PDBY
23 May 2022
Year 84 | Issue 5
yourcampusnews.
#Stellenbosch University: Protests against racism and GBV continue
P5
Beyond Fear: A Freedom Fighter launches
P6
Museums in the 21st century
P7
Bhakti yoga club hosts session
P10
SRC responds to student
Photo: Masehle Mailula
P3&4
Sport Spotlight: JUDO Photo: Kyle van der Merwe Photo was submitted to DieMatie
P12
2 | From the Editor
23 May 2022
What’s really going on in residences?
I
think we have all been following the recent and disgusting events that happened in Huis Marais residence at Stellenbosch University. But in case you haven’t, there is a video of a white student entering the room of a black student, and urinating on his belongings. The student has “apologised” (over and has since been suspended from the university. This incident and the multiple other incidents of racism that have made headline news at Stellenbosch University are highlighting a huge problem. However, this is reflective of not only a Stellenbosch issue but of a larger residence and university “culture” problem. What is even more alarming, is how racism, sexism, and discrimination continue to persist in these spaces, and that students often feel that they can’t speak out on these issues because of the potential repercussions. Following this video, a journalist from News24, a previous reporter at Die Matie,
published an article looking back at their coverage of an initiation at Huis Marais in the early 2000s. This initiation alledegly involved first-year students kneeling down, while senior students urinated in front of them. Whether this “tradition” currently occurs or not, we all know students are subjected to. Students often joke around that residences feel like a “cult”, but in situations like this, where disgusting residence practices and traditions persist for accuracy of this statement is really felt. As a day student, I’m not privy to the inner workings of residences and their so called “traditions” but I think we can all agree that the transformation of residences has remained stunted. University management can change the names of residences as many times as they want, but this doesn’t address the root of the problem. PDBY went on our annual camp this past weekend, and one of the discussions that popped up was the impact of residence culture
and traditions, and the divide that this creates among students. Although, moves have been made towards inclusivity, as students we cannot deny that universities and their residences remain spaces where racial, gender and sexual discrimination persists. I hope that this video will shine a light on not only practices occurring within Stellenbosch University, but also on what’s really happening in residences and across campuses in South Africa. Share your thoughts by sending a letter to the editor at editor@pdby.co.za. Until next time - Leah Rees
A special thank you to the 2022 PDBY team for a wonderful camp. It was amazing to see all of you bonding and working together in person once again.
PDBY Media Copy: Nondumiso Mntambo Lee Tankle Lwando Mfundisi Kamogelo Thando Mabe Luka Joubert Zanrie Linstrom Karla van Dyk Layout: Khumbulani Chaima Almaas Aboo Baker Multimedia: Cletus Mulaudi Madeeha Hazarvi Tshepang Rihlampfu Sanele Zulu Sibongile Mthembu Anneke Laaks Sharon Dumba Jaime Lamb Mitchell Tsotso Patterson Rainbird-Webb Aphelele Twala Web: Onele Gabadu Social Media: Damon Modern
Some snapshots from the 2022 PDBY camp
yourcampusnews. PDBYMedia, formerly Perdeby
Advertising Sales
PDBY Media
Print, Digital, and Broadcast Youth Media
www.pdby.co.za Twitter: @PDBYMedia Instagram: @PDBYMedia Facebook: PDBYMedia Tel: (012) 420 6600
Tel: 012 420 6600 Cell: 083 318 9738 carel.willemse@up.ac.za Editorial Editor-in-chief Carel Willemse Editor Leah Rees Digital Manager Leah Rees News Amukelani Makamu Deputy News Mothusi Mokalane Features Kirsten Minnaar Entertainment Ashleigh Pascoe
carel.willemse@up.ac.za @Ed_in_Chief editor@pdby.co.za @pdbymedia digitalmanager@pdby.co.za @pdbymedia news@pdby.co.za @khelanimeigh.rsa news@pdby.co.za @mr_mokalane features@pdby.co.za @kirsten_minnaar entertainment@pdby.co.za @ashleigh.pascoee
Sport sport@pdby.co.za Katherine Weber @isleepalldayandallnight Copy copy@pdby.co.za Ntokozo Xulu @ntokozo__xulu Visuals visuals@pdby.co.za Masehle Mailula @masehle_mailula Multimedia multimedia@pdby.co.za Masehle Mailula @masehle_mailula Layout layout@pdby.co.za Kelly Anne Kong Kam Wa @kelly.anne15 Web webeditor@pdby.co.za Social Media socialmedia@pdby.co.za Marketing marketing@pdby.co.za
Letter policy PDBY appreciates that freedom of speech is an inalienable right enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic South Africa. We encourage our readers to engage in discussion and debate on issues that affect them through letters to the Editor, comments on our website, tweets, or posts on Facebook. We ask our readers to keep the following in mind: 1. PDBY will not edit letters, comments, tweets, or Facebook posts in any way. 2. PDBY will label letters, comments, tweets, or Facebook posts as opinion. These do not represent the views of PDBY in any way. 3. The PDBY editorial must approve letters, comments, tweets, or Facebook posts before they are published. 4. PDBY will not publish letters, comments, tweets, or Facebook posts that are defamatory, or libelous, or that contain offensive content. 5. PDBY reserves the right to practice discretion when publishing letters, comments, tweets, or Facebook posts. 6. PDBY reserves the right to publish any content otherwise. 7. PDBY reserves the right to retract a letter, comment, tweet, or Facebook post after it has been published. 8. PDBY will not accept responsibility for any tweets, or Facebook posts may experience as a result of the letter being published. 9. PDBY will only publish letters between 150 and 200 words. 10. PDBY will not publish letters unless the
Copyright PDBY is printed by Paarlmedia. All rights reserved. Contributions are welcome. All due care will be taken with materials submitted, but PDBY and printers cannot be held responsible for loss or damage. The editor reserves the right to edit, amend or alter in any way deemed necessary. PDBYcannot be responsible for unsolicited material. The opinions expressed in PDBY are not necessarily those of the editors and printers of PDBY.
23 May 2022
News | 3
Rough seas for the 2022 SRC’s First Student Forum
O
n 5 May, the First Quarter Student Forum was held in the Sanlam Auditorium by the SRC, and much like South Africa’s Parliamentary proceedings it was anything but smooth sailing. The First Quarter Student Forum, which was initially supposed to be held on 7 April, was postponed. Due to this postponement an attendee questioned SRC President Thuto Mashile, by asking “What rule […] empowered her to postpone the initial sitting?”. According to the Deputy Secretary of the SRC, Fikile Sibanda, “[The SRC] issued the invite before [they] could secure the venue and it was an error [on their] side and for that [they] apologise”. However, the SRC later outlined that this was not the only reason behind its postponement. Their quarterly report was released late (on 23 April) and if the forum had occurred on 7 April, then students would not have had two weeks to engage with their quarterly report – a period students are entitled to by the Constitution for Student Governance (CSG). This quarterly report should detail “the SRC’s progress in implementing its action plan”. It must be noted that according to section 22 of the CSG, which outlines the responsibilities of the SRC, the SRC are required to develop this Plan of Action (POA), before the start of the 2022 academic year. PDBY only received the SRC’s 2022 draft POA on 20 May and it is still not available to the student body, which calls into question the purpose of holding the student forum. The purpose of the student forum according to the Constitutional Tribunal and Chapter 5 of the CSG is to hold SRC members accountable which is done by comparing the SRC’s yearly plan or POA to the SRC’s quarterly
order is maintained, and members of the forum are recognised if they wish to speak. However, during the forum there were multiple interruptions. One said interruption followed the allegation that themselves”. The SRC responded to this allegation in an interview with PDBY where SRC Secretary Tarik Lalla said that “[he] was sitting next to the member accused and that he did not say anything along those lines”. The Chief Justice said that “[she does] concede that in certain instances that [provisions relating to gross misconduct amongst others] were contravened and within their capacity as the Tribunal they did their best to protect that”. DASO UP member Liam Jacobs also highlighted in an interview with PDBY that the Chief Justice “was more than capable of handling the proceedings but that the issue was the EFFSC UP […] as they show no regard for decorum”. Jacobs also highlighted that measures to deal with the EFFSC UP”. The EFFSC UP said however that “it is a blatant lie that the EFFSC UP disrupted student forum” and that “student issues could not be raised effectively because of the disruption from the SRC members.” However, the SRC maintains that student forum was not disrupted and that they will not mislead students by stating otherwise. The SRC further stated in a document to PDBY that “due to the disruptive behaviour of certain individuals in the crowd” attendees felt unsafe due to “misogynistic and intimidating behaviour”. These actions, according to the SRC, are “being looked into”. Despite these issues, the forum did conclude. The response to student forum Following the student forum, the EFFSC UP
not been released to the student body. Proceedings of the forum The Chief Justice of the Constitutional Tribunal, Tiara Joseph, preceded over the event to ensure that
quarter student forum] made it vividly clear to students that the SRC is incapable and out of touch with the reality of students” and that “the only place [the SRC’s] abilities are seen is when they’re running around the university in golf carts”. The
Photo: Masehle Mailula
statement also reiterated the allegation that a SRC member, used vulgar language. PDBY reached out to the SRC for further comment on this allegation to which they responded with “This is completely untrue. At no point did [...] any SRC Member shout any such profanity to anyone present in the sitting.” The SRC however has since stated that “the forum was largely successful” and “encourages students who were unable to pose questions or rase points of concern to engage outside of the student forum platform”. According to the SRC, they are currently working on planning the Second Quarter Student Forum. One can hope that by this time, the SRC will have released their POA to the student body, so that students can evaluate the SRC’s quarterly report against their plan for the year, to establish true accountability. This is a developing story.
Students can access an interview following the student forum (with the SRC, Constitutional Tribunal, DASO UP and the EFFSC UP) and statements from the SRC and Constitutional Tribunal by scanning the QR code below.
Scan me
4 | News
23 May 2022
A glance into the 2022 First Quarter Student Forum
Photos: Masehle Mailula
Political rivals, contradictions and disruptions? Amukelani Makamu and Leah Rees
F
ollowing, the First Quarter Student Forum PDBY forwarded the questions below and received the following responses from the SRC, DASO UP and the EFFSC UP. At the time of publication PDBY had not received a response from the ANCYL Tukkies branch.
SRC as we know that there are not interests of students at heart and no capacity to champion student cases. We saw this when an SRC members simply told student to go to NSFAS instead of responding how the SRC will affect students who are affected by the N+1 rule.” DASO UP: “In complete honesty no.The forum could have
1. There are allegations that EFFSC-UP has disrupted the student forum, please give comment on that.
was the catalyst for the unrest of the forum for all attendees.”
SRC: “We will not comment on particular societies, nor will the SRC mislead Students in suggesting that Student Forum was
student forum?
nature to be completed in the past 4 years. There were Students who may have not been present in good faith or to genuinely hold the SRC accountable, however that will not deter the SRC nor the UP Student Body from holding the SRC accountable. Let it be completed.” EFFSC UP: “It is a blatant lie that the EFFSC UP disrupted the student forum. The EFFSC UP is always at the side of students and as we’re performing our revolutionary duty of addressing student cases, the meeting degenerated and had to be prematurely adjourned after an [SRC member] insulted all students in the forum that instead of raising issues they must “Go f**k themselves”. The meeting could not proceed because the Chief Justice could not ask the scoundrel to withdraw from proceedings as students wanted.” DASO UP: “Indeed, the EFFSC had no form of decorum throughout the forum. They surely made their mother body mannerisms, resulting in students’ voices being hamstrung.”
forum? SRC: “The answer to this question is multifaceted, in that the Student Forum served its purpose by providing Students with the opportunity to hold their elected leadership accountable. This was misogynistic, and intimidating behaviour of certain members in the sitting. This compromised the safety of many of the Students in the sitting, which will not be tolerated. Additionally, there were many topics that the SRC would like to have seen been brought up, which include Data Allocation and certain Residence issues, and would have liked to have been provided the opportunity to account. Regardless, the platform served its function, as per the CSG.” EFFSC UP: “There was not outcome as student issues could not be raised effectively because of the disruption from the SRC members. The EFFSC UP was not expecting much from the UP
SRC: “The Student Forum is a vital part of Student Life and Student Leadership at UP. We encourage every Student to try their best to be present in upcoming Student Forums. Ultimately, an SRC, or any other Student Structure, represents the views of our Students. In order to bring about the change at the institution we, the Students, want to see, we need to have our opinions voiced and solutions presented. One such platform for this is the Student Forum.” EFFSC UP: disrespect they experienced after we called them to a meeting of which we thought would be fruitful. Secondly to the entire student body, the EFFSC UP is here for you and is fully aware that the SRC has been failing you. The EFFSC UP is in the process of approaching various progressive student structures for partnership and collaboration to commence the process of seeking external funding assistance for all affected students. Victory is certain and students must not lose hope. We’ll meet in the Quarter 2 Student Forum. Take time and read EFFSC UP emails on Election procedure amendments on our Linktree platform.” DASO UP: “DASO UP wants the Rule of Law to be upheld. The EFFSC consistently undermined the Rule of Law which led to the abrupt adjournment of the meeting. As such, the needs, complaints, and queries of students were not given a platform to measures to be put in place to ensure that decorum is upheld and
4. What are your expections of the upcoming student forum SRC: “First and foremost, increased Student presence. More Students from our vast Student Body would contribute to a healthier Student Governance space.” “Secondly, a safer space for all Students to express their opinions and views, as well as concerns. A platform free from are able to express their concerns and views without fear. This is part of a greater push by the SRC to create a space more tolerant and accepting of difference. It also includes giving platform to Students in various spaces which include societies, interest groups
EFFSC UP: “We hope that we won’t be insulted by SRC members but other than that there are no expectations as the 2022 UP SRC since the commencement of their term has demonstrated incapacity to respond to student issues but has exhibited the conduct of being an extension of the racist University of Pretoria management and call centre squad while in which it demonstrated them as intellectually dehydrated/constipated lumpens who are fuelled by the refusal and unwillingness to think independently in responding effectively to the cries of students.” DASO UP: “An agenda made available for all societies to ensure that decorum is kept. A detailed notice of covid precautions to all possible attendees. Lastly, to ensure that the forum commences at the stated time.”
Access interviews live from student forum here
News | 5
23 May 2022
Intervarsity news Stellenbosch University: Racist residence incident and rape shock SU student body Students at SU are calling for the expulsion of Huis Marais student Theuns du Toit after he urinated in the room and on the property of another house resident, referred to as B.N. Stellenboshch’s Die Matie reported on 18 May that the university had acknowledged the “destructive, hurtful and racist incident”, and that an investigation is currently underway. SU media manager, Martin Viljoen, said in a statement that the investigation will result in a decision on du Toit’s status at the university, and that “expulsion [...] [is] not excluded from the possible available options”. Du Toit apologised for what he did at an emergency house meeting on 15 May, but has not commented on the incident further. SU’s SASCO branch held protests on the university campus following the incident. Dr Choice Makhetha, senior director of the Division of Student Affairs, attended the demonstration on 16 May and said the following: “we acknowledge that you are angry. I am angry as well [...]. We all agree the culture needs to change”. B.N’s father, Mkuseli Kaduka, said in a Facebook post that he is “not surprised by the behaviour but [is] disgusted by the slow reaction of those in charge to take the appropriate action against the boy”. The outcome of the investigation into du Toit is expected within the coming days. On 17 May, a SU residence student was accused of sexual assaulting another residence student, and was subsequently arrested. Following the student’s arrest, they were released on bail. SU’s deputy vice-chancellor announced that the alleged perpetrator would be suspended from their residence, while the relevant authorities investigate.
On 20 May, SU management announced that exams will be postponed to 30 May.
GBV artwork The United Nations Association of South Africa women empowerment committee, with Alexia Cawood, featured an interactive artwork at SU to maintain awareness of GBV across South Africa. People participated by adding red marks in tallys to the artwork, with each tally representing survivors of GBV. Cawood said that the artwork that “there are people of all kinds who are affected on the marks they added, saying that they “know more victims of GVB [than] [they] would like to”. Cawood asserted that “these conversations [about GBV] are crucial in our steps to combating GBV”.
University of Cape Town: Vice-chancellor draws tweets On 18 May, a UCT student anonymously posted a rape allegation against a UCT professor on Twitter stating that “[she] reported it to UCT for months and they failed to act/suspend [the] rapist.” Following this post, UCT’s vice-chancellor Prof. Mamokgheti Phakeng responded to the tweet saying “This student has refused help from the university. [The victim] must say what her real agenda is” Following this tweet, the UCT SRC has requested that the Prof. Phakeng retract her tweet as it is a “distasteful sentiment” and according to the UCT SRC secretary general the incident is
an example of victim-blaming and intimidation, which is why UCT is a hotspot for GBV. The tweet has since been removed from Prof. Phakeng’s page, and the allegation of sexual misconduct, according to UCT, is being investigated by SAPS.
UCT, with the Human Evolution Research Institute (HERI) and Iziko Museums of South Africa, are creating a new exhibition entitled Humanity. The permanent exhibition will explore evolution and the origin of humans but “without the colonial paleoanthropological lens”. Professor Rebecca Ackermann, an anthropology lecturer and member of HERI, said that the exhibition aims to “retell the human origin story in a way that dismantles notions of racial difference, superiority/inferiority, and that decentres whiteness. In this way the science can move forward as a more inclusive space, where we hope more and more South Africans feel welcome.”
University of Kwa-Zulu Natal: An inspiring graduate graduate when she graduated with her honours degree in criminology and forensic studies. both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees as a deaf person, and by using South African sign language as part of her academic career. Timeslive shared that Annamallay said “Yes, I am deaf and faced many challenges during my studies, but I studies until now. I can do anything except hear.” Compiled by Kayla Thomas and Leah Rees
Names In Uphill Letters: A photo exhibition by Jacob Mawela Minentle Mndiyata
O
n 7 May, PDBY attended a photo exhibition titled “Names in Uphill Letters” by Jacob Mawela. The exhibition is hosted by the Pretoria Art Museum and features photos of a wide range of topics starting from Mr Ples, a Hominid fossil currently on display at the Ditsong National Museum of Natural history in Pretoria to past and present figures who play roles in politics, music, photography, academia, science and law. Mawela hails from a lineage of educationists on his father’s side and his career has, inter alia, had him being commissioned by the US Consulate General to teach photography in Soweto – in addition to some of his work being featured in the book, A Bigger Picture: A Manual of Photojournalism in Southern Africa, by Margaret Waller. Mawela stated that his main purpose, since his early days in journalism, was always to give African people the opportunity to see themselves. His work is a way of expressing his own message, and views about the events that take place in the world making his work authentic. This authenticity is why his work has been featured in various SABC documentaries, and why he has gotten the chance to work with a number of prominent figures. One thing that was most evident in photographs, was Mawela’s ability to capture every subject at their most vulnerable and authentic state. A great example of this is the picture of South African music legend, Brenda Fassie, getting her hair done. Mawela captured this moment and showed Fassie at her most
Photo: Masehle Mailula
authentic state without the make-up, poses, extravagant clothing - just her on a random day. Towards the end of the exhibition, the media were given the opportunity to ask Jacob Mawela a few questions, and one of the questions PDBY had for him was “How important is it to tell the stories of South Africans through your work?” to which he replied, “Photography is story-telling so with every picture that I take, I intend to tell some story whether it be the story of South Africans or the world.” The next question asked was “How do you know what
to photograph and what not to photograph?”. “With photography you just go with instinct”, replied Mawela. Lastly, Mawela was asked if and how the dynamics of photography have changed over the years, to which he responded “yes they have, from black and white photos to the new digital system that is being used nowadays”. This exhibition could not have been hosted at a better time as May is Africa month where we reflect on the progress we have made as a continent.
Photo: Masehle Mailula
Londiwe Mnguni
O
n 11 May, young entrepreneur, motivational speaker and second-year Information Systems student, Tshepiso Malema was invited by the Merensky Library as a guest speaker. The event was titled ‘Starting Small While Dreaming Big’ where Malema addressed his audience on his path to success as a young gaming entrepreneur, Malema started his talk by explaining the importance of “starting small while dreaming big”. He continued by emphasising the importance of using social media effectively, like he did when he shifted from posting inspirational quotes on Facebook to creating his very own blog, which assisted him in growing his brand. Malema founded Gamers Territory in 2018 which business people such as Emmanuel Bonoko, who believed in his dream from high school and later became his mentor. Gamers Territory, which is based in Ivory Park, currently works on existing games but Malema is interested in creating his own games, hence his choice of study. Malema currently faces multiple challenges such as being needed to foresee his business back in Ivory Park, Thembisa, which affects his studies. However, as the gaming industry is estimated to grow even bigger, he is adamant that this is a good investment. Therefore, Malema stresses the importance of one knowing their “why”, as this is what will prevent them from giving up on their dream. Malema values collaborating with people who share the same passion for entrepreneurship as him, and touched on the importance of building a network with people who align with your brand. His friend and partner, Elias Ngake, is the programme director for Sgelapreneurship, one of the projects started by Malema to bring entrepreneurship to the townships. Ngake described Malema as a multifaceted and compassionate being who acts on his thoughts and not just a dreamer. Gerda Ehlers, who is the coordinator and senior information specialist at the library, said she chose Malema as a speaker because she recognized all the work he has been doing and knew that she had to invite him as a speaker. The event was attended by a number of people both online and in-person and both Malema and Ehlers agreed that the turnout was even better than expected. Attendees included young entrepreneurs who study at UP such as Lebogang Mokgalaka, founder of the NalediStar Foundation, and Anna Sewela, the deputy director of the library. The session was very interactive, and attendees advertised themselves to each other as a form of growing their network.
Watch PDBY’s interview with Malema here
6 | News
Jacana Media and UP hosts book launch: Fighter Londiwe Mnguni and Sharayi Matizamhuka
O
understanding apartheid regime and is an asset to
Jacana Media Beyond Fear:
23 May 2022
Creative corner:
Choose your favourite spot on campus for your graduation shoot
from the book of Ebrahim Ebrahim as a
Leah Rees
A
is an
Image: news24.com
Committed to transformation:
PDBY Why did you choose the library as the site for your graduation photos?
In conversation with Duke Rasebopye Amukelani Makamu
S
peakOUT UP, the CSA&G, and the
report issues that are addressed in the AntiWas the library open to having your graduation shoot take place inside?
PDBY
How was the transition from being a student at UP to being a staff member? Photo: Jaime Lamb
How did you become involved in this type of work? What was your biggest project that you think changed the UP community within the UP?
CSA&G, both as a student and staff member, has If you were to give a student one piece of
What would you say are the major differences between staff and student community?
What type of social issues are addressed by Images: provided
Features | 7
23 May 2022
Humans of UP Everyone has a story
Photo: Jaime Lamb
Museums in the 21st century, ancient or substantial?
“
Tour guides can relay stories and give you the space to perceive the artwork by yourself. They are also skilled in sparking meaningful conversations across a vast span of topics from religion to politics and much more.
Vuyiswa Fumba
E
very year for the last 42 years, 18 May has been marked
observed by thousands of people around the world. With around 37 000 museums participating in the celebrations last year, this is an occasion where museum lovers can convene to celebrate what museums represent. But, what exactly do museums represent, especially when there are perceptions of museums being merely huge, old buildings where historical objects are neatly stored to waste away in the privacy of their glass boxes. Following the fast advancement of technology in recent years, many adjustments were made to keep up with the learn about almost any piece of art work or historical article that you would find in a museum on google. So it can be questioned if there is a point in keeping museums around. Museums collect and preserve artefacts that have had a meaningful impact on the past and continue to impact life as we know it. It is one thing to stare at a picture of the Mapungubwe collection in a history textbook, but it is another thing entirely to look at it from one metre away and understand the depth of history behind it. The preservation of these artefacts not only certifies that certain events occured by providing a reliable, historical record, but it also reminds and teaches future generations about the past - so they can avoid repeating certain horrific faults and be empowered to do better. This is something that has allowed museums to keep their esteem in the wake of modern technology. Visiting museums can also pull us back down to Earth and force us to think about the world in front of us. It is easy to forget that history is not as abstract as we think and that there have been hundreds of generations of people before us who lived full lives, and struggled through many hardships. Visiting museums also facilitates the creation of community connections, which is something material that can be relied on while everything else is being digitised. Museums create unity amongst ordinary people on a local scale. Whether you are discussing the intricacies of an artwork or debating the symbolism of the hollowness of an ancient bronze sculpture, people can be brought together through discourse and storytelling, with museums being the perfect place for it. Instead of diminishing the importance or intrigue of museums, the digital age could potentially enhance the experience for the museum-goer. Curators are presented with an opportunity to optimise tools like augmented reality (AR) as an add-on to normal museums creating a unique blend of technology and heritage. For example, there is only so much wall space for descriptions and labels alongside artefacts so having supplementary information alongside these artefacts can assist in providing all the information necessary for an accurate
representation of events. The possibilities with technology are endless and there have already been a few of these AR museum experiences in South Africa. In 2021, UP Museums became the first South African museum to have curated online collections presented through Google Arts and Culture. According to the UP Museums’ website, “Google’s mission, like UP's, is to make the world’s information more accessible”. Furthermore, an increased knowledge of the contributions of the collections held by UP implores us to go deeper in our exploration and appreciation of South African history. PDBY interviewed UP Museum tourist’s guide Steven Motena regarding the relevance of museums in the digital age: “What are some unique features that museums offer that might never be digitised?” The first is having the guide in the space, while most of the objects may have the description and acknowledge the artist, the person engaging with you on the tour is always a unique experience: able to answer any questions you may have and weave in their personal experiences. Tour guides can relay stories and give you the space to perceive the artwork by yourself. They are also skilled in sparking meaningful conversations across a vast span of topics from religion to politics and much more. “How can students benefit from visiting museums?” The University of Pretoria museums supports several modules and hosts educational opportunities for many students in related degree programmes. When students are not attending in-training at UP museums, it is open for tours. In your free time, it can be refreshing to take a break and be entertained (and educated) by the iconic exhibitions. Throughout the month of May, UP museums have opened their doors to tourists. UP Museums displays an exquisite collection of historical artefacts and artworks accompanied by in depth descriptions and highly skilled and engaging tourist guides. [Students] can expect new exhibitions: Southern Ceramics and the iconic Corobrik Collection. [Students] can book a tour by emailing museums@up.ac.za (please allow up to five working days to schedule and confirm your tour) [or] find UP Museums at the Old Arts Building and the Old Merensky Library. According to the International Council of Museums, “museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among peoples.” Museums represent history, art and community. While information can be put online and pictures can be uploaded at the snap of a finger, the museum experience is unique, beneficial and cannot be digitised ... at least, not yet.
I
was a student at UP from 1990 to 1996. I did my BCom, LLB, then LLM. I left for two years to do my articles and was back here as a lecturer from 1999 in the Department of Jurisprudence. In 2010 I was appointed as the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Law for ten years. And now I am a full Professor in the department. I really enjoy writing about law, and I really enjoy teaching. As Deputy Dean, obviously I did very little teaching, but I could assist students in a different kind of way. Being in that position, you are just able to do things that an ordinary lecturer cannot. I would see law students almost every day, in my ten years as deputy dean, most of them coming in with frowns, some even crying, and most leaving with at least some sort of a smile on their face. This place is very big and not always friendly towards students, so it was nice to be able to have face-to-face, one-on-one conversations with students. To listen to their issues, and to be able to help them devise a plan to get back on track. Most students left a little bit lighter in their hearts after Deputy Dean. I miss that. When I was younger, I really hated high school. I didn’t relate, inward; I didn’t speak at all. I tried to commit suicide in grade 11. It was really grim, really really grim. And that was not a time when mental health was taken seriously. You just had to get on with it. It was just, look, life’s hard, just get on with it. It’s in your head, you’re privileged, you know, you live in a nice house, you sleep warm every night, so what is your problem? experience hasn’t left me, it’s in my bones both good and bad. It made me resilient and self-reliant. If I had been in this wonderfully kind environment, maybe I wouldn’t be so resilient, maybe I would have given up on some things. I have that in me that you don’t give up, you keep at it, and you will get there. To do everything on your own, to see others as a source of pain and disappointment, this is not a good way of living your life. That’s the dark side of what high school did to me. It’s a smaller life, it’s a limited life. There’s people who I can rely on, but I am content in my own company and Hopefully, this touches a nerve somewhere. I hope it tells other students, you’re not alone. From an outward appearance this fellow seems to have made it, full professor, ex Deputy Dean, glowing things that have been written about me, when my term ended something like 300 comments from Law students being sad that I’m no longer in that position…it still touches me. But I struggle as well. From the outside, seemingly successful, all good, but struggling. If people have caused pain in your life, you can either become someone that does that to others, someone who continues with the pain, or you can try and help make other people’s pain smaller. That’s something I really tried to do in those ten years as Deputy Dean, I tried to help. And when I didn’t get a third term as Deputy time for me. Then these two wonderful law students came into my life. Strange. I mean I’m 50 they’re 24, so a 26-year age gap but it was you know that cliché, about people just clicking, just an immediate connection. I’m so very very happy that they came into my life. It was an absolute godsend. Had it not been for them I don’t think I would have been here. My son has also been a great source of joy for me, just to be proud of who he has become. He’s 17 now, a young man, kind, caring, patient, he really cares deeply for his friends. If you have pain in your life, however it was caused, do not repeat that. Break the cycle. Also take lessons from whatever went wrong in your own life and do not repeat that. Be honest with yourself, nonsense. That’s not a way to live. We can all learn from one another, and we can adapt our behaviour. Lawyers like to win the battle, but in building connections in building a better world we can’t be lawyers. We can’t be having discussions to win the argument. We must listen to understand. Build more empathy, kindness, patience with one another because we all struggle, we all have something on our shoulders. - Anton Kok To say “Hello!”: azraa.seedat@gmail.com
8 | Features
23 May 2022
Sexual assault in virtual spaces Banathi Nkehli
A
s virtual reality technology improves and spaces like the Metaverse create a platform for our subjective realities to manifest themselves digitally, it is not only our positive traits that manifest, but also our negative traits. In light of this reality, in a society plagued with the social ill of gender based violence, PDBY investigates where UP’s student body situates itself in understanding sexual assault in virtual spaces. On 4 May, PDBY conducted a poll on Instagram on the subject of sexual assault on virtual platforms.Students agreed that nonconsensual acts like sexual harassment, can be committed on virtual spaces, with 86% of the voting body in consensus with this view. When asked, “are non-consensual acts committed on a virtual body considered to be as severe as those committed on a physical body?” 41% of the students who voted, said yes, while 59% voted, no. To help make sense of this, the individual responses of the students who participated in the poll unpack their thoughts. In agreement with the notion that sexual assault committed on virtual bodies is as severe as those acts committed on real bodies, is Kayla* who argues that, “if it is considered acceptable virtually, then it may become more acceptable in reality”. In
of the current environment concerning women’s bodies in South Africa. Dr Linden, further explains, “It is this attitude that allows the GBV crisis to
Are non-consensual acts committed on a virtual body considered to be as severe as those committed on a physical body?
consensus, Allie* explains, “Absolutely, because it translates into real-life behaviour.” The remarks expressed address the primary concern of acts of sexual violence in the virtual space manifesting themselves in real life. In other words, virtual spaces would serve as a space which normalises these behaviours which could further the risk of those already manifest behaviours in reality worsening. In light of this, the necessity of framing the discussion of sexual harassment in virtual spaces through the dichotomy of real bodies and virtual ones is brought into question. To unpack this public sphere expert Dr Michal-Mare Linden offers her insight, saying, “the question should not be if a virtual body or real body is the same thing, but rather the attitude that motivates ‘role playing’ sexual harassment online”. This rationale, obviously harkening back to the previous statements from the Instagram poll, Dr Linden continues in saying, “I would argue that the same attitude, one that is based on patriarchy and the denigration of women and other marginalised bodies, underlies online harassment in any form as well as public harassment including: rape jokes, cat calling, and even rape”. This would make the 41% - 59% split in the voting concerning
harassment as a joke or at least something that [should] not be taken seriously and called out”. In light of Dr Linden’s comments, this is particularly worrying, as 83% of the students who participated in the survey agreed that sexual harassment in virtual spaces should be actionable in court. Yet, how can this be so when as Dr Linden explains, “[women can be discouraged from seeking legal action] as their experiences are not believed and undermined by those who think they are ‘not serious enough’.” The reality of sexual violence against women’s bodies in South Africa is a harrowing one. As a society that wishes to move toward a paradigm that treats the bodily integrity of victims of GBV with the respect they are owed, one is rendered a pessimist in light of the current perceptions that plague our understanding of virtual
41% of the voting body said yes.
real bodies.
Let’s talk about gaslighting Lauren Harries
It is important to note, according to NBC News, that in situations of gaslighting there is usually some form of power niversity is about building relationships and dynamic. This often involves the manipulator holding a certain making connections with other people. However, amount of power that results in the other person an important skill, that is not often spoken about, being too scared to interfere with the relationship is identifying when you are being gaslit within a dynamic or step away from it. This often results relationship. in the person being manipulated into changing According to Vox, the term gaslighting originally comes their perceptions about things to avoid any from a 1938 play called Gas Light, which was later conflict with their manipulator. adapted into a movie. The play centres around a Despite the drastic effects gaslighting can couple where the husband manipulates have on a person as well as a relationship, many his wife into thinking she is losing people partake in gaslighting without malicious her sense of reality. He does this so intent and are often unaware that they are even that he can get her admitted to a doing so. According to Vox, gaslighting is mental institution and steal her something that is learnt from personal inheritance. relationships and interactions, and According to NBC News, often occurs due to a need to control psychologists now use the term a person or situation and a lack of gaslighting to refer to a “specific type self-awareness. Ultimately, gaslighting is of manipulation where the manipulator a cognitive strategy for both self and cois trying to get someone else (or regulation and, as terrible as it is, it works. a group of people) to question According to Insider these are some of the their own reality, memory, most common phrases used by gaslighters or perceptions”. Although are “I’m sorry you think that I hurt you,” gaslighting often occurs in small “You should have known how I would react,” instances in the beginning, it has “You’re too sensitive,” and “You’re crazy and the daunting potential to snowball other people think so too.” into something even more According to NBC News, there are six things serious. you can do when you feel like you might be NBC News further mentions a victim of gaslighting. Identify the problem, that gaslighting can happen give yourself permission to feel what you in many different types of feel and give yourself permission to make a relationships including personal sacrifice are the first three. These three are very relationships, professional important in a situation of gaslighting where relationships as well as by public you have been manipulated into thinking you rvi a figures. In this light, specific mention z are not allowed to feel the way you do. After Ha eha must be made to persons like Donald e this, start making small decisions, like d a :M Trump, one of the many politicians that ion avoiding power struggle arguments, get a t a r st Illu uses gaslighting to take advantage of their second opinion and ask the person if what supporters. your abuser is saying relates back to you as a Vox goes on further and mentions that person or note. Finally, have compassion for targets of gaslighting are often manipulated into turning against yourself, recognise how you are feeling and that what you are their own cognition, emotions and who they are as people in dealing with is not easy. Ultimately, do what is best for you, even order to conform to their manipulator. if it is not the easy option.
U
Knowing how to identify when you are being gaslit is an extremely important skill and will help many students navigate their old and new relationships. If left unexamined, gaslighting can have devastating long-term effects on both your psychological and physical wellbeing. Almost all of us have experienced gaslighting at some point in our lives. It is so important, as we get older, to be able to identify it and shut it down before it has a psychological impact on our day to day lives.
Infographic: Leah Rees Information sourced from nbcnews.com
Entertainment | 9
23 May 2022
Javett-UP presents: Yakhal’Inkomo art exhibition Minentle Mndiyata
T
he Javett-UP art center is a haven to many, especially the students at UP. It offers in-depth information through interdisciplinary journeys and stories of the arts. On 27 April (Freedom Day) PDBY visited Javett for the exhibition titled “Yakhal’Inkomo”, which can be translated to “Bellowing Bull’’. This collection by Bongi Dhlomo features pieces from other South African artists who were active in the same historical period (1960-1990). The title of the collection was borrowed from a song with the same title by Winston Mankunku Ngozi. This exhibition was curated by Lweendo Hamukoma and Puleng Art Plessie. The aim of this collection is to engage the modern community
collection is “Township” and it consists of art pieces that tell the actual story of people from townships, rather than stereotypical narratives. Many of the pieces represent the absence of the youth in townships due to mass arrests in the apartheid era. Artists like Alf Khumalo captured the daily life of artists in townships, like how they would gather in the streets and just get creative. This exhibition also highlighted how black people used music to communicate during apartheid. For example, there were songs which were played by black people to alert each other of the presence of white police in the townships. This segment also emphasises the patterns of inequality in South Africa through art pieces that display the inequalities between males and females, and the inequalities between white and black people. “Yakhal’Inkomo” also featured work by Lucky Sibiya, who is an artist that made the “THANDA BANTU” piece. This pieces explores aspects of spirituality, such as the artist’s experience of who he is and where he came from, all through his art. Among the various segments of the exhibition, there was a segment which told a story of the displacement of black South Africans through exile and colonisation, titled “Estrangement”. The art pieces in
this segment do not only show how the people who were exiled were affected, but it also emphasises how exiles and colonisation disturbed healthy family relationships, and how the whole estrangement of black people did not only affect people physically, but also mentally. There was one piece which illustrated an exiled king and this brought up the question of “is a king still a king even when he is exiled?”. Of course people had different views, but it all came down to exploring the brutality and Come Back, Africa, which was produced and directed by Lionel the life of a black South African living under the brutal apartheid “Yakhal’Inkomo” collection, and added to the inspiration of the exhibition.
Photos: Cletus Mulaudi and Masehle Mailula
Scan here to watch PDBY interview collector Bongi Dhlomo
23 May 2022
10 | Entertainment
to different poses that help you
Minentle Mndiyata
T
he motto of the day was “… Let us embrace the soul, which is situated at the centre, we are not physical, but we are spiritual beings …”, as the yoga instructor, Gita, would repeat them to emphasize the importance of being aware of not only the things around us but the things that make us who we are. use of yoga and meditation as a method to connect with one’s inner twenty members of the society came through and were eager to learn. As the saying goes, “quiet the mind and the soul will sit in a position that allows the body to be relaxed and then to be aware of their breathing, which was really helpful in blocking the distractions and quietening the mind. Different styles of yoga, such as Hatha yoga and Ashtanga yoga which consist of moving your body slowly and switching
were taught to the members. These yoga styles are known to be very important for relieving stress and tension, they also help with anxiety which is something that most students deal with. After an hour of doing yoga and meditating, the African monk and guru, Bhakti Narashima Swami graced the session with his presence and he went deep into explaining the mantras and how they are important to keep the mind clear during meditation, he also explained the importance of prioritising your spiritual self so that you can also be physically healthy. Photo: Cletus Mulaudi
Picnic paradises Megan Theunissen
I
t is a rare commodity these days to get out and really soak up nature and all its glorious features. Nothing comes close to sitting on a blanket with your friends or that special person, or even by yourself with a book to keep you company, under a big tree, in the shade, with a view of pure nature and a light. So, without further ado, grab a blanket because it is time for a well-deserved picnic. Listed below are PDBY’s top eight places for a picnic outing.
Karla van Dyk
O
n 11 and 12 May, the Inklings society took part in the Shakespeare Festival held at the National Children’s Theatre in Johannesburg. Thespians of all ages, including primary school students, high school students and adults, were invited to perform a piece monologue, duologue, and group scene. The Inklings enacted a comical scene from The Taming of the Shrew at the event and placed second in the adult scene category. The audience particularly enjoyed the humorous scene in which a gentleman named Petruchio welcomes his new bride, Katherine, to his house where he overreacts to the slightest of mishaps and beats his servants repeatedly. Apart from the scene, Chené Ackerman and Joshua Wilensky both winning the category for adult monologues. UP also had representatives Natasha Rammoi as well as Wilensky and Karla van Dyk. The latter pair This annual festival provides everyone with a chance to celebrate and appreciate not only Shakespeare’s work but also the performative arts the Inklings, said that it is “the perfect opportunity to get students out of school to act again and to experience Shakespeare”. When asked about his opinion on the Inklings’ performance, Wilensky said “It’s been such a lovely month or so working with these actors […] and I’ve never been prouder of a group of actors before.”
Magnolia Deli First on the list is Magnolia Deli. Pack some old bread and maybe a packet of peas to throw towards the ducks passing by, just try not to throw at them too hard. Just kidding. Although, feel free to feed some ducks whilst sitting and enjoying your picnic lunch next to the dam. This park is accessible to the public, so try to avoid bringing your valuables along, but other than that, the park promises an experience of relaxation under weeping willow trees. There is also a restaurant at the park, if you would rather enjoy a light lunch whilst still enjoying the view. Located at the Corner of Queen Wilhelmina Drive and University Road, Bailey’s Muckleneuk, be sure to visit one of Pretoria’s most beautiful public parks. Pretoria National Botanical Garden This national botanical garden features a stunning waterfall that is perfect for any picnic experience. Apart from that, the garden also has large green areas under large indigenous trees that provide the perfect amount of shade for your lunch. To access the botanical gardens, one must pay an entrance fee of R30 for students and R45 for adults. This garden could be visited all
Bronkhorstspruit Dam Nature Reserve This reserve boasts a glorious 58.5 million cubic metres of water, making it a legendary place for all things water-sport related. One hire) and much more on this little dam. There is also a restaurant and a swimming pool, but most importantly, one can enjoy a lovely picnic next to the lake with a spectacular view of the reserve’s animals and plant species. There are over 200 species of birds, and what makes the reserve so special is that it is not surrounded by many trees, so the views really are something to behold. What makes it even better is that you can camp there too, so you can enjoy the sunset along with a sundowner without having to Photo: Cletus Mulaudi worry about the closing times. Rates are R35 for adults and R104 per night if you would like to camp. Fountains Valley Located in the Groenkloof Reserve at Corner Christina de Wit and Eeufees Road, you can only hope for the best day when visiting this scenic terrain. The lawns are neat and green, the braai facilities are pristine, just like their pool, and the views are spectacular. This resort falls next to the infamous Apies River, and is in the region of two natural springs, so you can only anticipate the purest form of bliss. The cost is R35 per day for adults.
forefront of your sightseeing. This garden bridges the gap between 50% of South Africa’s indigenous trees, along with many other plant species. The paved trail makes it easy for any keen walker to experience the park in all its glory, and for the price, it seems to be well worth your while. Rooihuiskraal Historical Terrain and Animal Farm This lively terrain encompasses the typical South African scene, farm animals roaming freely for you to pet, historical sites, and, naturally, braai areas for your South African culture to pay homage to its roots: nature. There is also a restaurant if you would prefer instead of your typical picnic. The entrance fee is R35 per person.
Images: provided
hippos and a cheetah have been brought to the reserve. Because of its open grassland landscape, visitors have the unique opportunity to see a lot of animal diversity all at once. Zebras, Elands, Black-backed jackals, and the Blue Crane can all be found on this vast landscape of the Rietvlei Nature Reserve. The day tariff is R64 per adult.
Rietvlei Nature Reserve This reserve has been around as a conservation area since 1929, covers about 4000 hectares, and is coined as one of the world’s largest urban nature reserves. The picnic area is located at the Marais Dam and braai facilities are available for that sizzling ‘shisanyama’.
Groenkloof Nature Reserve Declared as a reserve back in 1895, Groenkloof Nature Reserve is one of the oldest reserves in South Africa. Day tariffs are R45 and there are many activities to enjoy along with your picnic, such as hiking, driving the 4x4 route, birdwatching and horse-riding. If you do feel like having a braai do remember to bring your own wood or charcoal and, just in case, a braai grit. Nkwe Pleasure Resort Nkwe features rock pools and waterfalls, a beautiful canopy of trees, nine lapas and a vast lawn to picnic on. You could even jump from the waterfall cliff into the little pool at the bottom. They also have a kiosk where you could buy wood for your braai, sweets, and ice cream. Day tariffs are R60 per adult, so try to make the most of it by exploring, swimming, and basking in relaxation. There is nothing better than lounging next to a river on a cosy blanket, enjoying all the Pretoria and all that it has to offer.
Entertainment | 11
23 May 2022
Everything Everywhere Merensky All At Once Library wrenching and honest portrayal of a loving yet complicated mother-daughter in the action sequences, since she is
carry their own scenes beautifully, with positive husband Waymond being a stand-out. Daniel Scheinert (known in their collaborations simply as Daniels),
Image: chicagomaroon.com
Rebecca van Besouw
E
verything Everywhere All At Once lives up to its name
that also manages to juggle universal themes of love, generational trauma and the potential that every person has to be their best self. It was possibly the most anticipated independent movie of the year when it was released overseas, with rave
original, using trippy effects to portray the many universes that Evelyn must traverse, as well as unconventional story choices that leave the viewer guessing as to what might come next. It is impossible to predict where the
is a new surprise almost every minute, whether it’s a laughout-loud moment of absurdity or a sudden dramatic shift that emphasises the heavy themes. The term ‘multiverse’ might be used a lot in various Marvel premise to its full potential, and in fact often takes it to the weird extreme. Depending on the scene, it manages to pull off being a silly comedy, a martial arts action thriller, and a science in the universe. Despite its frenetic pace and constant genre-
well-deserved. overwhelmed Chinese-American immigrant who runs a laundromat with her husband and is struggling to come to terms with her life, fearing that she has wasted her potential. But everything changes when she learns of the existence of parallel universes and is pulled into a quest to save the multiverse from a
an anchor to keep the narrative grounded and emotionally engaging throughout. With so many shifts in tone and genre, the directors succeed in an incredible balancing act that marks the breakthrough of some refreshing new voices in cinema. Everything Everywhere All At Once might be brain-meltingly strange, but it will resonate with anyone who has ever wondered where their life would be if they had made a different choice somewhere along the way. It is currently on the circuit at Ster-
Gaming the system Rebecca van Besouw
T
he COVID-19 pandemic saw an unprecedented rise in video gaming as a hobby, largely due to shelter-in-place orders, allowing for more people to invest their time and money into gaming while at home. South Africa is now the largest gaming market in Africa, with 24 million people regularly playing video games. In fact, the
“
South Africa is now the largest gaming market in Africa, with 24 million people regularly playing video games
“
celebrates World Book Day Jan Ndlovu
O
Day. Even though many countries annually celebrate World
encourage interest, participation and draw an adequate audience. World Book Day is celebrated to bring awareness books, publishing, and copyright. The event started at 13:00, and the attendants were already waiting, glancing through the display of literature written by students set in the library’s Book Nook. Students were encouraged to bring along their original written poems
“Every day
all the literature pieces would be added to the library collection. The event was opened by the faculty
is a good day for a Book Day!
Theology, Viveka Pillai, welcoming the students, guests, and library staff. Among the special guests was Dr Idette Noome from the Department of English. Students were given a stage for reciting and expressing their poems in any form they
students to express their feelings and share their views with the audience as a way of entertaining and encouraging discussion. At the end of the event, after the last poet recited her poem, a contented active engagement of the audience and the success of the event.
there is a game to match everyone’s preferences. The versatility of the medium means that it is also a haven for creative talent, with small developers creating popular indie titles (like hugely successful farming simulator Stardew Valley). Several South African development teams have released their video games onto the market, including satirical shooter game Broforce from Cape Town-based Semblance from with talent and creativity (and a lot of coding knowledge), anyone can make a splash in the gaming scene. Another reason for gaming’s meteoric rise in popularity (particularly since 2020) is its social aspect. Applications like Discord that allow for real-time communication while playing video games can be used to strategise with one’s team during a highintensity multiplayer game, or as a hang-out space while playing a relaxing indie game. This caused an explosion in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, where gaming allowed many people to maintain social connections during the national lockdowns. Gaming is also a good way to wind down after a long day on campus. Several UP students who regularly play video
South Africans are gamers
Africa’s most popular forms of entertainment. Some of the most-played games are free-to-play online multiplayer games like League of Legends and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. As smartphone technology becomes more freely available, mobile gaming is also seeing a rise, since most games are free to play and cater to a casual audience. Video games are also released Arcane, a critically acclaimed animated series set in the world of League of Legends that has gained many fans who were previously not familiar with the game. Part of the appeal of gaming as a hobby is its versatility – there are many genres to choose from, in settings ranging from high fantasy to gritty realism. Whether a player is looking for an immersive role-playing game with a deep story, a fast-paced
and relaxing since it allows one to step into a different world with interactive challenges and captivating narratives, and to spend time with friends in an online space. Gone are the days when gaming was seen as a niche hobby. is growing fast. As smartphones, gaming consoles and other technology become more widely available, video games are an increasingly important part of pop culture in South Africa, and a hobby worth exploring for those curious about picking up a controller.
Image: Facebook.com
Sport Sport bites Sport spotlight: JUDO Precious Maphupha
UPlympics hosts indigenous games On 26 April, field events at the UPlympics included indigenous games, namely skipping rope and diketo - an interesting first in UP history. Students began by warming up, skipping ropes, and stretching. While diketo was familiar to some, it was a challenging game for most students, but they were eager to learn. The incorporation of indigenous games served to include all students in the UPlympics, even those who do not possess athletic abilities. Students were required to at least skip a rope or play diketo for three minutes against each other.
T
uksSport offers over 30 sports for students to participate in. This edition’s spotlight sport is judo, one of the exciting yet lesserknown sports that TuksSport has to offer. Judo is the use of quick movements and leverage to overpower your
Gauteng North Judo Association and in turn, this association is linked to Judo South Africa. The club is open to all people; which includes members of the community and even those still in high school, such as Thomas Breytenbach. Breytenbach was only 17 years old when he won a gold medal at the Borsa Open Tournament in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2019 - when was a student at TuksSport High.
Tuks quad wheelchair tennis players bag silver at World Team Cup Tuks tennis player Donald Ramphadi participated at the 2022 BNP Paribas World Team Cup in Portugal, from 2 to 8 May. 44 teams from 22 countries took part in the wheelchair tennis event, with South Africa making the quad finals for the first time in the competition’s history. However, Donald Ramphadi was ultimately defeated by the Netherland’s player Niels Vink with a final score of 2-0.
There have been many other successes at the judo club, and Michaela Whitebooi is one of these. Whitebooi is considered one of South Africa’s best judokas. In 2019 and 2020, she won the African Judo Championships, and in 2021 she represented South Africa at the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. Whitebooi made history here as she was the third South African 17 years. She was also Africa’s only female competitor in the 48 kg women’s judo event. The most recent success for UP’s judo team was at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) event, where the TuksJudo team won the USSA Judo title. The UP judokas also won in the team events category. There were multiple standout performances from the team. Trevor Lang won 19 medals in total: 12 gold medals, four silver and three bronze. Another standout was Dewald Schultz and Katja Lang, who won two gold medals each. Schultz also took home the title of the best promising newcomer, while the title of best female went to Lang. Timothy Meuwzen won three gold medals and was named best male at the event. TuksJudo won 11 more medals at the USSA judo event. Khanya Thamae won a gold medal, Marciano de Oliveira won one gold and two silver medals, and Morne Jacobs won one gold and two bronze medals and was also named the best male newcomer. Shawwal Bagaria won one gold and one silver medal and was also named best female newcomer, while Tegan Malherbe won one gold and one bronze. If you are interested in joining the club or training with the other judokas, including Michaela Whitebooi, their training sessions are on Mondays to Wednesdays at the Hillcrest Sports Campus from 15:30 to 16:30. The judo club also offers self-defence classes which, according to the UP website, are for ages three and older.
Hockey players selected for Spain Four UP-Tuks hockey players have been selected to represent South Africa in the 2022 Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup, held from 1 to 17 July in the Netherlands and Spain. The players include: Edith Molikoe, Hanrie Louw, Jean-Leigh du Toit and Onthatile Zulu.
UP takes gold at USSA Athletics championship The USSA Athletics Championships where hosted by the University of the Western Cape from 5 to 7 May. UP took first place overall at the USSA Championships winning a total of 30 medals – 12 gold, 8 silver and 10 bronze. UP athletes who took gold at the championship include: Benjamin Richardson (100 m), Bradley Olifant (200m), Jovan van Vuuren (long jump), Zeney van der Walt (400m), Chane Swart (800m and 1500m) and Taylon Bieldt (100m-hurdles and 400m-hurdles). The TuksAthletics women’s relay team, consisting of Charne Swart, Simone de Wet, Marlie Viljoen, and Zeney van der Walt, also won gold during the 4*400 relay final.
Images Facebook - TuksJudo Image: up.ac.za
Got sport? W
are ending for this half of the year. Though as soon as the second semester starts, all students can expect the exciting return of res sports. Some leagues will continue such as rugby, hockey, tennis, and squash. Simultaneously new leagues will start like volleyball, cricket, and football. As the plethora of PDBY spoke to the Res sporting HCs to answer the only question remaining: when can we start watching?
Continuing leagues: Sport Rugby Tennis
Starting date July August
Squash Hockey
August August
Men and W
Mondays a
New leagues:
World Championship Chess player, Cora Mak, has qualified for the 2022 FISU World University Championship Mind Sport Chess and Bridge, set to take place in September in Belgium. This follows her participation in the USSA Chess Closed Tournament where she took fourth place with a total of 4.5 points. Compiled by Leah Rees and Jan Ndlovu Image: Cletus Mulaudi
Sport Football
Starting date July
Cricket Volleyball
August August
Gr