Vol 4 No 4
28 May 2014
DOWNLOAD
1
4
GET YOUR
GET ACCESS
RESULTS
HERE FIRST
2
Campus Radio
Student News Announcements
Maps
Help
PC Labs
Results
Buy
READ THE
NEWEST CAMPUS
NEWS
3
TO STUDY GUIDES
5 READ YOUR GROUPWISE
NWU News
Walking Tour
eFundi
Have your say
GET FAST & IMMEDIATE NOTIFICATIONS
FB: NWU Vaal Student 24/7 studentenews@gmail.com eFundi: Student 24/7
It all starts here. ™
Web: www.nwu.ac.za
Library
Prospective Students
Password
6 BUY
AIRTIME
EDITOR’S LETTER
Change is everywhere... Kinga Siejek
Change... It happens no matter if you’re paying attention or not. For instance: • The changing of the seasons. It’s getting darker earlier, and takes a bit longer for the sun to come out. And of course you probably have noticed that it is colder. • We went from classes everyday to exams, in what feels like the blink of an eye. This means that semester is changing from the first to the second. Closer to the end of the year everyday. • We changed Vice Chancellors. From the great Dr Theuns Eloff, to the awesome Prof Dan Kgwadi. This could mean a change in how our lovely Campus and University play a role in education and the country. • A change in politics. We had our elections this year, and while majority of the parties are the same, the people and responsibilities have changed a bit. I bet you could each come up with a few extras to add to the change list. But the crux of the story is; change is inevitable. It will happen one way or another, and we all just need to (somehow) be ready for it. Now I don’t want to sound too philosophical, I think that might one of the last things you want to hear right now with the stresses of having to study and pass your exams; but just know... Now is the time to maybe change the way you do things in life as well? Relook the way you takle notes, the way you summarise your work; heck in the colour ink you use when studying! A small change can make a big difference. But if something works for you, and works well, then do go changing it just because I brought it up! hehe Not everyone needs to change, and not everything needs to change; but it happens around you. I personally love change. It gives me a chance to look at what is happening and know that if in my power, I can change the things around me. I mean just the other day I moved the cupboard in my office. Yes only a few centimeters, but I already have a little bit more space to do be creative in. If you have ever met me from a young age, you will also notice that my hair has never stayed the same for a long time. I enjoy changing the lenght or colour, sometimes on a whim, because it is a part of me that I can control. And I think that is where the whole idea of change comes in. We like change if we can control it, but hate it if it is for someone else’s benefit. You can’t change everything, but small things will one day turn into big things. So with change also comes patience and responsibility. You could easily change every little thing about yourself or the things around you, but you need to be wary of
2 - Student 24/7
the consequences as well. You know how some people say that if we travelled into the past, and even just accidentaly stepped on an ant, we could be changing the whole future. The same goes with the present. Knowing what may or may not happen when wanting to change something is hard, but needs to happen. So I guess you are reading this and trying to figure out what am I going on about in terms of change. Well, to put it simply: Be prepared for anything and everything. Know that somethings in life will change, be it for the better or worse. You can’t always control change, it happens and we need to live with it. What we as people can do is learn to develop other skills to work around the change, or with it. Patience, understanding, responsibilities, control of one’s self, and many other philosophical words... These same skills can be used in other parts of your life as well. I suppose the big area of your life right now is the thought of the next few weeks. Now our seniors are somewhat used to them, I mean they are seniors after all; but our dear first years are still somewhat new to it. The change from highschool to University is a tough one, but possible. Change your mind set (to a positive one), change your study habits if need be, heck change the way you dress in the morning! There are so many ways to make yourself better for yourself, that there really is no excuse. So accept and love change; as it is one of life’s unexplained adventures. Study hard, and read on!
VUVU’S SOAPBOX
Vuvu’s Soapbox...
Have you tasted a toasted tramezzini at Books & Boons yet? Deee-li-cious! Quack! Since I consider myself a bit of a feathered connoisseur – especially with regards to all things bread and bread related, I can definitely recommend it.... Seriously, is there anything a heap of melted cheese cannot fix? Think about it...without cheese: • What would photographers say to make us smile? • There would be no moon (and yes, of course the moon’s made of cheese - how else do you explain the holes and the yellow colour?) • Graters would be obsolete! • How would the average mouse get trapped? I can go on...and on... but you get
the gist, hug? I believe that the value of cheese in our society is desperately undervalued (it is a pity the elections are over, since I believe that a Cheese Party would have been a serious contender...). But wait – what I really want to get at is that during the month of May, life on the Campus much resembled an all-you-can-eat-buffet. Do I see you frown? Quack! Let’s recap the May “menu” (to further indulge my food analogy): first we had the autumn graduation ceremonies, then we went to the polls to make our mark (or in my case, a footprint), we crowned Mr & Miss NWU Vaal, we welcomed a new Vice Chancellor and said our goodbyes to the previous Vice Chancellor and we welcomed a gaggle of prospective first year students during the Open Day. Wow! As far as all-you-can-eat-buffet goes – this was nothing short of a five course meal! It would be very difficult – even for a street-
smart goose as myself, to choose my favourite. I have to however admit – I am all goose bumps when it comes to graduation ceremonies. I watch in awe as the graduates walk across the stage, and I reminisce about their first day at the Campus...aaawh, they grow up so fast! Their accomplishments also leave me all hyped-up – which is a good thing, especially with the exams around the corner. I think it is only appropriate that we stamp our hooves and flap our feathers to congratulate the top performers during the graduation ceremony: Florence Manyike (BS W), Melanie Moonsammy (BA Behavioural Sciences), Eunice Pretorius (BEd), Lynelle Coxen (BCom Industrial Psychology), Sune Ferreira (BCom Economics and Risk Management), Natasha Robbetze (BCom Financial Accountancy) and Harry van Zyl (BSc Financial Mathematics). Quack! Quack! All this talk about food – and more so, bread and cheese, has me hungry (again)... and since it is the University’s tenth anniversary, I don’t think a cupcake (or three) will do any harm! Vuvu’s(random) pearl of wisdom: Life is like a buffet! You choose what goes on your plate... choose wisely and eat well! Quack!
Student 24/7 - 3
RECTOR’S OFFICE
D
ear Student
When taking stock of the month that has been, I can’t help but be overcome by a flutter of excitement. The month of May represented a bumper packed four weeks of activities and opportunities ranging from the prestige of a graduation ceremony, the anticipation of the various beauty pageants, the acknowledgement of a new Vice Chancellor (and the bidding farewell of the outgoing Vice Chancellor) as well as the delight in welcoming the prospective first year of 2015 during the Open Day. It is said that ability is of little account without opportunity, and I tend to agree. Think about this for a moment: one can have all the most brilliant and grand plans imaginable but one needs opportunity in order to actually put them into action. When we relate this logic to an event such as the graduation ceremonies, the value of the opportunities offered by the North-West University – and more specific the Vaal Campus, becomes clear. Did you know that the first group of students who enrolled for the various extended degree programmes graduated during the recent autumn graduation ceremonies? If it was not for the opportunity presented to these graduates four years ago, the course of their lives would have been very different. The same logic applies to the various residence ambassadors who stepped into the fold during the run-up to the Mr & Miss NWU Vaal pageant. By grabbing the opportunity to partake, these students exuded not only fierce loyalty and pride towards their different residences but also took up the baton of ambassadorship. I congratulate you on your newly found status as custodians of the Campus’s organised student life. As a University we are heading towards the midyear mark of our 10th anniversary celebrations and therefore I feel it only befitting to share with you some of the achievements of the North-West University since its inception in 2004. In terms of the NWU’s contribution to the South African labour force, this is how the NWU grew and excelled thus far:
4 - Student 24/7
2004 2013 Nursing 153 286 Accountants 292 792 Attorneys 74 252 Engineers 144 200 Further training for teachers 3 163 5 968 • In terms of Education Sciences, the number of distance students doubled over the past decade from 2 012 in 2004 to 5 611 in 2013. In terms of the number of graduates produced, the Vaal Triangle Campus fared as followed: 2004 2013 Faculty of Humanities 597 892 Faculty of Economic Sciences and IT188 615 Congratulations to all out graduates, and I am excited to see what miraculous things you will be able to do for our Campus and Country in the future.
CAMPUS NEWS
Get well soon Sir! Annette Willemse
The staff and students of the Vaal Campus wishes Prof Thanyani Mariba, Campus Rector, a speedy recovery after his surgery on Saterday 24 May 2014. Professor Mariba was hospitalised in Pretoria– and subsequently operated on, after he suffered a fall on Friday. He is currently still in hospital recuperating. Send your well wishes to prof Mariba via his Facebook page: Thanyani Mariba, or join the many on the Student 24/7 Facebook page to sending message for his speedy recovery.
Acacia - Bringing a little USA fun to Campus Kinga Siejek Karaoke, beer pong, battle shots... Sounds like a Frat party from an American movie? Yes and no. On 15 May 2014, the Acacia residence decided to bring a new spin on events on Campus, by hosting quite an interesting Karoake Night at the Big Lapa. Students who came to the event were able to get their song on, or to try to beat a friend in American-inspired drinking games... Definitely a night to be at, and I hope they organise another one! (will just need to practice my voice...)
Student 24/7 - 5
CAMPUS NEWS
Open Day attracts a record number of visitors Annette Willemse The recent Open Day of the Vaal Campus saw a record number of learners – some from as far as Limpopo, the Free State and KwaZuluNatal, in attendance. It is estimated that more than 3 500 learners attended the event. The Open Day provides students and their parents the golden opportuni-
ty to learn more about the fields of study that are available, the admission requirements, finances as well as student accommodation. Grade 11 and 12 students also have the opportunity to speak to both academic and support staff in order to get first-hand information regarding the academic offerings of the campus as well as the support services that are in place to assist students.
A look back at the beauty of our Beauty Pageants Annette Willemse What a month of Pageantry! And yes; I mean that in the literal sense. The month of May saw residence after residence hold their annual Beauty Pageants; from South Africa to Las Vegas; the themes, the clothes, the beautiful students on our Campus showed exactly what they are made of. To narrow it down to a favourite residence, for me, would be impossible. Eah has its own culture, ideas and creativity. but that doesn’t mean I can’t give you a taste of what each residence (or residences) had to offer, and you can make up your own mind from there... A look at the residences Acacia and Oryx The theme? The Dark Circus. As always you can rely on Acacia and Oryx to think completely out of the box with their themes and events. Who doesn’t love the idea of going to a Circus, with popcorn, slushies and cotton candy close by. With both residences HKs dressing as though something out of Tim Burton’s dream, and some fancy foorwork by the finalists; the night was one to remember. Jasmyn, Verries, Thuthuka The three original on-campus residences came together to show their Royalty roots. The dresses, the de-
6 - Student 24/7
cor, the night. While I couldn’t be at it personally, I only heard good things, and loved looking at the images. Faranani The residents of Faranani went out of their way to make everyone feel special on their night. Not only was their a beauty pageant for the Mr and Miss Faranani, but the residence also joined forces with the Thick Madames to show that all women are beautiful. The theme was an interesting one as well... Playboy Mansion... Who would have thought. But it worked; with all the contestants looking either like bunnies or younger (much younger) Hugh Hefners. Kumba-Horizon Our two new residences came together to show that while they may be new to the residences, they can create a night to remember just as well as the veterans. Loved the theme of Las Vegas, with the feel of a casino with red and black, and cards decoratively used. Ebukhosini Our new off-campus residence also showed that they can step up to the plate with an African Royalty theme for the night. Amazing performances, well planned event by the HKs and some very creative decorations to go well with the theme. It was worth the
confusing drive (I suck at directions and get lost easily). Longfellow Kasi with Style... An interesting theme, and it worked. What I loved was the introduction of a South African fashion designer in the form of the Formal Section of the event. I will admit, I am definitely going to get the number and give them a call! Santrust I had a lot of fun with the theme, Black and Gold. Safe to say I definitely followed that to a tee. The Mbazo Lounge was a great location, though lighting for me was a bit dark, but still enough light to see all the beautiful students. Best of all, once the event was over, you were already at the club for a great afterparty. How awesome?! You had to see it, to truly enjoy and appreciate the hardwork that all the HKs went through to make sure their nights were one of a kind. Each one was unique, and night s I will definitely remember. Congrats to all the students and staff involved in all the events. I am already excited to see what next year has to bring! I know one thing; as soon as I know the dates for all the pageants, I will definitetly be keeping my calendar open for them.I hope the themes are just as fun, and I think the HKs for 2015 will have some competition to beat this years beauty pageants. Well done to all the winners, and I hope all of you make your residences proud this year.
Find the 10! Well done to the winners so far! Annette Willemse Now you may have seen strange images on some of the Facebook pages for our Campus... Incomplete, and vey green images, with the 10 year logo in bits and pieces. Sound familiar? Well, if it does then you probably know that our Campus is having a competition to celebrate our 10 years since the merger of the Potch, Mafikeng and Vaal Campuses in 2004. If you haven’t heard about it, then where have you been the past few months? Not to worry, there is still a chance for you to join.
The compeition in a nutshell We here at the Marketing and Communications department on the Vaal Campus are having a compeition for the students to find the 10. Our naughty little 10 year logo escaped from a poster and has been going around on Campus to see what we have to offer, and to have a bit of fun. We manage to get pictures of it at certain parts, and have given YOU the chance to figure out where it could have been. Once a week, each month we then send an image (though not the whole thing just to keep it interesting) of where the logo
CAMPUS NEWS was spotted and a clue to help you along. At the end of each hunt (there are 10 in total... See what we did there) you as a student have a chance to send us an e-mail with the final location of where the pesky 10 year logo was. The best part of this? The prizes! Each winner will be rewarded with R500 worth of vouchers, and their picture up on Facebook, the magazine, and anywhere we can think of to make you famous... Want proof? Well, here are the first two winners of the compeition. Do you know what that means? Only EIGHT more chances to win! So keep a lookout on the NWU Vaal Facebook page for more info and Good Luck! A BIG congrats to the first two winners! hope you enjoy your prizes!
Student 24/7 - 7
CAMPUS NEWS
Horizon gives no competition to Khumba on their first annual pageant William George & Portia Rampa The first ever Mr and Miss KhumbaHorizon took place on 25 April, held by the Big Lapa. The venue was beautifully decorated with striking Red and white Las Vegas theme. The contestants rocked the red cuppert with stylish fashion and fascinating dance moves. “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.” But not when Student 24/7 is at “Vegas” with you. The judges of the pageant were Mr NWU Vaal 2013: MacDonald Legare, Miss NWU Vaal 2013: Lerato Motsoane and the River FM’s Executive producer: Kelebogile Tsekedi. The MC’s of the night were Vuyela Qobo and Tsholofelo Moile. On the decks was DJ Genvee Ultra-Tone, they were responsible for the music from the beginning of the event, up until the end of the after party, which ended at 02:00. You also can’t forget the talented students who perfomed during the event. The event was scheduled to begin at 18:00, but started an hour later, due to technical issues, said Vuyelwa Qobo, one of the MCs. The pageant entry was opened for both Horizon and Khumba residents. A total of 14 participants partook in the Mr and Miss Horizon-Khumba 2014/15. All the participants reside at the Khumba residence. Horizon has over 80 residents but none entered the pageant. However, the Horizon residents attended the event; also other students came in to support the pageant, as well as some of the members of the Student Representative Council (SRC). Gugu Mayezi, the Constitutional and Transformation officer of the Horizon residence commented: “Horizon residents could not participate because they have a lot on their schedules.
8 - Student 24/7
The other reason is that during the pageant practices, the residents had to attend classes, and the practices are time consuming.” The turnout was really great, since this is our first event. We never thought we would get that much support, she added. Horizon resident Tumisang Kalayamodimo, a PGCE student commented on what he believed was the possible reasons for no participation by the Horizon residents, “The timing was not good, because we were in the middle of the semester week.” “I
do not think postgraduate students were available for auditions and all the processes the contestants have to go through.” The pageant ended off with a stupendous after-party in cold midnight weather that could not stop people having fun. The first ever Mr Khumba-Horizon 2014/15 went to a final year BMI Quantitative Risk Management student Bhekhumuzi Jothan. Tsakane Sibisi, a first year studying BA in Law was crowned Miss Khumba-Horizon 2014/15. Congratulations to the rest of the winners.
CAMPUS NEWS
A night of plenty: Mr and Miss Thuthuka, Jasmyn and Verries Haseena Saley It was a night of “Royalty” as a combined pageant was held by the residences of Thuthuka, Jasmyn and Verries on 24 April 2014. A night of glitz and glamour which resulted in the crowning of Mr and Miss Thuthuka, Miss Jasmyn and Mr Verries and of course the “ultimate winners”. The setting was majestic, the models looked the part, the audience were there in numbers and as for the judges; their fashion glasses were on-point and ready for judging. The pageant consisted of 26 good looking and confident models (13 males and 13 females), three judges and more than a handfull of audience members. The setup was spectacular and the Big Lapa was turned into a palace with purple and white draping. The residences went all out by deviating from the conventional judges and getting well, rather special judges. The first judge introduced herself as Christell Pearson, owner of Figures Models and Talent and a talent scout of the IMTA (USA-NEW YORK). She is also an international model. The second judge was Jeremy Mooi from NWU Vaal Marketing and Communications Department and an experienced judge. Lastly Nthabiseng Semudi, the CSRC of Arts and Culture and ISRC member and a Latin and ballroom dancer. The MCs of the night w e r e Eugene Ma-
sango and Kathelo also known as (Katz) whose personalities complimented the event. They were bubbly and very interactive. The models made their way out as a projector displayed a photograph of them and a voice-over of each of them introducing themselves played in the background. Thereafter a ‘sexy’ dance performance by the models followed. The model’s outfits varied from a black jean and white t-shirt (in the beginning), to cultural wear, to “dress like someone famous” and lastly evening wear. Between each of the outfit changes there was a performance. There were dance and singing performances which kept the audience hyped up and engaged in the pageant. There was something for everyone, as the pageant continued, the MCs told the audience members to look underneath their chairs and if it was marked to come to the stage with those chairs. The lucky three people won water bottles and tickets to the official Mr and Miss NWU Vaal pageant. There were five finalists from each resident and each of these finalists were asked questions regarding current affairs in South Africa. From the ability to answer the question and the answer itself the judges made their decision. A vote of thanks was given by the Project Officers of each of the residences and they mentioned their satisfaction of the turnout of the pageant. The pageant ended with the following winners: Jasmyn Winner: Dulsa Chemane 1st Princess- Ruth Shata 2nd Princess- Sharon Mokgawa Verries Winner: Nhlanhla Zim 1st Prince-Bruce Mthinyane 2nd Prince-Peter Kungeke Thuthuka Girls: Winner: Dikeledi Mahlasi 1st Princess- Prevashna Flemmer 2nd Princess- Reabetswe Montsho Guys: Winner: Steven Motloung 1st Prince- Yanga Makanda 2nd Prince- Netswell Mahuni OVERALL WINNERS: Steven Motloung (Thuthuka) and Dulsa Chemane (Jasmyn). Each of the above models are finalists for Miss and Mr NWU Vaal. The pageant ended but the night was still young. An after party followed with a set by the “twins on deck” as well as a few campus dj’s. This was the opportunity for students to let go and let loose and simply enjoy themselves.
Student 24/7 - 9
CAMPUS NEWS
Faranani Presents:
Mr and Miss Faranani, and Thick Madames in the Playboy Mansion Mildred Monageng Lights, Camera, Action!! Yes, it was all Top Billing outside the Faranani Hall, the setting for Mr & Miss Faranani as well as the Thick Madames was done to perfection. Right under the stars on a Saturday evening of 26 April, with bright lights shining over the setting and great music playing as the crowd slowly filled the venue to witness the crowning. Quite a chilly weather, but the crowds still came out in numbers looking all glamorous and hyped up. This was going to be a night of fun and glamour for sure. Just before the contestants took to the runway, an exquisite performance by Zahara graced the stage. Shortly after her followed Skhalo Skhalo alongside T-jazz with their crowd moving hit track “jaiva ka ditsetsekwane” meaning “dance on your tippy toes”. Not yet what we were there for but they kick-started the night for the crowd and got them prepared for what was still to come, because yeah you got that right it was bigger and better. As soon as the moment everyone had been waiting for came, the place was filled with screams of excitement and gasps of disbelieve. Truth be told had you been there too, you would also not believe that the person walking down the runway is one that you know, you would find it hard to recognize them, they were dazzling and just on that high note. The contestants walked the runway as though their lives depended on it, yet they still kept that gorgeous smile that says: “I’m confident and oh yes baby I’m having fun”. “Beauty lies in the eye of the beholder”, but in this case beauty was not only in the eye but it rather came alive physically and personality wise
10 - Student 24/7
as well. As difficult it was for the audience to speculate whom would be crowned as Mr, Miss and Thick Madame of Faranani, the decision was more like ten times as hard for the judges. Not only did they have to judge upon the physique but they also had to consider other aspects as well. A comment from the judges in the middle of the show suggested that it was very hard to decide who was to be crowned at that time as all the contestants were doing extremely well, with scores were running quite tight. The competition escalated as the night proceeded, as the contestants competed from their walks, personalities, talents and etc. Talents raging from netball, basketball, modelling, dancing and singing were portrayed by the contestants. An exquisite, sensual and most thrilling performance given by the contestants in their lingerie and bunny tales and ears was the definite show stopper. I mean who wouldn’t enjoy a sensual dance with sexy ladies in their hot pinks and extremely gorgeous guys topless with only a bowtie accessorising their upper bodies? Now with that in mind
add an awesome, lively crowd and good music then you get a good time all exclusive to Faranani residence. After all it was a competition, and the crowd being there was to witness the crowning of Mr & Miss as well as the Thick Madame of the Faranani residence. The winners were as follows; drum roll …….. “droooooommmmm. brooooombroooooo”, wait for it, wait for it! Gomolemo Legoabe a Bcom CA student was crowned Mr Faranani alongside the flawless Marilyn Ndlovu who studies BCom Finance who is Miss Faranani 2014. The First Prince position was awarded to Tumelo Kekana, and Second Prince Mosa Mhaka, First Princess was Khomotso Boshego and the Seond Princess Maneo Chaka. Kelebogile Tlhatlosi was crowned the Thick Madame of Faranani. Congradulations to all these winners as they were automatically entered for the Mr & Miss NWU Vaal. All the best to them all for their coming competition . Let’s all go out in numbers again and support them.
Well Done!
Kinga Siejek
Eleven residences, seven events, three weeks, two crowns, one Big night. The road to Mr and Miss NWU Vaal 2014/2015 was one of hard work and perserverance from the House Committees (HKs) and the contestants involved. On 9 May 2014, all of that hardwork was on show as the winners of each residence competed for the coveted spots.
CAMPUS NEWS ranging from Tribal to Gangster and Youth; to showing who their favourite stars are (such as Nicki Minaj and James Bond all in one night), to the beautiful dresses the ladies were wearing and how handsome the gentlemen looked in the formal section. The choice of the winners would not be an easy one for the judges. Of course, while looks and attire is
a part of the pageant; the Q&A section matters just as much. In previous years the questions would vary, but this year each contestant was given the same question one at a time. The question: What does the 10 Year Celebration mean to them. After much deliberation, the choices were made.
The theme correlated well with the Ten Year Celebrations of the merger of the North-West University. From the inspirational guests, to the important judges and THE question of the Q&A section; all was going well to make the night one to remember. While not all finalists from each residence made it to the finals, the ones that were there made their fellow resident families proud. From different themes in the opening category
Student shows of his creative side Kinga Siejek
On 26 May 2014, The EDC on the Vaal Campus had their officila opening of an Art Exhibition at Building 3 to showcase what our staff and students have to offer, other than their academic minds. one such student, is a current Oryx resident, Tumelo Ntja. His art of iconic people in history and society were a wonder to hold, and make us as a Campus proud to say he is one of ours. We hope to see more of his work in the future, and wish him well in his studies and his art. If you are interested to see more of Tumelo’s work, you can follow him on Twitter: @TheArtistSA.
CAMPUS NEWS
Educating for a greener future Anjonet Jordaan On the Vaal Campus education is not limited to a class room. The third year students in the B.Ed. programme decided that their Life Sciences module need not be restricted to textbook theory.
are sure that these prospective teachers will teach the next generation to treat their environment with respect by keeping in clean.
While learning about the environment and how to teach high school pupils about environmental matters, Mr Francois Minnie’s students decided to make a contribution to the preservation of our environment right here on campus. In a matter of an hour they quickly filled several bags with litter they picked up around a number of buildings on campus.But their efforts didn’t end there. They also compiled a list of suggestions which they handed over to campus’ Technical Services about how the campus grounds can be kept neater in future. Among their suggestions were to paint the dust bins the same colour green our campus is identified with to make them more visible; to put up more notices on campus that discourages people from littering and making use of the dust bins; and making sand bins available at the various buildings across campus to accommodate smokers. Looking after the environment starts at home and we
Graduates take to the stage
Annette Willemse
More than 1 300 diplomas and degrees were conferred during the autumn graduation ceremonies of the Vaal Triangle Campus of the North-West University (NWU Vaal). During the graduation ceremonies, which took place at the Quest Conference Estate in Vanderbijlpark, a total of 14 doctoral degrees were also conferred. In his address the Campus Rector, Prof Thanyani Mariba gave a brief overview of the current profile of the University and elaborated on the achievements of the Campus over the past decade. He furthermore compared each graduation ceremony to a “portrait of promise” and explained that on graduation day the potential that higher education offers gets set into motion. “It is important for you to fully grasp the magnitude of your achievement since it is only paralleled by the responsibility you know have to pro-actively contribute towards not only the vesting of a vibrant and robust knowledge economy but also to uphold our country’s lasting democracy,” said Prof Mariba.
12 - Student 24/7
In celebration of the University’s tenth anniversary, the Campus Rector related some of the highlights of the past decade: In terms of student numbers, the NWU Vaal grew from a modest satellite campus in 1977 with only 55 students to an academic powerhouse with more than 6 700 students in 2014. The amount of residence beds increased from 353 in 2004 for more than 1 900 and the number of lecture room seats have more than doubled to 4 545. In terms of academic offerings, the Vaal Triangle Campus boasts with two dynamic faculties and eight academic schools. In terms of research, the Campus boasts with an increase of more than 284% in terms of accredited articles since 2004. Prof Mariba encouraged the graduates to cherish their relationship with the campus and to go forth into the world of work and be ambassadors of change and prosperity.
*During the graduation a total of 166 certificates and diplomas, 650 degrees, 235 honours degrees, 33 masters’ degrees and 14 doctorates were awarded.
CAMPUS NEWS
Autumn graduation ceremonies: Campus awards best academic performers
Annette Willemse During the recent autumn graduation ceremonies of the Vaal Campus, more than 1 300 diplomas and degrees were conferred. Several graduates were also applauded for their academic prowess and were awarded as top academic achievers.
Florence Manyike – Social Work The best academic performer in Social Work (BS W) is Florence Manyike. In 2010 she registered for a Bachelor of Social Work degree at and she subsequently completed the degree with an average of 73.8% throughout her studies. Florence passed fifteen of the prescribed 43 modules with distinction. In her third year she was chosen to be part of the Golden Key International society. She is currently working as a registered social worker at the Gauteng Department of Social Development. She is planning to enrol for her honours degree in Public Management and Governance. Melanie Moonsammy – Behavioural Sciences The best academic performer in Behavioural Sciences (BA) is Melanie Moonsammy. In 2011 she enrolled for a BA in Behavioural Sciences within the Faculty of Humanities, with Psychology and Sociology as core modules. In 2013 she was awarded with a certificate for the best second year BA/ BS W (social work) student of 2012. In that year she maintained an average of 85%. Melanie completed her degree, and has passed 26 of the 27 prescribed modules with distinction. Throughout her studies she maintained an average of 86%. During her third year of study she was chosen to be part of the Golden Key International society. Melanie is currently registered for an Honours BA in Psychology. Her future aspirations include a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. Eunice Pretorius – Educational Sciences The best academic performer in Educational Sciences (BEd) is Eunice Pretorius. After a stint as an entrepreneur, she registered to study in 2010. She completed her degree – a BEd in Senior and Further Education (with Life Sciences and Psychical Sciences as main subjects) in the minimum prescribed four years. During this time she maintained an average of 91.5% and she passed all her modules with distinction. Eunice is currently a teacher at Kollegepark Primary School and is registered for her Honours degree in BEd Curriculum Studies. Lynelle Coxen – Industrial Psychology and Labour Relations Management The best academic performer in Industrial Psychology and Labour Relations Management (BCom) is Lynelle Coxen. In 2010 she enrolled for a BCom degree in Industrial Psychology and Labour Relations Management
within the Faculty of Economic Sciences and Information Technology. She enrolled as a part time student and completed her degree while full-time. Lynelle completed the degree in four years. Additionally, she past 31 of 32 prescribed modules with distinction. Throughout her studies, she maintained an average of 90.1%. She was also chosen to be part of the Golden Key International Society. Lynelle is currently registered for an Honours BCom in Industrial Psychology. She plans to also do a Master of Arts degree in Industrial Psychology and eventually be registered as an Industrial Psychologist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). Sune Ferreira – Economics and Risk Management The best academic performer in Economics and Risk Management (BCom) is Sune Ferreira. In 2011 she registered for a BCom in Economics and Risk Management. During 2012, Sune received the Top Achiever Award for the best performance in the second year BCom programme with an average of 84%. During her study she was also chosen to be a part of the Golden Key International Society. In her third year of study she received the Top Achiever Award, year again, when she maintained an average of 91%. She completed the degree and passed 26 of the 32 modules with distinction. She maintained an average of 83.3% during her period of study. Sune is currently registered for an Honours BCom in Risk Management. On completion she intends to continue with further studies. Natasha Robbetze – Financial Accountancy The best academic performer in Financial Accountancy (BCom) is Natasha Robbetze. In 2011 she registered for a BCom in Financial Accounting. She received the Top Achiever Award for the best performance in the BCom Accounting programme in 2011, 2012 and 2013. She completed the degree and passed 31 of the 32 modules with distinction. She maintained an average of 87% during the three years of study. She is currently registered for an Honours degree in Financial AccountingHarry van Zyl – Financial Mathematics The best academic performer in Financial Mathematics (BSc) is Harry van Zyl. In 2011 he registered for a BSc degree in Financial Mathematics. He completed the degree and passed all his modules with distinctions (32 distinctions). He maintained an average of 90%. He was awarded the Top Achiever Award in 2011, 2012 and 2013. He also received an award from the Potchefstroom Campus as the Best Student in the BSc programme. He is currently registered at the Potchefstroom Campus for an Honours degree in BSc Quantitative Risk Management.
Student 24/7 - 13
The right to learn campaign Rabia Moosa “Education is not preparation for life, education is life itself”- John Dewey In South Africa, the right to education is guaranteed by section 29 of the Bill of Rights. Every individual deserves a chance at an education in order to have a chance at life. Many individuals aren’t lucky enough to study further than matric because they all can’t afford to. After speaking to NWU Branch chairperson of the RTLC (Right to Learn Campaign), Mongesi Seyale, he shed some light on theRTLC. Established in 2013, The Right to Learn Campaign, which is a nationwide initiative which intends to help and assist students with financial difficulties. They aim at providing students with funds to pay off any amount being owed by them to the university as well as helping others to pay their registration fees.
nomena they will be able to illustrate and create new ways in which they can offer sustainable solutions.
SA NEWS These are but a few of the contributions made by RTLC to help improve the quality of studying for all students needing assistance.
As mentioned above, the members involved in the RTLC will run a number of event that will raise funds, they include: • The RTLC Car-wash and Shisanyama • The RTLC Business Dinner Another fundraiser for the 2014 RTLC will be the Register a Friend project. In which students will be asked to pledge the amount of R100 towards the registration of a fellow student.
The income that they generate comes from different fundraisers held by SASCO and SRC members of the university. These fund raisers are held on campus, t h e r e f o r e this initiative is for students, by students. With access to important data such as the number of students who have applied to study on the campus, the number of successful applicants, the number of unsuccessful applicants, the number of successful applicants that actually register, the number of successful applicants that fail to register, the number of registered students that graduate and the number that drops out as well as the underlying reasons for these phe-
Student 24/7 - 15
SA NEWS
: s a w t a h t n o i t k c c e a l b e k e o o Th l A
ns. paig ey m a h on c ch t ecti in whi t govl e r , ei d ren rts in th n adve ur cur a goo C f o N o re o A ti d the d elec flawe much ads we e k c e th w w s ta e o at s relea and ho ned ho . Thes pulling int d tio ce or ey C, ide rtie dec two pa the AN so men a chan given f nce, th the l to e th The ed on They a f given easons es viol ntrary , and Sou s s i n t r t i i o . u i foc ent is ld do, C, the rts inc ere c onduc uma. racy lace th ly c c w u o e m B f o , v p m o n bZ e ern hey c he SA he ad olic code t Jaco f de so took ted, o d p o t t t t s e o y s job ed b a tha ear ev vote iden s al t th rity’ and ty y lection t peopl y had tetw nn ere: agains Autho n Pres off, the n a t M w e i b e e w s el ko ce rds ting at dt ert tic e mos rties th Zan figh tice th dom adv violen tanda al attac arke mocra While . a e y r m p r S o t e l n d r e e n ee w cite rtising perso yea fifth d f May. out th r coun litica ies lp but tha Fr , were t o s r i p u b e a a h o e e e a o v a p T th Ad tituted 8th Ink ’t h re PE) ), th hree ate n in ppy ca, s min couldn ng SA, le (CO sk whe y. by t (ANC dom Afri on the ere ha ituatio n o o d d c e s a p s e tr e a r, inat ongres ic Free ed yea nd full w olitical thre tes, on like Ag the peo had to e coun ld m e o m h d C p see nom ile t get vo rties, ss of w. One er to th es wou g ere nal a ha nd the Wh ti n s w Natio he Eco e ANC was los ff to a n gre e sho r pa o r i to o the par n fighti nfo rs ying smalle d Con d u h ect frican and t n as th party r t l t a o o e h t a m m n e a , A s o ther (IFP) a sent fro at they on wh nd mor ted and y to ear ’ ing the e (DA) e was eading ption ru ve Nko y s h t Thi es, be Allianc ressur t the l o corru pensi e-toll arty hat ab and w as less ople, a el chea per par ens P x u i t p , t e w e b c e r w e e p e f ro tiz th ue , the pa ocrati ). The port; som could b s focus d their ll over is no p er of ci vote. and p rs nly d F n a n y e b a Dem ter (EF rity su st. Mai for yea unded r s o e o i m e t n n t ry th f a jo t. elec count Africa say th rge nu o did o’ cam l e a Figh ve ma rt and f e party ayers agains h c h a r o s i h l t i t N T o h i u l w h p e a t h o e ts for her. So eople w lain th e and r po nder to h s supp unted t ich tax clearly ‘Vot ir ballo on’t o e d h t t e t p t h u p i o a o th v ex w ho he re ing have h tion w lic were ed ty. ere eac here a ch can ster to ns like spoil t e ANC a fect who w opulari o b t v f u a i o a t i h g o t p h g n , i h t t t e F, gry for, w the unp ng t ions la re to r campa people so tha lect and EF udden listeni hat ed and m that te , e n s s o d e u v e e i w f e s te ev re art rag and with DA f th sys NC who e were encou litical p re o ike the the A atching ointed u s o r h n p w The , whic aller p pres well l sap se o ns, n m g s i The es as capitali electio was di e r . a d p n fo I i a t e , e r o t vote t M s h a o t o y n v n p t t e i g r o i g r o y u s t in s pa ajo Nel untr pres e follow n cam et m ate the co -shirts, l g o l i e i t h t t Wh e elec ard. on s of ike ted e h rs, l citizen d prin written nd e all t and h d na w t lea ple, tive p an I sa pas sensi ters u r exam directio d e s e us th po ” fo ent ANC ipulate ey had andela a differ e h n h M T ma m, t nt in t for la to for the s “do i FF we d E vote the wor A and D h t e wi . Th them
16 - Student 24/7
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY
What does it means to us? A look from two journalists... Malenyalo Molemane On 3 May 2014, the country and the world were celebrating “World Press Freedom Day”. According to www.timeanddate.com, World Press Freedom Day is annually observed on May 3 to inform the international community that freedom of the press and freedom of expression are fundamental human rights. This day reminds people that back in the days, many journalists were jailed and killed to bring daily news to the public. Getting an understanding of what this day means to future journalists or students who are studying media. Dumisa Mbonjwa, 2nd year student in BA Communication, says that this day means freedom for the press to be able to report on all matters that are in public interest, including those that the government would rather keep a secret. Phila Mavuso, 3rd year in BA Communication said “it means to honour journalists who struggled under inadequate or oppressive conditions to report so as to tell the truth.
Keleabetswe Narenti Looking at the condition of the media in our country, how it has developed to become fast and effective in delivering news and informing the people of South Africa it is easy to say that the SA media should celebrate their freedom, with issues like the implementation of the secrecy bill threating to take away the freedom of expression or press. Which is of importance and so is the right to receive information; the South African media should take pride in joining other nations to celebrate the World Press Freedom Day UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon And UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova said "Journalism provides a platform for informed discussion
This day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993 December as World Press Freedom Day. Despite the effort made to protect media, journalists are still killed or jailed just because the want to expose the truth. More work is still needed to be done to protect or ensure that our journalists are protected. Standing together as a nation to secure the rights and safety of our journalists who are killed or harassed for bringing truthful information on what is happening around the globe and the country. This day is celebrated to remind and inform everyone that journalists have rights to freedom of opinion and expression. Journalists can give or inform the public about what is happening in the world or country and they must give true and valid information. They must not use the opportunity to take advantage and give false information to the public.
across a wide range of development issues – from environmental challenges and scientific progress to gender equality, youth engagement and peace building. Only when journalists are at liberty to monitor, investigate and criticize policies and actions can good governance exist." World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December 1993, following the recommendation of UNESCO's General Conference. Since then, 3 May, the anniversary of the Declaration of Windhoek was celebrated worldwide as World Press Freedom Day. It is an opportunity to: • Celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom; • Assess the state of press freedom throughout the world;
• Defend the media from attacks on their independence; • Pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The focus this year was on three inter-related themes: the media’s importance in development; the safety of journalists and the rule of law; and the sustainability and integrity of journalism. Initiatives like the World Press Freedom day encourage existing and up and coming journalists to take pride in informing their nations about events like the recent elections and the on-going murder trial of Oscar Pistorious, be it through print, broadcasting or social media, to inform the nations without being afraid.
Student 24/7 - 17
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
USA academics
spark a discussion Keleabetswe Narenti
The school of Basic Sciences hosted a visit from academics from the United States of America (USA), who are currently busy with their studies in politically related fields, with the aim to create awareness around political systems around the world and see how they affect people.The colloquium was based on the recent South African democratic elections and the upcoming USA mid-term elections and the American election process. The colloquium consisted of presentations, from students of the Florida A&M University and lecturers from the school of Basic Sciences which all highlighted the importance of elections and freedom of choice in the United States of America and in South Africa. The presentations from the students of Florida A&M University focused on issues such as: The American electoral system The American electoral system is very different from the South African as it has in the history of the US only been two majority parties fighting for the running of the country which were the Democrats and the Republicans
18 - Student 24/7
and now there are the Independent democrats. The students took turns to explain the complicated electoral system and the anticipation of the 2014 mid-term USA election, which according Modjinah Lavache, student Florida A&M University studying Public Relations with International Relations subjects, the US mid-term elections are more like the SA local/ provincial elections. As everyone is concerned about the outcomes of the presidential elections for South Africans the candidate has to win majority of the vote to win but this is not the case in US, the candidate has to win vote in the states where the majority of people live and most of all where his\her supporters are. “Even the campaigning is different, as a candidate you invest time and money campaigning
where your supporters are, where you not needed you don’t go.” Said Prof Christopher Daniels, Research Development Director. Cash in politics Maurice Jackson, Accounting student at Florida A&M University with global security subjects said that politics in the US have to do with raising funds more than anything, and how the candidate will use that one once they are elected as president, Maurice highlighted an important concern amongst Americans when it comes to making and spending money in the US, which was the debt care that Americans are living in which is mostly caused by student loans and the lack of affordable health. He said that the average American spend 110% of what they earn, the other concern was. Through the discussion amongst the political science students and the USA students about elections in their countries, Prof Christopher and Pro Rabali concluded that we can all learn other countries’ mistakes.
ALUMNI NEWS
Join the: Young Alumni Movement
TODAY!
Annette Willemse
Did you recently graduate? If so, welcome in the midst of the Vaal Triangle Campus’s Young Alumni fraternity! Are you on the verge of completing your studies? Then take note – the Young Alumni fraternity is the first call of port after graduating. As an alumna (female) or alumnus (male) of the University you now belong to a dynamic and ever growing network of graduates – be it as business leaders, opinion formers, entrepreneurs, artists, educators or researchers. Did you know that the word ‘alumni’ – which is derived from the Latin term ‘alere’, means to nourish? Think about it. Just as the leafy green trees on the banks of the majestic Vaal River is anchored and nourished by their roots digging deep in the fertile soil – so your quest for knowledge and accomplishment was nurtured by the enabling environment of the Vaal Triangle Campus.
• Supporting the Alumni Office by purchasing memorabilia items. • Playing an advocacy role on behalf of the Campus within their respective communities. • Mobilising whatever resources at their disposal for the good of the Campus (i.e. encouraging their employers to contribute to worthy causes on Campus or to collaborate on various projects and special events). • Facilitating mentorships and internships for students – and thus contributing towards the readiness of graduates for the world of work. • Providing employment and other opportunities for graduates. • Assisting with the recruitment of new students. What role can I play as a current student? You can register with the Alumni Office upon graduation so that we can keep you informed of developments and exciting endeavors pertaining to the Campus. In the meanwhile, you should keep an eye out for alumni related communication via the student magazine, Student 24/7 or River FM. You should also like our Facebook page to keep abreast with the latest events and happenings - NWU-Vaal-Alumni By making a conscious decision to be informed, the transition from life as a student to being a successful member of the working environment is made easy. In exchange we urge you to remember the role played by the different generations of graduates in shaping the future of the University and more specific the Vaal Triangle Campus.
At the NWU Vaal we consider both graduates (who receive degrees) and diplomats (who received diplomas) to be part of our extended and celebrated alumni family. The core function of the Alumni Office is to enable all former graduates to keep in touch with the Campus and with each other whilst providing lifelong opportunities for alumni to support their alma mater in whichever way they deem fit. As ambassadors of our Campus, our alumni members play a vital role in the upkeep of our good reputation – both locally and internationally whilst bearing testament that a North-West University qualification remains a sought after commodity. Young Alumni What does the alumni fraternity mean for you, as a current student? The alumni fraternity contributes towards the NWU Vaal in the following ways: • Making financial contributions to the Campus in the form of voluntary donations.
Student 24/7 - 19
INSPIRATION
To the Young Girls Haseena Saley To the young girls Oh young girl, where is your pride? Can you not see that his just trying to get in between your thighs? Use you and then go, But you keep going back to him begging for mo’ “Take me I’m all yours”, that’s what you say But you not alone, there’s more like you running his way I ask you young girl, where is your pride? Can you not see that his taking you for a ride?
“I love you baby, can you not see” He lies blatantly He’ll say anything to get in your jeans But he does not mean it, not one darn thing Listen here young girl, he’s been around the block Knows exactly what to say to get your undies off He’ll make you feel like the only one That’s his way of “having fun” Use you till he’s had enough Then ups and leaves, without saying much At the end of the day You left with the pain His long gone and you all alone Left to pick up the pieces while he moves on
A birthday for the betterment of all Kinga Siejek
When you think of your birthday, you can’t help but be excited. Especially as a child. the idea that one day out of the whole year, you have one day dedicated to the celebration of you. Presents, cake, a party, most parents and people go out of their way to have a memorable and fun birthday. But how about making your special day about someone else? That is exactly what an amazing staff member on Campus decided to do. Mari-Leigh Pienaar, a lecturer in the School of Languages dedicated the whole of her May birthday month to supporting a local non-profit initiative, iCare, which is run by Charlene Hefer, a student of Pienaar’s. The charity raises funds to organise events for children and adults in need. Donations asked for include children’s clothes, toys, toiletries, food, blankets, and much more. On such event that Pienaar is asking help for is an Easter themed project for a children’s home in Meyerton on 7 June. How to get involved To help not only make Mari-Leigh Piennar’s birthday a special one, but to also help iCare and the people they aide, they are asking for any form of donations which can then be taken to
20 - Student 24/7
Mari-Leigh’s office (Building 6 - 104) or you can drop it off by Building 7 203. While the dealine for the Easther themed event may have passed, there are still many events that will be happening throughout the year, and help help will be greatly appreciated. The best way to enjoy a birthday is to spend it with people you love; where everyone around you is happy. What better way to make that happen than to help bring some joy to those around you. What a great way to bring the staff and students together, and helping the community all at once?
Happy Birthday Mari-Leigh, and may those that you and iCare are helping enjoy your birthday with you!
ALUMNI NEWS
Lending a helping hand Keleabetswe Narenti
As students we tend to get caught up in our lives and taking the time to supporting a cause is an act of humanity and courage, to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves, to lend a helping hand every now and then goes a long way to showing people that there is someone out there that cares. Here are some of the causes you can support without living your comfort zone and which will be great for your portfolio as you start your professional journey.
• SPCA The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals – SPCA ‘for short’ – aims to protect all animals from cruelty, neglect and ill treatment that often results from ignorance of animals and their needs. When they say ‘all’ animals, they mean exactly that – from pet dogs, cats and rabbits to farm animals, poultry and even wildlife. Living up to their mission necessitates the work of many different units within the SPCA, which together ensure that animal rights are protected. You can contact them through their website • The Cancer Association of South Africa CANSA CANSA’s purpose is to lead the fight against cancer in South Africa and its mission is to be the preferred nonprofit organisation that enables research, educates the public and provides support to all people affected by cancer.
You can get involve by visiting their website www.cansa. org.za by doing the following: signing up as a member, volunteering your services, raising fund online and on the field, supporting online fundraisers and buying products to support CANSA.
• SANBS SANBS is a non-profit organisation that provides an essential service within South Africa and is rated amongst the best in the world in the provision of blood and blood products, as well as in relation to the research and training provided. SANBS operates across all of South Africa, with the exclusion of the Western Cape. SANBS is further regarded as a major role player in the provision of support to countries in the SADC region. Their key purpose is to save patients’ lives. Vision The vision of SANBS is to be acknowledged nationally and internationally as a centre of excellence in the discipline of blood transfusion. Mission The mission of SANBS, an organisation of voluntary, non-remunerated blood donors, is to provide all patients with sufficient, safe, quality blood products and medical services related to blood transfusion, in an equitable, cost effective manner.
Student 24/7 - 21
STUDENT 911
Exam Preps Vukosi Nwaila
It is that time of the year again, stress starts to kick in and everyone is quiet anxious about qualifying for exams simultaneously happy to dust off the semester. Everyone has their own way of studying but this time around, last minute studying or cramming will disappoint you. A university is an institution where you get trained or prepared for work; quite different from high school since you have to understand what you are really studying hence cramming would be a bad idea this time around. To help you prepare for exams, below is lists of 11 DO’s and DONT’s to help you prepare for exams. DO 1. Have faith in yourself, believe you can make it 2 .Perceive the idea of writing an exam as a way of testing your understanding. What causes exam stress is thinking “oh my word I will fail, how am I going to get all that information in to my head in 3 days” .So how about you perceive exams as a way of testing how much you understand in a module .Once you have done that you are good to go...remember it is all in the mind. 3. Draw up a study time-table. The idea of using study time tables has always been a bad idea for some people but once you get used to it, it will work wonders. Draw up a study time table and allocate at least 50 minutes for every module with 10 minute breaks in between. 4. Start studying as early as possible. Use study guides, slides and other available study material .Test yourself using previous exam papers and stick to your study time-table. 5. Cease to procrastinate It is so easy to procrastinate once exams commence, avoid telling yourself you’ll do something later when you can actually do it now. 6. Drink as much water as you can and eat healthily and study SMART. Getting good grades doesn’t necessarily result from studying hard, it is studying smart that gets you good grades .Take for instance someone who studies for 10 hours then gets to the exam venue and only gets 50% right and someone who studied what was REQUIRED for less than 7 hours and got 80% right .Refer to study guides and don’t just study everything and while you are at it try to eat healthily and drink water. DON’T 1. Think you cannot make it It is so easy to look at ourselves and think “i am not smart enough to make it, I am an average student”. Truth is you are smart, look at the mirror every morning
22 - Student 24/7
and start getting used to that idea and besides you does not necessarily have to be smart to pass an exam you just need the right attitude and a little faith. 2. Procrastinate Don’t leave it for later, do it now. 3. Cram Study with understanding, do not cram the work. It does work yes but remember that you will need the information you are studying later, for instance in economics you might have to reflect on the work you did the previous year so cramming might be a bad idea. 4. Burn the candle at both ends Do not text and study simultaneously, cut off social networks until you are done with exam ...the last thing you need is to get distracted and later regretting doing that later. 5. Lose hope So you write a paper and then get to your room, check you’re textbook and realise you didn’t do the right thing ...well do not stress as this might affect how you do in your remaining PAPERS. Once you are done writing, put away the question paper, try not to think about it and then focus on other things, and do not lose hope. Here is a quote to get you going, all the best for your exams!! Our Greatest Fear —Marianne Williamson It is our light not our darkness that most frightens us Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. You’re playing small does not serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other People won’t feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.
STUDENT 911
Whoopie! Exam Time! Palesa Mosebi
and only chance to get things right.
It’s that time of the year ladies and gents! Love them or hate them, we’re going to have to go into the pool this winter. Our academic records are waiting for us, only they are at the bottom and the water is ice cold, literally. You could love exam time because it means you are at the end of the first semester, or just hate the anxiety, hard work and well, because it’s exams. However, like a tooth extraction, it must be done.
Life can’t be about difficult papers AND difficult people too, on the same day. People who discuss a paper they just wrote or ask how the paper was for the other person... Stop. IT’s annoying if you don’t feel like you did well in that exam room. It might be good manners to ask; but let’s practice letting things go and reading facial expressions please. If it went well with them, they will tell you, or their
faces will, just know when not to ask. It is said that life is about dancing in the rain; well it certainly is about dancing in the cold with an academic record and a smile on your face. We can make it if we put in a lot of work, keep the faith and seek help where it’s needed. The great thing about exam is that there is a memorandum for each paper, so it’s not your lecturer scrutinising your grammar, neatness or context, but it’s about you answering the questions correctly. Let’s do great and feel great. Make it count when you take this big step towards getting your degree.
Exams would not be exams without: “You want me to do what in 2 hours?”, “there is nothing about this in the textbook”, or “I studied very hard but there was no way I was going to figure that out” and exchanging frowns when you get your “heavy” question paper. However, life isn’t all that bad you know. If you can’t make it the first time, then there is a second chance waiting for you on the deep side called: “Second Opportunity”. Don’t just jump straight to the second opportunity if you have not been to the first though, because that would not be a second opportunity but your one
Student 24/7 - 23
STUDENT 911
SETA and NWU VAAL provides in-service training to graduates Annette Willemse Getting a perfect job is every graduate’s dream but this is not always the case, this is where internships come in. Internships are a good way to gain experience and get exposed to the workplace. To provide skills and training for the graduates the ETD SETA (Education, Training and Development) SETA provided 33 internship opportunities for the NWU, of which 17 positions were made available on the Vaal Campus. Seventeen graduates from the Vaal Campus are currently posted in internships at different schools and departments on the Vaal Campus. The SETA is mandated to promote and facilitate the delivery of education, training and development in order to enhance the skills profile of the Education, Training and Development (ETD) sector and contribute to the creation of employment opportunities, especially for those previously disadvantaged. Interns currently on the Vaal Campus have learnt the importance of professional conduct, time management and team work. Most interns have worries about the money they receive from their internship, but according to Lebohang Mokoena, head of finance and marketing at the Centre of Continuing Professional Development (CCPD), money is an issue when you start working. The stipend provided by SETA to the interns makes it easy for them to be able to come to work and gain experience before going into the workplace, which is more impor-
24 - Student 24/7
tant at the moment. “It is not always that you are placed in the department of your choice or study, but you have to take advantage and make it work for you. You never know when you will need the skill that you learned,” says Motlalepule Mohlapholi, HR graduate and intern at the NWU Vaal Campus’ Marketing and Communication Department. Interns wish that mentors and the people supervising them would try and understand that they are there to learn and should do work that is related to their line of study. Most of the interns say that they sometimes feel like they are taken for granted and that they would like mentors to delegate more important work to them. Most interns would also appreciate proper job descriptions, as being an intern is a great opportunity to gain experience. Interns are not looking to be pampered but they would like their mentors to make them comfortable by establishing proper working relationships. Through the effort of the NWU Vaal Campus to accommodate the interns, ETD SETA has managed to provide skills and training to 17 graduates and from the group 2 interns already managed to get jobs. As a way to improve the skills of the graduates, the ETD SETA is planning to provide the remaining interns with a project management skill by providing them with bursaries to train with the CCPD on the NWU Vaal Campus. ETD SETA has an ongoing initiative in which it strives to provide young graduates with skills to prepare them for the workplace and to increase their chances of employment.“If we are the pillars of strength (ETD SETA and the university) it is easy to provide training and development to young graduates,” says Lebohang Mokoena.
HEALTH
Happiness is Quality Lebogang Masemula
“Happiness is not something really made. It comes from your own actions”- Dalai Lama Happiness is defined as a mental or emotional state of well-being characterized by positive emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy. An emotion is one powerful weapon that controls a mind. The obvious outcome of a sad emotion is an unhappy soul. Why not cultivate long term happiness by sowing regular seeds of positive emotions? One of the factors that might prevent us from being happy is our past. If it’s going to prevent us from being happy TODAY why not leave it and just bury it? Yes I may not understand what you going/went through, but all of us are going through issues yet we choose not to entertain them. We don’t allow them define who we are. Every life deserves a beautiful living for it is too short not to be enjoyed. Happiness is a choice. Sometimes all we need to do is open up and just let go. Tyler Perry strongly believes that the key to life when it gets tough is to keep moving. An essential key to happiness is investing in relationships. People who are happy seem to know that happiness is the sum of their life choices. Majority of their lives are built on the following factors:
Devoting time to family and friends Appreciating what they have Maintaining an optimistic outlook Feeling a sense of purpose, and Living in the moment
Personally, I don’t think the benefits of positive emotions can be overstated. They’re good for our health and wellbeing. Dr Barbara Fredickson, a distinguished psychology professor and author of Positivity believes that a positive frame of mind and emotional state improves an individual’s performance. She argues that as happiness flows through our hearts, it simultaneously broadens our minds. To sum up, happiness doesn’t depend on any external conditions; it is governed by our mental attitude. Now let us make the right choice and enjoy the qualities happiness conveys. PS: If you need any help in dealing with personal matters, the Student Development Support is always willing to help. Location: Building 13, Learning and Research Commons.
Student 24/7 - 25
HEALTH
The Good, The Bad, The Cholesterol Selina Mokatsane With the imminent approach of winter, food can become an enticing source of solace to beat the winter blues! The trouble is the kind of food you consume can have long-lasting negative effects on your health, one of them being cholesterol. Cholesterol is a fatty substance made naturally in the body. It makes up cell walls and compartments to regulate the movement of substance into and within the cell. There are important bodily functions that cholesterol impacts, such as digestion, manufacturing of hormones and protection of nerve endings. Yes, cholesterol can be good! The problem arises when this “silent killer” presents itself as a risk factor for heart disease and stroke, when an unhealthy diet is ensued. Although high cholesterol can be genetically inherited (which means that your body naturally produces excessive cholesterol), it can be managed by leading a healthy lifestyle. Health 24 presents tips on ways to lower your cholesterol, here are a few: • Attain and maintain a healthy body weight: But what is a healthy body weight? Well, simply calculate your body mass index or BMI by dividing your weight in kilograms by height in metres squared. On average, a BMI of 25 is considered over-weight and that between 18.5 and 24.9 is healthy weight. • Replace saturated fats: Brick margarines and cream tend to be high in saturated fats. Avoid these and replace them with soft tub margarine, olive oil, Canola, avocado, grape seed and sunflower oil. • Be physically active: Frequent exercise helps increase the “good” kind of cholesterol. • Up your fibre intake: Fruit and vegetables (especially legumes such as
26 - Student 24/7
beans, peas and lentils) are a good source of fibre, at least four serving a day will benefit your health. So take charge of your life and strive to live and eat healthily. The road to healthy living is not too far-fetched. By reading this, you have taken the first step!
HEALTH
Ponder in comfort food this winter Pearl Mavunda Feel good while staying healthy When we’re not feeling our best, whether we’re stressed out or we’re coming down with a cold, we often turn to “comfort food” to soothe ourselves. There’s nothing wrong with using food to feel better as long as you don’t eat something that will just end up making you feel worse later. But, don’t worry, there are plenty of healthy comfort foods that you can enjoy with guilt or regret. Here are 5 delicious ideas that you can try at home and even at res: Bowl of Oatmeal There’s no better way to start the day (especially a cold one) than with a warm bowl of oatmeal. Not only will the fiber in oatmeal help you feel full longer, it will also help your heart by reducing the amount of cholesterol you absorb. As if that isn’t enough, you can make your breakfast even more special by adding a variety of healthy toppings. Try a 1/4 cup of blueberries, 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts and a dash of cinnamon or 1/2 a sliced banana and 1 tablespoon of peanut butter. You’ll feel
good from the inside out. Mac & Cheese Skip the box to turn this kid-friendly comfort food into a dinner-time staple. The simple recipe with sophisticated flavor features turkey bacon
and three kinds of cheese. Add chicken and veggies to make a one-dish meal like this Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese. Low-carb pizza crust A slice of pizza every once in a while won’t hurt you, but this cauliflower crust pizza is healthy enough to eat whenever you have a craving. Once you’ve baked the crust the toppings are up to your imagination. Try fresh tomatoes, basil and buffalo mozzarella for a traditional taste or
go for grilled chicken breast, reduced-fat cheddar and a drizzle of barbeque sauce for something more fun. Nut-butter & Honey NB&H. Just like the PB&J of your childhood, a nut butter and honey sandwich will hit the spot when you’re out of sorts. This grown-up version of the brown-bag staple can be made from any kind of nut or seed. It’s easy to make your own nut butters in a food processor. Try almonds, hazelnuts or cashews. Although nuts are high in calories, they pack
a huge nutrition punch, providing heart-healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats, filling protein and essential vitamin and minerals. Chicken Noodle soup Even the Mayo Clinic agrees that chicken soup can reduce inflammation and speed the loosening of mucus in the sinuses, so listen to
your Mom on this one. If you’re feeling bad, go f o r soup. If traditional chicken noodle is too bland for your grownup tastes, there are lots of options to spice it up including ginger and pesto. Call and remind a friend that, they don’t need to eat the greasy drumstick or the whole ice-cream that would make them feel “better”. Let’s all follow these easy to make 5 delicious snack/meals that will would keep us warm in the inside/out. Pearl Mavunda_Million miles away from normal*
Student 24/7 - 27
GUYS TALK
Putt into the hole Ratanang Mogatusi
In a game of golf, it is the person with the lowest score who wins. This score is determined by the number of strokes it takes a player to get the ball from the tee, and into the hole in the green. In other words, the fewer times you hit the ball to get it from the start of the course and into the hole at the end of the course, the better. Inherently, due to this fact, the greatest aspiration of any golfer is to hit a hole-in-one; which is the act of scoring one’s ball into the hole with the golfer’s first stroke when teeing off. This is however much easier said than done, as the distance to each hole is typically 240 yards from the tee. The average recreational golfer can hit a ball about as far as 200 yards, whereas pro golfers can hit a ball as far as 300 yards. There are eighteen holes on a golf course. That’s eighteen opportunities to get your hole-in-one. Sadly, this does not necessarily improve one’s odds to do it. One can however still score a bogey, or even a birdie. This would be one stroke over, or under par, respectively (par is a standard score for a whole). They aren’t as profound as a hole-in-one, but they are a good standard by which you can measure your game. More than that, they can help you attain a decent score, and maybe even to win the game. Herein lays the moral of our story. Life is like a game of golf; you might not hit it right into the hole with that first hit, but you still have seventeen more holes to try again. Likewise, each that we rise to see the sun again is like a new beginning, and another chance to try for a new hole-in-one. Much like life, golf has its challenges along the way to that goal. A player is faced with several adversities that will try to break one’s spirit and contest their devotion to getting the job done. It is for this reason that it is important to take on every trial as you would a round of golf. When stepping up to the tee, the player assertively stands his ground ready to drive the ball into the air using a wooden
28 - Student 24/7
club. Once you’re in the fairway (the area between the tee and the green) things can become frustrating, and one may find him/herself in a sand bunker, or water hazard, but so long as you have your irons and hybrid clubs you should be able to battle your way into the green. Quitting is always an option, but if you do, you’ll never make it into the
green; therefore you will never win. Once you’re in the green, the end is now in sight. Your goal now becomes more real, as you can see it before you. It can feel both so near, and yet so far. It now becomes more important than ever that you maintain your composure and focus on that final stretch. To taste victory, you equip yourself with your putter; or whatever tools you need to overcome your obstacle. Relax. Take a moment to breath, and putt that ball into that hole.
PROFILE
Gone but not forgotten Mangaliso Maduna NWU vaal was once again struck by yet another tragedy. On Monday the 28th of April the university was in total shock as they received devastating news that one of its honours students Mokemane Johannes Makume had passed on following a tragic car accident. Makume, according to a close relative was on his way back home to Liendly from Bloemfontein where he had underwent football trials when the accident occurred. It is still not known whether Makume’s accident was indeed an accident or a vehicular homicide because his body was found dumped on the side of the rod by a stranger passing by.
spectators stood up with their heads bowed as they observed a two-minute moment of silence. He was laid to rest on Saturday the 3rd. We would like to extend our deepest condolences and sympathy to his friends and family.
The news of his passing came as a total shock to his friends and a legion of his friends. One of his closest friends who were traumatized by the news was Nathaniel Modiba who was his friend since their first year back in 2010 and a former BCom student at the university. “This is a tragic loss, “said Modiba. “Words cannot begin to explain how devastated I was after hearing the news. I am still coming to terms with the fact that I will never see him again. He was a noble guy who was blessed with immense natural talent. He was a terrific defender, he had the skill and unconditional passion for the game. The world has lost a great man in him,” Modiba concluded. Before he was laid to rest, on Thursday the 1st of May his friends and former res-mates organized and hosted a football tournament in his memory. The tournament was played between residence teams since 2010. Shortly before the games kicked off both players and
Student 24/7 - 29
PROFILE
A note from the Sports Editor...
It’s now or never
Wow! It is funny how time really flies. It felt just like yesterday when we stood in that long and tiring queue of registration, yet it almost seems unbelievable that we have approached our midyear exams. Exams are definitely not easy but nothing can beat thorough preparation and diligence. I would like to take this opportunity and wish everyone the best of luck in their exams.
Now, shifting focus on campus sport, it goes without saying that May has been a happy hunting month as far as our campus sport is concerned. When our head of sport on campus Mr Seun McCallaghan spoke of “achieving the next level” earlier at this year’s award ceremony many believed that his statement was too ambitious and far-fetched. Judging from a recent accession of most of our teams one could contend that his prophecy has come into fruition.
managed to instill a winning mentality to a team that was struggling with confidence. Two wins in their last two games shows that they mean business. The pursuit of victory and excellence has somehow elevated their game into a new level of greatness. Given the level of our sports pedigree and a crop of talented players we have at our disposal, a spot in the USSA Championships is on the cards if anything is to go by. The Rugby Valke League has also been in full swing however the senior male team has been struggling with form. They have been inconsistent of late but I am sure it is just a rough patch and it shall come to pass. Nonetheless the U21s have been exceptional. Lastly, the World Cup is around the corner and Brazil will be the place to be. Football in Brazil is more than just a sport. It is part of their religion, their way of life. They breathe, live and eat it. As the cliché goes “The English have invented the game but the South Americans have perfected it. Having won the World Cup a record five times, Brazil are the undisputed favourates to
One team in particular that has shown remarkable improvement is our ladies soccer team. For long they have been a shadow of their former selves but the team has improved under the tutelage of coach Jomo. He has clinch football’s glittering prize but they first have to deal with the Messis, Ronaldos and Xavis of this world. Will Spain defend their crown? Will the English come to the party this time around? Fate will decide. Yours in writing Mangaliso Maduna
30 - Student 24/7
PROFILE
NWU Vaal on the rise Johannes Masiteng
Both the Vaal Campus Women’s and Men’s football club collected a total of 7 points and 4 points respectively in their last three University Sports of South Africa Gauteng Football League (USSA GFL) games. Ladies NWU Vaal hosted Wits University on 15 April and either team could not get the result. NWU Vaal conceded an early goal, but they drew level before the half time break. The teams were evenly matched in the first half with equal scoring chances. NWU Vaal was eager to extend their lead but the visitors defended well, stopping any attacks by the opposition. The home side cannot hold on to their lead as the visitors levelled the matters 10 minutes from time. The late equaliser meant that either team walks away with a share of spoils. A week later NWU Vaal visited Medunsa. NWU Vaal women capitalised on the hosts’ poor performance and drubbed them 6-0. They dominated the whole game with possession and shots. They netted 3 goals in the first half and added another 3 in the final half of the match. Medunsa players squandered possession easily and the visitors punished them. NWU Vaal displayed an impressive play when they eased past bottom log placed Midrand Graduate Institute (MGI) on 5 May. NWU Vaal
dominated their opponents from the first minute to the last. MGI’s defence and goalkeeper made mistakes at the back and NWU Vaal attackers capitalised on that, netting 4 goals in the first half. Medunsa improved their play in the second half but could not break into NWU Vaal’s defence. NWU Vaal also looked to net more goals but squandered their scoring chances. The game ended 4-0 in favour of NWU Vaal. These results mean that NWU Vaal Women move to 5th place, with teams below a game to play. NWU Vaal Women’s Football team will play Monash in their next fixture.
Men NWU Vaal Men’s Football Club also managed to collect 4 points in their last 2 outings. On 15 April, NWU Vaal Men collected a point with a goalless stalemate and later on 06 May they defeated Midrand Graduate Institute 2-0. NWU Vaal and Wits University could not find the back of the net as both teams were solid. Both sides squandered their scoring chances in the early moments of the match. Both enjoyed same portion of possession and had set pieces, yet could not break the deadlock. The second period of the match saw both sides have more scoring but kept wasting them. Goalkeepers of both teams kept it goalless pulling crucial saves when either side’s attackers posed a threat.
Efforts at goal from both NWU Vaal and Wits attackers produced routine saves from the goalkeepers of both teams. They were evenly matched in every department, with most possession played in the middle of the field. Either team’s attacks were broken down as the defenders made vital interceptions. Wits conceded 3 consecutive corner kicks with a few minutes to play, but failed find the winner. The teams shared spoils as the match ended 0-0. NWU Vaal hosted Midrand Graduate Institute on 6 May. We did not have to wait long for a goal in this as NWU Vaal netted early in the match. MGI lost possession cheaply and relied on counter attackers. NWU Vaal attackers were guilty of missing glorious scoring chances in the final minutes of the match. During the second, they attempted to extend their lead but MGI’s defence was strong. MGI seemed more organised and launched attacks with the goal attempts going wide of goal or easily saved by the NWU Vaal goalie. Finally NWU Vaal scored their insurance goal later in the second half. They held on to their lead 2 goal containing MGI’s attacks. The match ended 2-0 in favour of Vaal Pukke. NWU Vaal Men are on the 6th position on the league with two games behind the team above. They will play Medunsa before visiting their cross-town rivals VUT on 12 August.
USSA Games Wrap Up: UP vs NWU Vaal Mangaliso Maduna & Johannes Masiteng
With the Fifa World Cup fast approaching, the world will turn its attention to Brazil as the World Cup trots to its climax. Fans across the globe will flock to Brazil in numbers to witness the 20th edition of the world’s greatest spectacle. The World Cup is always a special experience, it brings both passion and excitement into the game. Above all, it is the pinnacle of international football. It offers fans around the globe an opportunity to watch football elites battling it out in the biggest stage of them all.
While brainstorming story ideas for the May edition, myself and my counterpart Johannes ran into an international student, Jasper Vanassche, who hails from Belgium. We then enjoyed a good chat and promised to grant us an interview. In his interview he talks to us about his experience in South Africa and NWU Vaal. Lastly he also gives his insight on how Belgium will perform at the World Cup finals in Brazil.
What was the nature of your visit to South Africa? I was visiting South Africa as part of my PhD project. As a PhD student in Social Psychology at Ghent University
Student 24/7 - 31
SPORT (Belgium), I work in close collaboration with Prof. Ian Rothmann and his colleagues at the research unit Optentia. Prof. Rothmann invited me for a short research stay wherein I had the time and opportunity to collect data and to interact with other scholars at Vaal Triangle Campus. What was your overall impression about South Africa, in particular North West University (Vaal Triangle Campus)? I think South Africa is a very warm country, both in terms of the weather and the people. Even though everybody told me ‘winter is coming’, to me the weather was brilliant! Also, every South African that I met was extremely friendly to me, I easily made friends and I really enjoyed their company. Vaal Triangle Campus looks like a very quiet campus. Not a lot is happening, but the biggest advantage of this relaxed atmosphere is the beautiful nature. My favorite activity was walking around to the river side, watching the game and just chilling around. What course are you currently studying and what brought you to South Africa in the first place? Apart from the touristic attractions, South Africa seemed like a fascinating country with 11 different language groups and even more cultural groups. I’m studying Social Psychology, so for me, it is very interesting to see how all different groups interact and how the country has evolved from a regime of discrimination towards a true multicultural society. On the ball First and foremost, congratulations on behalf of your country on their qualification for Brazil. Despite not featuring in the past two editions of the World Cup, do you think your Belgium can be the surprise package in Brazil? That is an interesting question. I think other countries consider us as outsiders, they’re a bit afraid of us. In the past, we never got further than semi-finals, but this generation is extraordinary, I hope we perform well and kick out a big favorite such as Portugal or Germany. Soccer is full of surprises, so you never know what will happen… Belgium has been blessed with a golden generation of footballers with most of them plying their trade in the English Premier League, does it put them in a favourable position? Are they legitimate title contenders? Indeed, most Belgian internationals play in the top leagues in the world, they’ve been playing in the Champions League and the Europe Cup, and most importantly, they’re used to the pressure. If all players perform at their best level, we have a great team that will be difficult to beat! Your squad boasts a mixture of star-studded veterans with young prospects such as Vincent Kompany, Daniel van Buyten, Eden Hazard and Kevin Mirralas, many will argue that you guys look good on paper and considering your inexperience in
32 - Student 24/7
competing in major tournaments they might have a point, do you think that could count against you? Well, Van Buyten has played the World Cup 2002, and our coach (Marc Wilmots) was also part of the national team back then. Their experience might play a key role, they can be the guides leading our youngsters (Hazard, Kompany …) to the top of their abilities. As you say, for almost all players, it’s their first big tournament, and they’ll be stressed. Nonetheless, I think they’re ready for it, this is the year where we can harvest! Finally, history has proven in the past that European teams traditionally find it hard to adapt in South America, do you think there might be change of fortune this time around? Belgium is a flat country where the temperatures are very mild in summer. Brazil, on the other hand, has a subtropical climate and some stadiums are located at 1000 meters above sea level… That will definitely be an adaptation for the Red Devils, but as their name states, the Devils can kick ass everywhere! Before we let you go, is there anything you would like to say to NWU (vaal) students? I wish them all the best, they must cherish their beautiful campus, enjoy their student time, work hard and play hard. And after their studies, all of them must visit Belgium, I’ll show them around just like I’ve been taken care of around here. Thanks everyone and take care! My brother, it’s been a pleasure talking to you and all the best going forward. Quick one two’s Apple or Blackberry? Apple Messi or Ronaldo? Hazard is the future Jose Mourinho or Pep Guardiola? Guardiola, for sure! His soccer is much more attractive then José’s… EPL or La liga? EPL, they have 8-10 great teams competing for the title, whereas in Spain, there are only 3 major teams… Coutoirs or Mignolet? Courtois, he’s our number one, he scores 10/10, Mignolet scores 9,5/10.
SPORT
NWU Vaal boasts with international
Sport Ambassador Annette Willemse
NWU Vaal boasts with international sport ambassador The Vaal Triangle Campus of the North-West University (NWU Vaal) boasts with an international sport ambassador. The very talented 19-year old Shanté Bukes, a BCom student and the current world Jetski Women’s Runabout Stock champion, will take up the reigns as the Campus’s first-ever sport ambassador. Shanté burst onto the global sport scene in 2013 when she won the Jet Ski Kings Cup in Pattaya, Thailand. When asked about how she feels about her appointment as sport ambassador, she says that the announcement left her speechless. “For a moment I did not know how to react! It was only after seeing my father wiping away tears of joy that the reality of the announcement took root,”
NWU Vaal hosts first-ever Intervarsity Equestrian Tent pegging Championship Ettienne van Rensburg When you witness a horse and rider working in perfect harmony with each other, you know that the rider understands the relationship with his/ her horse. Through mutual respect and understanding, horse and rider become one. It was just such a sight that had spectators in awe during the first-ever Intervarsity Equestrian Tent pegging Championship which recently took place at the Vaal Triangle Campus of the North-West Univer-
says Shanté. The announcement was made by Sean McCallaghan, the NWU Vaal Sport Manager. According to Shanté she is very excited about her role as ambassador. “I know have even more reason to perform well – be it in the lecture room or on the water. As a Campus ambassador I have to strive to be the best I can possibly be in order to do my Campus justice,” says Shanté while adding that she wants to inspire others through her passion for sport.
At only 19 years of age, Shanté has proven herself against many older and psychically stronger athletes. She is currently taking part in the USA national tour following her winning streak in Parker, Arizona on the Colorado River during the Jettribe Regionals. She boasts with two first places in the PRO Runabout Stock category and another two in the
women’s Runabout Stock category. She made good on her performance by taking part in the first round of the USA National Jet Ski Tournament in Pensacola, Florida. The race was determined in stormy waters, but she managed to take home the spoils. She took first place in the women’s Runabout Stock category and a fifth position in the PRO Runabout Stock category. Shanté will now participate in the second round of the national tour in Panama City, Florida. sity (NWU Vaal). The NWU Vaal played host to this historic event that saw the NorthWest University (NWU) take on the team from the University of the Free State (Kovsies). The NWU walked away with the spoils. The A team from the NWU (Anzel van Graan, Hannelie van Niekerk, Liehana van Niekerk en JJ van Rooyen) stacked-up 827 points while the team from Bloemfontein only managed 794 points. “It has always been my dream to see an event such as this take place and I am happy to say that the students and the supporters thoroughly enjoyed themselves,” says Annas van Graan, organiser and chairperson of the South African Equestrian Tent pegging Association (SAETA). According to Van Graan, this event is set to become an annual event. South Africa is currently the equestrian tent pegging world champions.
Student 24/7 - 33