No one has ever seen her blink; not even once during a two-hour lecture on property law. And then there’s Professor M who chugs four espressos back-to-back like he’s drinking water, and yet his hands are as steady as a tripod. Oh, and let’s not forget about the infamous teleporting lecturer who somehow manages to wrap up a class in AE du Toit and be back in his office at the Law Building in under 30 seconds. Is it a coincidence? Or is it… a cosmic conspiracy?
A growing number of students are starting to question if our lecturers are even human. Welcome to the Alien Infiltration Theory: a satirical, totally-not-paranoid (we swear) investigation into the possibility that your beloved professors are actually extraterrestrials who are on a long-term research trip on Earth. And the University of Pretoria? Oh, well that’s Ground Zero.
The Lecture Hall Is Their Mothership
According to a highly unreliable but suspiciously convincing Reddit thread r/ lecturealiens, there are several “subtle” signs of alien impersonation among university staff. These include:
● Highly erratic sleeping patterns
(“He emailed me feedback on my assignment at 3:12 a.m. and AGAIN at 3:18 a.m.”)
● Complex equations solved in seconds… without a calculator…
● Strange metallic clicking noises when they get nervous
● That one time a lecturer allegedly blinked sideways (we have seen the YouTube video – it’s grainy, but compelling)
And then there’s the teleportation incident.
Multiple students have reported seeing their Sociology lecturer finish a class in Engineering 2 only to be spotted in Piazza exactly 13 seconds later, already halfway through a tuna sandwich. Could this be the result of a highly-developed wormhole transportation system hidden beneath the Old Arts Building?
Eyewitness Account: Student X
We spoke to a brave informant who wishes to remain anonymous. We will call her Student X. “I knew something was off when my Economics lecturer returned my essay with comments written entirely in binary code. Like, actual ones and zeros. I tried to translate it using ChatGPT, and it said ‘INSUFFICIENT HUMAN LOGIC DETECTED’ What does that even mean?!”
Student X also claims that the same lecturer once referred to an exam as a “specimen analysis of human performance under time compression”. That’s totally normal. Definitely not an alien speaking.
Research? Or Reconnaissance?
One popular theory circulating the library beanbag area is that these “lecturers” are actually undercover alien researchers studying the emotional resilience and cognitive development of young adult Homo sapiens in highly stressful environments, i.e. undergrad students during exam season.
This theory is supported by the (absolutely fictional) journal article “The Subtle Signs of Alien Impersonation” published in Galactic Weekly. It outlines standard alien academic practices such as:
● Using unnecessarily large words to test earthling comprehension
● Randomly changing assignment due dates to study panic reactions
● Writing illegible notes to test whether students can decode alien calligraphy
ET is marking Your Essays... and giving You 52%
We know why your paper on Postcolonial Legal Theory got 52%
even though you cited every theorist ever born and included three footnotes per paragraph. Clearly, your essay failed to meet the intergalactic standard of "intellectual innovation across multiple dimensions of time and space".
We also suspect the marking rubric includes the following criteria:
● Degree of human conformity
● Understanding of multi-planetary jurisprudence
● Legibility under ultraviolet light
How Do You Spot a Lecturer-Alien?
Here are the top warning signs that your lecturer might be from beyond the stars:
● They avoid eye contact… but also avoid not making eye contact
● They wear the same outfit every day (hello… uniform?)
● They speak in cryptic analogies like “Your logic is sound, but not spherical.”
● They have “visiting scholar” listed in their bio, with no explanation of where they’re from.
● Their handwriting resembles crop circles.
Still not convinced? Just think about the way they never age. That one lecturer has been “35” since 1997. You do the math.
Conclusion: Harmless Visitors or Academic Overlords?
Whether they are secretly from Saturn or just very overqualified and under-caffeinated, one thing is certain – our lecturers are a little… off. But maybe that’s what makes them brilliant. Or maybe that’s what makes them not of this Earth.
So next time your lecturer goes on a 25-minute tangent about quantum ethics or quotes Foucault in fluent Klingon, don’t panic. Just smile, take notes, and remember: you might be part of the universe’s longestrunning sociological experiment.
And hey, at least now you know who to ask if you ever need help understanding time travel, black holes, or why your essay got a 52.
The Cosmic Chaos of Student Life
Student life is a multiverse of chaos, tears, and experiences. And no, not in the Marvel or Matrix kind of way. It’s rather in the “I have an assignment due at midnight; I’m not sure if I made the right choice with what I’m studying; I feel an identity crisis brewing in the midst of all of this” kind of way. It feels like we are existing in multiple timelines and different dimensions. It can sometimes feel like we are trying to be someone and do everything all at once while still questioning if we are making the right choices.
The 2022 film Everything Everywhere All at Once is a chaotic film that navigates different multiverses, generational trauma, nihilism, identity crises, inter-dimensional bagels, and googly eyes on rocks. And that is just on its surface level. It is far more than that. It is a cosmic mirror that reflects the chaos that comes with living in an overstimulated world while trying to make the “right choices”. It shows us as we battle our deepest anxieties, shame, peoplepleasing tendencies, and aspirations.
Although the main character, portrayed by
The Cosmic Snowball’s Dance with the Sun
Chase Meyer
Falling, falling, falling across the midnight sky. A comet travels across our solar system to shoot beyond the stars. Can you see it? Up there, in the sky.
As old as the moon’s wrinkles and the dust on your childhood teddy bear. Through a vacuum of darkness and a landscape of nothingness, this little comet soars. Whoosh!
Plunging ever closer to its destination — Earth.
The sun’s gilded rays lure the comet from its dormant state and into her warm embrace.
“Come closer, little one…I’ll warm you with my light,” but the comet stays on its course.
The comet – a snowball with icy, dirty leftovers from the solar system’s formation. How can it possibly venture so far?
Here’s the secret: Traveling across the stars is what comets are made for.
Off she zooms! Zoom! Across planets and past hundreds of thousands of kilometres. faster… Faster… FASTER! On and on, past stars and planets, she soars. “Look at me NOW!” the comet giggles. Sleepy Saturn gawks in awe, and Grumpy Jupiter gasps in wonder. The Earth whispers: “You’re luminous, little comet…”
After this long and tiring journey, the comet yawns. Ah-hhhaa… “Time for a nap,” she mutters as she curls into a frosty ball of gas. Coasting… floating… drifting…
All the way back to her cozy bed in the stars. She rests.
Good night, little comet.
Until you shine again…
Visuals: Mpho Mahlangu & Nicole Hagemann
Michelle Yeoh, is not a university student, she represents all of us. She is doing too much, and yet it is still “not enough”. She is tired and overwhelmed, and eventually questions the choices that she made throughout her life. She starts to contemplate the “what ifs”. This sounds quite familiar to what students tend to feel, right?
According to film analyst and co-founder of Film Colossus Chris Lambert, when one starts to experience everything, the highs and lows of each circumstance tend to fizzle out. For every joy there is a tragedy. This can lead to one starting to feel numb, and all that is left to feel is nothing. On the flip side, it is important to be selective in our lives. We don’t have to try to do everything for everyone; we should rather build meaningful relationships with the people, places, or things around us. Lambert ends his analysis by arguing that meaning is not something you find; it is something you choose to give.
As students, we are constantly haunted by what we could have been if we chose differently. What if I took a gap year? What if I didn’t? What if I studied something else? What if I didn’t leave that assignment to the last minute? What if I
didn’t spend my last R20 on slap chips? All these “What ifs” are us imagining parallel timelines where we could have been happier, more stable, and more certain about the choices we made. Similar to the film, we are forced to confront all of our “potential lives”. We ask ourselves what the end goals of our choices really are? We constantly juggle burnout, the fear of failure, and the pressure to be something or someone. We think we have to do everything, but simply existing can sometimes be enough. It is tempting to think that perhaps in another universe, we made better choices, we made less mistakes, or life made more sense. But this version of us, the one that missed the deadline, the one that cried in the library, the one that took a walk with friends on campus even though they had lots of work to do, gives meaning to who we are. We are all learning how to be human. There is cosmic chaos in student life, but hey, we all ended up in the same timeline, at the same institution, just trying our best! What if we are not actually alone, and maybe, just maybe, everything we are doing is actually enough?
Martha Mumba
Visual: Nicole Hagemann
Background Visual: Nicole Hagemann
3. Dead bodies can get goosebumps
Sci-fi That’s Made the Quantum Leap to Reality
Gabriella van Niekerk
The world of sci-fi is an extraordinary, glorious, geeky space. It is where Jedi battle with lightsabers, aliens call home on rotary phones, and dinosaurs did not get the memo about extinction. From Star Wars and E.T. to Dune and Jurassic Park, science fiction dares to ask “What if?”. What if we could travel faster than light? What if robots acquired the ability to feel? What if Jeff Goldblum was right and we should have stopped to think if we should instead of figuring out if we could?
Sci-fi is often seen as a playground for the imagination; a universe where anything goes as long as it’s a little plausible and a lot of fun. But every now and then, something magical happens. One of those wild, otherworldly ideas jumps off the screen, puts on a lab coat, and walks straight into our reality. Is it still considered science fiction when it's real? Or has it just completed a quantum leap from fantasy to fact?
Mobile Phones
Possibly the most earth-shattering development to come out of sci-fi is the mobile phone. Before you were scrolling through TikTok or texting your friends “on my way” (when you hadn’t even left the house yet), there was Star Trek: The Original Series. Captain Kirk and his crew used small, sleek communicators to stay in touch with one another while boldly going where no man had gone before.
Turns out, someone else was also watching: Martin Cooper, the man who led the team that created the first handheld mobile phone. He said that Kirk’s communicator inspired the real-world version. From those chunky bricks of the 80s to today’s ultra-slim smartphones that basically run your entire life, the leap has been nothing short of intergalactic.
Bionic Limbs
Having a robotic arm sounds like the ultimate upgrade. In Star Wars: Episode V –The Empire Strikes Back, Luke Skywalker’s
bionic hand fitted moments later.
Fast-forward to today, and while your average prosthetic might not have a Jedistrength grip, it’s definitely getting close. Biomedical engineers are developing limbs with neural interfaces, allowing users to control them with their minds. Some can even give sensory feedback like feeling pressure or temperature. While we haven’t quite reached “lightsaber duels at breakfast” levels of cool, real-world technology is edging its way into sci-fi territory faster than you can say “cybernetic enhancement”.
Artificial
Intelligence (AI)
It was once the stuff of sci-fi nightmares and it is now your go-to tool for writing essays and asking what the weather will be like on Saturn. In the world of film, AI often ends up as the villain, plotting the downfall of humankind with unnerving calm. Take a look at Blade Runner, 2001: A Space Odyssey, or The Terminator as examples.
But in reality? AI (so far) seems to be of more help than harm. It powers everything from early disease detection to personal shopping recommendations, voice assistants, and traffic management. The line between fiction and function is getting blurrier every day. If AI does end up going rogue, at least it’ll know our coffee preferences.
Sci-fi isn’t just a genre; it is a vision board for the future. It asks us to imagine the impossible, to stretch the limits of science, and to occasionally question the wisdom of building an amusement park full of cloned dinosaurs. Oh, but the best part? It sparks the imagination of scientists, inventors, and curious minds everywhere.
From communicators that became smartphones to robot arms and intelligent machines, sci-fi has integrated itself into our everyday lives. What’s next? Jetpacks? Teleportation?
Whatever the next leap is, one thing’s for sure: the future might be written in the stars,
HOROSCOPES
Aquarius (Jan 21 - Feb 19) - The Android
We know you’ve got everything worked out down to the smallest technicality, and most times, it works out in your favour. But this is planet Earth and you also need some emotional intelligence to fully succeed.
Pisces (Feb 20 - Mar 20) - The Rebel
Be careful not to fly through life being impulsive. In your mind, your actions are justified, but maybe consider what others think.
Aries (Mar 21 - Apr 20) - The Bounty Hunter
We know you’re searching for something extraordinary, but it doesn’t have to be life changing. Maybe you’ll find it in your next Checkers run.
Taurus (Apr 21 - May 21) - The Alien
Some of your qualities are out of this world, and we know that we can always phone home to you. But we tend to question your existence.
Gemini (May 22 - Jun 21) - The Overlord
Well done for making it to the top of your field. But now, you need to remember to be a bit more rational when exercising your power. No one likes a dictator.
AI Could Never Recreate This Preserving the Art of the Sci-Fi Film
Kyra Erwee
In 1902, the first ever sci-fi film was released by Georges Méliès. He named it A Trip to the Moon (Le Voyage Dans La Lune). Since then, the science fiction film industry has boomed, with films such as Avatar generating billions of US dollars. For more than a century, these films have sparked the imagination of millions, serving as a space where we can confront our future, our fears, and the endless possibilities of our potential.
Ironically, the creation that sci-fi once speculated would take over the world is quickly becoming a reality. Artificial Intelligence (AI) was once a topic far beyond our reach and used to instill fear in viewers. Now, AI may be very close to writing and creating its own autobiography. It can be argued that the use of AI could have its benefits like the ability to streamline production processes and cut down on costs. But what happens once AI becomes advanced enough to replace screenwriters, cinematography artists, and even actors? Why would we go through a lengthy casting process when AI can create a Brad Pitt/Adam Driver hybrid? Is automated creativity the death of the visionary? AI’s screenwriting abilities have become one of the most controversial topics within the film industry. Award-winning sci-fi writer Ted Chiang says that large language models cannot create original art because these machines use the information already presented to them by human writers. But what happens once AI can create its own thoughts? BritishCanadian computer scientist Geoffrey Hinton believes that they already do possess some sort of self-awareness and consciousness, and that they are able to create their own ideas. This not only poses a threat to writers but also to the very core
and feelings than those of our own species’. How far away are we from being controlled by them?
AI is making its mark in the art of cinematography. Using tools such as lighting simulations, frame shots, and the dictation of camera angles, it may seem like a technological marvel. As a society, we are so focused on efficiency, so why not utilise this time-saving tool? Cinematographers are not only technicians; they are artists who can manipulate light, shadows, and movements. We appreciate art because of the time, effort, and talent that has been invested into the piece. Why would we not feel the same about the art of film-making?
Once studios start to rely solely on AI in an attempt to reduce costs and save time, they run the risk of devaluing human cinematographers altogether. The elements that distinguish a Stanley Kubrick film from a generic sci-fi director’s are vast. The deliberate use of silences, the symbolic framing of certain shots, and the implementation of aesthetics all could be lost once we start relying on AI to create what was once the art of human beings. AI-driven editing software has become more prevalent in the film industry. We are essentially making films without the filmmaker. Virtual actors (cue Brad/ Adam) can be inserted into films, eliminating the need for reshoots and casting altogether. There would be no need for the art of acting because there would be no human error.
Art is inherently flawed and risky. It challenges, surprises, and sometimes disappoints the viewer. When AI creates flawless art, it removes everything that makes it human. Sci-fi has always asked the question “What if?”. Unfortunately, now it has to ask that question about its own industry. AI could never recreate the soul and passion of art that has been created by human beings, but can it be used as a tool for efficiency? Where should the line be drawn? Only time will tell.
Cancer (Jun 22 - Jul 22) - The Invaders
Obviously your willingness to show love is appreciated by those around you. Try to remember that boundaries aren’t necessarily a bad thing.
Leo (Jul 23 - Aug 22) - The Time Traveller
The past can be a useful tool, but don’t forget about what you have in the here and now, or you might get stuck in a matrix of your own design.
Virgo (Aug 23 - Sep 22) - The Scientist
Your ability to try new things is a beacon of hope for those around you. Just make sure your experiments don’t explode in your face.
Libra (Sep 23 - Oct 22) - The Robot
You do so much for so many, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed. Just remember that you don’t have to let others control you – this is your life.
Scorpio (Oct 23 - Nov 21) - The Hero
We appreciate you always being the ones to save the day, but don’t give yourself a god complex by thinking you can fix everything.
Sagittarius (Nov 22 - Dec 21) - The Wizard
You have the ability to put spells on the people around you. Charming! But not everyone appreciates being manipulated.
Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 20) - The Guide
Good advice is your forte, and many rely on your sound judgement. Thank you for protecting us, even if it’s to the detriment of yourself.
Visual: Sourced
It’s Alive! The Creation of a New Genre
Cara Heymans
It’s a rainy day and you and your friends are all huddled up indoors trying to entertain each other when someone gets the idea to tell ghost stories. Your friend’s silhouette is illuminated by the lightning strikes dancing across the sky as they begin to spin a story of monsters and other beings of unnatural origins. For most, these improvised horror tales get a little reaction from their friends and then are quickly forgotten. For Mary Shelley, however, her frightful fable was the formation of what would come to be known as the first modern work of science fiction: Frankenstein Originally a silly writing competition between friends, Shelley’s story had instead created the world’s most famous monster. It was alive.
Now, Shelley’s work cannot be credited as the very first science fiction story. Records dating back to the beginning of Greek civilisation show stories of women who chemically transform men into various creatures. Syrian writer Lucian of Samosata also wrote pieces featuring a journey to the moon in the second century CE. These were intended to be considered as works of fantasy and truly impossible. This attitude would continue until 1540 when science (although it wasn’t considered science then) was revolutionised by Copernicus’s discovery: the Earth revolves around the Sun. This revelation, in combination with the invention of the telescope, allowed people to truly contemplate space voyage for the first time. It stopped being an impossibility and people began to fantasise about living on the Moon. This can be seen in the works of Johannus Kepler and Francis Godwin. By the 17th century, technology had progressed so far that what was previously confined to the realm of fiction could become fact. Society was transforming and developing so
South
Squickly that major breakthroughs were being witnessed in one’s lifetime.
Not everyone was thrilled by this development. The 18th century was riddled with cautionary tales against the rate at which experimental science was growing, primarily driven by Jonathan Swift and Voltaire. These two depicted ways in which science would be society’s undoing if it was left unregulated. These warnings were left unacknowledged and the world dove headfirst into what would be known as the Industrial Revolution. With more people devoting their time to production under a capitalist society, a void was created for people to fill with ingenuity. Those who did not have time to be creative themselves relied on others to be creative for them in the forms of stories. Thus came the “first great myth of the industrial age”, as described by Brian Aldiss. In 1818, Mary Shelley published Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, a work that is considered to be the turning point in how fantasy and science intersect. This marked the rebranding of the genre and for that reason, Shelley is credited with being the first modern science fiction
Korean
Her work was seen as scandalous to say the least. Frankenstein is seen as a warning against the practice of science without any moral context. It explains that it is unethical to do things just because one can without considering the moral implications of one’s actions. The context in which the book itself was written must also be considered: the 1800s were a deeply religious age, and to suggest that a man could challenge God by creating human life was shocking. Despite the controversies, her writing was groundbreaking, and while the term “science fiction” would not be coined until 1929, she had created a brand-new genre.
From Dystopia to Reality: How Fiction Reflects Our
Melissa Aitchison
Science fiction as a genre has existed for many years. It has become synonymous with futuristic, advanced science and technology, space exploration, time travel, and extraterrestrial life. However, sci-fi can also be an important tool for political commentary on society. It allows authors and readers alike to explore societal issues, political concepts, and even futuristic trends through fictional worlds and narratives. By using allegories of existing political structures, sci-fi can challenge perspectives and inspire social change. The Hunger Games is a perfect example of this.
The Hunger Games, written by Suzanne Collins, was released seventeen years ago. And yet, the series has maintained its popularity and relevance. There are five books, the original trilogy and two prequels, as well as five movies with another in production. The peak of this series’ popularity was in the 2010s when the first three films were released. It is over a decade later and the series still has people’s attention. Sunrise on the Reaping is the fifth book in the series and it was released on 18 March this year. It sold over 1.5 million copies in the first week of its release, making it the biggest debut for a novel from The Hunger Games series. How has the franchise stayed alive over the last seventeen years when its competitors such as Divergent and The Maze Runner have fallen far into the back of our minds?
The Hunger Games franchise takes place in the fictional world of Panem where the government, as punishment for a previous rebellion, began the Hunger Games. This event is where 24 child tributes who are picked randomly forcibly fight to the death. The story follows the Battle Royale sub-genre that ends with one person either winning or dying. The use of child tributes is particularly cruel and is used to highlight the Capitol’s lost humanity. They see the children as entertainers rather than actual human beings. The Capitol’s citizens see the violence in watching terrified children doing anything they can to go home as an exciting game where the gorier it is, the better.
Shows such as Squid Games follow this model of rich people promising fortunes to the poor if they beat one another in a competition for entertainment. It exploits the people playing the games for our own enjoyment. Compared to other YA dystopias, The Hunger Games series has managed to remain reflective of our society. The Capitol’s citizens watching the games is eerily similar to us watching shows like these. In the books, the citizens of the districts represent the lower class, and the citizens of the Capitol, who live lavish, excessive lives, depict the upper class. Similarly in Brazil, the richest 0.1% of the population makes $90 000 per month, compared to 95% of the population that only makes $465 per month. In the Capitol, the people wear pretentious clothing and live grand lives as opposed to those in the districts, who often struggle to make ends meet. This is reminiscent of celebrities wearing extravagant outfits to the Met Gala while, in the same city, people are homeless and starving.
Looking at Sunrise on the Reaping, Collins highlights themes that are reflective of today’s society such as governmental oppression. The main character, Haymitch, wins his Hunger Games by defying the Capitol. But in retaliation, President Snow has his whole family murdered. This shows how cruel a corrupt government system can become when given too much power. This is a particularly important theme today as countries such as Israel commit heinous acts against Palestinians. This can also be seen in the current US political landscape. People who publicly criticise the government and their actions face threats of deportation or imprisonment simply for using free speech. The Hunger Games franchise has continued to impact the way we view our society, governments, and the injustices around us. The best stories are the ones that can take us away from everyday life but also shine a new light on our world. Suzanne Collins has said that she only writes when she has something to say, and with our society heading towards right-wing conservatism, I don’t think The Hunger Games series is anywhere near finished.
Sci-Fi: Holding Up a Mirror to Social and Political Change
cience fiction is inherently speculative and is often used as a tool to predict what the future could hold. It offers a way for artists to critique or reflect on the society they are a part of This makes science fiction valuable in critiquing the socio-political developments of South Korea. This nation’s history is rich and unique as it has experienced swift economic and political changes, changes that other nations have experienced over centuries, in mere decades. South Korean science fiction comments on these rapid shifts and the country’s developing foreign relations.
The Dwarf – The Ills of Rapid Industrialisation
Between 1960 and 1980, South Korea experienced an economic boom. Rapid urbanisation led to new factories springing up, creating jobs in the industrial areas. Many left their rural homes in hopes of finding work in the cities. Unable to find housing, they were forced to build makeshift shanties in order to survive. The government was unhappy with this and responded by striking down settlements and relocating families. These factory workers often faced social stigma and had to endure unfair, harsh working conditions in this new industrial climate.
The Dwarf, a novel by Choi Sehui illustrates the consequences of industrialisation on South Korea’s working class.
The story follows a man with dwarfism, referred to as “the dwarf”, and his family who originally live in a shantytown before being displaced to the technologically advanced city of Un Gang. Choi Sehui paints a bleak picture of Un Gang’s surroundings and infrastructure, using dark imagery to create an environment that feels unwelcoming and hostile to the dwarf and his family. This is reminiscent of the way workers who migrated from the rural areas found themselves feeling unwelcome and alienated in the cities. In an article linking science fiction to Korean political and social developments, Park Sunyoung identifies this extraterrestrial feeling as representing the alienation of Korean workers in the new economic climate.
story develops. In his analysis of The Dwarf, Charles Montgomery highlights this by using examples of the son of the wealthy leader of the main corporation in Un Gang whose mental state unravels, as well the union organiser whose face is eventually disfigured.
There are two interpretations of these examples. Park Sunyoung links this to what she describes as the “otherness” of the working class as they were alienated from a rapidly developing country that failed to help them adjust to an industrial society. Montgomery interprets the progressive deterioration of the characters into disability as representing the debilitating impacts of sudden industrialisation on society’s marginalised. This can be seen in the tragic fates of the family, symbolising a breakdown due to their social circumstances. The daughter is forced into the life of a concubine, the dwarf dies by suicide, and the son becomes a criminal after attempting to kill the head of the Un Gang corporation.
The Host: The Ambivalent US–South Korea Relationship
The main characters also reflect the troubles of the working class. Choi Sehui creates characters who are disabled or progressively deteriorating, such as the hunchback and the dwarf, and how they become physically and mentally disabled as the
The relationship between the US and South Korea is complicated. Scholar Christina Klein best describes this partnership as an “ambivalent” one. It has been mutually beneficial at certain points in history while also being exploitative and unequal in others. This is because of the US’s status as a superpower and its continued support of South Korea as a developing nation. Bong Joon-Ho’s film The Host exemplifies this complex and ambiguous relationship while subverting the authority and power of the American figure in the film.
Visuals: Sourced
The Host is a classic monster tale that centres around the unexpected appearance of a mutant creature. This creature, a result of a failed American and South Korean experiment, surfaces from the Han River, capturing a teenage girl. The girl is the daughter of a family of social and economic outcasts: an alcoholic uncle who was once a student activist in his heyday, an archer struggling with performance anxiety, and her well-intentioned but dull father. Their family is turned away by the government when they ask for help to save her. This unlikely, ragtag group bands together to track the monster down and save the young girl.
The Host is littered with American symbols and filming techniques. In an interview, Bong Joon-Ho himself situates the monster genre as originating from American cinema, giving the film an element of Americanism. Klein also identifies how the monster acts as a symbol for the US as the monster’s creation results from a failed US military experiment. She also notes that the film follows the structural and narrative techniques of a typical Hollywood film. For example, the sudden nature of the monster’s appearance in the film refers to Hollywood-style monster films such as Godzilla (1998). Here, the opening scenes introduce the monster through its sudden attack on a Japanese ship. Klein also speaks of how the final battle against the monster in Host follows a familiar Hollywood trope of explosively destroying monsters. The monster is set alight in this scene, similar to the detonation of Stay Puft Marshmallow Man in Ghostbusters (1984).
However, Klein also discusses how Bong Joon-Ho subverts the Americanism of The Host. In the opening scene, viewers are presented with a full-frame view of the monster’s physical form, contrasting it with the Hollywood technique of showing different body parts of the monster to create suspense before the final reveal. Another important example of this subversion is in the fight scene against the monster. While this scene embodies a typical Hollywood trope, the weapons used by the ragtag group against the monster are uniquely Korean. Klein points out that the throwing of the Molotov cocktail by the former student activist recalls South Korea’s history of protests for democracy such as the April Revolution where students took to the street in protest. This symbol is also a jab at American control as it is the US that endorsed the authoritarian regimes that South Koreans protested against. Additionally, the flaming arrow that is shot at the monster delivers the final blow and is a tribute to Korean culture as archery is a deeply rooted Korean tradition. In this way, Bong Joon-Ho merges Korean symbolism and nationalism with American film elements. This reflects the complex relationship between the two nations. However, Korean culture prevails in this pairing, representing a reclaiming of power.
From providing a voice to the working class to celebrating Korean nature, science fiction is a critical tool that helps us understand and reflect on socio-political change.
Mazviita Pasi
Visual: Maliyha Naidoo
Visual: Nicole Hagemann)
“Sci-fi? You mean like Star Wars?”
Cara Heymans
When you hear the phrase “science fiction”, what comes to mind? A battle in a galaxy far, far away? Aliens coming to Earth and attempting to wipe out the human race? It seems like the same titles and stories are recycled ad infinitum with little to no variation in the plot. But science fiction is so much more than that, with so much room for nuanced interpretations. Its definition is loose and often intersects with genres such as fantasy, thriller, and horror. Without further ado, here is a list of recommendations that aren’t Star Wars. Or Star Trek.
The Martian
This movie adaptation of the best-selling novel by Andy Weir follows the story of Mark Watney, an astronaut on the Ares 3 expedition to Mars. After a terrible storm forces his crew to evacuate, Mark is left stranded on the red planet and forced to survive on nothing but scraps and leftovers from the aborted mission. All he has to keep himself alive are potatoes and his crewmates’ terrible music. Good thing Mars has a lot of dirt.
The Substance
Elisabeth Sparkles is a dazzling actress. Well, she used to be. Considered a has-been, she is fired from her job because of her age. In a moment of desperation, she takes a mysterious blackmarket drug. She simply wants to be young again, and it works. Sort of. Sitting at the intersection between science fiction and horror, this commentary on beauty standards is a hard watch, but definitely a must-watch.
Arcane I mean, this had to make the list. A show that is helping to redefine what adult animation means, Arcane follows the story of two sisters on either side of a brutal war between the utopia Piltover and the dark underworld of Zaun. Although some may consider the story closer to dark fantasy, the use of technology and science to accentuate the more magical elements allows this show to make the sci-fi list.
Altered Carbon
Nothing in life is certain but death and taxes. And in this world? Even that is debatable. Set 300 years in the future, the human consciousness can be downloaded onto a device implanted at the top of your spine. When your body dies, you can transfer your stack to a new body and live on. This could go on indefinitely. Takeshi Kovacs is revived one day by a millionaire with a task for him: be released from prison in exchange for solving that same millionaire’s murder.
Westworld
The year is 2050 and the human appetite knows no bounds. People visit an amusement park owned and operated by Dr Robert Ford where they can carry out their wildest fantasies. The occupants of the park, androids designed to look like humans, have their memories wiped after every interaction so they never remember what the visitors do. That is until something goes awry and some of the androids become sentient. What could possibly go wrong?
Hitchhiker’s Guide to The Galaxy
Arthur Dent is really annoyed when Earth is destroyed to make way for an intergalactic highway. And that’s just the start of his troubles. With his odd friend Ford Prefect, he has to hitchhike his way across the universe with nothing but a digital travel book that has helpful tips and tricks to survive space all while dodging aliens and bad poetry.
Sci-fi extends far beyond the confines of aliens in space –although that still dominates a large percentage of the market. Seizing opportunities to expand your repertoire allows you to grow and expand your understanding of what the world can be. Plus, it’s cool.
Mickey 17: Rethinking Sci-Fi
Jason Visser
NB: Spoilers for the movie are included in this article… so read at your own risk.
Mickey 17 is a wild, genre-defying science-fiction film set aboard a spacecraft leaving Earth with the mission to colonise a snow planet. The story follows Mickey Barnes, a character who is deemed expendable. Every time his dangerous, lethal assignments result in his death, his body is reprinted and his memories are restored. In a fascinating twist, an accident leads to the co-existence of two versions of Mickey. Mickey 17 displays a profound capacity for empathy, but his counterpart, Mickey 18, descends into psychosis, sparking dialogue that is both intriguing and, at times, toxic. This internal duality creates a platform for a profound philosophical debate about the split parts of oneself. This debate resonates with the Internal Family Systems model which proposes that every individual harbours different “parts” within their psyche.
One particularly striking moment occurs when the character designated as Mickey 18 confronts Mickey 17, insisting that he is not responsible for their mother's death. This sequence struck a chord, reflecting on how many of us carry burdensome guilt even when another, more rational aspect of our inner selves recognises that we are not at fault. This depiction is moving and relatable, highlighting the internal conflicts that mirror our human experiences of regret and self-forgiveness.
Beyond its innovative narrative structure, the film offers a cutting commentary on the broader human condition. Mickey 17 presents a world in which humanity’s ignorance towards the natural world and the consequent detriment inflicted upon other species is starkly evident. In this film, our obsessive pursuit of success overshadows our responsibility to care for the environment, a clear reflection of real-life attitudes. This theme is interwoven with ideas concerning human replication, the cult of personality (for example, Mark Ruffalo’s character), and the relentless quest for both revenge and justice.
individual characters. Pattinson brings a rugged determination to his role, while Ackie delivers a nuanced, emotionally charged performance. Their onscreen chemistry is palpable, enhancing the film’s narrative and adding an additional layer of depth to the interpersonal dynamics at play.
Despite its merits, the film is not without its flaws. A notable segment of the narrative, the subplot involving alien bugs, feels somewhat unnecessary. There was already ample material exploring the morality of human printing, the absurdity of a celebrity’s persona as shown by Mark Ruffalo’s character, and the intricate narrative of Mickey’s multiple existences intertwined with a thirst for revenge and justice. Omitting this subplot might have allowed the film to focus more sharply on its core themes.
The film’s release has been somewhat of a production saga. Originally slated for release on 29 March 2024, it was delayed and pushed into 2025 to accommodate production issues related to strikes and other undisclosed reasons. It was then shuffled again, seemingly to capitalise on trailer hype amid fierce competition. Distributed by Warner Bros., Mickey 17 continues to spark speculation regarding its release strategy and final editing decisions. Given its ambitious narrative and genre-blending approach, this unpredictability adds to its distinctive appeal, making it a singular cinematic experience. The film carries an IMDb rating of 6.9/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 77%, reflecting a mixed yet intriguing reception among viewers and critics alike.
As a filmmaker, Bong Joon-Ho has carved a niche for challenging conventional norms with his distinctive blend of satire and surrealism. His earlier work Parasite is heralded as a masterpiece for its incisive capture of societal moments and its bold, memorable narrative choices. While the ending of Mickey 17 leaves some narrative strands unresolved and feels somewhat underwhelming compared to his typically masterful conclusions, the film still stands as an adventurous exploration of narrative structure and thematic depth.
Visually and tonally, the film evokes a multitude of cinematic references, from the immersive landscapes of Avatar and the eclectic energy of Everything Everywhere All at Once, to the evocative imagery reminiscent of 2021's Dune. Although its message may not be entirely original or particularly subtle, the engaging performances and breathtaking cinematography make it well worth watching for those who enjoy movies that blend satire with incisive commentary.
A key highlight of Mickey 17 is the performance of Robert Pattinson and Naomi Ackie. Both actors excel as distinct
In summary, Mickey 17 is an audacious, cinematic ride. It is thought-provoking and entertaining. Although it may lack substantial character development for many of its figures and its message might not be the most subtle, it boldly tackles themes of self-identity, environmental neglect, and the paradox of human ambition. Whether you are drawn in by its cinematic references, the intriguing philosophical debate between its split protagonists, or simply the thrill of watching the impossible made real, this film is a testament to Bong Joon-Ho’s fearless innovation in modern cinema. It remains a must-see for anyone who appreciates movies that challenge the way we perceive ourselves and the world around us.
Being Extra for Extraterrestrials
It is a dark night on Prospect Street as I walk home from the library. The street is quiet and empty. A faint humming teases my ear and crescendos to become a low buzz above my head. I look up to see a blazing beam of light emerging from the dusty Hatfield clouds. It blinds me, and I panic. Have the police finally caught me for taking one too many straws from Vida? From the luminescence, something resembling a bald, green Timothée Chalamet hovers down. She lands beside me, looking disorientated. “Is this Earth? That’s what Waze says.” Completely astonished, I respond, “Yes, howzit boet. Welcome to Pretoria.”
As we walk, I think to myself, “What a blessing; a being with no education, no bias, and an opportunity to use every ounce of free will I have.” She is fascinated by the things I tell her about Earth, and I do not hold back.
“Well, Cyril, our president, is what we call Cake Boss. He bakes cupcakes for all of us. If you do not get a cupcake, you are not allowed to vote. And obviously people in parliament get massive cakes. Once, one of the presidents took other people’s cupcakes and built a homestead worth a couple million cupcakes.” My green, glass-skinned friend tells me, “Where I am from, we just share.” “Oh, so you guys are communist?” “What is communist? We just share,” she replies. “So valid bro.”
I ask her about her skincare routine for all our clean girlies (and hopefully guys). She tells me that she uses mercury. I can’t help but wonder if corrosive substances (instead of a salad) are what I need to become a green goddess.
She tells me that she wanted to land in a field, but because SA’s petrol prices are skyrocketing higher than her spaceship could fly, she had to make a quick stop in Pretoria. I suggested
that she land on the Aura Farm, and maybe the farmers there will be nonchalant about charging her. As we turn up the street and I am talking to her, I think to myself, “Hear me out… lowkey smash.”
I keep telling her about Earth.
“When Y2K arrived in our spacetime continuum, we celebrated the rise of low-rise jeans and rued the splat-crash of the economy. Right now, there is a man in the US that identifies as a carrot: stiff, brainless, and orange. You are all caught up on politics. Now for some geography. Contrary to alien belief, the earth is indeed flat. Except for the top right corner where Uranus drips onto Earth so that we can have an endless supply of water. I’m sure your systems aren’t so supernaturally advanced. The earth only looks round because we dyed the edges black. We’re trying to get that ombre look, you know?”
We arrive at the garage and she is captivated by the amount of airtime she can buy. She needed it so that she could debrief her alien chommies when she got home. I bought her a pie and she told me that she only eats scented candle wax, but what must I do? Mr Price was closed and I only have R38 in my bank account. I wish her a hamba kahle, a totsiens, and a “good luck soldier”. So much for alienating my alien. As I wave a Spock hand to her and wish that the force be with her, she whips out her MIB Neuralyzer and wipes my memory. Thank goodness I left my voice memo running from my last lecture.
Milan Govender
Visual: Simone Brand
Visual: Nicole Hagemann
Visual: Jason Visser
When Art Speaks, We Listen
Katlego Malema
What comes to mind when you think of the word “art”? Is it paintings? Drawing? Music? What about embroidery? Pottery? Braiding? Jewellery making?
If someone told you that art is all of these things, would you agree? A vast array of art form the tapestry of life.
Art has been humanity’s truest companion since the dawn of existence and can be described as more than just a manifestation of beauty. However, it also acts as a medium that symbolises the connection between all life forms, their history, and their existence. Think of the Khoi-San rock paintings. Art plays an important role in human nature and contains the power to connect with people in such a way that it could even influence their ideologies. It can be said that art has been used for ages as a medium for communication, personal and collective growth, and societal progression.
Whether it’s setting the mood for the day with a song that has a specific meaning to you or acquiring a sense of freedom by expressing yourself through poetry or photography, what is a form of art that speaks to you? PDBY conducted interviews to find out more about the role that art plays in people’s lives.
What is an art form that speaks to you?
“An art form that really speaks to me is film. I’ve always loved how movies tell stories and explore different lives, emotions, and experiences. It’s something that’s stayed with me over the years,” responded Avery Rogan, a university student from the Philippines.
Ofentse Mathiba, a third-year BA Languages student, shared, “I appreciate various forms of art, but poetry speaks to me [the] most because it has the power to reflect on the deepest aspects of society.”
Clinical Psychology student Ntswaki Francinah Arlaat responded, “I’ve discovered a unique passion that may seem unrelated to my field of study at first glance, but it has become an integral part of my life – braiding hair.” Building on that, she says, “To me, braiding paints a picture of ‘Beauty Comes in Different Forms.’ Every day, I have the privilege of working
with diverse hair textures, and I'm constantly amazed by the beauty and uniqueness of each individual's locks.” She continued, “The excitement and anticipation I feel when starting a new braiding project are indescribable, and the sense of satisfaction I get from seeing the final result is always a surprise, no matter how many times I've done it.”
Users on Instagram had the following to say:
• “Painting and sketching is a way that I can escape reality and create my own reality.”
• “Film. It just makes most of what the world feels like and what I feel like make sense.”
• “The face masks of the Benin people of Nigeria.”
• “The video game Undertale, which taught me to be determined to get through hard times years ago.”
• “The garden of earthly delights (a painting by Hieronymus Bosch). It is just a marvel to look at.”
In what way does this art form interact with you and how has it made an impact on your life?
Rogan shared, “Movies have been such a big part of my life. They have comforted me during hard moments and made me feel understood in ways I can’t always explain. There’s also so much you can learn just by watching them, whether it’s about people, language, or the world. They have helped me a lot with learning English, since it’s not my first language.” She goes on to say, “Films taught me not just vocabulary, but expression, feeling, and connection. It’s an art form that’s shaped how I think and how I see the world.”
Mathiba spoke about poetry, saying, “[It] is my personal therapist. It became the perfect home I never had. It has been my powerful medium of self-expression.” He shared the two poems that he feels connected to: William Shakespeare’s “Sonnet 130” and South African poet Masoja Msiza’s “I am a father”. “These poems explore family dynamics and comment on masculinity and feminism.”
Arlaat explains, “The process of braiding is meditative and therapeutic for me. I feel like a pirate ship captain about to discover hidden treasure, or a craftsman with a blank canvas
Unravelling Uni Life: Reality or Illusion?
Have you ever felt as if something is off? Lectures, assignments, tutorial classes, semester tests, and soon, exams? When will this auto-pilot reality we live in come to an end, you ask. Well, what if it never ends?
Let’s dive into it with a guide to sci-fi.
The Matrix (1999) is a film that depicts a simulated world in which humans are under the control of supercomputers. This raises the question: is university just a red pill world in which we are blindly abiding by the structures and routines that govern our everyday life?
In The Matrix, you have Neo training in the construct, perfecting his skills and abilities to someday battle the Agents, and how different are we? Students are honing their knowledge and capabilities in university to eventually face off against whatever monster awaits us after we graduate.
Training and routine seem as if that’s all there is to it. Classes every weekday, some of which stretch until 5:30pm, tutorial classes in-between, a series of weekly assignments, and don’t forget those two tests on the same day during the
legendary test week. We eventually become well acquainted with the fleeting yet everlasting sense of losing control. Do we agree to it out of free will, or is this just a “part of the programme” situation?
Inception (2010) is a film that questions what separates dreams from reality by following a dream within a dream narrative through the character of Dom Cobb. Sound familiar?
Students find themselves participating in this repeated sequence of events that feels like an endless dream, or rather, nightmare. As students, we ultimately get lost in this “dream”, not knowing whether or not we are just playing characters in this construct of reality. Honestly, what is being a university student if not continuously feeling disorientated because of this simulation that holds us captive in a neverending dream?
Could the ending scene of Inception when Cobb completes his mission but finds his totem top still spinning (it should stop spinning once he wakes up from the dream) predict the end of this university simulation? Does it end with us fulfilling our statuses as students or does it bleed into the workplace? Will that be another deeper layer of the dream – a hidden deception?
Considering how easy it is to get caught up in this whirlwind of a sci-fi university experience and how complex it is to escape with the aim of occasionally getting in touch with reality, beware not to completely lose yourself in the dream.
waiting to be transformed into a masterpiece. Using different colours on various skin tones and hair textures is a magical experience that I wouldn't trade for anything, not even for a million dollars.”
She continued, “Braiding has taught me valuable skills such as patience, resilience, and active listening. As I work on a client's hair, I often find myself listening to their stories, concerns, and struggles, which has helped me develop my listening skills and empathy. It's a privilege to be entrusted with someone's confidence and to have the power to transform their look and boost their self-esteem. I've lost count of the number of smiles I've put on people's faces, and it's an experience that cannot be fully captured in words.”
Do you think people still consider this art form as real art as they would conventional art forms such as painting?
Rogan shared, “Yes, I do think films are considered an art form, but sometimes people forget just how much effort and creativity goes into making them. Like painting, film involves vision, storytelling, emotion, and expression, just on a different canvas. Every detail, from the script to the lighting to the music, is a form of intentional art. Movies make people feel, reflect, and connect, and to me, that’s exactly what art is meant to do.”
In relation to poetry, Mathiba replied, “The art of poetry is slowly fading away decade by decade. I know many poets who [have] resorted to rap because of [its] popularity, so I think people no longer appreciate poetry.”
Arlaat responded, “Unfortunately, many people don't consider braiding to be an art form, viewing it as a mundane or domestic task. However, I firmly believe that braiding is a deep and meaningful art that touches hearts and heals emotional wounds.”
It is truly baffling that all art forms are not considered “real art” because they are overlooked by people. The truth is that art can be a creation of almost any kind.
Katlego Malema
Background visual: Kutloano Khoza
Visual: Nicole Hagemann
Cuma Mancotywa
At the time of print, the greatest and most beautiful golf spectacle, The Masters, will have come and gone. A winner will have received their green jacket that carries all of golf’s heritage with it.
The Masters Tournament Kicks Off the Golf Major Season Game of Machines Are Robots Taking Over Sports?
The 2025 season has not seen household favourite and reigning world number one Scottie Scheffler taste success yet. Rory McIlroy, the world number two player, has enjoyed two wins in 2025 – the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and The Players Championship. One can only trust that real fans know that any golf played prior to the Masters speaks to how four rounds at Augusta National Golf Club will play out. As the saying goes, “Masters golf does not begin until the second nine on Sunday”. The two men mentioned here are very capable of winning the Masters. Any golfer who can keep a calm head to finish first after the second nine on Masters Sunday deserves to be followed by fans through every major tournament for the year.
Besides “new father” Scheffler and “next big thing” McIlroy, the Masters course is packed with talented individuals who have shown an intense hunger and
From Quidditch to Cyber Sports
The Fantasy Influence on Real-World Athletics
In a world where imagination knows no bounds, the realms of science fiction and fantasy have begun to intertwine with the athletic culture we know and love. From the magical sport of Quidditch in the Harry Potter series to the exhilarating cyber sports depicted in films like Ready Player One, these genres are not just for escapism; they are actively shaping the future of sports.
Films like Ready Player One present a version of the future where sports are not confined to physical boundaries. The integration of virtual reality and augmented reality into athletic competitions opens a world of possibilities. Imagine competing in a holographic arena where the rules of physics can be bent and the only limit is your imagination!
The influence of sci-fi and fantasy extends far beyond fictional sports. There are multiple ways they integrate into real-life:
Virtual Reality (VR) Training
Athletes are using VR technology to simulate game scenarios, enhancing their skills and decision-making abilities in a controlled environment.
E-Sports
Competitive gaming has exploded in popularity with e-sports leagues drawing in massive audiences and offering talented players scholarships. This new frontier of competition is reshaping how we see and define sports.
Themed Sporting Events
From cosplay at marathons to sci-fi themed obstacle courses, events that blend athleticism with fantasy elements are becoming increasingly popular, attracting diverse participants and spectators.
The intersection of sports and fantasy encourages creativity and innovation. It invites athletes to think beyond traditional boundaries and explore new ways to engage with their sport. This imaginative approach not only enhances the experience of sports, but also fosters a sense of community among fans and players.
As we look to the future, the influence of sci-fi and fantasy on sports will only continue to grow. These genres inspire us to dream big, push boundaries, and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead. Whether you are a fan of Quidditch, a gamer in the e-sports arena, or simply someone who enjoys the thrill of competition, the worlds of science fiction and fantasy offer a rich tapestry of inspiration that enhances our athletic experiences. So gear up and get ready to explore the exciting intersection of sports and imagination because the game is just getting started!
desire to wear that green jacket. Since the inception of LIV Golf in 2022, golf major tournaments have only had one LIV player win – Brooks Koepka. Koepka is someone who does not get enough attention. He has been runner-up at the Masters twice (2019 and 2023), and he lifted the PGA Championship trophy in 2023. He is definitely a player that can win a sixth Major title, and the opportunity to win a green jacket needs no further elaboration to motivate a man.
More notable players to keep an eye out for this year are Rory McIlroy, Bryson Dechambaeu, Xander Schauffele, Ludvig Aberg, Viktor Hovland, Min Woo Lee, Collin Morikawa, and South African-born Aldrich Potgieter.
Although Potgieter did not qualify to play in the Masters this year, he is definitely a player that, should he find consistency, can grab himself a few PGA wins. Potgieter earned his PGA tour card on the Korn Ferry tour last year where he showed a great deal of talent and promise. The 20-year-old is the youngest Korn Ferry tour event winner after winning the Bahamas Great Abaco Classic at 19 years old in January 2024. In February 2024,
he played a round that saw him put down 59 on his scorecard. This made him the youngest player to record a sub-60 round score in a PGA Tour sanctioned event, and he is the second youngest player to ever receive a PGA Tour card. In 2025, he has already claimed a runner-up finish that came at the end of a playoff with Brian Campbell at the Mexico Open. Golf is a sport that rewards consistent, high-level performances. Potgieter, as impressive as he has been so far, does not meet the criteria to participate in any of this year's golf major championships. These tournaments hold very strict criteria for participation. The blessing in this is if you are new to golf and need a player to support, look no further than Aldrich
The Masters Tournament is the hardest major tournament of the four to participate in. The PGA Championship, The US Open, and The Open Championship may very well see Potgieter fighting to make the cut by qualifying through sectional events or if he manages to rank among the top 70 players on the PGA rankings. He is currently sitting at number 128 on the Official Golf Rankings.
CAF Champions League Brings Action On and Off the Field
Emmanuel Radingwana
What started as a thrilling CAF Champions League match between Mamelodi Sundowns FC and ES Tunis at Loftus Versfeld on 1 April quickly turned into a chaotic experience, putting the lives of those present in danger.
With the iconic blue seats of Loftus transformed into a sea of yellow by loyal Masandawana fans, the atmosphere was electric from the moment the gates opened. Entry was free for anyone who was wearing yellow. ES Tunis fans arrived in full force, showing their unwavering commitment by travelling thousands of kilometres to support their team on foreign soil. The energy around the stadium was unmatched. Football was at its fiercest and loudest, but also at its most dangerous.
On the pitch, the Sundowns did what was necessary to keep their title hopes alive by securing a 1–0 victory thanks to a second-half goal by Peter Shalulile. This gave the home side a crucial edge in the quarter-finals. However, the result quickly became a footnote on an evening dominated not only by chaos, but also by an unexpected act of bravery.
As the final whistle blew to signal the end of the encounter between the two teams, another confrontation erupted in the stands. Emotions boiled over, and clashes between Masandawana fans and ES Tunis supporters escalated rapidly. What began with spilled drinks and heated chants evolved into fullblown scuffles that pulled people’s attention away from the match’s outcome. Bottles, flares, and fists
flew as security scrambled to contain the unrest. Amid the mayhem, a terrifying moment unfolded: in a desperate attempt to flee the violence, an ES Tunis fan slipped while trying to climb over a railing and was left hanging dangerously over the stands, his life on the line.
In that horrifying moment, something truly remarkable happened. Siboniso Masango, a Sundowns supporter, pushed through the chaos and reached out to help, risking his own safety to save the life of the opposing fan. The act was caught on camera and it quickly went viral. Thousands took to social media to praise Masango for his courage and the humanity he displayed in the face of hostility.
The incident has since sparked a widespread conversation online regarding the safety of stadiums in South Africa. With students, families, and children attending these events, it is clear that stadium security, the Premier Soccer League (PSL), and the South African Police Service (SAPS) need to implement stricter rules on what can be brought into stadiums. Increased visibility of security personnel in the stands is also essential to de-escalate conflicts swiftly before, during, and after matches.
Ensuring that stadiums are safe spaces for fans is crucial. Incidents like these not only affect how people perceive sports. It also influences their willingness to attend games if their safety cannot be guaranteed. At the end of the day, no one wants to find themselves in a place that could put their life at risk, no matter how passionate they are about the game.
Betty Molefe
Technology continues to change every aspect of life in the modern world, including sports. Robots and machines have been integrated into the game in many ways. In the current world of sports, machines play a vital role in many aspects. This raises an important question: Are sports being replaced by technological devices?
The use of technology to support fair decision making during football games is one of the most common applications of technology in sport. The Video Assistant Referee, better known as VAR, is a technological advancement in football that helps the referee make a fair decision. Another example is Hawk-Eye. This system is used in tennis and it shows where the ball landed. Coaches also make use of computers to plan and strategise the way forward through analysing players’ past matches.
This shows how unique and fast these tools are. Even on campus, TuksSport makes use of fitness-tracking apps to enhance studentathlete performance and student gym life. This is done to make “health and fitness available to everyone”. It is easier for students to train smarter, not harder.
However, as much as these technologies are quick at reducing human error, there are worries that they could take away from the realness of games. Some people believe that not everything has to be digitised. Besides, sports are all about teamwork, energy, determination, and emotions. Yes, technology is moving fast, and that is quite scary. However, robots and machines are here to help us make the games fairer and easier to keep track of, not to replace us. At the end of the day, it’s the people who bring the excitement, the passion, and the unforgettable moments with our friends and family; something a robot could never do.
Newcastle United’s Rise from Rags to Riches
From surviving relegation in 2021 to winning their first trophy in over half a century in March, Newcastle United’s rise has been something to behold. It is a feel-good story that highlights the beauty of this sport. Their triumph meant more to a city that eats, sleeps, and breathes football. It is woven into the fabric of their society and plays a massive role in their lives.
After the tumultuous tenure of former owner Mike Ashley, which included two relegations from the Premier League and years of fan protests and unrest, the £305 million Saudi Arabian-backed takeover of the club brought light to the end of the tunnel on 7 October 2021. The appointment of current manager Eddie Howe followed a month later, and he helped steer the ship in the right direction. Howe took over as manager when the Magpies were in 19th place on the table, and he led them to finish 11th at the end of the 2021/2022 Premier League season.
Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimarães, who would later become captain, and English defender Dan Burn were signed halfway through the season in the January transfer window of 2022. They were among the first signings of the new Newcastle United era, and they would prove to be significant in driving the club forward. They immediately enhanced the quality of the team and laid the foundation for what was to come.
Further reinforcements such as Swedish striker Alexander Isak, Dutch defender Sven Botman, and English goalkeeper Nick Pope were pivotal additions
brought in during the summer transfer window of 2022. Step by step, Newcastle United were performing surgery to rebuild the spine of the football team – the players. Once the spine of a football team is fixed, they are capable of competing at a high level.
The Magpies did just that as they qualified for the UEFA Champions League at the end of the 2022/2023 season by finishing fourth in the Premier League, and reaching the Carabao Cup final. However, they were on the losing side of the encounter and lost 2-0 to Manchester United. This was their first final since 1999 where they lost to the very same opponents. After the loss, manager Eddie Howe said, “We are desperately disappointed, but already for me, you look to the future, and you are desperate to get back here and win a trophy.”
Fast forward to 16 March, and Newcastle United accomplished that goal by beating Liverpool FC 2-1 in the final of the same competition. Boyhood Newcastle fan Dan Burn, who missed the chance to score a header in 2023, did not repeat the same mistake again. The six-foot-seven defender scored a towering header to put the Magpies in front. Alexander Isak put the men in black and white two goals ahead to make the game far beyond Liverpool FC’s reach. This meant that Newcastle had finally ended a 70-year major trophy drought and brought home a piece of silverware for their loyal supporters. Players, fans, and coaches alike are not used to winning major trophies. This is an irregularity, quite literally a once-in-a-lifetime achievement for a city that loves football. This was evident when hundreds
and thousands of fans showed up to the open-top bus parade to celebrate their Carabao Cup victory. Fans were hanging from lamp posts, out of buildings, and even out of windows. An enormous Eddie Howe banner hung from Sandman Signature Hotel as abseilers with black and white flares completed the spectacle. English forward Jacob Murphy said, “I didn’t realise there were that many people in Newcastle (the city).”
The current squad of players is a beautiful blend of English youth and experience as well as foreign class. No one is a better example than Alexander Isak who has arguably developed into the most complete forward in the Premier League. Newcastle United is a hardworking, full-throttle team that suffocates their opponents and has the ability to create chances to score and put them away. After the final whistle blew, an emotional Bruno Guimarães said, “I don’t have any words, one of the best days of my life.” The Brazilian midfielder further added, “For [the fans], this is like their World Cup.”
English football has become very elitist over the years with only a handful of teams winning major titles and harbouring the limelight. However, Newcastle United has just reminded us that there are more English teams than the traditional “big six”. They are a force to be reckoned with; a sleeping giant in English football has awoken and the sky really is the limit. As a whole, the club has become a welloiled machine with a great culture, passionate fans, and owners who are ready to financially back the club. Their return on investment is already paying off.
Hlomla Henna
Cayden Coetzer
Visual: Annelize Breed
Visual: Annelize Breed
The Future of Mental Training in Sports
Betty Molefe
If you had told an athlete a few years ago to "train their brain”, they might have laughed at you or looked at you as if you had grown two heads. Well, times are changing. Brain training, also known as neuro athletics as the experts now refer to it, is quickly becoming the fastest, strongest factor in sports.
Wondering what neuro athletics is? Well, neuro athletics is training your brain in the same way you would train your muscles. Athletes are training their brains and bodies to build their strength, both physically and mentally.
as explained in the Neuro Athletics study guide. This includes having to improve your memory, cognitive skills, and visual awareness while protecting your brain health.
“By training both the mind and body, athletes can optimise their mental state for peak performance,”
But let’s be honest. It is not easy being a student, let alone a student-athlete. They have to balance training, games, and studies, and it can be stressful. This is where neuro athletics comes into play. What’s even more interesting is that it is all about unlocking the hidden potential within you. Developing greater stress management, concentration, and mental toughness is not only beneficial, it is necessary. When your body and brain have to work together, that is when the real magic comes out and you see the benefits.
Are Sporting Events Affordable for Students?
Pretoria can be considered both the administrative capital of South Africa and a vibrant city that hosts a variety of sporting events throughout the year. For the student community, these events provide an opportunity to not only explore and learn about new sports, but also socialise with friends and family. It could even be a chance to grab a picture or two for the monthly Instagram dump.
One of the major sporting venues in the city is Loftus Versfeld, an iconic rugby stadium that serves as the home for both the Vodacom Blue Bulls and the Mamelodi Sundowns. It also hosts a wide range of international fixtures for both rugby and football.
In recent years, SunBet Arena has carved out a name for itself as a versatile sporting venue. It has been transformed to host various sporting codes including e-sports tournaments, boxing matches, and basketball events.
Another important sporting venue is the university’s own LC de Villiers sports grounds which features a variety of facilities including cricket pitches, rugby fields, soccer fields, netball courts, an athletics track, and an indoor arena known as Rembrandt Hall.
With major tournaments such as the Basketball Africa League (BAL), the Varsity Sports series, a Springboks international fixture, and various domestic and international football and rugby games set to be hosted at these locations, a big question on every student’s mind is “Are these events affordable for us?”
Here is a breakdown of how some of these events have adjusted their pricing to accommodate the student market:
WVarsity Sports
With Varsity Cup fixtures finished and Varsity Football and Netball on the horizon, ticket prices for these events are typically between R20 and R40. Some fixtures may even have tickets available for free. The university often distributes a large number of complimentary tickets to students, so make sure to look out for those.
Blue Bulls Rugby
Depending on the seating tier, rugby game tickets range from R50 to R3 000, with suite tickets being on the more expensive end. However, certain Currie Cup games are free for students when you present a valid student card.
Springboks international fixture
Loftus Versfeld is set to host an exciting rugby match between South Africa and Italy. This game is set to take place on 5 July. Although ticket prices have not been announced, they are expected to range anywhere from R350 upwards.
Mamelodi Sundowns Premier Soccer League (PSL)
PSL games are among the most affordable events for students, with tickets typically starting from as low as R20 and going up to around R80, making them student budget friendly.
BAL Playoffs and Finals
Set to take place at SunBet Arena, the BAL starts on 6 June. Ticket prices start from R95, and this is a must-see event for all basketball fans.
So, the real question remains: Do these venues and event organisers truly consider the student market when pricing tickets, or is it just about filling seats and maximising profit? Students are not just fans; we are the future of the sporting culture in Pretoria.
Zero Gravity Basketball
Cuma Mancotywa
There is an airless basketball that has been designed and manufactured for Wilson Basketball. The ball is a mesh design and is 3D-printed. The Airless Gen 1 has not (yet) become an official ball of play. The problem with it is that it does not feel right to many people. The lack of tactile and sound experiences is what leaves many unsatisfied.
In this article, we explore the idea of basketball, as we know and love, being played on a planet with zero gravity. This implores you to wonder whether this would add to the entertainment factor of the sport or not. The game would be dramatically, and hilariously, different. Here is how it might play out:
Movement immediately becomes a Float Fest. No running or jumping, and players would push off surfaces or each other to move. Once you leave the ground, you are floating until you collide with someone or something, or you redirect yourself with a push.
Defense would be 3D, literally, because players would float above, below, and around their opponents. The game would have to be played inside a contained 3D space like a zero-gravity arena or dome. Boundaries would exist in all directions, and positions like “centre” or “point guard” might not make sense.
As a result, the basket becomes a puzzle. The traditional backboard and rim setup would have to change. Without gravity, the concept of a ball falling into a hoop is meaningless.
You would likely need a suction or magnetic scoring ring where the ball must enter from a specific direction and be pulled in to count.
Dribbling? You would have to disregard that idea. No gravity would mean that there is no bounce. Ball control would depend on passing, catching, and maybe keeping it tethered with a magnetic glove or palm grip system.
Fouls and contact would be wild. Bumping into another player would send them spinning into space for several seconds. Every foul would look like a car crash in slow motion. There might be rules about conserving momentum or “re-entering the play zone” after accidental (or intentional) launch-outs.
Strategy would have to be totally re-imagined. Offense and defense would operate in three dimensions. Teams might develop orbit-like passing strategies, using the ball's floating momentum to curve it towards the goal.
Plays would resemble space choreography more than typical fast breaks. The aesthetics would be epic: imagine glowing uniforms, neon trails behind players, and balls with light-up cores. Every dunk would look like ballet in space with players floating in slow-motion through the air to slam it home. Zero gravity basketball would blend sport, science fiction, and spectacle. It would not resemble the fast-paced, gravity-grounded game we know today, but it would be fascinating, unpredictable, and maybe even more of an art form than a sport!
Competing for Glory: USSA Netball Championship
The University Sports South Africa (USSA) Netball Championship stands as a beacon of hope and ambition for university teams across South Africa. This prestigious tournament not only showcases the talent and passion of student athletes, but also serves as a vital platform for their growth and development in the sport. UP has consistently demonstrated its commitment to excellence in netball, boasting an impressive record of 22 championship titles in the USSA Netball Championship.
This year, the tournament will take place in Gqeberha at Nelson Mandela University from 30 June to 4 July, and it promises to be an exciting event for all participants. UP’s netball team has been a formidable force in the championship with a history of impressive performances and a strong desire to qualify for the prestigious Varsity Netball competition.
The Tuks netball team has shown remarkable resilience and determination, consistently pushing the boundaries of their capabilities.
Tuks’ Fingerprints on SA20
hat do AB de Villers, Faf du Plessis, Lungi Ngidi, Heinrich Klaasen, and other former and current Proteas have in common? They all hail from TuksCricket and are a part of the illustrious legacy of this university’s cricket club. Betway SA20, South Africa’s premier T20 competition, showcases our cricketing talent combined with world-class imports to produce a spectacle. The third season took place in January and February, and it included 19 past and present Tuks cricket players.
PDBY conducted interviews with Kruger van Wyk, Matthew Boast, and Keagan Lion-Cachet. Tuks student-athlete Matthew Boast, who plays for and is contracted by the Titans, was part of the Pretoria Capitals in 2024 and 2025. This year, Boast was joined by Tuks alumni Keagan Lion-Cachet, who became one of the breakout stars of the tournament. While currently Head of Programme for TuksCricket, Kruger van Wyk is also the fielding coach for MI Cape Town and the Proteas Test Team. Van Wyk played professional cricket for 17 years. He played for TuksCricket in 1999 and represented New Zealand on the field later in his career.
Why did you choose to come to Tuks?
Boast: The history, winning legacy, and the pipeline to franchise cricket were big things for me. If you want to make it at a place, make it at the toughest place where you’ll be remembered. I think Tuks has the toughest competition in terms of our squad depth and I’m very glad I came here.
Lion-Cachet: So Tuks has always been one of those cricketing clubs that have been top of my list, especially when it comes to university cricket. Ever since I was in school, I was like, “Listen, I need to try and get into Tuks,” just so I can see where I am in terms of my cricketing career and hopefully move on from there having bettered myself through the programme.
How has your time as a professional cricketer and playing for New Zealand helped you lead the club forward?
Van Wyk: I think it helps when you have had a playing career. I’m not saying a good coach needs to have played at the highest level. I think there are lots of examples of people who haven’t, but having a playing career puts you in the fortunate position where you know exactly what you’re asking of a player because you’ve had to go through it yourself. What is the role of culture and mentorship within the programme?
Van Wyk: I think mentorship doesn’t just narrow it down to cricket and studies. I think the well-being and growth of young men and women in their path is very important… It needs to be a culture where people are comfortable with sharing both their successes and failures… I know culture has become a bit of a buzzword in sport without anyone ever defining it. Our culture or way of doing things isn’t one thing, it’s a hundred things; the players know what they are and how we never neglect them.
What was your first SA20 Auction experience like?
Boast: I’ll never forget that day for a long time. I think we were all in Urban Quarter (some of his close friends and his cousin). We were all watching nervously and I didn’t expect it to be honest. I think it was a really special thing to happen.
Lion-Cachet: So this always gives me goosebumps. I think not many people outside of Tuks knew who I was… I was actually in res (Morula), and I was watching it with all my mates that I’ve been with over the last four years; it couldn’t have been more special. But when they said my name, it was absolute chaos. We were absolutely mental and I just sent a thank you message to everyone here at Tuks because without them, none of this would have been possible.
Can you describe your SA20 experience?
Boast: I was blown away, working with people and players of that
With 22 USSA titles under their belt, they are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff. The tournament fosters a spirit of camaraderie among teams, emphasising the importance of working together towards a common goal. Participation in the USSA Netball Championship allows student athletes to not only develop their skills on the court, but to also learn valuable life lessons in teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
As we look forward to the 2025 USSA Netball Championship, the excitement is palpable. The event will not only highlight the best of university netball; it will also serve as a crucial stepping stone for athletes who are aspiring to reach greater heights in their sporting careers.
The USSA Netball Championship is more than just a tournament; it is a celebration of dedication, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. UP's netball team exemplifies these values, and as they prepare for the championship, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of their university community. With 22 championship titles, Tuks has set a high standard and is determined to add to this legacy.
quality was really, really cool. Not just on the field but off the field things like their routines and how they go about their work. I think as a young player, it is really important to get engaged with those things early on and instill them into your daily life. So learning from those legends, Jacques Kallis and Colin Ingram to name a few, was a really cool experience.
Lion-Cachet: It was unbelievable being a rookie because you just learn so much and there’s almost no pressure on you because you’re not sure if you’re even going to get the chance to play. You’re just realising for the first time what it’s like to be a professional cricketer. So being exposed to that environment, you’re always learning. What a journey.
Can you speak to the success of the Tuks women’s team this season in winning their first title in over a decade?
Van Wyk: We are absolutely delighted with the success the women have had this year. To me, that’s been the highlight of the club… The way they beat Irene in that final, the videos, the celebrations, that was absolutely everything we believe in and like I say, that’s a programme that we want to just keep growing and keep assisting them in so many different ways.
What is your message for young cricketers who plan to study and follow in your footsteps?
Boast: Don’t think twice… in this environment, you’re coming here not just for a degree. You’re coming here for a proper experience and you gain lifelong mates, especially through TuksCricket.
Lion-Cachet: Personally, I would do anything to go back to my first year at Tuks. Just to experience everything again, I would do it over and over again… (He further emphasised the importance of controlling what you can and to embrace the Tuks system and everything it gives to you.)
Visual: Kerri-Anne Swanepoel
Hlomla Henna
Emmanuel Radingwana
Cayden Coetzer
Visual: Thato Duiker
Visual: Annelize Breed
From Relegation to Redemption
TuksRugby's Inspiring Journey Through the Varsity Cup
Cayden Coetzer
In the heart of Pretoria, the Tuks rugby team embarked on a journey that would etch their name into the university’s sports history. From the depths of relegation in 2023 to the heights of the FNB Varsity Cup semi-finals in 2025, their story is one of resilience, brotherhood, and unwavering support from the university community. PDBY had the opportunity to sit down with Coach Dewey Swartbooi to go through the journey with him.
A Journey of Redemption
The 2024 season marked a turning point for TuksRugby. After a challenging year, they returned to the FNB Varsity Cup in 2025, having dominated the Varsity Shield with an unbeaten season. The triumph was not just a victory on the field; it was a testament to the spirit of the players and the support from their fans. Coach Swartbooi described the journey. "It was one hell of a journey. We've come a long way since Varsity Shield to Varsity Cup and also making it to the semi-finals."
The emotional highs and lows of the season resonated with everyone. The team faced adversity but emerged stronger, showcasing their determination and skill. The semi-final match against the UCT Ikeys on 7 April was a culmination of their hard work and dedication.
Coach Swartbooi said, “I think there were more highs than lows, luckily for us. I mean, during the season we lost against UCT, but again, coming back from Shield, you know it was expected that you will stumble along the way one or two games, and the boys coped quite well. The team spirit within the camp was awesome.”
The Heartbreak of the Semi-Finals
As the sun set on the day of the semi-finals, the atmosphere was electric. Fans filled the stands, their cheers echoing the pride of the university. However, the match did not unfold as hoped. Tuks fell short against the Ikeys, a loss that resonated deeply within the hearts of players and supporters alike.
Coach Swartbooi reflected on the lessons learned from the defeat: “Key for us was you can't start slow in the semi-final. You can't [because] then we’re chasing the game. We didn't have a good start; we came back, so that for us was key: taking it through to next year or USSA's competitions that you need to have a good start in playoffs. You can't play catch-up rugby. So you need a good start. And then our discipline was [also] poor. That’s one thing that we pride ourselves on, and we weren't good with that. So those were the key learnings for us, you know, start well and then your discipline needs to be on par on the day.”
Despite a valiant effort in the second half where Tuks rallied and fought back with all their might, the clock was not on their side. The final whistle blew, sealing their fate and leaving the players and fans in stunned silence. The heartbreak was palpable, and a collective sigh of disappointment echoed throughout the stadium.
In the aftermath of the loss, the emotional toll was evident. Players
sat on the field, heads bowed, grappling with the weight of their defeat. Yet, among the sorrow, a sense of pride began to emerge. Tuks’ journey to the semi-finals had been nothing short of remarkable, and the support from the university community was unwavering.
As the players walked off the field, they were met with applause and cheers from their loyal supporters. The bond between the team and the university community was evident, a brotherhood forged in both victory and defeat. The fans, many of whom had followed the team through thick and thin, stood by their side, chanting words of encouragement.
Coach Swartbooi defined the identity of TuksRugby as the following: “Brotherhood, to put it out there. I think the love that these boys have for each other, it's like brothers. And the two co-captains said it the other day as well, Dillon and Chad, that they do things together most of the time, even with the young guns. It's because some of them are staying here in the sport village. You know, it's a close-knit brotherhood within the TuksRugby community at the moment, I feel.”
The Pride of the Stripe Generation
In the wake of their loss, the phrase "the sun will shine on the Stripe Generation again" became a rallying cry. It encapsulated the hope and determination that defines TuksRugby. The players, many of whom were experiencing their first Varsity Cup season, learned invaluable lessons that would shape their future performances.
Swartbooi emphasised the importance of community support: "Massive. Just yesterday, marketing people were telling me that for all three or four home games, including the semi-finals, it was sold out. So obviously that's massive, you know, to see Tuks Stadium full and people, even after our loss on Monday, people still staying and the boys obviously clapping and saying thank you and you know it's important for us. In any sporting code I think the supporters are key, and it's massive for us.”
The emotional connection between the team and their supporters is what sets TuksRugby apart. The pride in representing the university is inspiring, and the community's unwavering support fuels their passion.
Coach Swartbooi mentioned what he thinks sets the TuksRugby team apart from other university rugby teams: “I think the biggest thing again is our supporters. Being in Pretoria, people live for rugby. When Tuks win and when the Bulls are winning, Pretoria people are generally happy, but if you’re on the losing side then you can feel the dampness within Pretoria.”
These players are not just athletes; they are ambassadors of the Tuks spirit, embodying the values of resilience, teamwork, and determination.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
As the dust settles on the 2025 season, the focus shifts to the future. The lessons learned from this campaign will serve as a foundation for the next.
Coach Swartbooi expressed optimism about the team's trajectory: “I think it's a step in the right direction. We [saw] an upwards curve again last year and a bit with obviously Varsity Cup and Varsity Shield last year. Also, after Shield, we were in the league and USSA’s as well - you know, it’s building nicely at the moment. We are losing a couple of senior players that will be
too old next year with the eligibility rule, but hopefully the younger boys that were in the squad, and this was their first year of Varsity Cup, hopefully they've learned some key lessons now and they would have gained some experience for the rest of the season and obviously into next year.”
The trust and friendship within the club is stronger than ever with players committed to growth, both on and off the field. The journey continues, and the TuksRugby family remains united in their pursuit of excellence. Coach Swartbooi mentions what he is most excited for looking to the future of TuksRugby: “I think the camaraderie within the club at the moment. When I say club, I said it to our [sports director] the other day after the game, that we’re not talking about the Varsity Cup team. We’re talking about the ladies, we’re talking about our u20s, young guns. We’re talking about res rugby and then the three senior teams. That excitement, the fact that we are one club, we’re not doing things [solo]. So that excites me, that we do have personnel alive.”
The journey of TuksRugby continues this year, so know that Varsity Cup is not the end. TuksRugby is heading into the league. Coach Swartbooi expresses how important support from the university community is towards the team’s successes: “One thing that I still feel we can be better at is when it's club or league season. That's where I feel there's not a lot of support because I don't think a lot of people know that we [are] still playing league. Whereas with Varsity Cup, there's such a hype and it's TV exposure and it's also different because it's only universities. With club [rugby], it's open [to any] club. So these boys will play against men, if I can put it like that. Guys that are in [their] mid-30s and you know, more experienced players. Support us during that time as well, but I can't ask [for] more than what we have been receiving, especially with Varsity Cup, from our supporters.”
A Message to the Supporters
As the Varsity Cup season concludes, Coach Swartbooi extends his heartfelt gratitude to the supporters: "The biggest thing that we can say, or I can say, is just a massive thank you for their support throughout. Most of them were there last year as well when we were in the Shield, and to see them coming up in numbers, I mean, like I said earlier, you can't ask for better. I think the Tuks support that we get is massive. So I just want to say shout out. Thank you, ngiyabonga, to the supporters, and keep on supporting us. Hopefully, we will do you guys good again in the future."
TuksRugby’s journey is far from over. With the unwavering support from the university community, the sun will indeed shine on the Stripe Generation again. The pride, passion, and resilience of TuksRugby will continue to inspire future generations, reminding us all that every setback is merely a setup for a greater comeback. As they look to the future, the lessons learned and bonds forged will guide them on their path. Their journey may have faced a temporary setback, but the TuksRugby spirit remains unyielding, and they will rise again.
Breaking Boundaries at TuksFencing
In an exclusive interview with PDBY, TuksFencing’s newly-elected Chairperson Suzette van Eijk, Executive Committee (EC) member and graduating fencer Paige Jansen, and International Fencing Federation (FIE) three-time second-best referee in the world Andrei Kovrijnykh shared their reflections on the club’s rapid rise, their personal motivations, and their ambitious plans for the coming year. Under Van Eijk’s leadership, TuksFencing has emerged as one of South Africa’s biggest fencing clubs, flourishing into a vibrant hub of creativity and collaboration. “I think I’ve got a lot of dreams and plans and things that we want to introduce to the club,” she explained, acknowledging that “it’s frustrating that everything takes a lot of time to put into place, but I think, slowly, we are going forward”. She sees the club’s transformation as a springboard for deeper development and wider impact. “The club has grown tremendously over the last two years and we are now officially the biggest fencing club in South Africa.”
Van Eijk pays tribute to her predecessor’s commitment and leadership, noting how they “laid a solid foundation by managing many responsibilities with dedication”. That groundwork has positioned TuksFencing for this moment of growth, and she is now determined to build on it by cultivating an even more inclusive culture. “Something I believe in very firmly is teamwork,” she said, stressing that “all members of the club are part of the organisation and everybody should partake in some way”. This inclusive ethos resonates strongly with Paige Jansen, who recalls the early days
when there were “not that many people” and now watches “a bajillion new people” laughing through their struggles and supporting one another. Having switched from boxing to fencing, Jansen appreciates the sport’s combination of safety and strategic intensity: “It’s difficult as a girl being one of the few people [at boxing]. I don’t want to get beaten up in my face by some giant man, so fencing feels a lot safer for my face, my money maker.” Beyond the physical challenge, she values the social bonds and competitive drive that fencing fosters. “The people are very friendly… It really gives you drive. If you can start fencing, do it,” she said, urging anyone to consider starting the sport.
On the officiating side, Andrei Kovrijnykh brings unparalleled expertise and a spirit of openness. Kovrijnykh revived TuksFencing in 2003 and he has guided it to remain “the strongest club in South Africa for the past many, many years”. He prides himself on making the club “the friendliest club in the country because we allow any fencer to take part in our training sessions”, in contrast to other clubs that turn newcomers away. His résumé extends far beyond the campus: he has refereed at the last two Olympic Games, overseeing three out of four finals in Paris in addition to about 40 or 50 World Cups and
Grand Prix events and over a dozen championships. When asked about his ranking, he laughed, “Regarding how many I’m second-best referee…three for sure. But if you’re chosen one, two and three, you’re called the best referee in the world.”
Looking ahead, Van Eijk is already laying the groundwork for several major initiatives. She hopes to launch annual, and eventually biannual, boot camps, welcoming national and international fencers and coaches to intensive training sessions at TuksFencing. She wants the club to produce the most referees in the country and is developing a referee-training pipeline under Kovrijnykh’s guidance. Finally, she plans to establish the TuksFencing Student Academy, a programme designed to introduce hundreds of UP students to fencing, coach them from the ground up, and elevate them to competitive standards.
Together, Suzette van Eijk and Andrei Kovrijnykh blend strategic vision, grassroots passion, and world-class expertise. Their shared commitment to growth and inclusion, coupled with rigorous standards of fair play and officiating, promises to propel TuksFencing into its next era of excellence. As they roll out boot camps, expand the referee corps, and welcome new generations of fencers, the club’s members and supporters can look forward to a season defined by unity, ambition, and the enduring thrill of the sport.
Jason Visser
Visual: Jason Visser
Background visual: Kerri-Anne Swanepoel
