UPrising protest photo gallery
pg. 10-11
Perdeby
South Africa plans to leave International Criminal Court
pg. 15
Tuks se amptelike studentekoerant / Official Tuks student newspaper / Kuranta ya baithuti ya semmušo ya Tuks
year77issue19
27October2015
Students march to the Union Buildings on Friday. Photo: Fezekile Msimang
#FeesMustFall: success for students CHAD JOHNSTON AND HUVASAN REDDY
On 26 October students met at the Amphitheatre and decided to occupy several buildings on campus, including the Client Service Centre (CSC). It was announced in the CSC that UPrising had updated the original memorandum, handed to ViceChancellor Prof. Cheryl de la Rey, on Wednesday 21 October, and that they had added more demands to it. After several hours, Prof. De la Rey announced that she would sign off in agreement with the updated memorandum, which led to cheers from students. This comes in light of the peaceful
protests last week that took place on Hatfield campus. UP students joined a mass student march on Friday 23 October to the Union Buildings, which was part of a protest related to the #FeesMustFall campaign which contested the increase of university fees across the country. The march was attended by over 15 000 people from various universities, including the Tshwane University of Technology, the University of the Witwatersrand, the University of Johannesburg and UP. SA president Jacob Zuma was expected to address the protesting students at 12:00 but did not arrive as expected, which caused a small group of students to become agitated and
led to stones, sticks and water bottles being thrown at police and the media stationed behind the boundary fence. Protesters also set tires and portable toilets on fire, leading to a water cannon being deployed to douse the blaze. When the boundary fence was breached, riot police began to disperse the crowd by throwing stun grenades and pepper spraying protesters at the front. The majority of the protesters began to disperse but a small group of students continued to engage with the police. Protesters returned to the grounds of the Union Buildings after it was announced that the president would address the crowd at 15:00. After waiting for the president for over 45
minutes, disgruntled protesters again began throwing stones at the police. Riot police retaliated by using tear gas to disperse the crowd and fired rubber bullets at the protesters, leading to the protesters running into the streets where police followed them and continued firing rubber bullets as some protesters threw rocks at police vehicles. As the majority of protesters dispersed, a few continued to engage with the police and flipped over police vehicles, set police vehicles alight and looted shops. Seven protesters were arrested but have since been released. UP students at the national student march on Friday largely adhered to their peaceful mandate.
FeesMustFall readers’ contributions
pg. 8-9
HATFIELD KAMERS TE HUUR Hatfield Village
Linda info@hatfieldvillage.co.za www.hatfieldvillage.co.za cutting edge student living
0861 MIDCITY www.midcity.co.za
2
Perdeby
Editorial | 27 October 2015
The write side of history
www.perdeby.co.za perdeby@up.ac.za m.perdeby.co.za @perdebynews @PerdebySport @PerdebyE Tel: (012) 420 6600
Editorial Editor-in-chief Carel Willemse
carel.willemse@up.ac.za @Ed_in_Chief
Editor Michal-Maré Linden
perdeby@up.ac.za @MicsLinden
News Chad Johnston
news@perdeby.co.za @ChadChaddalz94
Features Huvasan Reddy
features@perdeby.co.za @HuvasanReddy
Entertainment Elmarie Kruger
entertainment@perdeby.co.za @elmariekr
Sport Carli-Ann Furno
sport@perdeby.co.za @carlifurno
Web Marko Svicevic
webeditor@perdeby.co.za @MarkoSvicevic1
Copy Herman Hoogenboezem
copy@perdeby.co.za @hermaninoff
Layout Nikita Mokgware
layout@perdeby.co.za @nikineo
Visuals Shen Scott
visuals@perdeby.co.za @_ShenScott
Multimedia Mothusi Masibi
webeditor@perdeby.co.za @_mo2c_
Teams Imaging Ashleigh Batchelor * Jacob Swati Kriszti Bottyan * Robyn Phillips Kudzai Nherera * Audrey Nanjala Copy Bianca van Staden * Christelle van Schalkwyk Emma Paulet * Happy Mahlangu Jaco Stroebel * Jessica Nogieć Rorisang Moloi * Shannon Nauschutz Tshepho Mamashela Online Caleb Linden * Jarred van der Westhuizen Maxwell Kamlongera * Michael Smit Peter-John Hamilton * Thabang Letageng Tayisiya Rozova * Bradley Duck Mikaeel Abdulla * Daimon Sewell Jade Walter * Rebecca-Anne Perridge Luke Hope-Sotherton
Advertising Sales Tel: 012 420 6600 Cell: 083 318 9738 carel.willemse@up.ac.za
Copyright Perdeby is printed by Paarlmedia. All rights reserved. Contributions are welcome. All due care will be taken with materials submitted, but Perdeby 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. Perdeby cannot be responsible for unsolicited material. The opinions expressed in Perdeby are not necessarily those of the editors and printers of Perdeby.
This past week has been one of the toughest and most rewarding for Perdeby. Scores of Perdeby journalists and photographers worked almost around the clock documenting, editing, compiling and posting content about the UPrising protests on campus as well as the national student march to the Union Buildings. I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved and I believe that we represented the protests objectively and calmly.
From the editor I’ve been horribly upset by mainstream media this week. I got to meet several of these journalists and I have also kept up to date with what the national media platforms have been publishing about the protest UP students were involved in. The things that I have read have upset me because they are disproportionate to what has actually happened, sensational and, at times, just outright lies. Many people commented on Twitter about the inaccuracy of a post by a prominent media platform that published a photo of security guards “run[ning] for cover as Tuks students protest”. These security guards certainly weren’t fleeing, as there was nothing to flee from. Flee from peaceful students? Surely campus security has more guts than that. All of our team that were on the ground agree that they never saw security running from protesting UP students. Another newspaper chose to tell readers about how UP students “went on a rampage” to the men’s residences and TuksMonate. This isn’t true either. Students were hungry. Those are just two examples of the inaccuracy that was found in our national media this week, and there were many, many more splashed across front pages in bold headlines. It’s no wonder that parents feared for their children’s lives. The media painted a negative picture of what was a responsible, intelligent and peaceful protest. And if that was just for the UP protests, how were the protests across the country warped from their actual reality? If that’s what
mainstream media is actually about, I no longer want to go into journalism. So what was the protest actually like? Well, with this edition we’ve tried to bring the student protesters into the story by means of student contributions. We have an awesome photo essay and, of course, a recap of the events as they unfolded. We want to be the publication that actually shows you “what the media doesn’t show you”. But I can add a few stories quickly. I saw students reprimand a fellow protester for kicking over a dustbin on campus. I saw students pick up their rubbish. I saw students attempt to calm down violent protesters and shout “no violence” until their voices were hoarse. I saw students return to campus at night with their textbooks to study and pass. From a UP side of things, it was, I’ll say it again, responsible, intelligent and peaceful. The media’s responsibility is to the truth, the right side of the story, as we record history. We’ve laid out the facts neutrally and you can decide as a reader what you think of the past week’s events. I hope this also proves to you that we take our job as journalists and a publication seriously and that you can rely on us for news without sensation. This is also our last edition for the year. I hope you have every success with exams and a fantastic December break! Michal
From the Editor-in-Chief The #FeesMustFall movement has certainly managed to unite groups of students on campus and across South Africa. It also pointed a finger at the ANC government and universities, highlighting their shortcomings and raising student issues. Although students achieved the 0% increase in fees along with other demands at Tuks, it seems like this is only the start of a much larger issue nationally, one that has perhaps not been fully thought through. The struggle toward free higher education is a noble one. The idea of obtaining a tertiary education without the constraints of one’s economic disadvantage is truly inspirational. As principled as this idea might seem, it isn’t as simple as it sounds. From my experience over the last week I have learned that the movements advocating for fees to fall and free higher education aren’t open for discussion on the matter. I have, however, only heard demands coming from these leaders with very little to no solutions to the problems we face. Even if tertiary education was free, someone would still have to foot the bill. When the president announced on Friday that there would be no increases for 2016, no one knew where the money would come from to fill the almost R4 billion shortfall universities now face. Students aren’t blind either, and it is clear that the elimination of wasteful expenditure, corruption and mismanagement would very easily contribute to bringing the ideal of free higher education one step closer. The likelihood of a responsible and transparent government is, however, debatable. Our economy isn’t growing either. Finance minister Nhlanhla Nene revised South Africa’s expected economic growth rate for this year down to 1.5%. The National Development Plan (NDP) wants to see this number at 6%. We are far off and to now put even more pressure on government to fund higher education is truly problematic. Government funding for UP (2013 figures from annual financial review) amounts to around 36% of the university’s income, while tuition fees make up only 26%. This doesn’t seem like a lot, but without tuition fees UP would come up short by around R1.2 billion. This is not small change. I don’t think people often realise the costs of running a quality institution such as Tuks. The government should be investigating
possible avenues of redirecting funds, but has instead decided to look into the autonomy of tertiary institutions. Government’s track record on state owned entities isn’t something to get excited about (SABC, SAA, Eskom etc.) and the last place they need to meddle is universities. There is no room for compromise when it comes to the quality of higher education. Instead, government should direct its energy to basic education in order to lay a solid foundation for university students. Students must put pressure on government to ensure this takes place. Another point to think about is space. The limiting factor for most South Africans when it comes to higher education is financial. If this limitation is removed, universities will be swamped with applications (they already are). Universities have limited space and it will be impossible to accommodate the amount of students applying for free tertiary education. How do you decide who gets to study now? How will universities maintain their level of quality education with limited financial resources? But I do not want to sound like a cynic. I would like to help find a solution. I’d love to hear your views in the matter. Please send us a mail. I leave you with three thoughts: A degree is not the be all and end all.
Entrepreneurship is the answer to many of South Africa’s problems. The 2019 national elections are still far away. We cannot wait for government to address our demands. We need to come up with solutions. The youth has shown South Africa that it has a voice and can unite, and this scared the ruling party. The youth need to hold our government accountable because they are sitting with your future in their hands. But whatever issues the youth decide to address needs to be approached in a solution-based manner. I was proud of the Tuks students at the Union Buildings on Friday. They made their voice heard in a peaceful manner. I am also so proud of my team who brought you minuteby-minute coverage of the protest throughout the week. They worked so hard and provided an objective reflection of the events. Not even teargas, stun grenades or rubber bullets deterred them (our Features editor got shot with a rubber bullet and our News editor took a tear gas canister to the face). I truly think all our readers can be proud to have these guys as your campus journalists. Go check out www. perdeby.co.za if you missed any of the action. Carel
27 October 2015 | News
3
5 tech savvy finds for students T 1. Digital pens he popularity and access of smart devices has prompted many learning institutions to embrace new technology, and in many cases adapt to encourage its use. Sitting on your smartphone or laptop during a lecture is no longer a sign of disinterest, but rather of an engaged student. “Smart devices are changing the way students are interacting in the lecture hall and introducing new possibilities in the way students learn,” says Craig McMurray, CEO of Respublica. Recording lectures, typing notes, taking pictures of lecture slides, researching information on YouTube or sharing files through Google Drive during group work is common practice for most students who have integrated technology seamlessly in their education. “We have seen many universities adapt to this by offering free WiFi to students on campus, loading lecture notes to the universities online portals and for some, encouraging ownership of smart devices for certain courses,” says McMurray. “We have mirrored this at all Respublica’s residences, where access to WiFi and computer labs is one of the most important considerations for today’s student.” Being a ‘connected’ student is not only about owning a smart phone or laptop. Here are five innovative developments in technology that can help the tech-savvy student of today.
WIN A SEMESTER’S ACCOMMODATION WITH RESPUBLICA AND Perdeby
Taking notes during a lecture has never been cooler! This gadget lets you physically write your notes and then digitally transfers them to your laptop or tablet, using Bluetooth technology. Your notes are then easy to access, share and edit while keeping them safe and secure in the cloud or on your hard drive. A digital pen is also less intrusive than a laptop or tablet and is often a great alternative.
2. The e-reader An e-reader, designed to store reading material, is portable, has a longer battery life than a tablet and makes it easier to read documents, especially in sunlight. It allows you to store hundreds of online textbooks and articles relevant to your course, in one place, whilst sparing you the back pain of lugging them around.
3. Folding keyboard A portable fold-up keyboard can be hooked up to your smart device for typing on the go. Anyone who’s ever tried to type quickly on a smartphone or tablet will appreciate how much easier it is to use an actual keyboard. Simply fold it up and pop it into a bag to be used for taking notes during lectures or working on projects around campus.
4. Encrypted flash drive An encrypted flash drive is a worthwhile investment for any student who wants to secure the privacy of their precious work as it can only be accessed using a PIN code. This also reduces the chance of your flash drive being stolen, because without the PIN, it’s useless.
5. The tech backpack Whilst doubling as safe storage for your technology as you move around campus, this backpack allows you to charge your devices without using a plug socket. It runs off solar energy panels that selfcharge, making it environmentally friendly, and giving you the peace of mind that you’ll never be left stranded without power for your devices.
Exciting new
Respublica is setting new standards in South Africa as the country’s leading developer, owner and manager of student accommodation. Eastwood Village will be Respublica’s third student residence to open in Pretoria, offering apartment-style living and all the modern amenities that students need, including access to WiFi and an integrated residence life programme to help you ease into your new way of life away from home. At Respublica, we strive to provide an ecosystem for living and learning that is clean, modern and conducive to the academic success of all our students. All Respublica residences typically include canteens, recreation rooms, gyms, computer rooms and study spaces, making sure that there’s space to do anything that students need to, whether it’s socialising, studying, or keeping fit and healthy. One lucky student can stand the chance to win a semester’s accommodation, up to the value of R25 000, at Respublica’s Eastwood Village or Urban Nest residence in 2016. To enter, email the answer to the below question together with your full name, student number and contact details to: perdeby@up.ac.za Question: In what city is Eastwood Village located?
Terms and Conditions apply
career opportunities for professionals
Do you have a 4-year degree in any of the following fields? Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science.
Apply
for the MSc in Business Mathematics and Informatics (BMI) with specialization in Business Analytics / Data Science
"The MSc in BMI with specialisation in Business Analytics is the first of its kind in South Africa. The degree specializes in the exciting new field of data science and big data with the main focus on problem solving in the financial sector. I found the course to be intellectually stimulating and very challenging, but with the excellent assistance provided by the academic staff of the Centre for BMI, I could easily master complex concepts. In the end, the course and lessons learnt, opened up a vast number of new career opportunities and equipped me for the challenges I subsequently faced in the professional working environment. I highly recommend this excellent course to mathematically talented students who are looking for exciting and well-paid new career opportunities." Babette Roberts. Senior Associate, Ernst & Young
B. Eng. (UP) MSc BMI (NWU)
APPLICATIONS
• Closing date: 16 October 2015 • Email: Lise.Hendriks@nwu.ac.za • Telephone: 018 299 4129 • Office: Natural Science building, G03, Floor 3, Office H317
INQUIRIES
• Prof Machiel Kruger • Email: Machiel.Kruger@nwu.ac.za • Telephone: 018 299 2567 • Office: Natural Science building, G03, Floor 3, Office H319
®
POTCHEFSTROOM CAMPUS
4
Editorial | 27 October 2015
Hello!
Editorial 2016
Entertainment Elmarie Kruger
Editor Michal Linden It’s me again Next year I’ll hopefully be an English Masters kid that still enjoys Earl Grey tea and wants to be a panda. I’m looking forward to another year with my wonderful 2016 team!
Copy Herman Hoogenboezem There once was a sub on the job Whose journos caused him to sob He worked late into the night To make everything right And he tried to not call them all knobs
Sport Carli-Ann Furno
Features Huvasan Reddy
If you are a talented athlete, if you wish you were a talented athlete, if you are an adventurer, or if you just like to watch the rugby from your couch over the weekend, hello! My name is Carli-Ann and I have recently been chosen as Sport Editor. Do you know why that excites me? Because I am all of those things that I mentioned. I have talent in some sports, I wish I had talent in other sports, I love adventuring deep into the wilderness, and I often jump on my couch when the rugby gets a bit too intense. I want to share stories of people who pursue the fullness of their talents, and I want to share those stories with you. I’m looking forward to a year of encountering all that sport has to offer, with every high and low.
Hello there UP student, my name is Huvasan Reddy and I’m the incoming Features Editor of this fine publication. First things first: I’m the realest. I’m also a second-year BA Law student, an avid writer and a lover of snacks (I’m not as chubby as I look in the picture). During my term, I’d like to increase the Features readership and deliver fun, enjoyable content while at the same time delving deep into current affairs and letting students know about what they need to know. Also, my mixtape is fire *flame emoji*. Jokes, I don’t rap. I’d like to make special mention of outgoing Features Editor Leanne Cumming, whose guidance and expertise has prepared me for this prestigious position.
Multimedia Mothusi Masibi
When I first started working as Perdeby’s Entertainment Editor in late 2014, I told Michal that the biggest setback about my personality is that I’m too nice. She assured me that this would change in due time, and if you ask my colleagues, they’ll tell you that it has (I happen to know that some of them refer to me as The Terminator behind my back). Aside from that, I’m still Elmarie, I still love pugs and Batman, and even though I feel like I’ve reached most of the goals that past Elmarie set for herself last year, I still want to bring you the best entertainment stories in a wide range of genres. In 2016, let’s discover the entertainment world together, one article at a time.
Eita, I’m Mothusi, a computer science student, PC gamer, graphic designer and, most importantly, the new Multimedia Editor at Perdeby. I’ve got big plans for multimedia content and I can’t wait to push the boundaries of what a student publication is capable of, from videos to podcasts, livestreams to interactive content. My goals are to get in touch with students at Tuks and provide a new avenue through which your opinions are heard, the manner in which events are covered, and producing entertaining content that gets you coming back for more. This is going to be a fun journey as we’ll be trying new things and experimenting with new concepts. I hope you’re as excited as I am.
Web Marko Svicevic
Visuals Shen Scott
Imaging Nikita Mokgware
Hi everyone. Moving into my fourth year at Perdeby and my third year as the Web Editor, I’m glad to say that Perdeby has been able to bring you lots of exciting (and exclusive) online content, particularly in this past year. I trust that 2016 will be an even more exciting year. The Web section, in collaboration with the Multimedia section led by the awesome Mothusi Masibi, will strive to bring you even more information and entertainment at your fingertips, literally. Perdeby is currently working on some pretty cool stuff, including, but not limited to, livestreaming, a Perdeby app, and with some help from a few brilliant people, you might even be able to read Perdeby “Harry Potter style” next year. The magic’s in the mystery, so we can’t divulge too much at this stage, but needless to say, expect big things from us in 2016.
Hi. I’m Shen. Shensational, half-shentaur, and always up to shenanigans. I also live in Shenturion. You’ve probably realised now why I don’t write for Perdeby (wow a full shentence without a pun. Wait. Never mind). I’m the Visuals Editor. I’m a passionate photographer and design hobbyist. I can’t draw or paint or perform in traditional artistic mediums, so I stick to the digital realm. I also beatbox a lot (ask the spit on the shirts of those around me) and love to dance. I’m in my third year of a BSc in genetics, psychology and human physiology. Yes. That’s the degree’s name. Yes. It’s hard. Yes. BSc and photography. I have my camera with me every day and you can often see me around Hatfield campus. If you do see me, come say hi, and if you think the paper is ugly, definitely come say hi.
Hello, my name is Nikita Mokgware, and I’m the Imaging Editor of Perdeby. Now, what exactly is an Imaging Editor? Well, not in charge of the images, that’s for sure (we’ve got Shen for that). No, I’m in charge of the brand personality and visual identity of Perdeby, meaning I help out with the scripting of videos, podcasts, and the layout of the print paper in order to supervise how we are shown to you, the students. This year I want to bring some good old student interaction to the paper so that the students have a say and then see that their say matters and has been given a loudspeaker to be heard. Also, I’d like to step up our multimedia game and lead Perdeby into the future that is digital media and make us a diabolical, multi-faceted student newspaper. Then maybe some world domination on the side. We’ll see.
News Chad Johnston Hello. My name is Chad Johnston. I like long walks to Burger King as well as Netflix and chill. I am a lover of all things artistic and I consider myself a professional liker of things. I have tight rhymes but I’m not a rapper. This year, I plan to create an interactive news section at Perdeby that is accessible to all students and staff. I’d like to build strong relationships with as many student societies as possible, so if you’re looking to push a political agenda, I don’t discriminate. Contact me. You may also call me Chaddalz, Chazzle Dazzle, Princess Sparklebutt, That Bearded Guy, or Chocolate Thundah.
27 October 2015 | Editorial
5
Goodbye from the 2015 editorial
Features Leanne Cumming
Visuals Hendro van der Merwe When I started at Perdeby, I never knew that I would become part of a family. The strangest people all caged up in one office to produce something majestic each week. As a day student, I was told by koshuis kids that I miss out on a lot, but I think that because of this student newspaper I experienced all that student life can offer. Becoming the Visuals Editor was my main goal at Perdeby, and I always thought that as an editor the fun would stop, but it seems that it only started. From a cripple on crutches hopping next to the rugby field trying to cover the Varsity Cup to following my predecessor in being a mentor to others, I think I can call this “Good game, well played”.
As the Features section editor for Perdeby I have developed many skills that I can continue to use as I pursue my career in journalism. I believe that Perdeby will always be the foundation and building blocks of my career. Perdeby has given me the opportunity to grow as a writer and has allowed me to get a feel of how the industry works. Although Perdeby is a much smaller version of the real industry, Perdeby has helped me grow as a person, develop lifelong skills and has deepened my passion and love for the media industry. It is with a heavy heart that I have to say goodbye to the wonderful Perdeby team, a group of hardworking individuals who I have considered, for the past year, my extended family. But sadly I have to say goodbye to my readers as well. Not that I want this piece to turn out like an Oscars evening, but I would like to thank all the Features readers and those who read Perdeby. Thank you to this year’s editorial team for all the laughs and jokes between the stress and deadlines that brought us all together, you are all truly amazing and have been such a pleasure to work with. As all good things must come to an end, I will now be continuing my journey by completing my honours in journalism either at Stellenbosch or Wits. Hold thumbs for me, and all the best with your future.
News Michael Bongani Reinders I have chosen to take the soppy route, so here it is: it is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to Perdeby. I have worked at the paper since 2013 and have been both Sport and News Editor. It has truly been an amazing experience with unforgettable memories. I met the most amazing people and will always cherish my time at Perdeby. I will miss the crazy newsroom banter and the funny stories we encounter on almost a daily basis, but I won’t be too far away next year and foresee myself being chased out of the offices after constantly pitching up seeking the latest gossip. I also want to thank my journalists, fellow editors, Editor and Editor in Chief, all of whom made it worthwhile. I wish Perdeby all the success in the future, and I look forward, as ever, to the weekly shenanigans in Psst…
Multimedia Keegan Schmidt Time flies when you’re having fun, huh? Perdeby has been like a second home to me. I’ve treasured every moment here, both the fun times and the stressful ones, because they have made me a better person and prepared me for what is to come. Being the first Multimedia Editor had its own unique challenges, and I am confident that the section will continue to grow into something amazing. I wish everyone the best of luck in exams, and keep reading Perdeby.
6
News | 27 October 2015
Intervarsity News BUSISIWE BEJE AND SHAMMAH BOTERERE University of Witwatersrand On 14 October the University of the Witwatersrand was brought to a halt due to protests on most of the university’s campuses. Students protested against the proposed tuition fees for 2016. The protest #WitsFeesMustFall, which is currently still protesting, saw the closure of the university’s campuses as university management feared for the safety of both students and lecturers. According to reports, the university had proposed to increase the tuition fees by 10.5%, which sparked a fierce protest from already discontent students. On 20 October the
university postponed exams for medical students and, at the time of going to print, it was a possibility that more exams and classes will be cancelled as the issues have yet to be fully resolved. Rhodes University Rhodes University came to a standstill as a result of the #RhodesMIPmustFall. Rhodes students closed down the campus due to the Minimum Initial Payment of 50% which the university requires from students. Although the protest was peaceful, police officers fired stun grenades at unarmed students. On 22 October, media relations officer Catherine Deiner released a statement, saying, “After assessing the situation on campus, university activities have been suspended for the rest of the week.”
Lillian Ngoyi Square to become a tribute to women RENEILOE BALOI A new monument to women will be erected at Lillian Ngoyi Square in the capital city of South Africa, which will serve as a symbol of hope to women. The monument, which is in remembrance of the group of women who marched to the Union Building on 9 August 1956 in protest of the oppressive pass laws of the day, will stand proudly next to the State Theatre along Lillian Ngoyi Street (formerly known as Van der Walt Street). The site is home to a number of painful memories, as it used to be named Strijdom Square after he apartheid era prime minister JG Strijdom. According to the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure,
the monument will include a multipurpose centre that will cater for informal and formal training of women, market access for local crafts, and will provide information to younger generations about women’s struggle for emancipation. The overall aim is for it to serve as a training centre where women can be trained in both political and social issues. This is to make the square an iconic location where women from all generations can come together to share and explore ideas to empower themselves. It is also to preserve the heritage and values that could be passed down from one generation to the next. Tshwane executive mayor Kgosientso Ramokgopa has declared his loyalty and affinity to the preservation of cultural heritage and
national identity “to ensure that our stories never vanish from the face of history”. Ramokgopa said this [Lilian Ngoyi Square] is an important symbol in South Africa’s history. “We take pride as the seat of a democratic South Africa to have a landmark that promotes women empowerment and promotes the values off gender equality,” he said. Although it has been under construction for two years. If all goes well, the capital will have a monument worthy of women by next year. The monument is seen as a tribute to mark the 60th anniversary of the march and of how far South Africa’s women have brought the nation.
TRICK OR TREAT
Photo: Shen Scott
✓ Fully furnished comfortable rooms ✓ DSTV ✓ Uncapped ADSL internet access ✓ Cleaning services ✓ Peaceful beautiful setting ✓ Secure Parking ✓ Across from Casbah ✓ Price: R3750/ month
Contact: Janine Asti 083 652 1242 j9asti@gmail.com ADDRESS: #1 Wilkenson Str Kilnerpark
27 October 2015 | News
7
UP students launch student focused company NTOMBIKAYISE MKANDHLA On the evening of 15 October, two second-year accounting students, Thabiso Manamela and Kesaobaka Molefe, launched their brainchild At Lets Meet. The formal event held at the Musaion on the Hatfield campus was largely attended by students. Key players from the corporate industry were invited and included representatives from SizweNtsalubaGobodo, Deloitte, Nedbank, Tiger Brands and Moneytree Group. Dr Terence Nombembe, the CEO of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), keynote speaker Tsepiso Makhubedu and motivational speaker Sanele Zulu, were also present.
At Lets Meet is a marketing company that seeks to create a platform for companies to regularly advertise and meet with students in order for students to gain a better understanding of the options available to them in order to enable students to make sound decisions in their job applications. Manamela, who also serves as the CEO at At Lets Meet, said the company was the result of realising a disconnect between students and companies. “We will be marketing [companies] regularly throughout the year,” he said, as a means to encourage constant interaction between students and their potential future employers. Under the theme “CEO Material: empowering prospective CEOs”, Katleho Mogase, the MC, launched
the event. The evening kicked off with saxophonist Thami Mahlangu, captivating the audience with a medley of songs. Afterward, Dr Nombembe addressed the audience. He praised the company and called it a great innovation, saying, “It is thinking way outside of the box.” Furthermore, he viewed the company as a meaningful means of accessing people who need to make accountancy a career. “Let’s keep talking, let’s keep engaging,” he said, before ending his speech Makhubedu, who is also a renowned entrepreneur, took to the stage after. Her inspirational speech was centred on the basis of one positioning themselves accordingly in all aspects of life to achieve greatness. “Get ambitious, stop striving to just fill a vacancy,” she stressed.
Afterwards Tokologo Phetla, representing Moneytree Group, spoke. He highlighted the importance of having vision and to be grounded when it comes to entrepreneurship. He also stressed that a common downfall for young entrepreneurs is when choosing perception over value. “As you look the part, you become the part and become self-glorified. However, time separates the fakes from the real people,” he said. He urged the students to rather focus on working on their ideas and themselves before approaching corporate firms for support. The fourth speaker of the evening was Vincent Motholo, a representative from SizweNtsalubaGobodo. He gave a short speech about how SizweNtsalubaGobodo believes in
the future of South Africa and urged students to complete their studies and earn their degrees The last of the invited guests to take to the stage was Sanele Zulu, who is not only a motivational speaker but also an established entrepreneur. Although his approach was humorous, he gave a moving speech on planning, preparation and persevering in life. Finally, Manamela and Molefe gave a brief history of themselves, shed light on their plans for their company and gave a vote of thanks to the invited guests. After a short introduction of the rest of the At Lets Meet team, the event ended. The students then had the opportunity to network with the invited guests and among themselves.
Perdeby 829 Codonia Avenue, WAVERLEY (Pretoria) (012) 332 1770
Contact Louis Pretorius for the drafting of your ante-nuptial contract or life partner agreement We also specialize in property transfers, notarial authentification and legal verification of documents, drafting of wills and the administration of deceased estates.
We do not ask for our clients’ trust – we earn it
www.ltpretorius.co.za
Woonstel te huur Duncan Court
Nuwe woonstel naby LC de Villiers in Parkstraat R5700 pm + dep, Jan / Feb 2016
Kontak Hermann 082 561 1299
Like us on Facebook
8
Features | 27 October 2015
Fees Must Fall: reader contributions The last couple of days saw one of the largest and most focused student protests in years taking place on campuses and cities across South Africa, including in Pretoria and on the Hatfield campus of the University of Pretoria. Under the banner of #FeesMustFall nationally and #UPrising locally, students embarked on protest action that highlighted the rise of tertiary fees in the higher education sector over the past few years, including substantial increases for registration and upfront payment costs for 2016. Supported by workers and teaching staff at all campuses, the students can already claim to have achieved important victories from individual institutions and government. At the University of Pretoria, a group of academic staff stood in solidarity with our students as they were peacefully protesting. We all have postgraduate students who were not able to return to UP this year because of the increases that UP affected. We all know of students who are not able to eat three meals a day and who spend their allowances on fees and transport rather than food. We all have had to assist students distressed over finances when they should be studying for tests. We all can emphasise with parents who make sacrifices so that their children can study at university. We all know of students who are working part-time and full-time so they can pay for their university studies. Many of us know what it is like to be saddled with debt and are familiar with the stress it produces. We know how disappointing it can be for young people who qualify for a place at UP but are unable to take it up due to financial reasons. We know about those students who struggle bitterly to make ends meet when NSFAS funding or other scholarship funding comes through late. In a country with staggering levels of inequalities such as ours, the commodification of higher learning coupled with the rising cost of living exacerbates rather than reduces inequality. The current trajectory at our university of increasing fees and the accelerating high cost of living is not viable and deeply unjust. We realise this is not only a UP management issue, as subsidies from the state have declined over the years. We also know that higher fees is just one consequence of the commodification of learning. It affects not only students but administrative, support and teaching staff as well. For these reasons we decided to stand in solidarity with our UP students in the same way that academics and workers at other tertiary institutions were showing solidarity with their students. On Wednesday 21 October 2015 we observed students gathering on campus. We were witness to the two addresses the Vice-Chancellor and Principal gave to the students – one at the Administration building and the other at the Amphitheatre. We witnessed students exiting campus and marching around Hatfield and Brooklyn. We witnessed students returning to campus and having a night vigil. On Thursday 22 October 2015 we observed students meeting at the Amphitheatre and then marching around Hatfield before returning for more singing, eating, deliberations and studying. As a group we made a statement to the media about inaccurate reporting by the Pretoria News about the events that unfolded on 21 October 2015. On Friday 23 October 2015 we observed students meeting on Hatfield campus before they joined the march to the Union Buildings. We stood next to our students as they sang, chanted and tried to stop and evade the violent actions of a few protesters and excessive police retaliation. We must congratulate the UP
students. They demonstrated remarkable discipline. Their leaders showed courage and determination, yet with self-restraint. During a few isolated incidents on public roads where a dustbin was overturned and when motorists in Hatfield were refused entry to some access roads, students disciplined each other. Throughout the protests UP students remained calm and steadfast in their determination to protest and pass. Since Wednesday, students have been in discussion about forming study groups even while gathered on campus. We must commend the UP security personnel and the Brooklyn SAPS officers for the professional manner in which they acted over the last couple of days. The security personnel never aggravated the situations on campus and played an important role in directing the protests both at the library and the Administration building. UP security personnel remained open to talking to students and staff who were present and in solidarity with the students. UP security personnel should also be commended for not calling the SAPS onto the Hatfield campus. The SAPS officers who assisted with the march and redirected traffic did this in a professional manner that did not aggravate the situation. We must salute UP staff members and students as well as residents from all over Pretoria who dropped off food, water, toilet paper, airtime and other materials in support of the students. The issues raised by students at our University and elsewhere in South Africa are complex and will not be solved in one day. Moreover, these are not only student issues. They affect us all in our effort to deepen access to quality higher education. Regards Detlev Krige, Andries Bezuidenhout, Ann Skelton, Carina du Toit, Christi van der Westhuizen, Danie Brand, Edna Peres, Gairoonisa Paleker, Irma du Plessis, Isolde de Villiers, Jimmy Pieterse, Johann Meylahn, Karin van Marle, Malehoko Tshoaedi, Sepetla Molapo, Stephan de Beer, Tshepo Madlingozi, Vuyani Vellem, and Wayne Renkin I’ll start off by saying that this was my first protest. I thought we were just protesting against the fee increase, but I realised that we were fighting for so much more. I was filled with hope to see everyone, regardless of their race, standing together. I admit a few students were blinded by frustration. The majority of us just wanted solutions, not violence. We tried to stop the violent protesters. A group of UP students gathered in song. Students were filling up their water bottles alongside the police, having friendly conversations. I can’t remember exactly when things got out of hand. We got the news that the 0% increase was confirmed. We celebrated and suddenly it turned bad. Some people weren’t satisfied, I guess. The police started pushing us out. People were running as we were engulfed in tear gas, scared off by flash-bangs and shot at by rubber bullets. Everything was in chaos. The amazing thing is that students were still helping each other to get out. I saw a girl that fell down and couldn’t get up. A couple of students bent over her to protect her. This protest was a huge eye opener for all of us. Even though things turned sour we stood together and stayed peaceful. I think that we know that this is not over. We have won this battle but we are yet to win the war. United we will transform this county into a corruption-, oppressionand exploitation free country. Gwendoline Hofmeyr, first-year BA General
The last week has been one of the most transformative that UP has ever seen. For a while fees have been a contentious issue and a further hike would have inevitably lead to the academic exclusion of even more hardworking students, as well as highly capable matric learners, as a result of economic incapacity. The students that fought for the inclusion of fellow students, regardless of their economic situation, inevitably fought for the future of our country. The promise of a 0% fee increase was a small victory for us, as there is a lot of change that will need to succeed this initial triumph, but for the first time in our history, the country’s youth regardless of race or socio-economic circumstances - stood together to fight the transgressions of the government against our generation and this made me enormously proud to be a part of Generation Y. As proud as I was of our victory, I was highly disappointed in the violence that ensued at what was supposed to be peaceful demonstrations. What undoubtedly disappointed me more, though, was the amount of privileged students that claimed to support the cause but used the possibility of violence as an excuse to criticise the protests, as well as the students who felt inconvenienced by the fight for a better future for their children. We made history but let us not be short sighted, and join in finding sustainable solutions so that our children don’t need to fight the same battles that we were forced to.
Conclusion: 0% increase. However, here is my 2 cents as a youth of 2015. After so many injuries, energy and emotions, we get a 0% increase. Thank you. But it doesn’t change how I feel about the government or how the youth feels about them. I’m so bitter and heartbroken! The government has hurt so many parents today. None of them knew that they would do to their kids what apartheid did to them. The group of 1976 didn’t try to listen to us, we had to do it like they did it – we had to feel how they felt and be treated how they were treated back then. The youth of 2015’s biggest questions are: who has our backs in parliament? Who is our ride or die? Who is the enemy, here and now? But what this taught all of us, young and old is this: There is a future for us. This nation can be a rainbow nation (because it isn’t right now). It assured us that the government is faulty and that change is needed – even if it means starting a youth party of 2015. However, changes need to be made in South Africa. As a nation, we were strong (the EFF guy next to the ANC guy, the “the white shield” protecting the protesters, the black guy on top of the white guy trying to protect him, the Muslim students being present while Christian students prayed, the list goes on), but when we are in our different groups (religious group, fat group, skinny group, black and white group, etc.) we are weak. #Youth2015 was the rainbow nation. That is what Madiba dreamed about! And he will be proud! #FeesHaveFallen #FeesMustFall. Now what happens in five years’ time when they want to increase? (To be continued in 2020.)
Lezanne Jacobs, third-year education
Lerato Dhladhla
The 0% increase represents the power of a unified student body. The magnitude of diversification across political affiliation, race and class is something our country has never seen. It reignites my hope and to play a small role in the week’s events gave me immense pride. As well as some important lessons on demonstrating, especially the importance of sunscreen (you’re fighting the struggle, not the sun). I am disappointed in the learners who spent their ‘long weekend’ complaining about their one week of inconvenience. Apparently sacrificing a week of academics was not worth a lifetime of opportunities, for thousands of others, to escape the dirty cyclical nature of poverty. It was not only selfish but short sighted. Yes, the Rand weakened this week and perhaps you could blame the added pressure of a 0% increase on the fiscus. However, we can’t forget that education is an investment: by increasing access to tertiary education, we improve our Gini coefficient, develop leaders with greater competencies and stimulate economic growth, thus leading to a more productive and transformed economy with greater confidence. I’m equally disappointed in the students who chose to use violence and taint this amazing movement. I hope that we as a student body never forget the power this demonstration has awakened, and most importantly, fully recognise the responsibility it has given us. After attaining our 0%, our next battle will be ensuring the sustainability of affordable tertiary education in South Africa. Chris Slack, third-year BCom Accounting
27 October 2015 | Features
9
To my mother.
If ever you find yourself faced with the dilemma of me not graduating, I need you to understand why. When I first came to Tuks, I met a young lady, Mbali*, and as per natural, we were all excited about varsity, res and res activities. But I looked closer at Mbali and I became acquainted with her. I realised that Mbali had no bedding in res, she was sleeping with hospital sheets and a makeshift of a duvet and so was her roommate. I sat down with her and asked her where she came from and her life story, here it is: Mbali is 1 of 4 children from a small village in Mpumalanga. Her father left them very early on and her mother has had to scrape through life with 4 children. Her two older siblings are on NSFAS & so is she. However, NSFAS had not paid out in time (never does) and Mbali was left stranded for almost a month without a textbooks and without bedding. Every time I saw her, my heart just sank. Not only did I feel sorry for her, but I felt sorry for me, because although I had bedding, a fridge, microwave and all other necessities. Fees were still a big problem at home. I eventually convinced my mother to buy Mbali and her roommate bedding, but that was just the cherry of their hardships. Today Mbali has turned to “sugar daddies” to survive and live somewhat a decent life. Mama, I can’t and will not allow other children to come into this system and experience what Mbali had to because not only is Mbali putting her life at risk, she could contract STDs or be subjected to abuse of any sort by these men that basically pay for her sex. Your brother, Ma, my uncle died for an inclusive and non-discriminatory society. So many more freedom fighters laid down their lives to ensure that what was happening in the apartheid era doesn’t happen now. Yet today the students of South Africa have shown me that not much has changed since 1976 and 2015. Discrimination has been structured and moulded in a way that shuts out the majority, the working class, the black. You fought this fight. You’ve been incarcerated for this very purpose freedom. I too am fighting this battle. Not because it’s a fashion or we are bored, but because YOU deserve better, I deserve better, and my children deserve better, way better. So Ma, I will not bring a child into this world until I see the change she deserves, because you did the same for me. Sincerely Your daughter, Noluthando Maseko
My mum said: “Don’t go” I said: “I’ll fight this struggle” It was never about wanting to be rebellious. Day after day we hear our parents complain about having to save up so much money for tuition. Suddenly one ‘blade’ wants to increase their pressure? He wants to suppress us? Steal my education rights? ON MY WATCH?! NO!!! #FeesMustFall. I took to the streets, learnt new songs, stood in solidarity with fellow students fighting for the cause. We have conquered – Come out victorious. History has been made #FeesHaveFallen #WeHadTheLastLaugh Natasha Chirwa, final-year BSc Mathematical Statistics
Students have shown strength, resilience, confidence, and the ability to mobilise themselves. They are the sources of change and, possibly, the catalysts to a revolution. Despite a strong handed SAPS, media bias and time constraints, we as students have taken the first step to free education. We stood alongside people we had never met, yet the feeling was as if we had known each other forever. Black and white alike, Ubuntu was and is within us. Our generation has been called “born free”, but in Mcebo Dlamini’s words, “Born free into what? When we are born, we are not born equal. A child of the suburb is not equal to a child from the township.” This is the unfortunate truth, and until we can have free education, it will not change. Zero percent increase is merely the beginning. We did not protest for #FeesMustRemainTheSame, we protested for #FeesMustFall. We must keep applying pressure on the government until they make it economically viable to allow for free education. If not for everyone, at least for those who cannot afford it. It must be done in such a way that we do not allow maverick groups to violently interfere with our cause. Our generation is united. We have power. We demand our future and the future of those to come. Amandla! Awethu!
Naqeeb Emeran The TUT Soshanguve students arrived at Pretoria CBD and started vandalising flats and cars. There was no violent commotion when we arrived at the Union Buildings and all the students seemed to be quite peaceful. Then my fellow TUT protestors started to burn toilets and they also started vandalising the fence that was separating us from the stage. Unfortunately a small group of UP students nearby started singing a song, “No violence” they sang with their hands crossed. Unfortunately they were singing next to the big fire, most of them were white and the TUT students started to provoke them. Then the TUT Soshanguve students grabbed a young white guy saying, “re mo lahlela mollong!” meaning “we are throwing him into the fire!” Then I realised that the white guy is not the Minister of Education, and he is not the president of the country so I decided to attempt to save him. So I devised a plan to save him. I stood in front of the mob singing while facing the young man as if I was spurring on the mob to kill him. I looked at the young man and he was scared and asking for forgiveness. I realised that the Soshanguve students were determined to kill him and I wanted to help him. As the students threw him toward the fire, I broke his fall by tripping his legs with a stick. This prevented him from falling into the fire, the TUT students didn’t realise I was actually helping him. I then distracted the TUT students from the young man by showing them a camera from a journalist that was facing us. They became very angry and approached the journalist, then they took the journalist’s bag and camera, and threw it into the fire. I saw the young man again about 5 minutes later and he said, “You saved my life, now I’m free because of you”. He wanted to take a photo with me but I refused because I did not want to get into trouble for what the TUT students had done. He then gave me R50 as a reward for helping him. This incident made me realise that racism between black and white students is still a big issue in this country. The other reason I tried to save him is because one of my family friends is also a senior UP student, and it would have hurt him to hear about a fellow student being killed. That’s why I risked my life to save him. As told by Sam, a TUT student
Some students showing their support by praying in front of the Union Buildings. many stopped what they were doing and watched those showing their faith. Caption and photo: Wade Hoffman
Today I marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria from our university in solidarity with many other students. Our main goal is to be acknowledged and have our voices heard. We expect to be addressed by the president of South Africa. We arrive, we all dance and sing and start to sit down after the long walk. Not long after that, a group of individuals armed with sticks and water bottles charge at us and shouting for us to “Move!” We comply. I am so mad that we have spent days protesting peacefully and in one second, that is all diminished. I am scared. I hear screams and shouts and panicked voices. After finding some neutral ground amongst familiar ‘Tuks’ and ‘UPrising’ t-shirts, we await our president. Two fires break out in the distance, chaos. There is shouting. We watch in absolute horror as sticks and bottles are thrown towards the police and podium. A riot van, in an attempt to extinguish the fire, rams through as people jump on it with sticks. Panic, running and screaming. Bangs, smoke, people grouping together. I hide behind a bakkie while the stun grenades go off, and when that vehicle moves along we cling to a tree. I cry because I am scared. There are too many people. There is no sure way out. Our president isn’t coming, and the bricks are going higher. We hear rumours that the fence has been breached. We hear shouting and watch on as these individuals provoke the police, gesturing for them to throw more grenades. We watch as teargas is deployed and watch as people choke, some going back and throwing rocks. The people around me wet their bandanas. I don’t have one, and I am scared. They put t-shirts around their necks preparing for the possibility of teargas. Calm. We need to calm down and this will all get better. Where is the president? He just needs to neutralize the situation, show them that he is listening. We wait. The bangs continue, and then suddenly the running doesn’t just stop it continues and then we cannot breathe and our noses burn. People are sneezing and coughing and choking and covering their faces. Raechel Kleber
I’ve lived in Pretoria for 14 years now and since I can remember I’ve always wanted to visit the Union Buildings. I would imagine picnics with my significant other in the gardens, taking pictures in a beautiful dress before some fancy function, or most recently just acting like I’m hi5-ing Tata Madiba. But neither of those were my first time experience. The first time I visited the Union Buildings was during a national march against systematic exclusion of peoples by institutions of higher education. I march 10km to and from with thousands of students with one common goal, a 0% fee increases for 2016. The struggle songs we were singing are still ringing in my ears and when I close my eyes I can still see the crowed pulsating with dancing students. Although I didn’t quite know the words and my feet were more off beat than on, I will never forget that feeling of solidarity, of being part of something greater than one’s self. I got tear gassed twice, nearly missed being trampled by a stampede multiple time, heard the deafening sounds of stun grenades so many times I lost count, and witnessed how a group of students tore down a fence with their bare hands. I stood in the blazing sun waiting for our president to address us in person (which never happened) for so long my skin turned an angry shade of red. My first time experience at the Union Buildings wasn’t “romantic” or “fun”, my first time experience was history in the making! And if ask me, that’s not too shabby at all! Shannon Wathen, third-year BA LAw
On Wednesday, 21 October, I stayed at home and watched the news all day. That night I asked my mother if I could join the protest with my fellow students and, being a single mother, she said yes! I protested for 2 out of the 3 days but the last day was the best! Regardless of all the stun grenades, teargas and the water truck, our UP students stood proud and tall! For my first protest ever I must say it was an experience of a lifetime! I’ve never made so many new friends, so fast in my life. I was dispensing water with my fellow students to my fellow students. I enjoyed every minute of it. I am proud to be part of the University of Pretoria and I am honoured to be part of the unified society of UP students. I was never judged or ridiculed for my race, class or creed. UP, I am honoured and so proud to be part of such a united group of students. Taylynne van der Klashorst
I saw a fire, a flame... and it burned into ash. But that fire meant something else to me, it symbolised the violence that has been done, the fire of hate - the wrongs that have been committed that perpetuate themselves. I ask myself, “When will you be reborn dear people?” As those flames feast upon the peace that we once so desired, it’s these ashes that remain, let only God take up and make beauty of such brokenness. Have I not seen white protect black, have I not seen Christian help Muslim? Have I not seen such extraordinary beauty of unity birthed from such agony? Shaun Nortje, third-year Psychology
Our feet and legs hurt Our bodies full of dust Our nose and eyes still burn from tear gas But our minds are strong And our hearts are proud 23 October 2015 The youth of South Africa made history This is only the beginning Great things are to come Amandla Zindy Whittal, second-year LLB
Taking part in the protest was both scary and exciting at the same time. The protests we had at the university were far different from the one we encountered at the Union Buildings. The #FeesMustFall campaign was just the beginning of something bigger, reflecting underlying issues that the youth are not happy about. Even res fees are ridiculous. The system itself needs a complete transformation. It felt good to be a part of something bigger than I could ever imagine, something that didn’t just affect me but thousands of students and parents across South Africa. One can only hope that the government realises that we are not interested in paying for its irresponsible behaviour of mismanaging funds. I plan to vote for a government (still to come) that lives among the youth, knows and understands the challenges that we are facing as the youth and citizens of South Africa, and not a government that thinks it knows best by simply existing as a superior. Wits students represent a stunning example of what good leadership and unity can achieve. I hope we can all learn from them. Anonymous, first-year BA Law
10
Photo essay - #FeesMustFall protests | 27 October 2015
27 October 2015 | Photo essay - #FeesMustFall protests
Photos: Shen Scott, Charlotte Bastiaanse, Andrea Rossler, Ciske van den Heever, Fezekile Msimang, Kay O’Brien, and Carel Willemse
11
12
News | 27 October 2015
UP branded merchandise returns JODY DAVISON
Students dance and sing to keep up moral in the amphitheatre. Photo: Carel Willemse
Students join hands in unity. Photo: Carel Willemse
Perdeby
As of 2016, there will be a new company supplying UP-branded clothing. Anna-Retha Bouwer, acting senior media relations officer, informed Perdeby that they are expecting to be operational as of January 2016. Bouwer is yet to confirm the name of the company that won the tender. Currently there is still a lot that has to be confirmed since the company is still in the planning process. Regarding the tender, Bouwer commented that,“[the] due process was followed through a publicly advertised tender process for the appointment of a new UP-branded clothing store operator.” In the advert, the Department of Facilities Management said that, “initially the operation will be based at the Hatfield Campus, but there will be an opportunity to expand to the other UP campuses.” It was also mentioned in the advert that bulk branded clothing, residence retail branded clothing and corporate items are the categories of items that UP wants supplied. However, when asked more about the particulars concerning what kind of merchandise would be sold and at what price, Bouwer could not elaborate. She said that “the new operator is still busy with research into the requirements of the clientele, therefore it is not possible to give details at this stage regarding the merchandise or the pricing thereof.” When asked about the reason for Wannabee (the previous clothing supplier) closing down, Bouwer explained that it was “because the business model was unsuccessful”.
27 October 2015 | Features
13
A case of the graduate blues JARED DE CANHA For those students nearing the end of their undergraduate degrees, the realisation that you will soon be a senior may be a hard pill to swallow. While there are those who cannot wait to join the working force and begin climbing the corporate ladder, there are a large number of students who are currently experiencing a flurry of emotions, more commonly referred to as the three Ds: dread, denial and disbelief. Senior Denial Syndrome (SDS), otherwise known as “graduate blues”, is typically experienced by senior students who are completing their undergraduate degrees, but this applies to postgraduate students as well. Thankfully this does not require a trip to the hospital, because these feelings are perfectly normal and shared by many seniors. The following ten symptoms of SDS should eliminate any misconceptions around the syndrome and help sufferers better understand their condition. The inability to comprehend the word “senior” Individuals who are struggling with SDS have an inability to comprehend the word “senior” and may hesitate, mispronounce or alternatively avoid the word in conversation. These individuals also feel uncomfortable or awkward when lecturers or peers use the dreaded S-word to refer to them. A renewed interest in campus involvement It is extremely common for SDS sufferers to join several new organisations and run for various positions of leadership during this time in their lives. This has been attributed to feelings of regret for never having attended the meetings of these various groups on campus despite being on their mailing lists for years. Voluntary grade sabotage While this symptom is extreme and not a prominent one among students without trust funds, some students may indeed attempt to flunk tests and assignments in order to hinder the graduation process. Chronic near-sightedness Phrases such as “next year”, “final semester” or “for future studies” fly right over the heads of SDS sufferers, who subconsciously tune out when any words relating to the end of their studies come up in class or during conversation. Involuntary usage of old student cards This includes the reluctance many seniors experience when they are required to upgrade their cards at the beginning of the last year of their studies. Resorting back to a previous year’s card is a common practice and sufferers can usually be identified by their cards which often look more like self-defence weapons than identification. First-year party attendance SDS seniors, often the ones who refer to first-year parties as “silly” or “no fun”, can usually be spotted in the back of the crowd reminiscing about their first year with a blood-alcohol level often triple that of their nearest competitor. An unnatural interest in first-years Often, SDS sufferers will abandon the company of their classmates for that of a younger crowd. There can be many reasons for this, such as attempting to create a removed and remote environment on campus, or trying to instil their legacy in future generations so that they never really graduate. However, the most distressed SDS sufferers are the ones who seek romantic entanglements with first-years. Intense university pride This symptom is particularly easy to see because sufferers are usually the ones who wear all the UP merchandise they own during the week. This may also change a once academicallyorientated or even apathetic person into a raging TuksSport fan who never misses a match, no matter the discipline on display. A severe allergy to job exhibitions The presence or even mere mention of job fairs, resumes, interviews and internships can drive a SDS sufferer to distress and often leads to these candidates self-medicating on therapeutic rounds of tequila to cope. Unfathomable cravings In severe cases of SDS, seniors may wake in the middle of the night with an insatiable need to consume two-minute noodles, stale cereal, baked beans and box wine. The most important thing that recovering SDS patients need to keep in mind is all of the good that came out of their undergraduate studies and all of the unforgettable memories forged in the process. Trying to keep a focus on the next chapter of your life may help sufferers come to terms with the hands of time. It is also critical for SDS patients to keep in mind that many of their fellow seniors are experiencing the same struggles as this chapter of their lives end, and banding together in support groups may ease the strain of senior denial syndrome.
Image: Kirsty Mackay
14
Features | 27 October 2015
14 Oct Wits students protest over a proposed increase of 10.5% on fees for 2016 and stage a sit-in until management signs a memorandum. “We are merely fighting for an education.” - SRC president-elect, Nompemdulo Mkatshwa
16 Oct
A timeline of events
Founding of Tuks #UPrising as “a collective cause and movement of the students”.
19 Oct Rhodes University joins the protest, barricading roads leading to the university.
Stellenbosch University joins the protest with students occupying the Admin B building.
University of Cape Town (UCT) students join the #RhodesMustFall movement in the protest.
UP's #UPrising hold a mass meeting to voice their frustrations and join the nationwide protest. Over 2000 students march to the Administration building to hand over a memorandum to vicechancellor Prof. Cheryl de la Rey.
Minister of Higher Education Blade Nzimande announces that vice-chancellors have agreed to a reduced increase of 6% for 2016. The lower fee is subsequently rejected by students and nationwide protest continues for a 0% increase.
20 Oct
Tshwane University of Technology join the protest. University of Limpopo students march on Polokwane campus to join the nationwide protest: “This call is to say we don’t want academic exclusion anymore, and we are seated here with more than 80% of students owing the university, so they are guaranteed of their failure to register next year.” - South African Students Congress (Sasco) Limpopo chairman Thembani Msisinyane. Students of the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) join the protest in demanding an end to fee hikes, entering halls on the Westville campus to encourage all students to join.
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University SRC pledges support for the protesting students nationwide. Cape Peninsula University of Technology students gather at the institution to join the protest. University of Fort Hare students gather at the Alice campus to protest before a meeting between management and the SRC. Riot police arrest 23 protesting UCT students. #UPrising hold a night vigil on UP's Hatfield campus in light of the next day's protest.
21 Oct
Tuks #UPrising gathers in the Student Centre on Hatfield campus and takes the protest to the streets of Pretoria. “They must not increase fees, regardless of that 6% which Blade gave ... We don’t want a fee increase because our fees are already too exorbitant for poor students.” - Karabo Sekhukhuni, #UPrising spokesperson. Students from universities in the Western Cape making their way to parliament to protest are met with stun grenades and tear gas by riot police. Six students are arrested.
Parliamentary programming committee agree to discuss student fee increases in Parliament on Tuesday 27 October 2015 after pressure from opposition political parties to address the issue as a matter of urgency. Protesting students from the University of Pretoria continue the previous day’s protest by bringing Hatfield to a standstill.
22 Oct
P Infographic by: Mothusi Masibi Research: Tijana Sakota | Huvasan Reddy
27 October 2015 | Features
15
South Africa plans to leave International Criminal Court SAVANNAH PLASKITT After ignoring a court order from the International Criminal Court (ICC) earlier this year to arrest Sudanese president Omar al-Bashir, South Africa has announced its intent to leave the ICC. Following an ANC policy meeting last week, deputy minister in the presidency Obed Bapela said, “The principles that led us to be members [of the ICC] remain valid and relevant ... however, the ICC has lost its direction and is no longer pursuing that principle.” The ICC has received prolonged criticism for focusing all eight of its ongoing investigations on African nations, with president Jacob Zuma saying, “In the eyes of the African leaders, the ICC is biased.” Many argue that bias is not the case, and few argue that these cases are not deserving of prosecution. Leaving the ICC would not be an easy process, and despite a withdrawal from the organisation,
South Africa would not be absolved of its legal responsibilities. Prof. Max du Plessis of the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) explains, “We have domesticated the Rome Statute into our own national legislation, and if we want to pull out of the ICC we will have to pass legislation to that effect. South Africa is obligated to adhere to the ICC’s decisions until we finalise our exit from the treaty.” Debates and public hearings would be the first step as South Africa tries to retreat from the implementation of the Rome Statute. According to Wayne Ncube from Lawyers for Human Rights, “The Rome Statute establishes the ICC’s functions, jurisdiction and structure.” Following that, legislation would only be able to be changed 12 months after a written notice of intent to withdraw from the ICC is handed over to the United Nations. The decision to leave the ICC has been widely condemned, with
UP’s own Centre for Human Rights saying in a statement published on their website, “Leaving the ICC and undoing this national law would significantly weaken the framework to hold accountable those responsible for massive human rights violations.” Leaving the ICC will not only bring South Africa’s commitment to human rights into question, but will also tarnish its reputation as a moral authority and set meaningful international justice back decades. It will also affect South Africa’s bid for permanent UN Security Council status. South Africa joined the ICC in 1998 with hopes of amending its human rights violations and would become the first country to leave the ICC, although it is widely suggested that many other African nations would follow suit. The decision is only a political one at the moment, but lawyers and human rights activists across the globe hope it does not become a legal one.
Illustration: Emmanuel Makhado
Machines to terminate jobs?
Illustration: Emmanuel Makhado
SAVVA POUROULLIS The average manual labourer of the 21st century can anticipate the prospect of being replaced by a machine because of the physical limitation of the human body. A machine does not need food, water, a pension or wage increases to match inflation. Some desk jobs are also being swept out the door by computer programs, but experts say that within our lifetimes some of the most intellectually intense occupations are in danger of becoming the domain of robots. The Industrial Revolution presented a similar upheaval. Farm workers were displaced all over the world by tractors and other mass-
farming equipment and people began to move into cities looking for work. Thankfully, many of them were absorbed into the emerging factories and mass production lines in the city, among other new jobs. Today, the story is similar. Doctors, bankers and accountants face the possibility of being rendered obsolete. While the Industrial Revolution was similar to mechanisation, this age of human replacement is known as “digitisation”, where your more capable counterpart is likely to be a program or robot that can perform mentally strenuous tasks. Worldwide spending on robots is expected to reach $67 billion by 2025, compared to just $10 billion in 2010 according to Boston Consulting
Group (BCG), a firm which has compiled several extensive reports on the potential for robots and computer programs to replace human jobs. Their argument is that robots are quickly becoming cheaper and at the same time more precise and are able to take on complex jobs due to rapidly increasing investment in the industry. At some point in the near future, a robot will be better at a certain job than a human, even though it might be more expensive. Soon after that, the same robot will become cheaper than the human and the incentive to get rid of the human entirely will be difficult to ignore. This can already be seen in cases where human error is a large factor. Google’s driverless cars are a good
example of this. Humans are, as Google puts it, terrible at driving. Without responding to distractions, limited vision, exhaustion, phones and passengers, the program that drives the car fares far better than
any human in terms of safety. The technology has become so successful so quickly that governments have not had time to catch up with laws regulating the use of these cars, which is why they are not yet on the roads. Even the most abstract, creative occupations may be encoded into software. Educational Youtube personality CGP Grey describes the various efforts which have proved this to be true. Even painters and musicians are not safe from the robot revolution. He explains that “creativity may feel like magic, but it isn’t. The brain is a complicated machine, but that hasn’t stopped us from trying to simulate it.” The name Emily Howell may seem like the name of any other musician (you will see her name on her album, From Darkness, Light), but Howell is actually a music generating program designed by programmer David Cope in the 90s. Professional music critics cannot tell the difference between her classical music and that of human musicians. One advantage for the human is that robots can do jobs that are exceedingly dangerous, BCG argues. Prospecting unstable mine tunnels or fixing machines in high-radiation areas are jobs that no human wants to do. They can also do boring, repetitive tasks which take a human’s time away from more intellectually stimulating work. Digitisation is already underway and experts all over the world agree that the labour market will soon become completely different.
DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT! CALLING HEALTHY YOUNG WOMEN AGED 21 – 32: Donate some of your eggs to a childless couple and be well rewarded for your time and effort – you might even be part of a miracle!
Contact colleen@babymiracles.co.za or on 083 380 2354 to find out more.
www.babymiracles.co.za
16
Entertainment | 27 October 2015
Image provided.
The Black Cat Bones set to spook at Halloween THOMAS MARAIS The Black Cat Bones are a prolific dirty blues rock band from Pretoria. The band will be playing at Arcade Empire’s famed annual Halloween party. Perdeby caught up with them in light of their upcoming performance. You’re playing at Arcade Empire during their Halloween weekend. Do you have anything special planned for your set? Andre Kriel, guitarist: There’s always an ace up our sleeves when we play [at] Arcade, and given that this one’s going to be special we’re pulling out all the stops. It’s just such a pity that I cannot reveal any of it to you at this time, but sure enough, All Hallows’ Eve will be filled with some tricking and treating. You recently performed at Oppikoppi and now you’re performing at Arcade. How do you handle the shift between playing at outdoor festivals and playing once-off club gigs? Andre: It’s not all that different, really. Sure, most festival stages are huge compared to club stages and it does take some time to get used to playing so far away from the other cats in the band, but in all honesty a stage is a stage. Clubs, however, do have their own merit, and vice versa. For instance, it’s impossible to achieve the dynamic of a smaller intimate club setting in an outdoor festival vibe, but the same can be said for the energy levels that are reached on big festival stages. We play it by feel. Do you expect a significant increase in attention due to your numerous live performances in October? Andre: Contrary to popular belief, show attendance actually decreases if you saturate the circuit in specific areas with overplaying. You need to maintain a healthy balance between
Image provided.
Float Parade to introduce new bassist at Halloween WILLIAM ALDRIDGE The soulful sounds of Float Parade will be entering the ears of the ever colourful Halloween crowd at Arcade Empire this year. Perdeby spoke to the band about their upcoming gig. Halloween at Arcade Empire is always a massive event. What are your expectations for the night?
playing just enough so that your audience will not forget about you, and then again not play too frequently which will lead to your audience growing tired of you. Much like a spoiled child, I suppose. Andre was recently involved in a programme called Kinderklets, where rock stars are interviewed by young children. What was the experience like? Andre: There’s something to be said for the sincerity and honesty of being interviewed by a four-year-old. No time for fluff and beating around the bush. I loved it, and it reminded me of the reason I started making music in the first place. Witty little lad, he was. I see some great things for master Keegan in the future. Your lead singer, Kobus de Kock Jr, has a very distinct visual style. What is the inspiration behind that? Kobus: Music is a very powerful medium, and pairing it with something visual is almost twice as powerful. I’ve always enjoyed very visual frontmen [like] Freddie Mercury, Nick Cave, [and] Tom Waits. Local artists like Inge Beckmann, Francois van Coke and the great Johnny Clegg are also very visual and demand the attention of the audience with their performance. In August, the band started working on the first track of a new album. What can listeners expect? Andre: The first single is a real emotional rollercoaster ride and is guaranteed to stir something deep inside the listener. It’s been tried and tested live and has proven to be the obvious choice for us to reveal the nature of what’s to be expected from the new album. [It is] set to be released on iTunes within the next couple of weeks. Get it, play it!
Yeah! It will be nuts, there’s no doubt about it! Our expectations are to see a ton of people having a massive party. You have recently been in search of a new bass player. Can we expect to see the new member at Halloween? The [search] went very well. There were a lot of fantastic bass players that showed some interest, and after a bit of a process we are super happy to welcome Geraint Boje to the band. He will be there in full horror! “Funky soul” is not the most common genre of music. Do you think your genre is received differently to, for example, an indie or rock band? At times we are really not sure what to expect from the crowds, but with each show we are realising that people just love a band with passion, so for us it’s been really good. At your Oppikoppi gig, there was a really cool song done with a guest violinist. Can we expect similar collaborations at your Halloween gig? We will definitely try to do something cool for Halloween. Are there any plans to release a new album soon? Yes, we are currently working on five new tracks, so probably an EP [first] and then some more writing and hopefully an album next year. You often incorporate covers into your set. How do you choose a cover that will best suit the band? We cover the songs we really love. It’s a fine balance because we aren’t a cover band, so we need to make sure that we absolutely jam the heck out of it!
Image provided.
Zebra & Giraffe getting their ghoul on for Halloween CHAD JOHNSTON Zebra & Giraffe have become one of South Africa’s leading alternative rock bands. The group has won two South African Music Awards and an MTV Africa Award and have played alongside artists such as Snow Patrol and The Killers. Perdeby caught up with the band ahead of Arcade Empire’s annual Halloween party. You recently came back from recording an EP in California. How was the experience? The US was amazing. It’s something we’ve always dreamed of doing. We managed to book a studio in an old house that looked over Stinson Beach (just above San Francisco). It was a beautiful and inspiring spot. How has working overseas with a new producer influenced your sound? [Working] with a different producer definitely influenced our sound. The main thing was actually the song choice. When we sent him all the demos, the ones he chose were a surprise to us. In the past we probably would have had a totally different EP if he wasn’t around. Another reason we chose him was because he’s such a great mix engineer. The mixes are powerful and clear. We stripped back a lot of the layers and it really felt quite liberating. What can we expect from the new EP? Our last EP definitely had a sound and theme to it. With this one we just wanted to put out the five best songs we could, regardless of whether they were cohesive or not. All the songs stand on their own and have their own sound and theme. It’s like a taster menu of the best of what Z&G does. Will the band be dressing up for Halloween? Yes we [will], and we’re super excited [about] it. We will definitely be dressing up. In what, [we’re] not sure yet! For the last couple of Halloween shows we’ve dressed up in really impractical outfits which made it hard to play, so this year we need to rectify that: no full body casts! We’ll also be playing a few covers – some spooky s**t!
27 October 2015 | Entertainment
Five minutes with Michael Lesar Image provided.
AAISHA KALLIER In the past, you’ve hosted many of your famous “Let’s swing it” parties. How have they helped you to further break into the music industry? It’s helped me in a big way as a platform to push the swing music scene and myself, as it’s given me an opportunity to explore my creative side and collaborate with different artists and festivals across South Africa. It’s also inspired me to launch my first live swing band [called] Full Swing, which is taking the Jozi scene by storm.
17 Since moving to Johannesburg, have you found the music scene to be different from the scene in Cape Town? They both have their place in the SA music scene and I love them both equally, though I’ve always said [that] Cape Town is a good place to create your brand. But if you want to take it to the next level professionally, it has to be done in [Johannesburg]. The competition is a bit tough[er] this side. Also, Jozi has a much bigger all round scene, and the numbers are bigger so events have a bigger following than [in] Cape Town, except in the psy-trance industry, of course. [There] Cape Town rules by miles. You’ve performed overseas before. Has the experience influenced your sound and yourself as an artist? Most definitely. It’s made me more confident and a bit more professional as an artist, though my sound hasn’t changed much [from] the experience. It was great to see that what I was doing all along was [of] an international standard, with a bit of a South African flavour, of course. [South African artists] are highly respected on the international circuit [and] I’ve just been invited back to Portugal next year for another summer tour, so [I am] definitely doing something right. You will be playing at the Cool Inc. Tattoo Expo in October. How do you think your set will fit in with the other performances at the expo? I think it will fit in perfectly. Swing music usually does. They have a very diverse and open-minded crowd, so the sound [will work] very well with other performances. In relation to that, how do you expect to be received at the expo? It’s my fifth appearance at the expo, [and] I simply love playing at this event. In the past [my sets] have been awesome with a great crowd so I reckon it’s safe to say I’ll be pretty well received. What are you looking forward to most at the expo? I’m very excited to see all the amazing tattoo artists doing their thing, especially because I’m looking for inspiration for my very first tattoo, coming soon. Also, not forgetting the rock star music lineup, which is not to be missed. [It will] definitely be a day out for the family as well.
Can’t Stapp the music: 10 minutes with Creed frontman Scott Stapp
de r e
by
Creed frontman Scott Stapp will be heading to South Africa to kick off his Proof of Life world tour from 12-15 December. Perdeby spoke to Stapp about the tour and his expectations for his first visit to SA. What made you decide to visit South Africa first on your world tour? Once we found out that there was interest there, it was a really easy choice. I have never been to South Africa before and I am excited to go to a country that I have been told by friends [is] so beautiful and has such a thriving music scene. And so it really made it an easy choice. What drove your decision to pick up touring again? I felt like it was time to go back out on tour and to play music, entertain and perform. It’s therapeutic for me as an artist. I felt like at this time in my life […] it was what I [needed] to continue to grow as a human being. Your 2013 album, also titled Proof of Life, has been very successful. Are you expecting further success from the world tour? I hope so. I hope it gets the word out about the record. I want to share my personal journey. Proof of Life seems a fitting name for your world tour as you will be performing songs from both Creed and your solo albums. What led you to choose this as the name of your tour? It corresponds with the record, [firstly], and [secondly], it’s just so fitting for my life right now. I’ve really continued to battle with personal struggles, demons in my life, and as I come to the surface during this dark period, that’s the feeling that I feel, trapped in a prison by depression, and I feel like my head comes up for air, and [as] these depressions alleviate, I feel free. I feel held hostage by these things, so I feel it’s fitting that the tour carry on that same name. That’s what this tour represents for me: another remission out of a period of darkness and all that symbolises to me, expressed through music. Which song on the album do you feel will be the most meaningful to play live? Right now, [the song] “Proof of life” itself is really the most meaningful song to me. It’s the song that I’m connecting to the most on the record. This will be your first time in South Africa. What are you expecting from your performances here in December? I’m expecting some awesome experiences. I’m expecting a lot of people who love music to come out and see shows. I’m expecting to really dive into the culture of the cities and each place that I visit, and really get a feel of what South Africa is all about. Would you say that there is an overlying motif on the Proof of
Life album that will carry over into the world tour? [Yes]. This world tour has so much of a deeper meaning for me, in what it symbolises in my life, based upon … a lot of the struggles that I’ve gone through over the last year. I feel kind of impressed with a new purpose for doing what I do. Believe it or not, even though it’s rock ‘n’ roll and I’m the frontman, this is so much less about me and more about connecting with others out there that have gone through similar situations and me being able to be a voice for those people [and to] create awareness that there are these struggles that are going on in millions of people’s lives all around the world and to be a voice for that. I want to [let my] music heal and provide a sense of joy and overcoming to everyone that comes to the shows.
P
THOMAS MARAIS
Image provided.
Tattoo Tony brings his flair to the Cool Inc. Tattoo Expo JULIA BAIN In anticipation of the Cool Inc. Tattoo Expo, Perdeby asked Pretoria-based tattoo artist Tony Weitraud, better known as Tattoo Tony of Tattoo Tony’s Custom Tattoo Lounge, about his time in the tattoo industry. With his studio being open since 2005 in Hatfield, he has created unique and detailed works for all of his clients. Tattoo Tony will be showcasing his tattoo artworks at the expo, taking place from 6-8 November at the Voortrekker Monument. How long have you been working in the industry? [At the] end of the year, it’ll be about 20 years. What is your art style? I pretty much can do anything. There’s nothing really specific that I consider as my style, but I do tend to do bright colour [and] bold work. I can do portraits, things like that, but I probably love oriental more than anything else. Has your artwork style changed over time, and how? It has changed. Back in the day I was more of a war art kind of guy, and now it’s gone into more of a design-orientated style, some free hand, and it’s changed obviously from doing small dinky things to doing back pieces and legs and full arms and halfsleeves. What is your process for creating a tattoo? Obviously I think about what I’d like to do first, and then kind of go inside it and link it with what the person’s actually looking for. The design concept is usually just something where I focus on what’s in my mind’s eye, and from there it’s about extracting it and putting it onto paper, either through using reference or kind of custom designing concepts. Do you have a personal mission as a tattoo artist? Sleep when you’re dead. What are your expectations for the Cool Inc. Tattoo Expo? It’s always interesting. Every year is pretty cool. It kind of means I get to showcase my work to more people.
Calendar
29 October: Beerhouse Silent Disco – Beerhouse Fourways 30 October: Night of the Walking Dead – Hatfield Plaza 31 October: Halloween – Arcade Empire 6-8 November: Cool Inc. Tattoo Expo – Voortrekker Monument
Ultra neat and safe
1 BEDROOM APARTMENTS
TO LET
6km from University CONTACT ASA LETTING
082 359 3985
18
Sport | 27 October 2015
Beat the Beast obstacle course race ERIN SLINGERLAND Saturday 31 October marks the date of the next Beast Challenge Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) event. Competitors will travel to The Wedges in Muldersdrift to take part in this year’s adventure race series. This test of physical ability is suitable for all levels of fitness and ages. There are different categories that cater for this, namely the 5 km Tame Beast and the 10 km Wild Beast, each costing R340 to enter. The most advanced and challenging 15 km Savage Beast costs R370 to enter. The challenge includes running, climbing
and crawling through various obstacles to reach the finish line, either with a team or on your own. The obstacle course is designed by the competitors themselves and the routes, distances and obstacles change for every event allowing participants to be consistently challenged. Cash prizes are up for grabs for Savage Beast competitors: R500 for third place, R1500 for second place, and R3000 for the overall winner. Product prizes will be awarded to the winners of the 5 km and 10 km challenges, and R500 will be awarded to the best dressed competitor.
Image: Chris Knezovich
27 October 2015 | Sport
19
UP stars shine bright at awards TAY LETHULOE
Friday 16 October saw UP host the annual UP-Tuks Sport Awards at the LC de Villiers campus. The prestigious awards were held to celebrate UP-Tuks athletes who have placed the university’s name in the spotlight through their achievements in their individaual sporting codes. It has been yet another successful year for TuksSport, particularly in the recent 11th annual African Games which took place in Brazzaville, Congo. A group of 47 Tuks athletes competed in eight different sporting codes. There have also been standout individual performances from athletes such as Akani Simbine and Henricho Bruintjies, who have performed exceptionally on the international stage. The divisions of cricket,
women’s cycling, judo, men’s hockey, netball, men’s rowing, and swimming all won gold at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) tournaments, with the cricket and athletics teams also securing their respective Varsity Sports tournament titles. It was also a successful year for TuksRugby who were able to walk away with their third FNB Young Guns title and another Carlton Cup trophy. AmaTuks have been successful in retaining their Premier League status for a third consecutive year. The first event of the night awarded the national representatives, who were awarded by Dr Rendani Mulaudzi and special guest, Olympic gold winner Roland Schoeman. Assupol TuksCricket were awarded Team of the Year, while TuksGolf secured the Student Sports
Club of the Year award. TuksCricket coach Pierre de Bruyn stood alongside his team as Coach of the Year, as did TuksGolf’s Llewellyn van Leeuwen for Coach of the Year in Individual Sports. The principal award for the most outstanding performance by a team representing the university went to VarsityAthletics after they secured the Varsity Sports title for the third consecutive year. TuksNetball walked away with the two major individual awards. Shadine van der Merwe and Lenize Potgieter were crowned Student Sportswoman and Sportswoman of the year, respectively. Van der Merwe has been a vital team member within the sporting codes of netball and softball. She is the first UP-Tuks athlete to win a national USSA title for two
sporting codes within the same year. After a successful year of representing her country and the UP-Tuks team, Potgieter secured her award for the second time in as many years. In the men’s section, Robin Swartz was able to beat out swimmer Douglas Erusmus and hockey vice-captain Kewan Harries for the Student Sportsman of the Year. Akani Simbine won the award for Sportsman of the Year, in a category of Olympic hopefuls with fellow athlete Henricho Bruintjies and judo’s Zack Piontek. “Winning is our passion and we strive to focus total attention on providing support to our teams that proudly wear the unique stripe of TuksSport,” said TuksSport director Kobus van der Walt.
Exclusive interviews with TuksSport award winners
From left to right: Robin Swartz and Shadine van der Merwe. Photos: Samantha Viney
Student Sportsman of the Year: Robin Swartz Swartz has played an active role in TuksFootball and has been involved with UP-Tuks for ten years. He has made his way up through the ranks with leadership skills that have seen him captain every team he has represented at UP-Tuks. As captain of the USSA and the VarsityFootball team, Swartz has contributed to the success of student football programmes. It’s been a very successful year for you. What has been your highlight for 2015? I’m very happy with what I’ve been able to experience so far. I’ve been privileged to be part of many teams this year, but I would say my highlight was the journey with the student national team in Gwanju, Korea. We had a great experience competing against countries like Brazil and France. It became a great moment for
all of us as we managed to represent our country with distinction. What does representing UP at sporting events mean to you? The opportunity to represent Tuks at any occasion is a great honour for me, as I know what a great sporting institution it is in this country and I know how many other athletes would love to be in my position. For me, representing Tuks also provides the opportunity to show my gratitude to an organisation that has shaped my character over the last ten years. I owe a lot to Tuks and I always feel privileged to represent the club. What does the award of Student Sportsman of the Year mean to you? The award is a very prestigious award as it goes beyond sporting codes barriers. To even be
Moving soon? or Spring cleaning? Get your boxes and packaging material for moving or storage from Boxman Hatfield, 279 Lynnwood Rd (opposite the men’s residence)
071 473 0032 boxmanhatfield@gmail.com We deliver and collect in the Pretoria area.
nominated for the award was a great moment, and to go on to win it is something that I have yet to fully appreciate and grasp. I am so humbled to be a recipient of this great award. What are some of your
prospects for the coming year? Next year I will be embarking on a new journey. I won’t be playing football as much. I look forward to working on my masters’ study that will look at the effect of football as a tool in social development in poorer communities. Student Sportswoman of the Year: Shadine van der Merwe As the first UP student athlete to win a national USSA title in the same year in two sporting codes, Van der Merwe has had an outstanding year in her Tuks stripes. She represented the first team for TuksSoftball and secured the national title in 2014. She also competed in the Gordon Monk Tournament and played in the interprovincial tournament, where she was selected as an all-star player after being nominated as the second best batter in the
tournament. She also performed exceptionally with the netball team, representing South Africa in the Fast 5 U/23 invitational and the Jaguars in the Premier League. She also represented South Africa at the European Championships and Diamond League, and then returned to captain UP-Tuks for the Varsity Sports netball campaign, but was unfortunately sidelined due to injury. It’s been a very successful year for you. What has been your highlight of 2015? It has been a year with a lot of ups and downs for me, but my highlights were receiving Defender of the Tournament in the Brutal Fruit tournament in May and receiving Player of the Tournament in the SA Championships in August. What does representing UP at sporting events mean to you? Representing my university really means a lot to me. I know that when I step on court I play with all my heart and I play for the name that is on the front of my dress. [It is] a wonderful feeling to be part of the stripe generation and to let your heart beat for the stripe. What does the award of Student Sportswomen of the Year mean to you? This great award just ended my year on a high note. [I am] feeling motivated just to be better than I was yesterday. I am really blessed beyond words to have received the award, and I truly thank [God] for my talents. What are some of your prospects for the next coming year? Due to an injury, my plan for next year is to come back with a bang. My motivational quote says, “For every setback, there is a comeback.” [I will be] focusing on making the Student World Cup team next year in Miami and representing Tuks in every final [that] there is.
Sport
Flip through Perdeby online www.perdeby.co.za
Boks are gone but not forgotten: “We are still proud”
79
THANDO CELE
The number of points that the young Springbok fly-half Handré Pollard has scored in the Rugby World Cup, making him third overall in the points leaderboard.
19
Another number of points tied to Pollard’s name, having anybody else in the tournament.
3
converted more penalties than
The amount of tries JP Pietersen scored against Samoa, earning him man of the match.
The amount of minutes left on the clock when Duane Vermeulen and Fourie du scored the winning try in the quarter final against Wales.
5
Photo: Shen Scott
THORISO PHASHA AND ZUKO QUSHEKA Following the days after the recent Springbok loss to New Zealand, a recurring statement has found its way onto many social media networks as Springbok fans reflect on the 2015 Rugby World Cup journey: “We are still proud.” Heading into their first game, the Springboks were considered favourites to top their group that consisted of Scotland, Samoa, Japan and the USA. The script was written in the hopes of the Springbok team demolishing the less favoured and less physical Japan team. The last-minute Japanese try broke South African hearts, in a match where the Springboks were seen to implode, and lead to Japan’s 34-32 victory. The result was a wake-up call for the team as the nation struggled to come to terms with a match that was supposed to be a relative “walk in the park”. The Springboks regrouped after a long week of introspection and stepped back onto the field in more composed and bullish form with a victory of 46-6 against Samoa. JP Pietersen
caught the world’s attention in this game after three consecutive tries. Jean de Villiers, however, left Springbok supporters devastated when he was sent home after a collision with a Samoan player that resulted in a fractured jaw. It was later confirmed in a post-match press conference that the unlucky Springbok captain would be heading back to the UK to take up a consulting role with the Boks. The match against Scotland was billed as the decider to see who would top the group, and the Boks triumphed after firing on all cylinders in a 34-16 victory over the brave Scots. The match against the USA gave Springbok stalwart Bryan Habana the chance to equal All Black Jonah Lomu’s record of 15 tries in a Rugby World Cup. The Springboks met familiar foe Wales in the quarter-finals. It was in the 75th minute that the Springboks managed to salvage a try that filled every South African heart with pride after a neat back-pass by Duane Vermeulen found Fourie du Preez, who flew over for a try in the corner. The 23-19 victory was sufficient to secure the Springboks a hard fought semi-final spot. The Springboks then had to deal with the
4
Preez
Bryan Habana’s number of tries in the tournament so far that saw him equal All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu’s world cup try-scoring tally of 15. The match against Argentina next week will present Habana with the opportunity to surpass Lomu’s record.
unenviable task posed by old rivals New Zealand in the semi-finals. A penalty by Handré Pollard saw the Springboks draw first blood in the early tussle. The lead was short lived, however, as the All Blacks responded with a try that Dan Carter was able to convert after the referee ordered a retake due to Bryan Habana’s initial early chase. South Africa showed great resilience with some inspired defense to keep the All Blacks at bay. Handre Pollard proved instrumental with the boot that allowed for a 12-7 Springbok lead just before half time, this after a yellow card offense by All Black Jerome Kaino. New Zealand came back with renewed urgency in the second half and Dan Carter cut the deficit to 12-10 with a cheeky drop-goal. Second-half substitute Beuden Barrett made an immediate impact for New Zealand when the improvised winger capitalised on an opportunity for a try that would be converted into a 17-12 lead. The Springboks then forced a penalty from a scrum that was converted by Pollard. Carter responded and provided a five-point buffer with another penalty. Springbok substitute fly-half Pat Lambie then made it a two-point game with time slowly
slipping away. The Springboks would later find themselves pinned deep in their own half as they looked to launch a response in injury time, but the end was soon signalled by a knock-on by Victor Matfield that scuppered any hopes of a comeback. It was a gutsy performance by the Springboks and a respectable loss to the best rugby nation in the world. Hennie Kriel, a strength and conditioning expert who worked closely with Heyneke Meyer in the past, said “The All Blacks showed why they are number one and favourites to win the world cup. Heyneke will be disappointed in the first 15 minutes of the second half. With [the] one man [advantage], the Springboks were not aggressive enough. The big disappointment was our inability to get distance with our defensive kicks. I’m sure Heyneke [realised] that we have to improve in our attacking play to stay with the All Blacks. So close, it was an epic battle.” Handre Pollard also tweeted on his official account, saying, “We came as a team, but [we’re] leaving as brothers.”
TuksSport High athlete draws attention to potential of SA sprinters
Image provided.
DANIEL BASSON At the Youth Commonwealth Games this year, 16-year-old TuksSport athlete Gift Leotlela won the 100 m sprint in a time of 10.20 seconds, becoming the second fastest sprinter in history at youth level and breaking the South African record for his age group. Hennie Kriel, Leotlela’s coach, has
experienced a year of athletic coaching success with the recent performance of Henricho Bruintjies who became the second South African to dip below the ten second barrier. Perdeby sat down with the record breaking TuksSport High School athlete, Leotlela, and his coach to find out more about the sprinter himself and what we can expect from him in the future. How much has your decision to come to TuksSport High benefited your career as an up and coming sprinter? Gift: Coming here has given me so many opportunities [that have] changed me into a better athlete and I really have to give credit to my coach. How did you feel about your recent record breaking sprint at the Youth Commonwealth Games? Gift: I wasn’t expecting to run such a fast time, but I knew I had the ability. Before we went there my coach told me that I can break the South African record, and that motivated me. Hennie: When Gift arrived here he was already an accomplished athlete who had achieved at [a] national level. He showed great potential and kept on progressing, but nonetheless I was still
surprised when he ran a time of 10.20 s. You are a mere 0.04 s away from Olympic qualification. What do you think your chances are of representing SA in Rio next year? Gift: I do stand a chance of qualifying and getting that time if I stay healthy and keep training hard. Hennie: It is important to remember that only three athletes are allowed to represent SA at the Rio Olympics. I would never pressure my athletes. It would be beneficial to Gift if he can become a member of the relay team. Gaining such experience would be invaluable at his age. When do you hope to start competing professionally at senior level? Gift: I hope to start competing as soon as I am not grouped as a junior athlete anymore, so around the age of 20. Hennie: Becoming a professional athlete is different to other sports, because athletics does not involve being contracted, like with rugby. Gift can become a professional athlete as soon as his times are good enough. The future of SA sprinting looks bright with Anaso Jobodwana and Akani Simbine impressing on the international stage. What has inspired you to take up a career in sprinting? Gift: They are my inspiration and an inspiration to all [South African athletes]. They did really well this year and make me believe that I can achieve what they have achieved.
Now that Gift has placed his athletic potential in the spotlight, where to from here? Hennie: He is the number two all-time fastest sprinter in his age group. Not even Usain Bolt ran this time at the same age, but it is very important for him [Gift] to stay hungry and motivated. Very few youth athletes turn into successful athletes at senior level. The challenge is to keep him healthy and keep on progressing. What will be the focus of your training programme next year? Hennie: Many people ask me what makes Gift so special, and I believe he is one of very few athletes in the world that has the natural ability to execute the specific technique you need to run such times. He has improved his start a lot this year, and we are going to keep on working hard on it [the technique]. I am not going to experiment on Gift, what we have done has worked and we will carry on with that. As a coach, you have seen great success with Bruintjies this year and have now had similar success with Gift. From a coach’s perspective, what have these athletic achievements meant to you? Hennie: It is for moments like these that I coach. Coaching can bring many disappointments, but in times like these I celebrate victory. In Gift’s case I wasn’t at the Games when he ran the time, and when I received a text with his time I was pleasantly surprised and shocked.
30 000 people read the print version of
Perdeby To advertise email carel.willemse@up.ac.za
visit www.perdeby.co.za for ad rates