Vol. 2 No. 7 13 August 2012
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EDITOR’S LETTER
13 August 2012
Well hello there...
Madiba Magic to fellow members of the community.
programme at the Big Lapa. Ladies of all ages and backgrounds came together to learn a little bit about being a women in this day-and-age. Read page 29 to see what you may have missed out on.
I almost forgot! Remember that the SRC elections are coming up! From this week, students will be able to decide who they want to vote for. Check out the Student 24/7 Facebook page for information on the proceedings and the days of voting!
Speaking of Women’s Day; though the day may be gone, here in South Africa we still like to see the whole of August as Women’s Month. This means that many pages of this Edition are dedicated to all the lovely ladies out there. Now boys, don’t think this doesn’t mean we don’t care about you, actually, you may enjoy reading the pages just as much as the ladies... You never know what you may learn... Interested? Go to page 21 to have a look at what the event held in store.
With the end of my letter, also comes the end of the ablebodied 2012 London Olympics. While I may have missed the closing ceremony (which I am unhappy about), from what I have heard there were some interesting appearances... Congratulations to all the winners of the world, and a special WOOHOO to all our athletes. Whether you come back home with or without a medal, you are winners in our eyes! Now it’s the Paralympics to look forward to! GO Team S.A!
A very important event that occured last month, which I think many people will remember, is Mandela Day! The day was filled with smiles and people helping each other. Read on page 5 to see what some of the students did to bring a little
Now turn the pages, scroll with the mouse; do whatever it is that you do to read our pages. Enjoy them, and remember to always look good, as you never know when a journalist is around; ready to interview YOU for the next edition!
The second semester is now in full swing! After a few weeks off for the recess, and the long weekend over as well; the only thing left is a few weeks of classes, and then the FINALS again. In just the first two weeks of August, so much has happened! Firstly, I have to talk about it... the SNOW! Most people have never seen it, especially in South Africa... So you can imagine the looks on some students’ faces when they looked out of their bedroom windows and saw white everywhere. Though it only lasted a few hours, I think it definitely improved the mood of many students, not wanting to get out of their warm beds that day... Read on page 28 for more on what students thought about the snow on Campus. Not only did the day hold a fun snowball fight for most students; but it was also the day of the ADS Women’s Day
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VUVU’S SOAPBOX
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Vuvu’s Soapbox... August! Finally! An entire month of appreciating the finer things in live…beauty, grace… You have guessed it – its national chick month! As any warmblooded goose, I really like chicks and although it may seem a bit like telling you that water is wet – it is true. Quack! There is this one goose at the dam next to Building 6 that leaves my heart pounding like a jackhammer (the kind they are using on the construction site of the new library) and I tell you, every time she just looks at me I turn into a fumbling-star struck pile of putty – so unlike my usual cool and calm demeanor. During the past months I have been carefully studying the interaction of students on the Campus, and I have come to the conclusion that guyz and gals literally seem to come from different ponds… This leaves me even more confused since it would seem that my striking good looks and quacking personality aside, will not guarantee my sanity when it comes to the feathered femme fatale at Building 6. My first observation is that women seem to aim for a guy’s ears and heart via the stomach… stranger than fiction, I tell you. Countless times I see guys feasting away on toasted sandwiches (without even saving me as much as a crumb of toasted delight) whilst working on group assignments or study chores. Can it really be that simple? Give a guy something to eat and have your academic way with him? Secondly; why is it that when girls make up words to songs we find it mesmerizing, even though the words do not make sense at all! Just recently I saw a group of second year students singing away to something that sounded like “We found Dove in a soap less place”… whilst I know for a fact that the words are “We found love in a hopeless place” (… to my embarrassment I have to confess that I went through a serious pop music phase… complete with psychedelic glasses and the desire to own my very skinny jeans). The same goes for the wellknown Credence Clearwater’s “Bad moon rising”
(…I know what you are thinking… what does this goose listen to?) I once heard my very own feathered cousin signing away to “…there’s a bathroom on the right” instead of “there’s a bad moon on the rise”! My third observation has to do with the fairer sex’s getting-ready ritual (which my father always referred to as “plastering on the war paint”). Personally, the chick at Building 6 is fine just the way she is… which is true for all women – but it would seem as if women are totally oblivious to this fact themselves. Don’t get me wrong… we appreciate all the powders and gloss and glitter and mists of perfume but does it really take two hours to get ready to set foot out of your nest? Either way, I am over the moon with the fact that we are dedicating an entire month to the fairer sex. Quack! Quack! My biggest challenge now remains to try to compose myself and not waddle straight into a student... or worse even – a cat, when I find myself in the vacinity of Buiding 6. I have decided to also call upon the mystical powers of song to make my dream chick aware of the fact that I am unattached at the moment. I will pluck at her heartstrings with a country song… since I fancy myself a bit of a country goose. What about my grandmother’s favourite Kenny Roger’s song “You picked a fine time to leave me Lucille” – it always made my grandfather weak at the knees…(or so it seemed… it could have also have been the delivery of the song since my grandmother was completely tone deaf!). “You picked a fine time to leave me you seal. With 400 children and a truck with three wheels. I’ve had some sad times lived through some bad crimes” • Editor’s note: Vuvu, you have the words wrong! It should be “You picked a fine time to leave me Lucille. With four hungry children and a crop in the field. I’ve had some bad times and lived through some sad times”
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FROM THE RECTOR’S OFFICE
see everyday South Africans unite towards a better way of living for all. I want to thank the various departments and student groupings who embraced the 67 minutes community outreach initiative and by doing so contributed to the living legacy of our former statesman, Nelson Mandela.
D
ear Students
The month of August is upon us, and I sense an air of excitement and anticipation all around! Maybe it can be ascribed to the looming awareness that spring is just around the corner, and whilst nature is slowly awakening from her winter slumber, I find myself looking forward to a season of new beginning and growth. Whilst on the subject of new beginnings, I can’t but share in the overwhelming sense of national pride the country is currently engulfed in as a result of our athletes’ Olympic glory. It just goes to show that sport remains one of the strongest unifying elements of our diverse country. With the recent international Mandela Day celebrations still fresh in our memories, it is heartening to
The month of August is synonymous with women and on 9 August, we will be celebrating National Women’s Day. As a country, we have come a long way since 1956, when 20 000 women marched on the Union Buildings, in Pretoria, demanding an end to the pass-law system. Since the earliest times, history has depicted the role women play in society and history, even recorded the first woman to work in an office in Johannesburg – way back in 1984. Ironically she had to work in isolation since it was not regarded as appropriate for women to be seen in the workplace. Today our country’s new police chief – Mangwashi Phiyega, is the first woman on the job in the force’s 99-year history. Interesting facts about women on the African continent include the appointment of Dr. Nkosazana Dhlamini Zuma as the first woman to head the African Union; the election of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as the first African female head of state in 2006 and in Rwanda female representatives amount to 56 percent of the total members of parliament. Although great strides have been made, a lot more needs to be done – especially when one considers that women fill less than 15 percent of top posi-
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tion at Fortune 500 companies. As we celebrate great South African women such as Gill Marcus (Governor of the Reserve Bank); Maria Ramos (CEO of ABSA); Mamphele Ramphele (Chairperson, Circle Capital Ventures); Wendy Appelbaum (Business woman and philanthropist); Nicky NewtonKing (CEO, Johannesburg Stock Exchange); Nonkuleko NyembeziHeita (CEO, ArcelorMittal) and Graca Machel (Politician and humanitarian) we should also salute all mothers, daughters, wives and sisters. It is with a sense of great sadness and loss that the campus community pays homage to a well-known and respected alumnus, Chris Swartz. As a member of the newly constituted Alumni Advisory Committee; a guest lecturer in the School of Languages and a technical consultant for the Campus Radio Station he will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones during these trying times.
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CAMPUS NEWS
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NWU spreads some Madiba Magic Winnie Theletsane
To honour the 94th birthday of the former South African president, Nelson Mandela; each citizen was encouraged to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to helping those in need. This year the Vaal Campus students went all out, with three buses picking them up at the campus and outside residences. Each bus then took a different direction to lend a helping hand where needed most. A 64-year-old, Petrus Mnyane, received a bit of magic as a bus full of students stopped outside his home. As the students emptied his house in Tshepiso phase 3, members of the Emfuleni Municipality arrived with paint and painting equipment. As the females washed the dishes and some laundry, the males started with painting, cleaning the yard and washing the windows. While others were hard at work, Mr. Mnyane sat in his bedroom surrounded by the rest of the students and Student 24/7 journalists telling them stories. The old man had to amputate one of his legs due to cancer; it was so bad that he used to put his leg in the stove’s oven as that eased the cancer pain. Only two of his six children are still alive, and have gone on to live their own lives. That is why he lives with a young man, approximately in his mid-20s, a son of a family friend. Using crutches to walk, the old man later sat outside and continued to tell his life stories. While warning everyone to be careful with his furniture, he was very touched about having his house renovated. The whole kitchen and lounge were painted in white while waiting for the curtains to dry. Getting the old man to come for a group photo was not that easy, he wanted to understand why he had to leave his food, and why it was so necessary to take it in the first place. Unlike Mr Mnyane, the 109-year-old woman who lives in the back street was very calm and conservative. Mrs. Letia Mtimkulu lives with her two daughters, ages 62 and 64 year old,
whom take care of her. Although by the time the students arrived at her house, some of the community members had already started cleaning the yard and were awaiting paint from the local municipality, which did not take long to arrive. Her kitchen and lounge were painted in purple as she sat outside with her daughters and receiving some Madiba Magic from everyone. The old lady lost her sight because of old age, but that did not stop her from looking good and appreciating her ‘new’ home. The smell of paint translated the beauty her eyes could not see, into a picture only her mind could understand. this could be seen from the smile she wore as she walked in. The students gave more than 67 minutes of their time just to put a smile on the old people’s faces. A cup of Madiba Magic and a pinch of NWU spirit, a perfect recipe for nation building.
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CAMPUS NEWS
13 August 2012
13 August 2012
CAMPUS NEWS
Mandela Day at Student Centre Mpho Nakana
Our very own Student Centre also participated in the Mandela Day celebrations by holding specials in their kitchen for the day. “Mandela Day is an international event so we wanted to be a part of this special occasion,” said Mariska Scholtz, Assistant Manager at the Student Centre. The Student Centre had lunch combos whereby special prizes were set based on Madiba’s
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age and date of birth. Students and even some of the personnel took advantage of these special lunch combos that were available on the day. “67 minutes is asked of us to honour the Mandela legacy and contribution, but we decided to take it further by holding a special for the students for the whole day instead. It was our way of showing the meaning and importance behind this day”, said a Student Centre staff member.
Student elections – every vote counts Winnie Theletsane
The Campus is buzzing with excitement because of the upcoming Student Representative Council (SRC) and House Committee (HC) elections. This year the elections will see students going to the polls from 20-21 August for the SRC, and on 23 August for the HC elections.
the HC positions. The best refers to students who embody both academic commitment and dynamic personality traits. Another important factor, which is taken into consideration is the current year of study of each nominee since it also opens the door for deserving first year students to take up leadership positions.
The process of selecting the standing candidates begins with a student collecting a nomination form from the Director: Student Affairs. A minimum of 25 supporting signatures (from registered students) and the portfolio of choice for the candidate in question must accompany the documentation. During the screening process all submitted documentation are scrutinized and the academic records and disciplinary history of each nominee is called-up.
According to Mr. Simango, a leader is someone who can represent the masses well, is able to understand each individual’s needs and stay true to their moral beliefs. Strong leadership qualities and good problem solving skills are also essential. Once the voting, counting and announcing of the new leaders are done, the new leadership unit is trained and equipped with the necessary skills to help them do their work effectively.
Depending on how you look at it, the nominees then have to battle it out by means of their election manifestos. This is a process whereby the selected candidates plead their case to their fellow student, in hope of being voted for. The process for selecting candidates for the House Committee is even more stringent, only the best students are chosen to stand for
Student Affairs remains a lifeline to all student leaders, and takes responsibility to monitor the progress made. The latter takes place twice a year. In the case of a leader resigning, another capable leader takes over whilst a new leader
Turn to next page for more information...
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CAMPUS NEWS
is chosen from the existing candidates list to fill the vacant position. But how can we be sure that the whole election process is fair and democratic? The Campus conducts the elections process with the assistance and guidance of the local Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). Not only that, but there are also students known as ‘candidate agents’ who are tasked to furthermore oversee the process. This ensures that no candidate
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adds more votes to their name, steals any ballot boxes (which have happened before) or try anything to unlawfully increase their votes. Mr. Simango has confirmed that so far everything leading to the voting process is going according to plan. Now, all that is left for you to do is to add your vote to the process.
A helping hand is never out of reach Winnie Theletsane
Change is inevitable; especially for young school leavers finding themselves in the unknown environment of tertiary education. At the Vaal, a vested mentorship programme represents one of the crucial steps in addressing change in a pro-active and successful manner. The programme, led by Mrs. Johanna Ralekgogo from the Academic Development and Support Department (ADS), implements methods that best assist students in their academic activities. A number of workshops are held every semester to equip students with tools that they can utilize to improve their academic performance. Apart from these workshops, the programme also includes a mentorship programme consisting of an active and dynamic student network. According to Mrs. Ralekgogo, a mentor is someone who can be a role model both academically and personally. Each mentor is assigned to a group of first year students within a specific subject group. Each of the residences on campus has its own mentors with the contact sessions between the two conducted during a time slot agreed upon by both parties. By so doing, the sessions do not infringe on either the mentor or the mentees’ academic schedule. The sessions can be conducted within a group setting or on a one-on-one basis. To date the programme boasts a total of 66 mentors and 551 mentees, with a pass rate of 82% in the first semester of 2011. As of 2013, Oryx and Acacia students (the off-campus students) can
expect to be part of this programme. The programme not only utilises workshops and residence sessions, it also hosts special events throughout the year. On 7 August, an event to celebrate National Women’s month, aimed to create a platform for ongoing dialogue between students. The theme of the day was “Being and becoming a woman” and the discussion topics included relationships, women and the law, financial security and planning. Various alumni members of the Campus will act as guest speakers, including Mrs. Lindokuhle Matla (South African Reserve Bank) and Me. Minky Cele (Standard Bank). Several students will showcase their music, dancing and poetry skills during the event. Dear NWU Student Attached please find the Study Skills Workshops Schedule for the second semester of 2012. Workshops are free and open to all students. You are invited to attend all the workshops. What to bring? Pen, pencil and paper! Enjoy the workshops! We look forward to your participation! Academic Development and Support Building 9a-G19 Tel: 016 910 3316
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CAMPUS NEWS
t n e d u t S S s AD p o h s g: k n r i br il, r Wo e o t t s t nc e a e m h e S W en, P per d P Pa 2n From
To
Venue
Topic
Week 1: 23 - 27 JULY Tuesday
24 July
09:30
10:50
Building 6 - 111
Time management
Thursday
26 July
09:30
10:50
Building 6 - 111
Study techniques: Mind maps
Week 2: 30 JULY - 3 AUGUST Tuesday
31 July
12:30
13:50
Building 6 - 111
Study techniques: Making notes
Woendag
01 Augustus
12:30
13:50
Building 6 - 111
AFRIKAANS Studie tegnieke: Hoe om notas te maak
Week 3: 6 - 8 AUGUST Tuesday
07 August
14:00
15:20
Building 6 - 111
Motivation and goal setting
Wednesday
08 August
14:00
15:20
Building 6 - 111
Self-regulation of learning
09 August Women’s Day Week 4: 13 - 17 AUGUST Wednesday
15 August
09:30
10:50
Building 6 - 111
Study techniques: Active learning and concentration
Thursday
16 August
09:30
10:50
Building 6 - 111
Study techniques: Active learning and concentration
Week 5: 20 - 24 AUGUST Tuesday
21 August
11:00
12:20
Building 6 - 111
Learning styles
Thursday
23 August
11:00
12:20
Building 6 - 111
Study techniques: Mind maps
Week 6: 27 - 31 AUGUST Wednesday
29 August
09:30
10:50
Building 6 - 111
Memory strategies
Wednesday
29 August
12:30
13:50
Building 6 - 111
Memory strategies
Thursday
30 August
14:00
15:20
Building 6 - 111
Memory strategies
Week 7: 3 - 7 SEPTEMBER No workshops Week 8: 10 - 14 SEPTEMBER Tuesday
11 September
14:00
15:20
Building 6 - 111
Time management
Wednesday
12 September
14:00
15:20
Building 6 - 111
Managing academic stress
Thursday
13 September
14:00
15:20
Building 6 - 111
Study techniques: Mind maps
Week 9: 24 - 28 SEPTEMBER 24 Sep Heritage Day Woensdag
26 September
09:30
10:50
Building 6 - 111
AFRIKAANS Studie tegnieke: O-VLOK-H
Wednesday
26 September
12:30
13:50
Building 6 - 111
Study techniques: SQ3R
Thursday
27 September
09:30
10:50
Building 6 - 111
Study techniques: SQ3R
Spring recess 29 Sept - 7 Oct Week 10: 8 - 12 OCTOBER No workshops Week 11: 15 - 19 OCTOBER Tuesday
16 October
14:00
15:20
Building 6 - 111
Study techniques: Mind maps
Wednesday
17 October
14:00
15:20
Building 6 - 111
Exam preparation
Thursday
18 October
09:30
10:50
Building 6 - 111
Exam preparation
Week 12: 22 - 25 OCTOBER Woensdag
24 Oktober
09:30
10:50
Building 6 - 111
AFRIKAANS Eksamenvoorbereiding
Wednesday
24 October
12:30
13:50
Building 6 - 111
Exam preparation
Final exams 26 Oct - 15 Nov
Final 2nd opp exams 23 Nov - 4 Dec
For more information, contact Dine du Preez 016 910 3311 Or visit us in Building 9A - G19. All students welcome!
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CAMPUS NEWS
IT support made easy
nectivity settings, several WiFi hotspots enable you to connect to the internet hassle free.
This new support service represents one of several initiatives aimed at creating a more customer orientated service. Apart from the Student Laptop Initiative, the new computer booking project and the walkin support service, the IT department also offers students – who have not had their laptops set-up for Wi-Fi connectivity (and who therefore do not comply to the antivirus policy of the University) the opportunity to buy a connectivity coupon from as little as R15.00 for 50 MB.
Below is a map of the current Wi-Fi and internet connections available on Campus. The colours stand for the different phases and areas that currently have or will have WiFi connectability in the coming months.
Annette Willemse
If you are anything like me and also find yourself intimidated by all things technological, you can rest assure since the Information Technology and Management Department (IT) has just removed the sting associated with technical IT support. A brand new walk-in support service has been introduced and students will benefit from the complete one-stop service. Services that are offered include: depositing of printing money; password settings; computer bookings and computer set-up support (Wi-Fi connectivity and software installation). You will also be able to purchase CD’s, DVD’s and several software packages at the support service. The service is available in Building 8, room 104.
According to Mrs. Aldine Oosthuyzen, IT Manager, the IT policy of the University prescribes that the Security Essentials antivirus software be installed on all computers that log onto the University’s IT network. After the IT Department has enabled your Wi-Fi con-
Please look carefully so that you may see where you will be able to use your laptops for WiFi. Colour Code: Green: Complete Wi-Fi coverage Pink: Wi-Fi coverage in planning phase Blue: Radio link to Quest and Faranani Yellow: Hostels: Full coverage
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CAMPUS NEWS
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Tired of waiting in line to use a PC? Annette Willemse
Does waiting in line to use a computer in one of the computer labs cause you to break into a cold sweat? Are you running out of time to hand in assignments because you do not have access to a computer? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you can relax – the solution is just a click away! As from the start of the second semester the Information Technology and Management Department (IT) offers students the option of booking a computer to use for a two hour period per day. The “My Bookings” project aims to allow students the opportunity to plan their research and assignments in such a way that they do not find themselves in a race against time. According to Mrs. Aldine Oosthuyzen, IT Manager, the service aims to alleviate the frustrations students experience at the computer labs and also to manage access to computer resources more closely. “The key to this project is to remember to plan ahead since all bookings must be made seven days in advance,” says Mrs. Oosthuyzen.
To make use of the “My Bookings” initiative, you must follow these steps: • Log on to any computer in the computer rooms • On the desktop you will find an icon for the booking system • Double click on the icon • Log in with your student number and network password • Select the computer lab you want to make the booking in • Select the date • Click on” refresh” • Choose the computer that you want to book and click on “Book” • Select the time – you can book a computer for two hours per day, seven days in advance • Remember there is an AM (for day) and a PM (for night) tab • Click “ok” • A message will be displayed to inform you whether your booking was successful or not • To view your bookings you can click on “My Bookings”. You can delete your bookings if made in error.
Blacksheep: Not what you think it is! Chontelez Jacobs
Who: Blacksheep, BSLOTH & Y.P.D.P.T What: A movement and brand to promote young people doing proper things When: Each and every day Where: Visit Olivier @ NWU Vaal, EDC Building behing Building 6 Why: To promote unison, creativity, the spririt of individuality within a brand, the pursuing of dreams and so much more There are two new terms floating around campus for the last six months. Have you heard? It is Blacksheep and Y.P.D.P.T. A bit of a tonguetwister, right? Blacksheep is a brand of clothing and a movement started by Olivier Tshimbidi, otherwise known as Blacksheep. What makes
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CAMPUS NEWS
this brand stand out from all of the others? Let’s investigate… Blacksheep was founded by Olivier Lufuluabo Tshimbidi, a multi-talented individual known for his extraordinary achievements in both sports and academics. He started a movement within Blacksheep called Y.P.D.P.T, which stands for Young People Doing Proper Things. “It is a term I’ve come up with which in its very essence means exactly what it stands for”, says Olivier. The Y.P.D.P.T movement is all about young people who are doing more than the average person, more than what is expected of them, young people pursuing their dreams and ambitions. These individuals have a passion for something, so much so that they will pursue it no matter what as opposed to sitting back and waiting for something to happen to them. On the question being asked of who is included in this movement, Olivier answered: “We
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don’t discriminate. For some of you, your hustle may be dancing, rugby, music, whatever… the fact that you are chasing your dreams, regardless of your race, background…you are already leaving a footprint in this generation!” Furthermore he says that Blacksheep and its movements strive to create a platform where all young people may be encouraged to live up to their full potential. If you have a passion for something, do it! Become part of the movement, wearing Blacksheep clothes to show your support for individuals like yourself and to inspire others! Blacksheep – Leaders of the Herd. Want to be part of this movement? Go to http:// www.facebook.com/#!pages/Blacksheep-BSproductions/311114132248919 to stand a chance to be part of a video shoot/photo shoot! Read next month’s edition for a follow-up on Blacksheep, Y.P.D.P.T and BSLOTH.
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CAMPUS NEWS
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Community outreach focuses on value of education Annette Willemse
It is said that the best example of leadership, is leadership by example. The student community of the Vaal Triangle Campus of the North-West University (NWU Vaal) recently took heed of the call to action by the Student Representative Council (SRC) and united for a good and worthwhile cause. During the month of June the students took part in a community outreach initiative at the Groenpunt Maximum Correctional Centre in Vereeniging as part of the centre’s Youth Development Project (YDP). The event, which coincided with the annual Youth Day celebrations, saw students contribute educational necessities such as stationary whilst rendering music, dance and poetry items as part of the event – that took place on the 21st of June 2012. Several regional entities such as the Department of Education, Social Work Services, community leaders and church groups took part in the event and apart from various keynote speakers and cultural performances, the
prison inmates had the opportunity to showcase their artwork and participate in the various discussions pertaining to issues relating to education and empowerment. In his address the Campus Rector, Prof. Thanyani Mariba motivated the inmates to persevere in adversity and to pro-actively construct a thriving environment for themselves. “Through education the veils of ignorance are lifted and fear, materialism and self-righteous anger will subdue,” explained Prof. Thanyani whilst adding that education fosters courage, honesty and compassion – in short: create generations of people with the knowledge, commitment, skills and wisdom to bring about positive changes. In conclusion he (Prof. Mariba) paid homage to the memory of the Class of 1976 – who paid with their very lives to ensure accessible education. “I want to challenge you to embrace the freedom that education brings. Education is a lifelong journey and enables ordinary individuals, like you and me, to leave behind extraordinary legacies.”
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CAMPUS NEWS
Puppetry with a purpose Annette Willemse
Puppetry plays an important role in disseminating knowledge, especially when it comes to young children. This is according to Dr. Ria Booysens, a senior lecturer at the School of Educational Sciences on the Vaal Campus. Each year, for the past three years, the School of Educational Sciences presents a puppetry presentation during which the third year foundation phase students display their puppetry skills at various preprimary and primary schools in Vanderbijlpark. According to Dr. Booysens the students develop their puppetry skills from their first year of study when they have to create an animal puppet to explain a specific concept to young children. This is followed by the designing of a boy or a girl puppet to aid them in practicing dialogue be-
tween different puppets whilst during their third year of studies they are expected to write an interactive script with a moral lesson to present through the use of their puppets. “Since puppetry imbibes elements of all art forms such as literature, painting, sculpture, dance and drama it enables students to develop their creative abilities to the full”, explains Dr. Booysens and adds that puppetry is used all over the world to transmit knowledge. When the students create their scripts for a puppet show they have to adhere to set criteria, including: interactivity; they have to be age conscious, link to the content of the education curricula and make use of additional props to aid understanding and meaning. According to Dr. Booysens an annual puppetry workshop serves as a
13 August 2012 point of departure after which students have to develop their own characters and puppets – this includes technical aspects such as manoeuvrability, different vocal accents and the identity of the puppets. Through the art of puppetry the students are empowered to draw on all the knowledge and skills obtained during their three years of study within the scope of foundation phase education. An added bonus – according to Dr. Booysens, is the fact that the students can use their puppets to earn extra money by performing at schools and day-care centres and by doing so give way to further entrepreneurial development. The puppets are used to aid children in acquiring new knowledge, to work through trauma, to explain sensitive issues such as sexual abuse; racism and bullying as well as to enhance vocabulary and communication skills.
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CAMPUS NEWS
Serious about QUALITY! Your opinion means a lot to the Vaal Triangle Library! We are committed to improving your library experience. By taking part in the LibQUAL survey you will help us to fine tune our service to meet your specific needs. The survey focuses on several areas of quality service rendering, including: the perceived attitude of the library
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staff; the quality of information services and the general experience of our library users. Big prizes are up for grabs! Please complete the survey no later than 17 August 2012. We are serious about quality, are you? Complete the survey on the library webpage: www.nwu.ac.za/library or visit the library. Hendra Pretorius Library Manager
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Internationals aiming high Winnie Theletsane
The International Office at NWU, Vaal Triangle Campus, hosted an informal meeting for all its members. Head of the International Office, Angelique van Rensberg, organized the meeting in order to give the members a chance to interact with one another and form new friendships. The members are all the international students attending at the Vaal Triangle Campus, and together they form the International Student Body. These students get to together at least twice a year, and every meeting is given a special name. This time around it was called “The International
Students’ Winter Warmer”, whereby the students got to help themselves to hot chocolate and marshmallows (the perfect way to end the winter season). Hosted at the small lapa with the beautiful view of the Vaal River, this meeting is an opportunity for the international students to speak in their mother tongue and for some to reminisce about all that is left back at home. Apart from the social and informal side of things, more serious and important matters are discussed. Matters such as legal aspects affecting these students as internationals, and the role they play within
13 August 2012 the campus. With the campus’ SRC elections coming up, Angelique announced that there will be a position that an International student may apply for. The Transformation Department within the SRC can have one member from the International Student Body to represent all the internationals. The student who will be their representative will be the chosen president of the body and will have to stand to be voted for in the upcoming SRC elections. This goes to show that: “South Africa belongs to all who live in it”. Once the business was out of the way, it was back to the hot chocolate, the marshmallows, the beautiful languages from across Africa and it was back to getting to know one another better.
13 August 2012
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ALUMNI
New era dawns for Alumni fraternity Roche Artz
When it comes to the newly constituted Alumni Advisory Committee of the Vaal Triangle Campus, it seems to be a case of leading by example – and as such, the ten member committee is set to go about their duties with gusto and vigour. The election of an executive structure within the committee was the first item on the agenda during a recent introductory meeting and the following portfolios were allocated: chairperson (Mr. Heindrich Kriel), deputy chairperson (Mr. Corrie Botha) and secretary (Mrs. Sindy Thubalang). This committee represents the Campus’s strong and vibrant professional network of over 10 000 members, located around the globe and occupy key corporate, industry, government and community leadership roles. The fourteen member committee is tasked with the challenge to ensure a strong and meaningful network for all graduates that will deliver a range of alumni centred services and benefits that will ultimately create mutually beneficial
lifelong relationships and professional networking opportunities. “Being an alumnus represents much more than a sense of belonging, it makes every graduate a shareholder of their alma mater,” explains Alwine and adds that she believes that a healthy alumni fraternity waters the seeds of wisdom, opportunities and also paves a way for the upcoming generation. According to Alwine shared dreams and vision do not have to be in the form of money only but can also take the form of advice, physical involvement and time spent. The mandate of the advisory committee is to interact with the different alumni groupings (e.g. postgraduate, subject groups, degree qualifications and residences) and to foster pro-active relationships within these different groupings. Since the committee is made up of representatives from a wide variety of professional backgrounds and affiliations they furthermore serve as an important link between the campus and the external environment.
Below: Heindrich Kriel was unanimously elected as the new chairperson of the Campus’s alumni advisory committee.
Above: The NWU Vaal Alumni Advisory Committee is made up of several influential leaders of business, industry, government and community. From the left are: Pat Matla, Sindy Thutubalang (Directorate Marketing and Communication), Lindokuhle Matla, Dr. John Maloma (Director, Marketing and Communication), Corrie Botha, Prof. Marius Stander, Ramosebi Morabe, Vuyisile Gubuza, Heinrich Kriel, Dr. Brendah Sekatane, Alwine Naude (alumni coordinator), Dawie Erasmus and Tumi Hatla. Another member, Chris Swartz was absent.
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13 August 2012 jlpark, Vereeniging and Saldanha and travelled to countries such as Finland, Germany, England, France, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, Belgium, China, India, Canada, America and Brazil.
ALUMNI
Heinrich to lead alumni advisory committee Annette Willemse
The name Heinrich Kriel is synonymous with the Vaal Campus. His relationship with the Campus dates back to the 1980’s when he started his studies in engineering; was one of the first hostel students (in a group of only 25) to reside on campus; completed a stint in different levels of student leadership and graduated in 1990. During this time he also met his wife, Christelle on the campus and as such it is a small wonder that he feels such an affinity for the place. As from April 2012 he finds himself back at his beloved alma mater as a member and chairperson of the first-ever alumni advisory committee. After serving as the general manager at ArcelorMittal South Africa, Heinrich now finds himself in a sabbatical period and consulting as a management and leadership consultant at the VESCO Group. Student life Heinrich was a BEng (Mechanical) student between 1985 and 1990 and worked just as hard at his student life as he did at his studies. “I signed up for everything,” he remembers and adds that he was a house committee member, a member of the University Sport’s Council, member of the RAG committee, RAG chairperson, member of the SRC and later on even chairman of the SRC and treasurer of the National RAG committee. “…you name it and I probably was involved somewhere!” laughs Heinrich. It is especially his tenure as RAG chairman in 1989 which really brings back fond memories – especially when he recalls helping to build the RAG Farm. Professional success Equipped with his engineering degree, Heinrich started working at Iscor in Vanderbijlpark (now ArcelorMittal South Africa) and slowly but surely, he began climbing the corporate ladder. After seven years he reached the level of area manager and then became a member of the company’s top management team. During his employment at ArcelorMittal South Africa he held various managerial positions in Vanderbi-
According to Heinrich he is a people’s person and as such the “human factor” is the single most important aspect of his leadership abilities. “I treat everyone as I would like to be treated myself,” he says and adds that he anchors himself through prayer. Alumni advisory committee According to Heinrich it is a privilege to be part of the newly established Alumni Advisory Committee and he views it as an opportunity to promote the University and foster long-term relationships between his alma mater, the greater alumni fraternity and business. “The committee plays a vital role in the relationship building process and I am excited to see our alumni numbers grow,” says Heinrich and adds that through his involvement with the committee he is offorded an opportunity to give something back to the campus. “The Vaal Triangle Campus has meant a lot to me over the years – both personally and p rofessionaly, and I am proud and honoured to be associated with the campus.”
13 August 2012
HEALTH
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Attention Ladies:
Look fab this Women’s Month, just in time for spring
Now that winter is well on its way out, and we will soon be biding farewell to it…what now? Yes, like every other year winter has left its mark, now where to from here? How do we shed that unwanted weight?
• Drink 6-8 glasses of water every day, no matter what.
Kelebogile Mopeloa
We are less than a month away from Spring and the truth is most of us have gained a few kg’s, unintentionally…fortunate are the ones that didn’t and will be singing ‘I GOT IT FROM MY MOMMA’ come Spring time. As for the rest of us, it is time to put in some extra effort so we look fabulous just in time for Spring!!! Here are a few tips from Livestrong on how that goal can be accomplished: • Do not starve yourself or go long periods without food in an attempt to reverse a lot of heavy eating. Say "No" to liquid diets, crash diets, pills or other extreme measures, and this includes laxatives. • Eat breakfast soon after awakening, unless you exercise soon after awakening. In belief, breakfast does not have to be a big, megacourse meal. • Exercise every day, and during winter, this is very doable. Get used to the idea of exercising inside your house on very cold days. And don't forget the pushups. Watch winter weight gain come off.
• Eat 5-7 servings a day of fruits and vegetables (in any combination, and raw). The fiber content will suppress appetite, which will discourage weight gain and encourage fat loss.
Extra tip: Although true weight loss can only occur when you consume less calories than you burn, adding lemon to water is one trick that may assist you in your weight-loss journey. With our busy academic schedules this is very doable…not impossible. Remember that this is all in the name of feeling and looking good from this women’s month and onwards!!!
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CSRC
13 August 2012
STUDENTS/ACTIVISTS NEEDED FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT!!! AIM To be part of the AGCI (African Green Campus Initiative) which hosts seminars at different university’s in Africa.
We need YOU to join us in our fight against climate change and making our campus GO GREENER by engaging in GREEN projects such as: Recycling (paper, tin, plastic, glass, etc) Water conservation Energy conservation Green house (vegetation) on campus Competitions Campus ecology debates, etc
For more information join us on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com
Email your details (Name & Surname, email address, student nr, cell nr. & residence) to CSRC: HEALTH & SAFETY -2011/12 MS. SYLISE DA SILVA VSR-HEALTH@nwu.ac.za/ lisa3bee@gmail.com OR Submit your details to Ms Lethiwe Kubheka – Builing 5D (SRC Office) before 10 Aug 2012
13 August 2012
WOMEN
WOMEN REVEALED Chontelez Jacobs
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you’ll find it stuffed with clothing. Ask her what she is planning on wearing and you’ll probably get an answer similar to: “I told you I have NOTHING to wear!” Truth is, women have their favourite items, but feel dull when wearing the same items too much. Women consider this fact to be truthful, LOL! • Women don't bathe every single day: Most women profess cleanliness and hygiene, but may sometimes rely on deodorants and perfumes to disguise the fact that they have not bathed or washed their hair. Some women may deny this fact, but didn’t we already mention that they are masters at hiding things? What’s weird about this? You’ll never even notice! • Women like to eat. No, women LOVE to eat – A LOT: Around their boyfriends, husbands and friends women pretend to eat little. Why? It seems girly and well-mannered. When surrounded with their own company – they can finish off a man-sized burger with fries and a shake. True story!
We all know women are pretty, soft, sexy, and attractive but have you ever imagined another side to them, a slightly unkept one at that? Actually, women can cause men to turn red in the face with all the embarrassing details of their true selves. Women differ not only physically from men, but also psychologically. They hide age, weight, feelings, qualities, and do things that men haven’t thought of doing – and not plan to do in the near future. In the light of the theme of Women’s Day in this edition, some funny (and often weird facts) are revealed… • Women ALWAYS carry their handbags around: Men must have noticed that women always have their bags or purses swinging from their arms. Why? Women have revealed that they feel awkward when walking around with empty hands. What’s weird about this fact? Open up that purse and you’ll be able to open up a convenience store! • Women NEVER have anything to wear: Open up a woman’s closet and
• Why women love Desperate Housewives and all other girly TV shows: Women love intrigue, gossip, jealousy, lies, romance, deceit and all things juicy. Why? Women escape from reality and imagine themselves living the lives of their favourite characters – no matter how scandalous they are. And a little reminder to calm the nerves of the lucky guy waiting for his girlfriend to finish her make-up:
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Passing the baton to the second semester Simphiwe Mngomezulu
This time of year is especially exciting not only because its time for the World Olympics in London but also because we are diving into the second semester. Here are some quotes that will guarantee that you reach the second semester finish line in true gold medalist style: • “Adversity causes some men to break; others to break records.’ William Arthur Ward • “Losers visualize the penalties of failure, but winners visualize the rewards of success.” Rod Gilbert • "It's lack of faith that makes people afraid of meeting challenges, and I believed in myself." Muhammad Ali, Champion Wrestler o "You have to expect things of yourself before you can do them." Michael Jordan, Basketball Player. • “Life’s problems wouldn’t be called “hurdles” if there wasn’t a way to get over them.” Author Unknown
INSPIRATION
The Fall Mandisa Ntside Second year, BA Communication When Inspired, downs are high. This rift of ideas fires, burs, fanned the boxed walls by space, compacted, within an outside down... When rock bottoms touches the grounds... Ceilings checks the flooring to confirm the Fall. As sighs nodding, heads, buddied by disapproval, a down is around reality... Now when she aborts existence and ascends to lows heightened down roots of demise, let her begin to float as she falls. Because the eternal in man cannot die... It only manifests
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Honouring all the females Rodney Mdhluli 3rd year BA Communication Honouring all the females as we trend back to 1956 Hail to the south, north, west and east In all the portions of the world What they fiercely did never grows old Today women all over rejoice in your suffering Albertina Sisulu, Helen Joseph, Lilian Ngoyi, And Amina Cachalia Hand to hand forming an African colour Gratitude for cooking a feminine strong land With the use of action and words you’re political chefs Multiplying a four with a three Resulting in a number, as wide as the sea Entirely constructing historic land We family culturally we form a band Now we dance and pata pata Reminisce with smiles and laughter No more thrusting Slate clean no sturdy crust Everything pliable its August
13 August 2012
SA NEWS
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United in greatness Winnie Theletsane
This year commemorates the 56th anniversary of Women’s Day in South Africa. To most this day is just another ‘Mother’s Day’, but in truth it is the day in which the Federation of South African Women took a stand for all the black women and raised their voices. The date was 9 August 1956, when the women decided to have a mass demonstration to submit a petition of signatures that they had been collecting. The petition was a symbol of the anger and frustration that black women had, due to the “pass laws”. The “pass law” was a legislature that required blacks to carry a document on them all the time to prove that they had been granted permission to enter a ‘white area’ during the Apartheid system. The restriction of movement for blacks was not something new during that time as areas had been classified according to races. The mass demonstration was a fight for freedom of movement and was led by four women namely: Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa, Sophie Williams and Lilian Ngoyi. Over 20 000 women had supported them in delivering the petition to the Prime Minister JG Strijdom's office within the Union Buildings in Pretoria. On the way to the Union Buildings, these women sang freedom songs such as Nkosi sikeleli Afrika and the famous women-empowering song "Wathint' abafazi, wathint' imbokodo” (which means: you strike a woman, you strike a rock). The march was a great success, pass laws were banished and women no longer had to carry them wherever they went. In 2006, for the 50th anniversary celebration of Women’s Day, the South African government renamed Strijdom Square, where the Union Buildings in
Pretoria are, as Lilian Ngoyi Square, in honor of all those brave women who took part in that historic event. Even today, the saying “you strike a woman, you strike a rock” is still seen as a way of describing the strength, power and bravery of all South African women.
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VOX POP
13 August 2012
Heads up in celebration of womanhood Roche Artz
Remember, remember, Women’s Day on the 9th of August... Yet of recent it’s become an entire month dedicated to women. So what makes Women’s Day so special? Could it be the public holiday many of us may be grateful for, as then we can squeeze in some extra time to catch up on academics, study for upcoming tests, or complete those assignments? Zandile Sangweni, Hons. Student in BCom Risk Management said “Women’s Day is the celebration of women, a time to reflect on their worth and their tenacity”. Leonie Geldenhuys, 3rd year BA Communications student said “Women’s Day makes me feel proud and special”. We often hear what women think of Women’s Day, but, what do men think women’s day is all
Who are you voting for? Roche Artz
Seasons come, and seasons go. The 2012/2013 Student Representative Council (SRC) elections are upon us. Getting a couple of comments from students, Sechaba Montshitsi, 3rd year, BCom Economics and International Trade student said, “With the prospective 2012/2013 SRC elections, I’m hoping for new, fresh ideas and concepts. Most importantly is the deliverance of promises made by candidates”. David Kubheka, MA Theology student said, “I’m greatful for the existence of such structure on the campus, which voices and eye of the majority of students. It reflects a democratic environment”. Tshegofatso Moeng, 3rd year, BCom Economics and Risk Management student said, “I think they should be more open to students and more fun. At the end of the day we are students and can’t stand in long lines. We need activities to persuade students to vote”. Neo Majoro, 1st year, BCom CA student said, “I want to vote for those who are not going to tell us about management when we want events, like parties
about? Matthews Molamu, 3rd year BA Communications student said, “Women are very important and the most empowering people in life, like my mother, who is strong, single and protects her family”. Many have formulated their own meaning towards Women’s Day, and the list is almost endless. Itumeleng Thulare, 3rd year BA Communication student said, “Woman’s Day represents more than just the liberation of women in our country as well as the world. It marks the importance of our existence in this world. What we offer is just as important, if not more, as what men contribute”. We all have our own and different opinions regarding Women’s Day, and what it means to us, as an individual, be you man, or woman. It is a day of honouring and celebrating woman. Best part of all, it’s a public holiday!
on campus. I want to vote for people who are into sustainability and who will support the Go Green initiative”. Teboho Tsotetsi, 2nd year, BCom Economics Risk and Investment student said, “We must be very careful when electing the upcoming elections. In comparison to the previous, there were those who were elected who came from privileged homes, and didn’t represent students from disadvantaged homes.” He explained further “The incoming executive should be able to fight for the disadvantaged students”. Nwabisa Dingana, 3rd year, BCom Management student said that she’d like to see people who understand why and what it is they’re standing for. “The motives some candidates stand for are for popularity, instead of functioning and serving the students. I think there’s a whole lot of lobbying and hidden agendas”. A whole lot of demands and expectations these are. Let’s see if the new executive will be able to fulfil these expectations. Many students have indicated that they look forward to voting. Who will stand this time round?
13 August 2012
EVENTS
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Students doing their bit on Mandela Day Kelebogile Mopeloa
Our students went out on an excursion on the 18th July with the aim of celebrating the birthday of one the world’s greatest legends Mr. Nelson Mandela. The students made a visit to Sharpville where they dedicated 67 minutes of their time to helping two pensioners in Tshepiso. First stop was a visit to Tshepiso phase3 at the house of Mr. Petrus T. Mnyane. He is a 64 year old man who lost his left leg through amputation after being diagnosed with cancer. Mr. Mnyane is a father of 6, of which only two of his children are living and the other four have passed on. He lives with a family friend, recommended to him by the community, who helps him with all the house chores and makes sure he is well taken care of. Next stop was a visit to the house of a phenomenal 108 year old Mrs. Letia Mtimkulu, who will be turning 109 years in December. Mrs. Mtimkulu lost her sight due to old age and lives with her 62 and 64 year old daughters, who are taking care of her.
The Soil @ Campus Kelebogile Tshekedi
The most anticipated day of the semester that had the whole campus buzzing with excitement for days on end, The Soil visited our campus during their annual Campus Tours. ‘The Soil’, an innovative, one of its kind acapella group, graced our campus, bringing messages of hope through their music and telling the audience about their daily issues, from spiritual experiences love and life. The group originally consisted of about 20 (now three) members
Our students dedicated 67 minutes of their time on Mandela Day to cleaning and helping paint the houses of Mr. Mnyane and Mrs. Mtimkulu. Students went all out to make sure that their visit to the two houses would put smiles on the faces of the two owners. While the ladies were doing the laundry, washing dishes and cleaning the houses, the gentlemen were painting and cleaning up the yard. After the day’s hard work both Mr. Mnyane and Mrs. Mtimkulu were satisfied with the work done by the students.
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EVENTS
who met in high school eight years ago while studying in Tetelo Secondary School in Soweto, Protea North. They later studied further at the Vaal University of Technology. Where while living in the township of Sharpeville, they decided to name their group ‘Particles of the Soil’ influenced by their surroundings and also the type of music they make, which they describe (like the soil) is raw, basic and covers a lot of ground. With their acapella sound setting them apart from a lot of the artist that we listen to today, the members ‘The Soil’ say the type o music they do wasn’t by choice, it was actually something that they picked up. Due to lack of knowledge of musical instruments they decided to make use of the only musical instrument that they knew how to play, their voices, they use their voices to imitate musical instruments such as the violin and drums. Their first break into the industry came about when they set on a quest to Cape Town with only a little money and their luggage, where they met Kgomotso Motsunyane at a party and invited them over and introduced The Soil to the big names of the industry During the interval we were treated to a fashion show by Zonozuko Sithetho also known as Zano Skorch who is a stylist for The Soil launched a few pieces from his clothing line. Zano Skorch s based in Kempton Park Johannesburg and started his clothing line in 2009. The event was organised by the Campus’s ‘NIKOTIQ COLOUMN’ a cultural association that worked hands in hand with the Campus Tours and the sponsors of The Soil sponsors ‘Yokoos’. Yokoos is a social network grounded on updating the youth. It was launched in January 2011. The brand manager Bafana Sibiya describes as social network in Africa for Africa’s value, it supports arts and culture. You are able to download music and be updated on the latest celebrity and social news as well as Yokoos edu which offer access to previous exam papers. This was their second partnership with The Soil and their relationship is growing. You can download Yokoos app for smart phones on www.yokoos.com “The purpose of the campus Tours came about when we realised that a lot of artists depend
13 August 2012
solely on record sales or gigs for income, we felt the need to connect with our target market, to interact with our fans to go to them and be with them. This has truly been an amazing experience and through Gods grace we will continue to do these tours for as long as we can” – Phindo, one third of The Soil The Soil has kicked off its tour, already visiting the North West University Potchefstroom and Mafikeng campus’s and their next stop will Universities in Johannesburg.
13 August 2012
EVENTS
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Jasmyn and Verries show some style Paul Kriel
Verries and Jasmyn showed their sense of style and art on the 21st of July at th Samancor building with poetry pieces, dance numbers and a magnificent opera piece, also introducing a new hip-hop artist Niza! to the scene with the MC Teejay( Tshwabiso Taje) introducing and announcing the artist as they came to strut their stuff. The event took a bit of time to get going but when the artists started their pieces, it was worth the wait, especially the opera piece by Lungelo Chirwa. Niza! also impressed us by his rap skills and fresh style to hip-hop. Some artists weren’t so lucky as the duet/duo piece went wrong twice and had to start over again with their performance! After more delays with artists keeping the time flowing by coming back with more pieces, the conversion dance group finally showed up for their piece. Short and sweet isn’t enough to describe their performance, while it was excellent it was unfortunately too short to fully enjoy. This was because they were in a hurry as they were also scheduled to perform later at Vereeniging as well. Sanele Makaula, Arts and Culture officer of Jasmyn and Vergelegen officer, said she was pleased with the performances but the lack of a huge audience was a bit of a let-down but the few audience was still a good well receiving audience. Unity and support is needed if we want to create an event for students to enjoy. She also thanked the sound people with their work at the event and feels that the opera piece really tied the event together and gave it a good name. We talked with the new artist Niza! and he felt that this was a good opportunity for him to show his talents and it was good exposure for future events. He is also involved at the VUT radio YFM
and he was inspired to become a musician by his father who was also a musician. He started writing poetry at school when he was thirteen and this developed to his writing of rap and hip-hop songs. Mr Opera or Lungelo Chirwa also talked to us and we found out how this man and his opera began. He started doing opera 4 years ago in 2009 and is very passionate about his genre of singing. This is only the first event of many to come so next time come and see what talent these residents have to offer. We at Student 24/7 will certainly be there!
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EVENTS
13 August 2012
Jack Frost visits our Campus
Roche Artz
When the weatherman declared the maximum temperatures to reach 5 Degrees Celsius, little did any of us think that it’ll actually be snowing the next day, right? It was literally snowing in the Vaal, and our Campus was covered in a blanket of snow. The best thing many of the students thought was to... build a snowman! If you were walking in the vicinity where Building 6 is, you would have seen a whole lot of students giving it a go at building a snowman. Those who were more brave created snow-angels, while others created snowballs and threw each other with it! Steven Kruger, 3rd year, B.ed student who built a snowman said, “You should enjoy the snow on Campus”, while his co-owner in building the snowman, Danie Koekemoer, 3rd year, B.ed student said, “Our snowman is 3years old”. Chantaleze Harmse, studying B.ed created a snow-angel, and said “I felt like a kid again when playing in the snow. No worries, no stress, just the fun of that moment”.
The excitement of seeing snow kept many hearts warm, and playful. It was a fascinating snowy day when many of the students of our Campus came across the snowman.
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EVENTS
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Sisters are doing it for themselves! Kinga Siejek
On a frosty, and snowy morning; ladies of all ages came together to celebrate Woman’s Day, with dance, music and lessons from the heart. On 7 August 2012, the Academic Development and Support (ADS) hosted an initiative aimed at the female students of the Vaal Campus; with the theme “being and becoming a woman”, at the Big Lapa. Ladies from all over came together to give their life stories, advice and tips to the female students on Campus. One such mentor was the Univeristies own Campus Registrar, Ms. Elbie Steyn, who gave sound advice about Law, that all women should know. Topics included marriage, children, divorce; with a chance for some students to ask questions, to have a clearer understanding of their rights and responsibilities as women. Another mentor who taught the ladies a thing or two about finance, was that of Ms Minky Cele. One intersting tip she gave was that of how to be financialy free, and how to spend your money wisely. The four steps include: Step 1: Try to save up to 25% of your money a month. While this may seem like a lot, which it is, you can start at a smaller amount in the beginning. Step 2: Pay all the things you have to pay; be it bills, fees or interest on cards. Step 3: Help someone else. Even if it is just a few Rands to a homeless person. A little goes a lonh way. Step 4: To remember to take care of yourself. The most important person in your life is yourself, afterall. Other speakers included an Alumnus, Ms Lindokuhle Matla, who shared her story of
where she started, and she came to be where she is today; which is a financial analyst for the South African Reserve Bank (SARB). A ‘little’ woman, Kgomotso Marite, who won the Little Miss Petite RSA this year; was also present to inspire students to give a little to other young women who may not have as much as them. Kgomotso dedicates her time to helping organisations in South Africa that need help. Such projects that she participated in, include stationery drives, clothe drives for orphans, and sanitary pads for young girls who cannot afford them. A true model for any woman, irrespective of age. Keep a lookout for the September Edition, where we will go a bit more in-depth into what the Woman’s Day event included.
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PONDERING PEARL
Bamboozle in a circus I am motivated by stories of success, love and beauty. I find that if there is just a small glowing ember in my heart, it becomes a raging furnace when stoked with stories of people who have experienced success. Have good look at the next motivated person you see. Notice how their eyes glint, see the brisk gait in their stride. Admire their smile, feel the power in their handshake and witness their enthusiasm for life. A living dynamo, a source of nuclear energy, they have discovered the secret of success. Let me share it with you: you cannot make a fire with dead embers, but if you have a little spark left, fuel it!! Fuel it with your dreams, hopes and desires. Adopt the right attitude and support it with all the thrust you have. Focus on the positive things that are happening around you. When Roger Bannister became the first man on earth to smash the four minute barrier in the mile in 1945, he said he knew that physically, he was strong enough to do it. It remained for him to convince himself mentally that he could. Bannister’s removal of the four minute barrier motivated others to follow suit. His time of three minutes 59.4 seconds has since become common place. In a similar way to an athlete becoming to perform on the track, we can become work fit. The harder we work the more fit we become. The old adage, if you want something done, ask a busy man, has its foundation in being work fit.
So my mind bewilder in a circus…Have you ever been to a circus and seen a full-grown elephant chained to a silly little peg in the ground. What a ridiculous sight right! With his strength he could pull the peg from the ground or snap the chain that holds him prisoner and walk away to be free forever, but he doesn’t. Well, why doesn’t he? The answer is that ever since he was a tiny little elephant, he has been chained to that peg. As a baby he tried desperately to free himself without success. Eventually he became conditioned to believe that, when that chain was fixed around his leg and attached to the peg, he could not move away. In much the same way, we are conditioned to believe that we cannot break away from tradition. Today, you can snap that chain, pull out the peg that holds you prisoner and walk into a new life.
A million miles away from normal Pearl Mavunda
13 August 2012
13 August 2012
REVIEWS
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Jasmyn and Verries: Moment of Glory Portia Motsoeneng
Once again the NWU (Vaal campus) students showed us how full of surprises they can be. On 21 July 2012 the Jasmyn and Ferries Arts Festival took place here on our very own campus. I was not sure what to expect on arrival but once I stepped into the venue and saw how the place had been transformed from an auditorium into a jazz club I knew I was in for a good time. The show was off to a rather slow start however when the wheels got rolling the gloves came off. With Soul J from VUTfm as the master of ceremony the crowd was hyped-up in no time. It was inspiring to see how well organized everything was. This was not your everyday typical arts festival because I for one had everything on my mind besides sleep or bbm! It is one thing to listen to poetry but it is another thing to be able to relate to the poems recited. Poets Sydney and Phono made it clear with their heartfelt poems that they could give Lebohang Mashigo a run for her money. The musical items were no short of variety. Lungelo aka Pava captivated the audience with his powerful voice, it’s not every day one gets shivers from hearing such raw talent. Ntombi had me singing along to all her afro pop numbers, lastly young upcoming rap artist Niza -with an exclamation mark- had us all eating from the palm of his hands by means of his commanding character and confidence. Just when I thought the show could not get any better the fun, fresh, funky Jasmyn Dancers strut their stuff or shall I say their bootees on stage. The positive
attitude and energy they brought to the arena helped fuel the audience even more. Everyone knows that in order to have a successful event you need an active crowd. Even though the turnout was not that big, those who were there made it worthwhile and even more entertaining. One of the guys from the audience that we caught up with, Kabelo 72 gigs had the following to say to Student 24/7, “I enjoyed myself and was really impressed with all the performances. I look forward to a greater turn out and more performers next year.” I think it’s safe to safe to say that be it getting down and dirty on the dance floor, reciting poetry in our rooms or singing in the shower, NWU (Vaal campus) is flooded with talents waiting to be discovered. It is thanks to events such as these that we remember that there is more to life than just our academics and that we should nurture our creative sides as well as support one another in reaching our goals, no matter how unconventional they might seem. Keep it up guys!!!
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FREAKY FACTS
13 August 2012
Taphephobia is the fear of being buried alive! The world’s oldest piece of chewing gum is over 9000 years old! Owls are one of the only birds who can see the colour blue! In spirit of Womens day and the Olympics,I have for you some freaky facts about women and the Olympics.
Bonjour mon etudiants!(Hello students) The new semester means new faits de bizarre (freaky facts) I want to share with you this month. And is this a busy month with Olympics and womens day as well! So here they, the freaky facts of August! The dot over the letter 'i' is called a tittle. Pearls melt in vinegar. No word in the English language rhymes with month, orange, silver, and purple. The Hawaiian alphabet has 12 letters. In Tokyo, they sell toupees for dogs! A 'jiffy' is a unit of time: 1/100th of a second. Anton-Babinski syndrome is a rare condition in which a blind person doesn't realize they are blind. Tablecloths were originally meant to be served as towels with which dinner guests could wipe their hands and faces after eating!
The Olympics were a religious event for the ancient Greeks. The oldest Olympic medallist was Oscar Swahn of Sweden; he won his last medal at the age of 72. Ancient Olympic athletes competed completely nude. On average, women live six to eight years longer than men globally Women talk an average of 7000 words a day. The two highest IQ’s ever recorded (on a standard test) both belong to women Bullet proof vests, fire escapes, windshield wipers, and laser printers were all invented by women. A Saudi Arabian woman can get a divorce if her husband doesn't give her coffee.
13 August 2012
BEAUTY
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Women’s Day Beauty Spa Pearl Mavunda
Sometimes the best “girls’ night out” is a girls’ night in; especially when it’s a girls’ hideaway weekend. Retreat upstairs and take timeout for your whole body; clear your mind, relax and recharge. All that has to be done is sit back, put your feet up and take full advantage of the pamper treatment on offer. This is the season to indulge with wonderful women in your life (including yourself) to a full home-grown spa treatment, which proves you’re never too old for a good slumber party. Inside your charming, just-night bungalow; you’ll discover everything you need to bring back… Those gray pajamas party memoriesto new ones: popcorns, melted chocolate and your favorite trendy girly magazines (and of course you can’t forget the group spa treatments). A definite improvement on the homemade facemasks of yesteryear; for moms and daughters, sister, old friends and new girlfriends… Invite five or more friends to your front room, church hall or back garden, wherever suits you best and have women beauty day spa in the comfort of your own home which includes; soothing foot spa, body scrubs, hand message, yoga, skin rejuvenating, stone message, body wraps etc. Start up with simple but fun treatments such as hydrotherapy, which is a classical method of employing water to promote wellness and healing. This can improve strength, immune digestion and elimination. Next combat the skin, rejuvenating products that have been formulated to relieve the harmful effects of the harsh climate changes of to-
day’s environment especially pollution and ever-increasing doses of radiation from the sun. It reduces appearance of pigmentation, redness, uneven skin tone and added to these are the modern-day effects of social and work stresses and poor diets. Spa’s offers a definite regime to nourish protect and maintain a healthy, youthful and beautiful skin… Spa treatments are made from the highest quality ingredients, they are mostly free from preservatives, colorants and animal extracts. Yoga think meditations…relax…release…and refresh!! An opportunity to unwind, breath deep with refreshing unintimidating yoga steps, from first-timers and yoga devotees’ alike flock to gentle guided yoga private step sessions, which blend various styles technique to create a uniquely renewing, never taxing experience. Visit one of the motivational sessions in your society, and learn to spread your wings in an empty nest, climbing that next rung (or changing ladders) in your career; simplifying a cluttered life, making more time and taking less for granted. You’ll could use a little guidance when it comes to navigating life’s twists and turns. Whether you are stuck at a fork in the road, embarking on a new path in your career or in love, or finding your way through rocky patch, map challenges and goals, take action with intentional living. Replace negativity with strengthening thoughts and positive choices, and rediscover your natural power to overcome obstacles with courage, wisdom and grace.
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PROFILE
13 August 2012
All the student ladies...
Had a little chat with Precious Chauke, a BA Industrial Psychology first year student. She shares her 1st semester experience with us. The ups and the downs, the good and the bad and overall, what varsity has taught her for the past few months. 1. So how was it like being a 1st year student in Vaal Pukke? • It has been a great experience, being able to meet with so many new people and basically a new life 2. What would you say was the most challenging thing about the transition from high school to tertiary & how were you able to overcome it? • The academics! The way tests and assignments that were conducted got very challenging to me and I am still working on it. 3. What did you enjoy the most about your 1st semester? • The classes of my favourite modules have been really great (LARM 111 and BMAN 111) 4. Now regarding the exams, how did things go? • Not so good. I had lots of trouble studying so in result the exams were very challenging 5. Did you find studying for the exams difficult or adjustable? • Very difficult, I could not figure out how to study all the chapters using the study guides 7. Least challenging module and why? • BMAN 111. That has been my favourite module because the theory is interesting to learn and the lecture makes it so easy to pass. 8. What was it like being away from home for 6 months? Was it difficult to adjust? What responsibilities did u have to take on personally? • That was not as difficult because I went home on almost every weekend. Having to cook and do your own laundry are some of the responsibilities I had to adjust to. 9. How was Res life? • It’s interesting, having to live with so many friends in one place, and I'm enjoying my personal space from parents. 10. How did u cope with the workload??
• There was a point where I thought I could not cope but with the help of my friends and mentor, everything worked out just fine. 11. Best thing about being a student here • The attention you get from every support system of the school! 14. How would u say university differs from high school?? • In varsity, you’re basically on your own. In high school the teachers follow you around to make sure that all your work is done. 16. So how are you going gear up for next semester?? Any resolutions?? • I’ve came up with a strategy that I'm going use which is called 2 hours a day...meaning I'm going randomly study for 2hours every day. 19. What would u like to say to our perspective students who will be joining us next year? • Study hard and play hard...find a balance for your social and academic life.
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PROFILE
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Chilling with Skhalo Skhalo of U.N.D Mpho Nakana
Mpho Nakana (MN): Tell us a bit about your history, who and what is U.N.D? Skhalo Skhalo (SS): Undecided Music was established in 2010 by myself, Lesego Sotyantya (Skhalo Skhalo) and Malebogo Sebolia (Mojay Young). I have been rapping from way back, and then I met my neighbour Mo-jay. He was making beats so we started collaborating. We couldn’t come up with a name (for our collaboration) so for the time being we started calling it Undecided Recordz. The name later changed to Undecided Music, which is our own Record Label. MN: And U.N.D? SS: U.N.D was formed in 2011 when I parted ways with beat maker Mo-jay Young. I then met Lenny L (Sebenzile Phetheni) and Ms Lewinsky (Fikiswa Mvala); and together we formed U.N.D. It is just one of many artists and groups which fall under Undecided Music, managed by Mbane Orapeleng. We write and produce our own songs. MN: How would you describe the type of music you do and what inspires it? SS: Our music is driven by diversity... We are people from different backgrounds, experiences as well as views about life. We produce a blend of international and local music. You can relate to our music ‘cause it’s young, fresh and funky... As they say: ‘local is
lekker’, but we add an international twist to our music just to accommodate everyone. MN: So what have you achieved so far, and whom have you worked with? SS: We have recently visited StarFM (local radio station from Klerksdorp in the North West) as part of our ‘coming out of the closet’ promotion tour, just before we launch our mix-tape in December... The people we have worked with thus far are independent people just like us (not famous yet); the likes of T-jazz, Deja-Vu, Mo-jay Young, Lyrical Image and Black Dot, just to name a few. We also rank 1 on the Reverbnation charts for Klerksdorp. MN: What else does U.N.D/ Undecided Music do? SS: U.N.D also has a clothing label to go along with its music and lifestyle. We also have Undecided Babes (models), who are the faces of Undecided Music. They also serve as agents ‘cause you can talk to them concerning U.N.D; and they come from all corners of the country. They’re intelligent, ambitious and beautiful ladies I must say. We also have Undecided Productions where we shoot, edit, and make videos, calendars and so on.
MN: How do you guys manage to do all this work while juggling school, and also the fact that the crew members are not in the same location? SS: Being scattered in different areas actually works to our advantage because we can market and promote ourselves in a number of areas in the country. We only work during holidays, at home in Klerksdorp. MN: How do you see U.N.D’s or Undecided’s future? SS: We have a very bright future I must say... we have young people from all academic fields coming (together) as one and bringing with them different skills. We’re growing and are becoming like a family... People can ‘like’ us on Facebook and also check us out on http://www.reverbnation.com/weareundecided
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SPORT
13 August 2012
NWU Vaal hockey hammer Cambrians
Wouter Pienaar
NWU Vaal’s mens’ 1st team cemented their third place in the Southern Gauteng Hockey League after dispatching Cambrians B 4-0 at Isak Steyl Stadium in Vanderbijlpark on 22 July 2012. NWU Vaal’s 1st team currently plays in the 8th league of the Southern Gauteng Hockey Association (SGHA), where they are in contention for a semi-final spot, with only two games remaining. They have enjoyed a good season so far as they have won 8 games, drawn 1 and lost 3. NWU Vaal started the game like a house on
fire as it was evident that they had more pace on attack and defense then their opponents. The average age of the opposition was 40, so there was quite a big gap, as youth would collide with experience on the grassy fields at VUT’s Isak Steyl Stadium. NWU Vaal decided to stick to the strategy of defending on the half way line with the defenders continually pushing up to provide extra support to the midfielders. NWU Vaal kept control of the possession in midfield with Toks controlling the attacking play by orchestrating numerous one-two passes with NWU Vaal’s Captain Thabiso. NWU Vaal had a great chance to open the scoring from a
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penalty corner, but just shot wide of the right hand upright. NWU Vaal eventually opened the scoring in the 15th minute after some excellent counter attacking hockey. Constant pressure lead to a second goal shortly thereafter, as Luzaan coolly chipped the ball over the onrushing keeper. Cambrians were now making unnecessary mistakes as it seemed that the constant pressure from NWU Vaal was affecting their playing style. Kungesihe tripled the score just before halftime with his shot sneaking under the goalkeeper’s arm. The halftime score of 3-0 put NWU Vaal firmly in the driver’s seat. The second half followed the same pattern as the 2nd half with Cambrians struggling to get the ball, or do much with it, when they were in possession. NWU Vaal had a plethora of chances, as somehow it seemed destined that the ball would cross the line after numerous goalmouth scrambles. NWU Vaal eventually added a 4th goal from a penalty corner, which was scored by forward and number 9 Ibrie. The hunt was now on for NWU Vaal, as they tried their best to score a fifth goal with ten min-
37 utes of play left in the game. The clock eventually ran out at, as NWU Vaal fully deserved the victory over their somewhat tired opponents from Johannesburg.
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SPORT
So close, yet so far... Wouter Pienaar
The NWU Vaal Rugby 1st team narrowly missed out on qualification to the Varsity Shield after going down by 14-8 against UKZN in Pietermaritzburg. NWU Vaal had done exceptionally well to qualify for this deciding promotion/relegation clash, in which the winner gets the chance to play in next year’s Varsity Shield. The Varsity Shield is the second tier of varsity rugby in South Africa, with the Varsity Cup being the premier division in our country. The match was surrounded by a lot of tension as both teams made numerous errors as it
13 August 2012
seemed that the occasion was getting the better of the teams. The first half was quite cagey as both teams played within their abilities. UKZN (The University of Kwa-Zulu Natal) slotted two penalties to lead 6-0 at halftime. The second half started much brighter for NWU Vaal as they managed to take the lead after a try and a penalty to leave the score at 8-6. NWU Vaal’s first phase possession was not up to scratch as they made unnecessary errors in attack. NWU Vaal also had problems in the lineout, from which UKZN took the initiative to score from the chance they had been given. This was a hard lesson for NWU Vaal to learn as they should’ve won the game based on possession alone.
Superwomen of South African Sport! Wouter Pienaar
August is Women’s month and we here at Student 24/7 thought that it would be a great idea to bring homage to our sporting divas that has carried the South African flag proudly on sporting fields across the globe. These women have defied and single handedly changed the landscape of their respective sporting codes through courage, determination and perseverance to become the best and leave a lasting legacy in our minds. Ladies, read on and be inspired by these extraordinary
women who give their all in the name of sport. The first South African who made an impact on the international stage after the ban on South Africa was lifted, was Elana Meyer. She participated at the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, and took home the silver medal in the women’s 1500 meter race. After the race she and Ethiopia’s Derartu Tulu, celebrated together having won gold and silver respectively. This was a truly remarkable moment, which showcased how far South Africa had come since the dark past of Apartheid, with white and black reuniting through the powerful nature of sport. One South African woman stood out at the next Olympic Games in Atlanta in 1996. Penny Heyns won two gold medals in the 100 and 200m women’s breaststroke, while also breaking the world record in the former and the Olympic record in the latter. She followed this up by winning a bronze medal at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney. This remarkable female swimmer has broken an incredible 14 world records, as well as being inducted in the swimming hall of fame in 2006. A true inspiration to all South Africans.
ABOVE: Derartu Tulu (left) and Elana Meyer (right) celebrate their Olympic achievements together.
At the 2004 Olympic Games, Hestrie Cloete showcased her unbelievable talents by taking
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39 as she bridged the gap able-bodied and disabled swimmers. She continues to inspire people to reach for their goals, as one of her hobbies is giving motivational speeches to provide hope to the next generation of women in South Africa. These women are only of few of the outstanding achievers that South African sport has produced over the years. We salute you, the past, present and future of South African sportswomen! May you find inspiration this August!
ABOVE: Penny Heyns; the winner of many medals, and many hearts in South Africa and the world.
home silver in the women’s high jump. 2004 was also a remarkable year for paralympic swimmer Natalie du Toit. This well-known ambassador for swimming in South Africa, has always been a beacon of humility and inspiration for many women. She was also the first disabled athlete to qualify for a final in an able bodied event. By winning 5 gold medals and one silver in the 2004 Paralympic games in Athens, she established herself as one of the greatest superwomen of South African sport. “Handicap” is definitely not in her vocabulary,
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SPORT
13 August 2012
A look at the 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony Wouter Pienaar
The 2012 London Olympic Games has finally opened its doors to the entire sporting world, after a majestic and captivating opening ceremony in London’s Olympic stadium on 27 July 2012. The opening ceremony was filled with some memorable moments which displayed Britain at its best. The ceremony was opened by Britain’s new Tour de France hero, Bradley Wiggins who had the privilege of ringing the bell amidst thunderous applause from the patriotic crowd. The colorful and natural scenery of England was on display in the ceremony as traditional games such as cricket were displayed. The entire ceremony gave one the feeling that you were travelling in time as important landmarks such as the industrial revolution were captured in all its magnificence. The lighting of the 5 Olympic rings was truly breathtaking! British pop and cultural icons even made their appearances as James Bond escorted Queen Elizabeth to the ceremony, where they “parachuted” into the stadium. Mr. Bean was on show next and proved that he was as funny as ever, during the orchestra’s rendition of Chariots of Fire. The history of British music was then briefly showcased as well as the progression of the internet and social media in the present time. All the moments in the ceremony were expertly choreographed and a true joy to witness the bravado of this spectacle. Excitement was now in the air as the Olympic athletes walked around the track, with over 200 countries each having their time in the glorious spotlight. The biggest cheer of the night was reserved for the home nation, while millions of South Africans cheered on the likes of Caster
Semenya and Oscar Pistorius from their living rooms. The Olympic flame was then lit, with Olympic hero, Sir Steve Redgrave being given the honour of running with the torch before handing it over to the younger generation British athletes to light the Olympic flame. Here’s to the 2012 London Olympic Games. Let’s embrace the spectacle, the atmosphere and the spirit of the games! It’s time to be immotal!
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SPORT
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Congrats to our Winners!
Not over just yet... While the able-bodied Olympics may have ended; this does not mean that the Olympics is entirely over yet. From 29 August until 9 September, Olympic Fans will be able to watch the 2012 London Paralympic Games, that our South African Team is also competing in!
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CALENDAR
13 August 2012