8 April 2019 Issue 5 Year 81

454 Hilda Street, Hatfield

Tel: 012 362 7180

Hatmed Medical and Dental Centre

Hatmed Medical and Dental Centre

Hatmed Medical and Dental Centre 454 Hilda Street, Hatfield

454 Hilda Street, Hatfield

454 Hilda Street, Hatfield

Tel: 012 362 7180

Tel: 012 362 7180

PDBY

8 April 2019

Year 81 | Issue 5

Tel: 012 362 7180

yourcampusnews.

Print, Digital, and Broadcast Youth Media

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Future Africa officially opened Photo: Nkululeko Ngcobo

SRC holds first quarter forum

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3D Printing transforming medicine

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Miss Varsity Cup 2019 Jalencke Weeber

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2 | Editorial

8 April 2019

I probably won’t vote convince me otherwise, feel free to send me an email at editor@pdby.co.za. I will post any letters on our website, so be sure to look out for them.

PDBY Video Missed it? Watch it!

If you haven’t thought about it yet, go check out our article on page 5 to help you make the decision on whether to vote or not to vote, or to just take a look at some varied views.

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his issue marks exactly a month until our national elections and like many of the young people we spoke to about it, I don’t think that I will vote in the next election.

I have been quite open about this and whenever I speak about it I am often met with rather extreme reactions. I have been

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told I am “utterly stupid”, I’ve been told that I am wasting a right that some people around the world might never get, I’ve been told that if I don’t vote I have no right to complain. On the other hand, some people very much agree that they also will not be voting. It is my right to vote, but it also my right to choose not to vote.

This isn’t a rushed decision, and neither is it a practice in laziness. I have thought about it carefully and I am happy with my decision (for now). This could change in the space of a month, and if you think you could

In other news it’s graduation season!

Last week I attended my sister’s graduation and it got me all excited about it again. As I sat there I looked down at all the aboutto-be graduates and I could feel the pride and promise from the next batch of those fortunate enough to start their working life with an advantage. However, this also got me thinking about all the talented and deserving young people who are not fortunate enough to have the opportunity that your university experience might offer.

Be thankful for what you have, realise the importance of it and how fortunate you are, and one day, when you’ve made it, help someone else advance in life.

Be smart and always be kind.

Shaun Sproule Editor

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News | 3

8 April 2019

UP’s Future Africa institute officially opened Marko Svicevic

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n 29 March, UP’s new Future Africa institute was officially opened.

Meant as a multi-disciplinary space for collaboration and innovation, Future Africa is the latest addition to UP’s evergrowing research-intensive output role.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, UP ViceChancellor and Principal, Prof. Tawana Kupe, said that the Future Africa represented a dream for the country and the continent as a whole to see the fruits of its labour in the not too distant future. In attendance of the ceremony included, among others, the Minister of Science and Technology, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane and UP Chancellor, Wiseman Lumkile Nkuhlu.

“Future Africa is the first of its kind, a collaborative space designed for transdisciplinary research - it is a space for thinking, researching, learning, a collaborative platform connecting in transdisciplinary ways – a space for creating new knowledge in new ways to address current and emerging, complex,

often seemingly intractable challenges that primarily face Africa,” Prof. Kupe added. He also jokingly acknowledged that it seemed common knowledge that the richest square mile in Africa was Sandton, but what was lacking until now was the most innovative square mile in Africa, and that finally it had been launched with the opening of Future Africa.

Prof. Kupe also explained that Future Africa is located Photo: Kayla Thomas on the UP experimental farm, in proximity of the Technology Innovation Agency, the CSIR, the National Research Foundation and several additional innovation agencies of other organisations, which placed it well within a hub of already existing science and research

institutions. Vice-principal of research and innovation, Prof. Stephanie Burton described Future Africa as “a community, a research hub, a home for scholars, and a meeting place” providing the physical and intellectual environment for science leaders.

In addition, in his keynote address, Thierry Zomahoun, president and CEO of the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, described Future Africa as the “missing link” which would accelerate research on the continent. In her address to attendees, Minister Kubayi-Ngubane described Future Africa as a shining example of how Africans can work to find solutions to Africa’s challenges by working together as Africans and not citizens

of individual nation states.” The minister further added that the Department of Science and Technology was in the process of African Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution in partnership with the World Economic Forum and encouraged Future Africa to become an active participant.

Also speaking at the opening ceremony was director of Future Africa, Prof. Bernard Slippers, who took participants through the making of the institute and how an idea developed into the eventual establishment of Future Africa.

Prof. Slippers also referred to the greater need and urgency for African research output and knowledge creation to place the continent in a higher regard within the international context.

According to Prof. Slippers, construction on Future Africa first began in November 2015 culminating four years later in the eventual finalisation and operalisation of the institute this year. The institute includes a dining hall, restraunts, a conference centre, numerous workshop spaces, a research common, meeting spaces, and 280 living units.

UP students #Walk4Access

Photo: Twitter - @Walk4Access

Carel Willemse

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Photo: Nkululeko Ngcobo

Are students voting?

Ofentse Malele and Giovanna Janos

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outh Africans will turn out in their millions on 8 May to cast their vote in the 2019 general elections. For most UP students this will be their first opportunity to vote in the national and provincial elections.

PDBY asked some students if they were going to vote in these elections and on what bases they would make their mark. While most South Africans will direct their vote to one of the three big political parties (ANC, DA, EFF), a total of 48 parties will contest this year’s general election.

To vote in South African elections, you must register to vote. The final voter registration took place on 26 January this year. To see if you are registered visit www. elections.org.za Will you be voting this year?

PDBY conducted on-camera interviews with a myriad of students to get a general consensus of who will or not be voting and why.

n 21 March, thirteen students from UP embarked on a walk from Cape Town to Pretoria in an attempt to raise funds for disadvantaged students.

The #Walk4Access initiative, which is set to end at the Union Buildings on 10 April, is happening in conjunction with the Elim Full Gospel Church in Hatfield. The aim of the walk is to raise funds to cover historical debt of UP students in order for them to complete their degrees. According to Marcus Mashinini, a student partaking in the walk, the money raised will also be used towards food and accommodation for needy students.

The students hope to raise R4 million during their walk. “We have tried to help needy

students in our personal capacity but this is not sufficient, hence this initiative. The fact that UP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tawana Kupe, will make a donation for this initiative clearly shows that this matter needs attention, and we are truly grateful for this,” says Pastor Immanuel Landman of the Elim Church.

According to Mashinini, “the expectations are high, the hopes are that many academics, alumni and even the private sector will recognise the need for intervention and play a role in being part of the solution.”

Students are encouraged to follow the #Walk4Access initiative through their hashtag or at @WALK4ACCESS on all social media platforms. Anyone who wishes to donate to the cause can contact Pastor Landman at 083 458 4064.

For students who said they not voting, PDBY asked what it is they would like for political parties to do to get them to vote. One student responded by saying that parties should deliver on their promises and advocate changes that assist in areas such as poverty. On the other hand, some students said they are voting this year because they believe that the party they are voting for will deliver on their promises of change. To end off the set of interviews, PDBY asked the students how many political parties do they think are running in the 2019 general elections. PDBY received answers that ranged from 18 parties to somewhere in the 30s. However, there are in fact 48 parties are running in the election which only one student got correct.

Kwanele Dlamini describes voting as a form of propaganda and will not be voting in this election.

Daniela LaRosa will also be voting. She believes that “our votes do count, and our votes are needed”.

Dakalo Tshivhundo, says that the reason he will not be voting is because he does not predict it will bring change. “I don’t think there is going to be any change […] history is going to repeat itself.”

Lufuno Nelufule says that she will be voting this year and that “every South African should contribute to the South Africa they want to see.”

Kevin Khosa says he will be voting, basing his choice of party on their manifesto.

See the full video on our YouTube channel, PDBYVideo.

Image: Giovanna Janos

4 | News

8 April 2019

UP management responds to NSFAS issues

Photo: Marren McKay

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Carel Willemse

n 14 March the SRC led students in a demonstration regarding issues related to NSFAS. The march ended at the Ship on Hatfield campus where a memorandum of student grievances was presented to UP’s new ViceChancellor and Principal, Prof Tawana Kupe.

On 15 March Prof Anton Ströh, VicePrincipal: Institutional Planning, replied on behalf of the Executive, to the issues raised by the students and SRC. In his response, Prof. Ströh indicated that UP was working with other institutions to see how the processing of NSFAS payments could be fast-tracked. One of the concerns raised during the march was that of transparency of internal financial processes and the fact that students were not always aware of errors that might cause a delay in payments. Prof. Ströh explained that the university had to abandon the processes in place owing to the instruction from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) to make payments to students

directly. This lead to approximately 9 000 students having to complete pay-out forms. All of this data had to be captured, processed and validated on the system and then approved before students could receive payouts. The bulk of administration along with incomplete forms or the incorrect completion of forms led to delays in payment.

Clarity was also asked regarding an

amount of R13 million set aside by the university for needy students. Prof.

Ströh explained that this amount was earmarked for the “missingmiddle” students as well as “capped” NSFAS students who required a top-up during the year.

Approximately 35% of this money was used to register Photo: Marren McKay students with financial debt.

The university also indicated that all NSFAS allocations would be made strictly in accordance with the DHET instructions and that this

included book allowances.

The opening of the Prospect Street entrance was also listed in the memorandum handed to UP. University Executive supports this demand and plans to upgrade and re-open this entrance will be implemented as soon as possible.

In Prof. Ströh’s response, it was indicated that the university would attempt to ensure pay-outs are processed by

Friday 22 March. On Thursday 28 March, the SRC published a letter from Prof. Carolina Koornhof, Executive Director responsible for Finance and Business Initiatives, giving feedback on the NSFAS allowances.

The letter indicated that from Monday 1 April, NSFAS allowances would have been processes for students who are funded

by NSFAS in 2019, who have completed and submitted the necessary forms, and who have

Photo: Marren McKay

provided the required supporting documentation.

Book allowances of R5 000 as well as living allowances should have been paid.

She urged students who have not received their allowances to go to the Student Services Centre (SSC) where their issues would be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

Private accommodation and transport allowances would be processed from 5 April.

SRC president David Kabwa welcomed the university’s response saying, “We were greatly concerned by the initial lack of accountability displayed by the university being unable to complete the processing by [22 March] as indicated. However, the university’s Executive has since implemented many measures to ensure that a greater number of students were assisted.

We were facing a crisis, in this situation we all came together and showed the importance of building bridges for students to walk across. We are a community that will look out for each other.

For all the staff that worked around the clock, for the Executive that came up [with] creative solutions and the students that stood together in solidarity. We have showed that our community is strong.”

Just under 12000 UP students to graduate this autumn Staff reporter

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total of 11 649 qualifications will be awarded during UP’s autumn graduation ceremonies taking place from 2 to 30 April this year. Out of these qualifications, 10 600 are for undergrads while 229 PhDs and 1496 Master’s qualifications will be conferred.

The most PhD qualifications come from the Faculty of Theology (25) while the Faculty of Law boasts with 19 and the Faculty of Veterinary Science with 12.

“

Three honorary apartheid South Africa. doctorates will be awarded The newlythis contributes to during these ceremonies. inaugurated Viceknowledge generation Minister of Higher Chancellor and and the nurturing of Education and Training, Principal, Professor a new generation of Tawana Kupe said, Naledi Pandor, will receive her PhD during the Faculty “The Class of 2019 academics and researchers is among the biggest of Education’s graduation [...] in the country” cohort in the country ceremony on 16 April.

The Minister registered graduating this month. for her PhD in January 2015, and her I am particularly pleased with the number research topic was The contested meaning of PhD and Master’s graduates we have of transformation in higher education in post produced as this contributes to knowledge

generation and the nurturing of a new generation of academics and researchers, as well as highly skilled professionals in the country.” This will be Prof Kupe’s first graduation ceremony as UP’s new ViceChancellor and Principal.

Prof Kupe urged graduates who are receiving their first qualification, to pursue postgraduate studies in line with the concept of lifelong learning. “We congratulate our graduates on their achievements and wish them well in their endeavours,” said Kupe.

EFFSC Black Space discusses homophobia Kayla Thomas and Giovanna Janos

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n 3 April the EFFSC hosted the first Black Space in the student centre to discuss homosexuality and homophobia in Africa. Black Space is a discussion forum that will be hosted by the EFFSC periodically to address various topics.

Black Space and EFFSC member Njabulo Mlotshwa told PDBY that “Black Space is an event that we will have every week or every month […] where we’re going to choose a topic and discuss [it].” The topic of the first Black Space, “Homosexuality in black spaces”, was held to facilitate discussions between students and promote the sharing of opinions and experiences.

Follow us on Instagram @PDBYMedia Facilitators of the Black Space discussion of “Homosexuality in black spaces”. Photo: Kayla Thomas

Features | 5

8 April 2019

To vote or not to vote

Stephanie Cookson

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omparing the registration statistics of 2019 with 2014, the year of South Africa’s last national elections, there has been a drop in the number of eligible voters under the age of thirty who have registered to vote. A significant portion of the youth do not register to vote, which is striking when compared with the large majority of South Africans over thirty who make up the certified voter roll.

The reason for our youth’s increasing apathy towards South Africa’s democratic elections is often attributed to disillusionment. SA’s young people often feel that voting cannot bring about real change. They have lost faith in our government and its political parties' ability to deliver services, education, employment, and make a dent in SA’s severe levels of inequality.

Janico van der Walt, a UP student and ViceChair of House Humanities, told PDBY he will not be voting in this year’s elections. “I have [a] big problem with choosing between the lesser of two evils instead of actually being able to make a right choice,” said Van Der Walt, who does not support the idea of a political party system at all. “My abstinence […] is still going to benefit a party, but I think it’s not really going to make a difference in how the whole party system functions,” he said, citing corruption, nepotism, and fraudulent malpractice as some of the characteristics he believes will be part of any ruling political party. While it might be a good thing in the short-term for a change in ruling party, Van Der Walt feels that no matter what a party claims to stand for, the consequences and the intentions of any party will not align. “That’s completely against the democratic values of transparency and accountability,” said Van der Walt. Although a regime change could solve some short-term issues, there are long-term problems that Van Der Walt feels cannot be

overcome by voting. This is because, according to him, political parties promote issues only in a superficial way to gain voters’ attention, rather than because they intend to fix those problems. Van der Walt says that when it comes to political parties, the focus is on political matters far more than it is on the people of South Africa.

While van der Walt acknowledges the cynicism of his personal choice to abstain this year, another UP student studying political sciences, Adam Louw, feels adamant about the importance of exercising one’s right to vote despite the flaws in a democracy with a political party system. “[Voting is] reveling in your rights,” he said. According to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), there is a record of 48 political parties contesting in the upcoming elections. “I can promise that there is a party for each value that you might have,” said Louw. Louw explained that, because parties cater to multiple constituencies in order to garner votes, they touch on many issues. “Issues that you find important are reflected in one of the parties’ manifestos,” said Louw, citing the fact that only 0.25% of the national vote is needed by a party in order to win one out of the 400 seats in parliament.

“The elephant in the room is that the ANC will win,” he said, adding that “even if there’s just one MP of a party whose values you care about, they could raise an issue that is relevant in parliament and that issue could be voted on and taken by the bigger parties,” he said in response to the assumption that individual votes are not influential and cannot create significant change.

The EFF serves as a good example of the power even a small number of seats can make.

With only 6% of the votes in the last elections, the EFF has shown that, according to Louw, “it’s about the voice rather than the number of members.” Louw explained that while SA faces corruption, a democracy requires South Africans to hold parties accountable once

elected, through social media or protest action, and that the effectiveness of that is “premised on solidarity and strategic agitation.”

While some young voters may be hesitant to vote on 8 May, Louw commented that abstaining from voting will encourage corruption, because the “people won’t matter anymore [if] they’re not even involved in this

Image: Elmarie Kruger

for the ruling party,” explained Mrs Thuynsma.

When PDBY asked why young people who feel their vote holds little sway should participate in the upcoming elections, she explained that voters cast votes both for the National Assembly and for the Provincial Legislature.

She continued that “the more local the election the more influential it is to average voter […] the Provincial ballot matters […] a great deal.”

Voters can split their vote, voting for one party on the national ballot and another on the provincial ballot. Mrs Thuynsma also said that

process.” The Mail & Guardian speculated that it is no longer rational to vote for one of the “big three” by analysing the track records of the ANC, DA, and EFF. In the spirit of a solution to this, Louw maintains that “you will find your issues somewhere [in parties’ manifestos] and that will be represented.” Louw advises UP students to “vote for issues, not the party.”

His sentiments echo those of Heather Thuynsma, a political sciences lecturer at UP who worked as a specialist election monitor during South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994. Mrs Thuynsma has also had many other involvements with USA political campaigns. “Not voting, given the way votes are calculated in the SA system, means a vote

this can balance the power and help keep the system accountable.

Disillusionment with SA’s government may be a valid response to the nation’s myriad of governmental issues, and while abstaining on personal principle might be understandable, there are strong arguments for the effect that voting can have on the future of South Africa for young people. In the same vein, Mrs Thuynsma remarked that decisions are made by those who show up. She further says that by not showing up to the elections “you are effectively allowing someone else to determine your life for you. So perhaps young South African voters should ask themselves if they are okay with that.”

been training and practicing in the lab for quite some time. Speaking of the procedure, Prof. Tshifalaro says “it was my 25th implant because I have done it in the lab […] until I mastered the steps and the technique”. Prof. Tshifalaro described the procedure as “a little bit tricky” due to prior complications, taking a total of three hours.

Prof. Tshifalaro says that using 3D printing reduces the risk of surgical procedures because it allows for more accuracy in terms of anatomy.

Prof. Tshifalaro says that in the past rods would have been used to replace the parts of the middle ear. Now, with 3D printing, there is more anatomical accuracy in terms of weight, size, and shape. In turn, this has led to better results and Prof. Tshifalaro says that the patient he operated on has already shown significant improvement in hearing, just two weeks after the procedure.

3D printing Image: Elmarie Kruger has been used to Otorhinolaryngology at UP, pioneered a create medical 3D-printed bone ear transplant, making models to help history in the medical field. In order to medical professionals replace a patient’s underdeveloped middle understand certain ear, Prof. Tshifalaro used 3D-printed middle medical issues and ear bones. He effectively replaced the illnesses. With 3D patient’s hammer, anvil, and stirrup with a printing, doctors are 3D-printed versions of each of these. Prof. also able to develop Tshifalaro told PDBY that “the procedure a printer that can went very well, it was successful”. Although print skin straight this was the first time Prof. Tshifalaro, or onto victims with badly burnt skin. To date anyone else in the world, had executed the there has been no solid organ such as a live procedure in reality, he says that he has heart or liver made from 3D printing and the

solids formed are usually used for research purposes. Prof. Tshifalaro says that a lot of the 3D printed medical developments are experimental, saying that “what you see is more of them making toys […] not for clinical practice.”

Technology has allowed medicine to transform rapidly, from a time in the 1800s where the first successful human blood transfusion took place. In the 1900s, technology took a great step with the development of the dialysis machine used by patients with kidney failure and the first commercial ultrasound was developed as well as the cloning of Dolly the Sheep. With technological developments such as 3D printing assisting medicine, it is exciting to see what is to come.

Prof. Tshifalaro shares in this excitement, saying that he completely agrees that 3D printing has the potential to change medicine as we know it. Prof. Tshifalaro told PDBY “I am excited, and I have a lot of other ideas that I have been thinking about that this first one has encouraged me phenomenally […] and from the calls I have received from many other specialists, I am of the opinion that in the coming six months to a year, we are going to see a flood of all specialists trying to solve their problems looking at 3D printing.”

3D printing transforming medicine

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Mahmooda Milanzie

great number of technological innovations are transforming healthcare. The medical field has improved drastically because technology is finally finding solutions for several problems facing the world of medicine. Recently, 3D printing has gained interest in the field of medicine as one of these technological solutions.

On 13 March Professor Mashudu Tshifalaro, head of the Department of

“

3D printing has the

potential to change medicine as we know it

6 | Entertainment

8 April 2019

PDBY featured artist:

Kiash Arjun

Image provided

Caitlyn Walsh

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iash Arjun is a musician from UP who is currently in his second year studying dentistry. Arjun comes from Verulam, Durban and currently stays at House Ukuthula. He first “began playing guitar and singing at the age of seven,” where he says “My grandfather bought me my first guitar and once I learnt a few chords, the singing just kind of fell into place (I thank Disney Channel and the Jonas Brothers for that).” When considering genre, Arjun enjoys “taking wellknown, energetic pop songs and incorporating them into simple acoustic jams.”

PDBY spoke to Arjun about what he wishes to communicate to audiences through his music, he responded “I really want to share my life experiences in music. Basically, I want people to feel how I felt when I liked a girl for the first time, or how I felt when she didn’t like me back, or how chaotically enjoyable my life is now, in a place far from home, with people that I can call family.”

Arjun is “keen on performing at an open mic event somewhere around town, at the Deep Roots Market and maybe even on RAG of Hope Day for the TuksGotTalent showcase.”

Arjun’s first time singing for a crowd was in front of his primary school during the middle of an assembly. “I sang ‘The

Climb’ by Miley Cyrus. It was absolutely nerve-wrecking – my hands were drenched with sweat and for a moment, I forgot how to play guitar, but everything came right when I started singing. The crowd reacted well. I still remember my mom attending that particular assembly because she was so excited to see me perform.”

PDBY also chatted to Arjun about his previous achievements for music, he explained “In high school I received honours for performing arts. I won my first ever Barnyard showcase with House Ukuthula and Curelitzia, and I was invited to perform at my faculty’s farewell ceremony for Professor Cheryl de la Rey last year. Lastly, and this is the highlight of highlights, I was part of the amazingly talented, winning team for UP A Capella 2018.”

Arjun’s favourite part about playing music is to “channel emotions and personality, and use it to entertain people. I really enjoy making people feel something.”

When asked about his musical goals for 2019, Arjun responded, “I’d like to write more songs (happier ones at that, too) and perform at a few open mic events around Pretoria, but otherwise, I wouldn’t mind keeping everything relatively lowkey like I’ve done for the last few years.”

Arjun dreams of playing at Glastonbury one day and his most played song on his phone is “Paris” by The 1975.

PDBY is meant “for students, by students”, and we would like to provide our own students a chance to shine. PDBY Featured Artist of the Edition is meant to put the spotlight on the talented artists of UP. If you are an artist, or know of any artists (musician, poet, dancer, visual artist, etc.) who deserve some exposure contact the Entertainment Editor at entertainment@pdby.co.za.

Tuks FM: A Metamorphosis

Photo: Kayla Thomas

Carina Kloppers

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uks FM is UP’s very own distinguished campus radio station.

The radio station started in the 1980s by only broadcasting to the cafeteria, today they broadcast as far as Johannesburg North. Tuks FM has always branded itself as an alternative radio station, and for a long time that meant they played largely rock music. It was their brand and they were proud of it. The students of the time wanted to listen to rock music, and for that Tuks FM was the station to be tuned into. The music scene is constantly changing and developing and hip-hop and house became more resonant with student culture, Tuks FM found themselves in a position where they needed to rebrand themselves in order to become and remain relevant to UP students. In 2018, new management was hired to administer the changes. PDBY recently sat down with Mike Bower, the program manager, to speak about these changes and their vision going forward.

It is always daring to take something established and morphing it into something completely new. But Bower believes that if they are a campus radio station that is not broadcasting to the students, they are failing, and so the Tuks FM management team looked at the demographics of people studying at The University of Pretoria and

realised “that the focus needs to be a lot more on a female audience and […] on an audience that speaks to the hip-hop and a house community”. He explains that the biggest challenge going into the rebranding was defining who they were going to broadcast to. “In broadcasting you speak to one person. You don’t speak to thousands of people, you speak to one person and you get that right.” Bower tells PDBY that with where they are now, they have definitely put themselves on the right track.

With the identity transformation well under way, Tuks FM has shifted their goal towards marketing. “We have a good enough product to go and say to people ‘Hey, listen to our radio station.’”

Bower further says that their vision for 2019 is to communicate with students, they want students to talk to them about whether or not what they are doing is right. They want to foster a relationship with students. “We feel quite strongly about evolving so that students have a platform to call their own.”

So, as a statement to the greater community in Pretoria of who they now are, they hosted Tuks FM Freshers on 15 March at Loftus Stadium. It was the first event of its kind that Tuks FM has been involved in. Tuks FM Freshers was a celebration of the South African youth culture with the best of local DJs and live acts. “It was a lot of fun to organise. And it was a lot of fun to be there on the night as well,” Bower continues. “We are aiming to do an annual event. There are a lot of kinks that we need to work out. […] But moving forward we would love to do a big, yearly event at the beginning of the year saying ‘Hey first years, this is who we are. We are young, fresh and we’ll take care of you. This is the environment that you are stepping into.’”

Bower concludes by saying how much he loves this underlining pride in South African music at the moment. “We play 70% local music and it’s easy for us to do that.” He further says that he is excited to be part of a team that is beginning to understand how we need to speak to young people. It is his team who gets him out of bed in the morning.

Image: imbd.com

Us Jordan Peele Carina Kloppers

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ordan Peele’s follow up to his masterly debut, Get Out (2017), is a terrifying plunge into the depths of humanity. Us veers into the dark recesses of the American identity, implicating us as our own worst enemies.

Us follows an upper-middle-class all-American family on their summer holiday in Santa Cruz, California.

Everything is hunky-dory until the family is confronted with darker twisted versions of themselves. The sinister doubles, dressed in matching red jumpsuits and a single leather glove, armed with some old-timey scissors, are hunting the family. To survive, the family must defeat themselves.

The star of the movie is without a doubt, Lupita Nyong’o. She portrays both the mother of two, Adelaide, and her doppelganger, Red, perfectly. The duality of the two characters captures your soul. It is unnerving. Every movement, every sound or croak or tear is intentional.

It all matters. So, if you go to see the movie just for her performance alone, you will not be disappointed. She is that good, and the rest of the supporting cast does not fall short either. Winston Duke is very charming and his dad shenanigans will provide you with some muchneeded comic relief. The children might not quite match Nyong’o, but they still deliver stellar performances despite being confronted with very challenging roles.

The film is visually a lot more ambitious than its predecessor. This is because Us had a significantly raised budget after Get Out’s killing at the box office, and it paid off. Every shot and every edit are truly masterful.

This, together with Michael Abels’ truly disturbing score, makes for a really scary movie. The images will haunt you long after the credits have rolled out, along with the distorted conversion of Luniz’s “I got 5 on it” never truly leaving you. Yes, Us definitely packs in the horror and scare, more so than Get Out was able to.

Where Get Out had the upper hand though, was with the script. Us’ script is a little less polished and a little less tight, it really tests the audience’s suspension for disbelief, especially in the third act. You really do not need to think too long before you will notice a plot hole or two, and you do not need to ponder for too long before you realise how implausible it all is. The movie will leave you with a lot of questions. However, Us was never made with the intention of having a cohesive narrative, it is just not about that. It is about noticing all the details. It is about figuring out what Peele was trying to say and sinking your teeth into the nuance and then just not being able to stop thinking about it.

Fun and Games | 7

8 April 2019

Campus Cousin

Pssst...

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ver the years, Pssst… has survived many a recess, and Pssst… knows that all a recess really does is give your parents the opportunity to ask uncomfortable questions about university life, while you frantically make up lies so that they won’t find out about your all-too-frequent visits to Jukes. Either way, Pssst… is more than happy to be back on campus to soak in all the delicious post-recess tea (and the Four Cousins that some of you have been having in the Thuto Building. Pssst… sees you).

Speaking of misguided outings, the Madelief ladies apparently had an eventful semi week – you know it’s wild when your residence’s official Twitter account tells you not to have so much fun that you get arrested. Speaking from previous experience, Madelief?

Pssst… has been keeping a keen eye out for res events, but Pssst… had to give House Tirisano and Tuks Bophelong’s “black and white” event a miss. Judging from the posters, the only food on sale would’ve been meaty skewers, hubbly coals and loosies. What about the vegans?

Pssst… has also been taking a look at the residences’ proposed Partyfest themes, and some of them are honestly too ill-advised for words. Pssst… has noticed that most of the reses are preoccupied with either sexy prisoners, sexy lifeguards or…Zac Efron? You draw the conclusions – Pssst… is just the messenger here.

In other irrelevant news, Mopane organized a golf day and were more than happy to tell us how much it costs, but they never divulged the venue. Pity. Pssst… jests of course – Pssst… wouldn’t have gone even if you drove Pssst… there in a luxury campus golf cart.

Apparently, the residents at Nerina have not been enjoying the construction noises coming from the direction of the building formerly known as Oom Gert’s (RIP). Well, Nerina, while you’ve been sad about some noise invading your naps (or whatever it is you do, Pssst… can never tell), the rest of us have been mourning a lack of delicious chips. Let’s weigh our priorities carefully, shall we?

Pssst… couldn’t help but notice that some Print posterssudoku around http://1sudoku.com the Humanities Building have revealed that some unknown members of the Faculty of Health Sciences can’t spell to save their lives – why must you fuel the stereotype this way?

Pssst…’s deepest condolences go out to those of you who wrote an FSG 110 test on the 18th of “Match”. It must’ve been wild.

Until so 8 next6time, Pssst… is always 5 lurking somewhere, 3 watch your backs. And next time you sneak wine onto campus, save some for Pssst…

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our iconic, inimitable favourite cousin apparently who says, “have you tried breathing exercises?” or sparked some controversy last week with the “have you tried just not being anxious?” or “did you discussion that was afoot – and while some know that swallowing whole avocado seeds will fill that comments mostly agreed with my (correct) opinion about crippling void in your existence?” Cultivate some healthy bare feet on campus, others did that News24 thing where relationships and set boundaries for yourself, is all I’m they didn’t read the article but shared their thoughts saying. And wear shoes to campus, gosh. anyway. Bless your hearts for trying, at least.

On to more pressing business, though. The semester Hope this finds you in good health, will draw to a close sooner than you realise, and with that Campus Cousin comes the arrival of everyone’s favourite four-letter word.

I’m talking about the word “exam”, of course, which leads us to something a little more serious than your cousin’s usual fare: anxiety.

Often joked about flippantly on Twitter, but not always fully understood, anxiety is a topic that divides people.

While it is a genuinely serious topic, your cousin believes that a little humour lightens everything. There are many ways to approach anxious feelings, along with the things that make you anxious in the first place.

Your fave’s pettiest pet peeve is when people say, “You’re a student, how much stress can you really be under?” Tell that to my 436 unread e-mails and my 522 ClickUP notifications, Helen. And then your mom calls and asks if you’re eating your veggies, while your uncle can’t help but notice that you’ve put on weight, and by the way, when are you getting married?

It’s okay to blow off steam, and it’s important to realise 4/2/2019 Crossword Puzzle Maker: Final Puzzle that you aren’t the only one who feels a little overwhelmed sometimes. Not every e-mail will “find you well”. Not every WhatsApp message needs an immediate response.

It’s okay to block toxic people on Facebook. What’s important is that you don’t cut yourself off from the people who care.

That being said, your fave knows that we all have different coping mechanisms for stress. Whether this involves wrapping yourself into a moody duvet burrito in your bed for hours or going on the occasional Nesquick Crossword Puzzle Maker: Final Puzzle binge, I understand. I’m4/2/2019 not going to be that person

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Sport Jalencke Weeber: Journey to Miss Varsity Cup 2019

Ntokozo Zondo

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n 26 March the journey to crowning a new Varsity Cup queen came to an end with the top three being selected and with Jalencke Weeber, medical student, going on to become the 2019 Tuks FNB Miss Varsity Cup. Weeber sat down with PDBY to discuss her journey, her aspirations for her term and her passion for public service.

Weeber discussed what drove her to entering the competition. “I am truly passionate about making a positive contribution to people’s lives and society.” Revealing a link between her new title and chosen degree, “this passion translated into my medical studies where I had the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Experiencing the joy of assisting and providing support when needed, inspired me to expand and refine the scope of possibility to be of service and make a positive contribution Jalencke Weeber. Photo: Nkululeko Ngcobo to society and my immediate community.” She explained how this competition fulfilled her need to serve, “MVC presented as the perfect opportunity to achieve this objective. Through representing Tuks and Varsity Cup with pride, I will be able to merge the two passions of sport and welfare into one project to emanate love, compassion and support throughout society where it is most needed.”

Weeber who is now a representative of the Miss Varsity

Top three 2019 Tuks FNB Varsity Cup. Photo: Nkululeko Ngcobo

Cup brand discussed how she would be using this platform, “my goals [...] are based on the foundation of spreading compassion. At the core of each person, all we want is to feel loved, seen and cared for. I truly want to reach people to make them feel this love. I will use this platform to reach and connect students with a similar passion of rendering kindness to reach relevant charities and areas of need, with whatever skill or resource they are able to provide.

Through encouraging collaboration with students, charities and Varsity Cup, I hope to create a powerful team based on perseverance and passion for positive change.”

Weeber discussed some of the duties she would be performing during her term, “At the beginning of my term, I will proudly represent Tuks nationally at the Varsity Cup finals, where I am hoping to return the overall Miss Varsity Cup title to Tuks again this year. My duties will focus on organising Varsity Cup related events and supporting our team throughout the season.” Weeber is most excited to get more involved with charities, “I am seeing my duties as an opportunity to integrate promoting Varsity Cup through various ways such as interviews, social media and attending events, while spreading awareness of our respective charities.”

Weeber’s preparation for the competition included, “staying informed about Varsity Cup 2019 as well as the history thereof. The preparation for this competition was

slightly different, since MVC isn’t a typical pageant. It’s more about being a well-rounded individual to represent Tuks during Varsity Cup, while actively growing, promoting and working with our charities.”

The most rewarding part of the journey for Weeber was that she “[had] received so much support, love and motivation. The most rewarding aspect has been to work with incredibly strong ladies who celebrate and support each other in a shared passion of contributing to society. This was not only seen in my fellow MVC participants, but also during our outreach, meeting strong and inspiring women who had been the victims of human trafficking, rape and abuse. It made my passion for positive contribution grow stronger.”

Weeber is a medical student like former Miss SA Rolene Strauss. Weeber reveals how she plans to juggle her academics and title, “I believe that time is irrelevant when it comes to passion. It’s always possible to make time for your priorities. I’ve always strived to maintain a well-balanced lifestyle that is achievable through planning and organising.

Since I am equally passionate about both my degree and the duties of MVC, finding time and energy to devote to both is a top priority fuelled by commitment and enthusiasm.”

When asked if she would be pursuing a modelling career once graduating, Weeber responded, “I am truly passionate about creating positive change and connecting people who want to contribute to this vision. If any modelling opportunity presents itself after graduation that might provide the opportunity to increase my field of influence to achieve this goal, I will definitely pursue it.”

Aynsley van Graan rewrites the Varsity Athletics record Ashley Magwindiri

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arsity Athletics concluded on Friday 15 March, with Tuks coming second overall after NWU. One of the Varsity Athletics highlights was Aynsley van Graan, who broke the 1500m record, after being denied the record due to a timing system issue in Stellenbosch. PDBY had the opportunity to speak to Van Graan, a post graduate student in education about her experience in Varsity Athletics.

Van Graan won the 1500m race with four minutes 23.81 seconds, which is three seconds ahead of Dale’s record set in 2014. Speaking to Van Graan on what it means to firmly place herself in the record books, she said, “It is an indication that I am progressing and that I am on the right track with training”. Asked on how Tuks has impacted her overall journey, Van Graan went on to say, “I am grateful to have the opportunity to represent Tuks and achieve my goals along the way.” Van Graan’s main focus this year has been on the, “World Cross Country Championships in Aarhus, Denmark”, where she is currently representing South Africa in the 10 km senior women’s race. When asked how her teammates have contributed to her success, Van Graan said, “It is always encouraging to see your teammates succeed and work hard in their events, and that is what inspires me to work harder and push myself.” Her love for the sport and desire to continuously improve, also motivates her to “push in training and races”.

Reflecting on her performance during Varsity athletics, Van Graan said, “I believe I can work harder, and that motivates me to push myself.” When PDBY asked what people should expect from her in the near future, Van Graan said, “After taking part in the World Cross Country Championships, I am headed to Stellenbosch for the USSA Championships and I will also take part in the ASA Senior Nationals taking place end of April in Germiston.” Focusing on her future, Van Graan said, “I have set goals for myself” and she plans on “achieving all of them”.

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