PDBY
12 February 2022
Year 84 | Issue 1
yourcampusnews.
Get to know
P3 First year’s guide to chowing course
R A E Y T FIRS
P10
SURVIVAL GUIDE
to Pretoria
P13 First Year Edition 2022
TuksSport: What’s on
P15 Image: Leah Rees
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12 February 2022
2 | From the Editor
PDBY Media Copy: CJ Barnard Maryke Steynvaart Lise le Roux Nondumiso Mntambo Ndinae Ramavhoya Tiara Joseph Layout: Duane Kitching Kara Olivier Bellinah Zwane Kendra Dean Multimedia: Tshepang Rihlampfu Cletus Mulaudi Cassandra Eardely Madeeha Hazarvi Ruth Versfeld Elma Akob Vice Mkansi Nikhila Moodley Social Media: Maria Lehoko Oratile Kgofelo
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News | 3
12 February 2022
Your guide to UP’s vaccine policy Susanna Anbu
A
s of January 2022, UP’s vaccine policy is currently undergoing a consultation
policy shall be approved by the UP senate. Director of Institutional Advancement at will only be announced once the consultation process with students and staff has been completed. Until then, the University’s response is based on a proposal […] which forms part of the consultation
have to indicate their vaccination status when they register”. Delport reiterated that the University’s position
on vaccines is characterised by encouraging all students and staff to vaccinate, directing those who
manner, without unnecessarily infringing upon
UP departments
students and staff who elect not to be vaccinated on medical or religious grounds”. Vaccination exemptions are to be granted by UP is based on a risk assessment process that vaccination is required”, with the area of Health the proposal hints at the possibility of other areas like education sectors being added onto the list. University recognises that staff and students have certain constitutional rights, the plan will create reintegrating staff into the workplace and students into the study space in a safe and sustainable
also stipulates that unvaccinated individuals will have limited access to high-risk events, sporting activities, social events and visiting friends in be granted exemption, they will be expected to undertake daily health screening before entering campus, wear a mask on campus and at campusrelated activities, provide the University with a weekly negative PCR test at their own cost regardless of whether they show symptoms or not.
SAFETY IN HATFIELD: NUMBERS TO HAVE Hatfield can be a dangerous place to live in and all students should be vigilant when around the university and surrounding areas. There are emergency lines that students can contact to ensure that they are safe at all times, and are useful to have on hand. These are Hatfield CID 24-Hour Emergency Numbers:
Brooklyn Police Station: 012 336 1735/6
Toll-Free: 0800 016 012 Alternatively: 073 540 1866
SAPS Crime Stop: 0860 010 111
Gender based violence hotlines: Emergency Line: 0800 428 428 Please Call Me number: *120* 7867# SMS ‘help’ to 31531 for persons with disabilities.
South African Depression & Anxiety Group - SADAG: 0800 12 13 14
Brooklyn Police Station 119 Duxbury Road, Hillcrest, Pretoria: 073 540 1866
Ambulance and Fire: 10177
University of Pretoria Safety and Security: 012 420 2310
Students can also reach out to the SRC facilities, safety and security officer, Mashudu Ramashidzha for more information. Students can reach Ramashidzha via email at src.facilities@tuks.co.za or by phone at 0761960388
• • • • •
Technological services Test and exam facilities Academic accommodations Mobility training Support groups and societies
Pregnancy Help collaborates with the Student Health Services Department to ensure that students who are experiencing any pregnancy related issues or concerns, are attended to.
Security Services ensures safety and security for both staff and students within the university. To reach out to UP Security Services, students can contact 0800 006 428 or 012 420 2310
UP prioritises student mental health and well-being. Thus, SCU is made available by the university to ensure that every student is afforded that right.
Their services are available on 5 UP campuses.
Finance Department
The Thabang Moloi
H
some of its occupants, is one of the most student-friendly environments in Pretoria because of its diversity in culture and proximity everything for every kind of person that sets foot there. of them being saturated in and around Burnett other major fast-food franchises. However, if they are looking for scrumptious and affordable halaal
Roastery on the corner of the street that has indoor and outdoor dining options.
for a date, Hazelwood, which is a stone throw away
restaurants are within a walking distance from one another. As a bonus, this place is heaven for content creators as it offers the perfect aesthetic that appeals
McDonalds
happen to accommodate people that are into grooving and people looking to quench their club and dinner theatre in Hazelwood, Beefcakes, that has various entertainment programs and themes for different days of the week. A few metres from Beefcakes, there is the
This department is responsible for student inquires, registration and similar enquiries. Students can contact the department via email at ssc@up.ac.za or by phone at 0124203111.
Student Accounts, managed by Mr Ayanda Simelane, is responsible for fee negotiations and other student account related issues. Students can contact Accounts by email at ayanda.simelane@
that caters to a very diverse cultural group
holidays. If one is looking for an experiencewings, burgers, and many other home-cooked meals.
Strip
The Finance Department is responsible for payments, fees, NSFAS related issues and
Illustration: Kelly-Anne Kong
Text: Amukelani Makamu Infographic: Masehle Mailula
covered. experience. It accommodates every kind of personality and club culture. If a person is more
book famous artists, DJs, and performing acts from around the country to perform and play. If they are into more upbeat, techno, and pop music, Strip, which is a walking distance from
that if the munchies have got them, they will not heart of the strip that offers chicken, burgers, and hookahs too. However, if students are looking for a more chilled vibe and experience while having a drink, 2.0 which offers a wide range of food stores, bars, a coffee shop as well as a tattoo and piercing shop.
on memberships for registered UP students. It is located on the same campus as the High members of the public for membership. for its occupants, especially students - they will not have to go far away to have their day-to-day necessities met.
12 February 2022
4 | News
COVID versus campus
Career Services:
Amukelani Makamu
N
Mothusi Mokalane
T
he University of Pretoria career services
PDBY
Image: UP Career Services (Facebook)
Amukelani Makamu
M PDBY
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AT UP
1
UPI: THE UMBRELLA SOCIETY
2 YOUR HOME ABROAD
INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION DIVISION
3 4 5
NIGERIAN STUDENTS SOCIETY
ZIMBABWE STUDENTS SOCIETY
SRC POSTGRAD AND INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: NEVILLE MUPITA
News | 5
12 February 2022
Browsing UP libraries Kayla Thomas
T
he university is renowned for its libraries, and boasts an impressive seven libraries across UP campuses. UP libraries are a useful asset to students throughout their degrees, and offer many services that come in handy throughout the semester, during tests and assignments and for exam season. Students have access to the following libraries across the campuses: • Merensky 2 Library • Education Library • Health Sciences Library • Oliver R Tambo Law Library • Mamelodi Library • Music Library • Jotello F Soga Veterinary Science Library A number of services and tools are offered by the Department of Library Services to all UP students and staff. The largest library is Merensky 2 and it has six floors of books of many disciplines. Each floor offers different subjects and browsing the floors can be a great break from studying. Most books can be borrowed for two weeks (and can be renewed via the UP Library app), and textbooks can be borrowed for two hours in the Reserved Study Collection. Beyond thousands of books, there are also study spaces available for use to work or study. These open tables and chairs throughout the libraries are great for working on assignments, prepping for tests and studying for exams. There are plug points for chargers and Wi-Fi hotspots across the library. There are also over 100 computers that can be used by any student - simply log in with your UP details. UP libraries also offer printing services via TuksPrint (you can register on their website), and regular plagiarism workshops and training throughout the year.
Intervarsity News: Vaccination policies of South African tertiary institutions University of Cape Town (UCT) policy approved by its Council. The university’s vaccine mandate requires students and staff to present proof of vaccination with one of the approved COVID-19 vaccines. Alternatively they can present proof of valid exemption. Exemption is granted on the basis of religious, medical and conscience grounds. UCT’s policy asserts that it will formulate two different Vaccination Exemptions Panels and Vaccination Appeals Panels (VAP), each processing exemptions based on religion, conscience, and medical reasons. Exempted students are required to present a weekly negative COVID-19 test and will not be permitted to occupy UCT residences. UCT’s policy states that in the event the university is unable to reasonably accommodate its unvaccinated employees leading to the employee being incapable of carrying out their contracted duties, said employee will be subjected to termination of employment. The policy is expected to become effective from 1 March 2022. The University of Stellenbosch, University of Free State (UFS,) and University of Venda are some of the other institutions to adopt a similar vaccine policy framework as UCT.
University of Witwatersrand (Wits) As per Wits’ mandatory vaccination policy, all members of the university community are expected to provide evidence of
For group projects, assignments and research work, discussion and conference rooms can be reserved for private use aside from the general study areas. For students with disabilities, level 3 of the Merensky 2 Library offers a study space with equipment to make studying a smoother process. For blind and visually impaired students, JAWS, Zoomtext and desk magnifiers are available, and the WYNN program is available for students with ADHD, dyslexia and cognitive and learning disabilities. The desks are also accessible by wheelchair. The library also offers guidance from the teams of friendly and professional librarians and staff. Different UP departments have specific subject librarians, so be sure to check with your faculty or contact UP Libraries on their newly redesigned website, library.up.ac.za. The website also has information on specific libraries and collections, as well as a full list of services and library features such as the MakerSpace. You can also keep up to date with the Department of Library Services on Instagram @uplibrary. Check out their highlights to catch up on #InstaNovels, short stories featured on @uplibrary’s IG stories. The Merensky 2 Library on Hatfield Campus is open from 08:00 to 18:00 on weekdays and from 09:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays, and the Study Centre is open 24 hours everyday. Most other UP libraries are open from 08:00 between 15:00 and 18:00. The Health Sciences library is open by appointment only, aside from the research commons. The libraries’ hours can change as the COVID-19 pandemic continues, so always check the library website for the most recent operating hours.
News Bites UP Moot Society announces team for 2022 MLMC The UP Moot Society announced its team to represent the society at the Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Court Competition in 2022. The team is made up of two speakers, Koketso Moshiraand and Comfort Ayelomi. Molebogeng Ramaijane will be the researcher and Kgomela Letsoalo, the coach. The competition will run from 22-28 March 2022 in Vienna, Austria.
Stern warning by Department of Library Services The Department of Library Services has received several requests to warn users about a publisher by the name European Society of Medicine (ESMED). This publisher advertises dubious academic conferences and events. Students are urged to be vigilant and avoid academic events advertised by ESMED and similar publishers.
Professor Kupe incumbency turns three The University of Pretoria Vice Chancellor and Principal, Professor Tawana Kupe reached a milestone on 14 January 2022. Professor Kupe has been at the helm for the past three years since he took over in January 2019.
UP Law Faculty makes history UP Law Faculty makes history appointing former DCJ Dikgang Ernest Moseneke. The former Deputy Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court, Dikgang Ernest Moseneke was appointed as an honorary professor by the Faculty of Law. The Atteridgeville native was appointed by the Faculty in the Department of Jurisprudence and his incumbency began as of January 2022. DCJ Moseneke served in the second highest and 20 days.
Image: UPSPace Institutional Repository
university. Visitors are expected to produce a physical copy of the university property. The effective date of the policy was 1 January 2022.
University of Johannesburg (UJ) UJ’s vaccination policy requires students to provide digital vaccination cards to authorised university personnel in order to the vaccination status has been undertaken, students and staff will have their access cards activated for campus access. Furthermore, the policy allows UJ employees to undertake vaccination during working hours, with sick leave granted to any individual facing side effects from the administration of the vaccination. Those who are exempt from vaccination by UJ’s Committee: Mandatory Vaccination, are expected to undertake SARS-CoV-2 testing every week at their own cost. They “will not have access to activities in common spaces where social engagements occur, will not be provided with accommodation in any university-owned residence and will only be permitted to attend graduation ceremonies online”. UJ’s vaccination policy was approved by the council on 25 November 2021.
University of Western Cape (UWC) UWC’s core vaccine policy statement stipulates their vaccine principle to be that of a “soft mandate” whereby “students will generally be allowed to register irrespective of being vaccinated or not, subject to where a hard mandate is approved by Senate for certain modules and where the rendering of a service to the public on a medical platform forms part of the module”. The policy further states that students will not be able to register for a degree that incorporates some form of service in medical facilities or incorporates a form of public learning service. The faculties
of dentistry, medicine, and School of Pharmacy at UWC are all subjected to a hard mandate. If students falling under this hard mandate rule have been partially vaccinated, UWC allows these students to register with the condition that they present proof of 2022. Failure to comply with this date allows the university to deregister the student. In terms of vaccination leave, UWC grants three hour leave to attend a vaccination site and have the vaccine administered to them. In order to access campus, the policy requires students and staff to produce their vaccination cards to campus security. A copy UWC grants vaccine exemption under 3 main grounds; medical reasons, religious reasons or constitutional grounds. The policy lists the documentation required as per each ground which an applicant can use to apply for exemption, 3 days prior to their return to the campus. All vaccine exemptions are set to be processed by the University Exemption Application Committee. UWC’s interim policy as of date does not require students and staff who have been granted exemption to undertake weekly COVID-19 testing, but does require them to undertake remote learning or working and continued wearing of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). Furthermore, UWC’s policy takes a tough stance on the dissemination of false information regarding COVID-19 vaccines, stating “in addition, where an employee or student disseminates false information in relation to the COVID-19 Vaccine and/or its side effects to other employees or students without the consent of the university with the intention of discouraging them from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, such an employee or student shall be disciplined in line with the university’s disciplinary codes and procedures”. On 24 December 2021, the Western Cape High Court ordered accommodation for students who were evicted from their university residences. The eviction came in light of UWC attempting to deep clean all university residences to implement its interim vaccination policy in 2022. Complied by Susanna Anbu
12 February 2022
6 | News
Representation at UP: A conversation with:
Bold Society
Tuks UPandOut
Amukelani Makamu
U
P has various societies and spaces put in place to ensure that all students, regardless of their gender, sexuality, race etc., are represented. PDBY interviewed BOLD special committee, TuksUP&OUT and SpeakOUT UP.
BOLD Society: BOLD is a committee that brings together students with disabilities, advocates for their rights and embark[s] on awareness campaigns to combat negative and harmful misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding persons with disabilities at higher institutions of learning. SpeakOUT UP: #SpeakOutUP is an organisation and the Centre for Sexualities AIDS and Gender (CSA&G) at UP. It aims to assist students and staff who have experienced Sexual and Gender-based Violence (SGBV) and all forms of discrimination. It provide peer counselling to students. #SpeakOutUP is also active on Instagram (and hosts an online series, “In conversation with #SpeakOutUP”, with various stakeholders to engage meaningfully about different societal issues. We also have activations, where we inform students about our organisation and the services we provide. Tuks UP&OUT: UP&OUT is dedicated to creating a free and equitable environment for queer students at the university. To achieve this goal we actively work towards making sure safe spaces are available for students to express their identity freely and without prejudice. We host regular events and activities, which students are welcome to join regardless of their sex, gender, sexual orientation or race. Most importantly, UP&OUT is not just a campus society, but a home for courageous people who continue to show resilience in the face of adversity.
BOLD Society: this form https://docs.google.com/foorms/d/1Nse QZYnloroxbBHDJF7loiqfgPfQMg9zmtf6XGxNU WE/edit?usp=drivesdk or by joining the following WhatsApp group https://chat.whatsapp.com/ LPnLcmIE7TD71N8Ez1jyNh SpeakOUT UP: First years can be part of #SpeakOutUP by signing up for the volunteer cohort and then attending our peer counselling training. They also need to be certain that they are willing and available to engage in the work that we do as #SpeakOutUP. Anyone looking to get involved with #SpeakOutUP can email us at speakoutup@gmail. com or contact us through our Instagram account @ speakout_up. Tuks UP&OUT: First years can be a part of UP&OUT by signing up as a member of the society. They can also join us weekly at LGBTalks where we meet, connect as a community, and foster companionship. Those interested in joining UP&OUT can follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter at @tuks_upandout where we post details about our upcoming events and activities, and where society.
BOLD Society: Representation to BOLD is when diverse individuals relate to, feel that they are being understood, see a part of themselves in other people who are in the same environments as them, and who SpeakOUT UP: Representation means advocating for change within our university space. It is the ability to have an inclusive environment accepting of everyone regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and religion. It is about
SpeakOut UP
creating a safe space in which everyone can be free to voice out their concerns, ideas and express themselves without prejudice or discrimination. Tuks UP&OUT: Representation to us means visibility. It involves the acknowledgment of our identities as a uniquely valid component of a diverse social fabric - being loud and proud of who we are. While queerness and gender diversity are we view representation as a daily, consistent effort in the South African community. In our efforts, UP&OUT strives to be a force of change that combats discrimination and mistreatment on the basis of sexuality and gender. But representation involves a thriving sense of community of incredible people. To those who have experienced being ‘Othered’ in one form or another: the importance of representation at UP&OUT ensures that your voice will be heard, valued, and respected.
BOLD Society: We have embarked on different awareness campaigns for the past three years -from our annual casual campaign, panels of discussion with the SRC, the transformation department, the library services, and other departments of UP about a range of topics. We have also had events where we partnered with TEDxUP, Law House and other organisations under student development about different topics ranging from discrimination to sports with people with disabilities. Our members have also participated in research carried out by other postgrad students with regards to the wellbeing of students with disabilities at UP. We have embarked on many other smaller social events with our members and can’t wait to continue doing the same and more this year now that we are a special committee. SpeakOUT UP: “In Conversations with #SpeakOutUP” with various guests speaking about different issues. This forms part of our monthly webinars. • Providing counselling training to #SpeakOutUP volunteers. • Collaboration with BOLD in their initiative of selling casual stickers. • Sexual Assault Awareness Week (#SAAW) • Activation for men’s month and the Men’s Round Table Talk • Awareness campaign for Mental health and Disability Month • Anti-discrimination Week • Voting campaign during elections and informing students on how to vote for the SRC and the importance of participating in elections • Ladies’ night to create a safe space for women by women. Tuks UP&OUT: Aside from our weekly queerfocused talks we also regularly collaborate with other Tuks societies to bring our members engaging UP&OUT partnered with the Hindu Students Society, the UP Debate Society, and Tuks SAUJS. Events that we’ve hosted include movie nights, capture issues in the queer community, and Queer Prom. UP&OUT occasionally collaborates with other queer advocacy organisations (like the GALA Archive) to increase our impact within the community as a whole. ‘Mundane’ is not a word in our vocabulary and UP&OUT strives to always bring something new, innovative, and a little eccentric to its members every year.
BOLD Society: To increase awareness of the committee, build a community of students with disabilities at UP, and partner with different groups who represent students at UP and other universities. SpeakOUT UP: is to get as many people to be a part of these very important conversations in society and make a
difference by creating safe spaces for people from different walks of life; so that they can speak on their lived experiences and contribute to the conversations that we need to have. We also seek to make a lasting impact on people’s lives through our programmes and through peer counselling.
creating a free, and equitable environment for the queer community, as well as creating safe spaces for students to express and feel comfortable with themselves and their identity. We would further like to focus on drawing awareness to the execution of the UP Trans Protocol which can be found on our
Tuks UP&OUT: increase the visibility of UP&OUT and queer voices at UP . UP&OUT continues to be dedicated to
students with solidarity against adversity, acceptance of their differences, and a community of unwavering support.
News | 7
12 February 2022
Faculty House Visions for 2022: Find your Faculty House Chairperson’s message here Amukelani Makamu
P
DBY year students.
Onderstepoort Veterinary and Paraveterinary Committee (OPVSC)
“Life at Onderstepoort is unique and not truly understood until one has experienced it”, Thulani Saizi, OPVSC Chairperson, said. OPVSC hopes to make OP student life bearable, exciting, worth living, and at the same time empowering students to become the best Vet/Vet nurses possible. Saizi added that their main objective is to improve OPVSC’s presence as a holistic student life Saizi further explained that they plan on being more approachable to students through engaging with them so that they feel comfortable talking to the committee – “we are already working on this by changing the style of our social media approach”.
Here are a few tips from OPVSC • • • •
House Theology and Religion
“My vision for the 2021/22 EC is to focus on supporting our student population in terms of Academics and Student Wellness”, said House Theology and Religion Chairperson, Jacques Heymans. “It will form the basis of all our interventions and events. I envision that it will work on the basis of interaction, student class representatives, with members of the EC and also fellow students”, Heymans added. The long term objective is to form a basis to assist future students with the integration from home and high school to university. House Theology and Religion aims to achieve this by hosting workshops and study sessions and to work closely with the lecturers on this approach to avoid the possible lack of integration the students might face. The Faculty House also aims to bridge the gap between students and the Faculty through transparency. The advice that
Keep your BME and MTL textbooks Don’t be intimidated by the workload in 2nd year Enjoy your stay on the main campus because that’s the only chance you have The journey is long, but it feels so short in the end. Remember to take time to smell the fresh air, and your future patients need you!
House Education
“I envision an Executive Committee that serves its people, putting the needs of the electorate constituency before their own needs, prioritising their responsibilities, and
Commerci – Economic and Management Sciences Faculty (EMS)
Chairperson of Commerci, Kopano Legote, said that their vision is to establish a well-rounded support structure for all EMS students, to increase inclusivity and unity within the structure and to promote transformation and empower each student. The main objectives of Commerci are to transform the EMS faculty through awareness and inclusion, to provide opportunities and platforms to ensure the development and growth of students, and to improve communication, consistency, and knowledge. Legote further said that they will interact with students more by expanding their accessibility and maximising their platforms. Commerci also plans on bridging the gap between the students and the faculty by being more active and attentive to students and their academics. They believe in starting at the very basics to combat the larger problem, basics such as communication. Commerci will issue out an annual magazine, try out a podcast that will allow them to fully address any student matters and have EMS stall pop-ups around residences and areas populated by students.
made”, said Jameo Calvert, House Education Chairperson. This will be achieved with an “atmosphere for collaboration, teamwork, and dedication – in order to ensure that members of the EC do not [lose] their work ethic and morale”. House Education would like to see a transformed faculty house, and a functional Executive Committee. They dream of a House Education that serves the entire student students. House Education aims for a faculty house where house members feel included, and where all house members are involved in the activities of the faculty house.
Law House
House Humanities
Michelle Mukome, the House Humanities Chairperson shared the Faculty House’s vision and mission. Mukome said that their vision is Addese et curare, which means to be supportive and present. Mukome explained that House Humanities aims to achieve this vision by walking in the transition into their university journey as smoothly as possible by engaging, sharing information, and providing a safe space for students to reach out for help. The Faculty House also plans on bridging a gap between the Humanities faculty and students by being transparent, having consistent communication, and through showing that the faculty supports students the best they can. “We hope to achieve this by engaging with various lecturers in events or initiatives. Allowing ground when all parties are actively trying and participating”, Mukome said.
Asanda Lembede, the Law House Chairperson, shared their 2022 vision and mission. “As an executive committee we decided that our vision is to constantly and consistently ensure that through all the activities we offer, our constituency is one explained that Law House wants to ensure that they gradually facilitate change in the way that law students view their degrees by readapting the current career trajectory so that students harvest from their degrees. Law House wants to ensure that they expand their allyship with the students by optimising accessibility to all their events to ensure a larger portion of the student constituency.
Engineering, Built Environment, and IT (EBIT) Nadya Meherjina, the EBIT Chairperson, shared EBIT’s vision and mission for 2022. Their vision is ‘Revolutionising Student Life Together’. “The uncertainty faced over the last two years has blurred what student life in the EBIT faculty and University of Pretoria as a whole look[s] like”, Meherjina said. As a result, the EBIT Executive Committee (EC) decided on this vision together as they are committed in reimagining and implementing a balanced objective of EBIT is to provide a holistic experience for students as they have the opportunity to provide academic, social, and professional platforms. EBIT’s second objective is to expose and encourage collaborations between various schools in EBIT. Meherjina said that they “have a unique blend of degrees in our faculty that enables [us] to learn and grow together from our individual experiences. We aim from these experiences and to provide opportunities where this is achievable”.
Health House
Tasha Erasmus, the Health House Chairperson, said that their vision is to be a more inclusive EC by ensuring access to all students and taking different perspectives into account. Their main objective is to increase student participation in events. Health House also plans on interacting with students through their social media platforms to give students the chance to comment and express their views and their concerns. The Faculty House aims to be transparent about what is going on and address student concerns by taking it up with the correct people until the matter is is to make time for the little things, “time goes by so fast, do not miss a chance to grow and do what makes you happy”.
Natural and Agricultural Sciences (NAT) House
Zeenat Patel, the NAT House Chairperson, shared their 2022 vision and mission. The broad vision of NAT House for this term excellence. NAT House will achieve this by ensuring that every student in the faculty feels comfortable to participate in events and interact with the faculty house. They aim at providing necessary information to students to make their time at university less confusing. “This vision will guide us in a way that will allow both the events and activities we host as well as the ones we participate in to be successful”, Patel said. NAT House’s hope is that they will have the opportunity to interact with students both in person and online. Students can reach out to NAT House on Instagram @nathouse_tuks, on Facebook @TuksNatHouse and ClickUP. The platform that they are excited about is Discord server that was established in the previous year. “It’s a place where we can interact in a casual and personal way and so I could encourage all NAS students to join it”, Patel added. For more formal matters, NAT House uses a NAT House email address which can be found here: https://www.up.ac. za/nathouse/article/254847/contact-us
12 February 2022
8 | News
TuksRes Culture: A home away from home
in question. This includes but is not limited to numerous social events with other residences (mostly between the female and male residences), where all kinds of fun activities are carried out by the
Thabang Moloi
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ith reference to the University of Pretoria’s website, the Department of Residence Affairs and Accommodation, most commonly known as TuksRes, is the largest university residence in the country. It is said to have been established in 2004 as one collaborative business unit. It now consists of at least 28 residences around Pretoria that are spanned across the different campuses and accommodates the undergraduate and postgraduate students.
host themed parties and events on weekends. Moreover, as a result of
year students of different residences compete against one another in coordinated dance and musical medleys. TuksRes also collaborates
teams of two or more - usually a female residence is partnered up with
portfolio that plans and organises different fundraiser events.
PDBY questions and these are some of their responses:
16 residences to its name - eight female residences, six male residences, and two mixed residences. All the female residences, except Azalea, are situated close to and
Photo: Madeeha Hazarvi
main value and we will ensure that we live it out to the fullest… One thing [they] should be looking forward to is our Interior Night which is the biggest night and event we host in Azalea…”
Azalea, and one mixed residence (TuksVillage) are situated on their own campus. TuksRes Hillcrest which is a few kilometres away from campus) has three female residences and one male residence. The programme tailored to the unique culture and tradition of the house
What to do in the event of Sexual Assault Reporting Report the incident to the SAPS or the UP Transformation Office if the incident took place on campus. Brooklyn SAPS can be reached at , and is located at 119 Duxbury Road.
Psychological Aid Seek psychological aid from the following: 1. Student counselling: 0800 747 747 or, if you want someone to call you back, send an SMS to 31393. This is a 24-hour service.
Unplanned Pregnancy In the event of an unplanned pregnancy, contact the following: 012 1. Student Health Services: 420 2500 2. AMATO@UP: 012 342 3452
year brings a new generation of Houtemanne, and subsequent opportunities to invest, share and learn more about one another.” “We are the most balanced. We are a hard-working, yet very social residence. We are competitive, but not within our own res, we truly work as a unit to get things done. We have respect, yet we know our power and ability to speak up.”
Get Medical Assistance See a medical professional to be examined. Contact either: 1. Thuthuzela Centres: 012 354 1874 2. HIV Testing & Counselling and Student Health Services: 012 420 2500
excited about it!”
biggest hype so we can’t wait to host the event…”
Support Services “The clubhouse will be active on a weekly basis [pertaining to
For support resources go to one of the following: 1. SpeakOut: speakout@up.ac.za IG : speakout_up 2. Centre for Sexualities, AIDS and Gender: 012 420 4391
Dogbox, is easily the most popular clubhouse amongst the residences
coming from our lovely RAG partners, House Mopane and their clubhouse.”
great house spirit.”
In an emergency contact: Campus services 1. UP crisis line: 0800 006 428 or SMS UP to 31393 2. UP care line: 0800 747 747
growth, bonding, and self-discovery, all of which are facilitated through events such as Orientation week… Wellbeing sessions and an array of amazing Res socials’’
Emergency Services 1. Nationwide Emergency Response: 1011 2. Thuthuzela centers: 012 354 1874
“Our neighbouring [house] House Tau seems to be a fairly good
“Honestly speaking I wouldn’t know because Azalea is the best”
because you can always count on them to bring spirit, passion, and intentionality to anything that they do.”
Rape, sexual assault and other forms of gender based violence are common in university spaces. Scan here, to read more information on 'What to do in the event of sexual assault'.
“I feel that Asterhof is the best ladies residence. In terms of the guys’ residences, we love and stay loyal forever to our RAG partner House
Infographic: Leah Rees
Features | 9
12 February 2022
Illustration: Cassandra Eardley
PDBWhy:
you can’t constantly ask lecturers to repeat themselves, so that’s something that I’ll miss about online [learning]. Its also very tiring to be on campus, especially with chronic illness or chronic pain–
A trip down memory lane Muskaan Singh
W
ith the better part of two years of online learning, students have become accustomed to life away from campus. When restrictions were lifted in December, group chats were abuzz at the possibility of returning to campus and the reviews were mixed. We reminisce over the good, the bad, and the moments tinged golden with nostalgia.
Tiara Joseph: 3rd Year LLB What was the best thing about campus in your experience? Experiencing people and the serendipity of interaction; learning about their lives and just the sonder of it all. I’ll concede that it’s clichéd to say, but being physically on campus (Irrespective of one introversion or extroversion) lets you experience life - and by life I mean people - because it’s my understanding that experiencing people is part of how we experience life. It’s “sonder” and it’s cliched, but it’s also immense and wonderful too. I spoke to at least one to two people every hour or so whilst on campus. Some of those people have stayed, and become my closest friends. I met one of my dearly close mates by a serendipity that could have of Thuto - assembling a salad whilst waiting for a lecture to start (yes, assembling - a salad - not even eating a salad) - I then made accidental eye contact with a guy who had the precise look that you’d “picnic for one” demarcated Tupperware assembly line of vegetables at 5pm in Thuto. Call it fate, my inability to refuse a snacking opportunity, or the serendipity of interactions, it’s rare to connect with individuals in such a way when it’s a mic off/mute campus. I hold so much of it in gratitude, that’s what it is. The most wonderful part of being on campus is the experience of university academia. Interacting with lecturers, professors, master degrees, PhDs, bachelor’s degrees, researchers. The physical university itself: lecture halls, libraries, the architecture; the aesthetic writing in pen. The immense satisfaction and enjoyment around the debate and discourse of knowledge; student food; banter with people you don’t know and might never see again; complaining about overpriced coffee on the way to class but buying anyways. Opinions; schools of thought; critical thinking/writing and reading. Busy lecture halls; English 110 being over full at 07:30 in the
empty on 07:30 midway through the semester that you could count the number of people in the room. Walking to a 18:30 test with friends; the nonchalant disposition towards writing tests in person. Anticipating the spontaneity and redirection of a lecture when it’s full class of students vs one lecturer and a spicy topic area. And those people who used to come to the student plaza and hand out free stuff all the time. The societies: events by student structures; meetings and events on campus and meeting new people there. Learning and being taught in person and It’s not even just missing it. I’m so grateful that we had it because while in hindsight it was an alternative, back then it was so ordinary. What did you most dislike about life on campus? Pigeons... so many pigeons… and they weren’t always peaceful. They were like the real-life version of Angry Birds. Also, as someone from KZN, the heat of Pretoria takes me a week and several allergy tablets to acclimatise. There is nothing that I really disliked about campus in retrospect, but I suppose if I had to go into the present moment of time and be Tiara in 2020, I think the one thing that maybe used to get to me was if you had tests the same day that you had a lot of lectures. What are you most nostalgic about?
especially for those of us who struggle with our bodies and it can be quite frustrating. What are you most nostalgic about? When we were in the labs, there was always a sense of everyone going through the same thing, everyone was struggling, and people were doing their best to help others. Everyone wanted to see people succeed and do well.
Irza Rauf: 3rd Year LLB What was the best thing about campus in your experience? The best part for me was how friendly everyone was. In the lecture halls everyone was just very easy to talk to, and making friends was so easy. Everyone at Tuks in general was so pleasant, or at least on the What did you most dislike about life on campus? at 17:30 and it would be a two hour or three hour test and we would come back out when I was dark. For those of us that had to walk home, it felt really unsafe so that was very inconvenient. What are you most nostalgic about? All the cafes on campus and meeting up with my friends after lectures, just venting about our stress.
people, the opportunity that enabled me to grow as a person. And for lecture hall and the building. Quite frankly, I’m nostalgic for it all.
Claudia Du Plesis: 3rd Year BSc What was the best thing about campus in your experience? The atmosphere, being surrounded by people your same age, and the spirit of comradery. Everyone knows that everyone else is also suffering a bit. Just being able to speak to people who are studying the same thing as you, without having to have it
Karel Smit: 3rd Year CompSci What was the best thing about campus in your experience? The best thing about campus is probably the people you meet. Everyday you’re likely to come across many interesting people that you’ve never spoken to before, all of whom have a different outlook on life, which I personally think can help to develop your own viewpoint on life. What did you most dislike about life on campus? The thing that I disliked actually ties in with the thing that I do
question about something, especially if you’re studying something that’s more niche or that not many people are studying.
atmosphere makes it easy to lose track of time and even begin to skip classes.
What did you most dislike about life on campus? I think I miss [campus] so much that I don’t remember the bad stuff. One thing, academically speaking, is that it’s nice to be able to go back in a lecture video if you’re missing something whereas in person
What are you most nostalgic about? As for the nostalgia, I would have to say it’s sitting around on the Aula lawn with some friends. Pretty basic, but it’s what comes to
12 February 2022
10 | Features
Muskaan Singh
T Preparing for class often contains the scope and dates for semester tests, lists contact the introduction and
...academics is not the only [important] aspect of university life...
of the main points in each
you may have. Image: Madeeha Hazarvi
Stay engaged
Stay organised
it helps to attend your lectures. Even then, passively
discussions. Image: Masehle Mailula
Sex, love and masturbation Lauren Harries
F activities.
Illustration: Sanele Zulu
Insider
12 February 2022
News | 3
WITHOUT FEAR OF RETALIATION, CENSORSHIP OR PUNISHMENT YOU HAVE THE RIGHT OF FREEDOM OF SPEECH, FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND FREEDOM OF MEDIA AND PRESS. THIS IS THE FREEDOM TO SHARE YOUR OPINION, WITHOUT FEAR WHERE DO YOU GET THIS RIGHT FROM?
,
SECTION 16
SOUTH AFRICA'S CONSTITUTION
s
T
PREAMBLE
SOUTH AFRICAN PRESS CODE
ARTICLE 19
UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS
HOW CAN YOU SPEAK TO STUDENT MEDIA?
s
r
SOCIAL MEDIA
@pdbymedia
news@pdby.co.za
LETTER TO THE EDITOR editor@pdby.co.za
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT? Freedom of expression, speech and media is crucial in a democratic society. You have these rights. They empower you to hold those in power accountable, and call for transparency in matters that affect students. THESE RIGHTS ARE PROTECTED IN SOUTH AFRICA. IF YOU ARE INTIMIDATED, THREATENED OR PREVENTED FROM ACTING ON YOUR RIGHTS, OR YOU WOULD LIKE TO LEARN MORE, REACH OUT TO PDBY.
KNOW SOMETHING? SAY SOMETHING
Ad | 11
12 February 2022
12 | Entertainment
First year horror stories nd
PDBY
Apps and aids for staying productive Leah Rees and Kayla Thomas Free resources online UP Library App
CamScanner Slidesgo Google Drive
TED Google Chrome extensions
Google Docs
ClickUP PDBY Image: Leah Rees
Entertainment | 13
12 February 2022
Springbok
Jukes
Some tips: •
Ashleigh Pascoe
I
Fokof Bar • •
Jolly Rogers Terra Rooftop
• • • • •
Latinos Corner Pocket
The coffee lover’s guide to Pretoria Kendra Connock
Artisan Coffee Bar
A
PDBY’s Tip:
Bamlilo Coffee Company
PDBY PDBY’s Tip:
Nush Café
PDBY’s Tip:
Plato Coffee
Like these songs? Check out PDBY’s Spotify for more!
PDBY’s Tip:
Image: Leah Rees
12 February 2022
14 | Entertainment
2022 Textbook Guide Don’t read it and weep Mahmooda Milanzie and Leah Rees
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especially for new students. It is normal to not know how or who to ask for help when trying to get textbooks and set-works for the year. The following textbook guide can be a useful source of information to start the search off on the right foot.
UP libraries UP has a total of nine libraries across its seven campuses that hold thousands of books used by students, lecturers and faculties for more information. Textbooks can be borrowed by students for a few hours to take notes from, make photocopies of or study from. Other books, for business or pleasure, can be borrowed for a period up to 14 days. UP library services are also available on an app that is used The app is available on the App Store or Google Play Store. The they may have. Students can view the opening hours of each library at https://upza.libcal.com/hours/, as the various faculty library times differ.
Image: Leah Rees
books to a wish list. Van Schaik is on Burnett Street and is open on Monday to Thursday from 08:00 to 17:00. On Friday the store is open from 09:00 to 17:00.
also has an online platform where students can purchase or add
UP students, known for its reasonable prices and second-hand
Protea Bookstore Since 1992, Protea has been a bookstore for students to receive books for academic purposes at university. According to their buys their textbooks at Protea Book House”. Protea Bookstore is on 1067 Burnett Street and opens on Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00 and on Saturdays from 08:00 to 13:00.
Bookmark
Van Schaik Bookstore Van Schaik Bookstore has a wide range of customers including lecturers, parents, students and academic faculties. Students can
Wizebooks
material. Bookmark is also a good place to buy last minute stationary needed before a test. Bookmark is located on campus close to the Student Centre, and sells both print and e-books. The store is open on Monday to Thursday from 08:00 to 17:00, Friday from 08:00 to 16:00, and Saturday from 08:00 to 13:00.
carefully. Wizebooks is located on 1116 Prospect Street. The store is open from Monday to Friday, from 08:00 to 17:00 and Saturdays from 09:00 to 13:00.
Online Online platforms for textbooks can be useful for students outside of Pretoria. Sites such as Takealot are convenient websites for many online purchases, including university textbooks for students who hate to wait in line. However, delivery times can often be a set-back, so ensure that the book can be accessed in the meantime at one of the various faculty libraries. Alternatively, for cheaper second hand options, students should check posters at the Student Centre and Residence boards, as well as WhatsApp groups. The Merensky Library also has a Study were not able to buy at the start of the semester.
PDBY Featured Artist: A chat with videographer Royd Ringdahl Ashleigh Pascoe
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oyd Ringdahl is a UP student with a special skill set in videography. Ringdahl has directed various videos, such as “Be My Guest” and “Die in LA” by Internet Girl, and “Shapes” by local alternative artist, PDBY interviewed him regarding the background scenes of being a video director and the projects he has been working on. Please introduce yourself a bit. Tell us who you are, where you’re from, and what you do. Hey there! I’m Royd Ringdahl. I’m a 22-year-old kid from Joburg, and I make music videos for a small living while studying engineering at Tuks. Would you describe your position as a “video director,” or are there other elements to your art? Yeah, essentially that’s the jist of it. It’s kind of a jack-ofall-trades situation that depends on the size of a project you’re involved in but it can be everything from conceptualising, important elements for me, each with their own signature. How did your interest in videography develop? I’ve always held a deep admiration and obsession with music and cinematography. The merger of the two always seemed natural. I would conjure elements in my mind into mini music videos. From there, I just had this inkling that making music videos would be something that would bring me a lot of joy and I jumped at it and started making some videos for my artist friends with no more than an iPhone. I learnt how to edit along the way and the growth from there over the past two years has just been so exponential.
Which art piece/project are you most proud of? time it is the “Be My Guest” video for Internet Girl. That video really took a lot out of me both physically and mentally - but I was so intense go-kart chases to emotional ‘talking head’ scenes. Though I have to say I’m proud of all the videos I’ve been involved in. I’ve been lucky enough to have an awesome support network and talented people to work with along the way. I have been blown away with the international response to even my earliest most amateurish videos. I just see all of them as beautiful time frames of people and memories, one is not more important than another. What is your creative process? I tend to just try and immerse myself in the music and listen to it in a variety of different scenarios. I draw inspiration from images that just pop into my head and then the real world around me. I think it helps too that I consume a lot of media, so I always have subconscious derivations of ideas I’d like to try out.
What is your dream project?
Image: Provided
want to work with that I’m sure I’ll get to within the next year or so. Beyond that I would love to get into some more storytelling,
What is the toughest part about being a video director? Being practical and staying inspired. When you’re working on a budget and with limited resources there is always going to be some level of compromise - one must make from their ideal visualisation. This dilemma follows through the stages from planning, to on the set
Is there anything that you are working on now that you would like to share with the readers? I’ve been focusing really hard on my academics recently - being
produced on the spot - which is both part of the thrill and challenge of directing. I didn’t realise how demanding it would be making videos before I went into it and how much effort goes into just a single shot. It’s made me appreciate the artform that much more. As
from me soon. How can people engage with you and view your content?
something that must be constantly cultivated and worked at keeping a curious mind to new ideas.
with my full portfolio of work if you’re into that kind of thing.
Sport | 15
12 February 2022
TuksSport what’s on offer A-Z
TuksAikido
TuksArchery TuksAthletics
TuksBadminton
TuksBasketball TuksCanoe
TuksCheerleading
TuksChess
Assupol TuksCricket
TuksCueSport TuksCycling
TuksDance
TuksEsport
TuksExploratio
TuksGolf
TuksGymnastics
TuksFencing TuksFootball
TuksJudo
TuksRowing
TuksKarate
TuksRugby
TuksLifesaving TuksNetball
TuksSquash
TuksSwimming
TuksTennis TuksTrampoline TuksTriathlon TuksUltimate
TuksVolleyball TuksWaterpolo TuksWrestling TuksYachting
TuksHockey
TuksOrienteering
TuksTaekwondo
TuksUnderwaterhockey
Sport PDBY Featured Athlete:
Sport Bites TuksHockey hosts 2022 trials
Juggling sports and academics with Sihle Ngubane Manelisi Magoro
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0-year-old BEd student Sihle Ngubane hails from Durban KwaZulu-Natal. He
21:00 on 25 February. Registration for trials
Ngubane says that he always wanted to play
TuksWomensRugby 7’s and 15’s welcome new players
far as playing at a national level. PDBY
Describe your sports career and achievements, including those from UP. started in 2020 and I won Gold with the Olympus Orions in the Northern Galaxy League the same
TuksSport and Mamelodi Sundowns FC announce partnership
Did you play sports during your childhood and prior to being a student at the University of Pretoria?
game of football and its development through
the Glenwood High l 1st team where I was the Image: Provided
TuksSport Representatives named ahead of the Hockey Tournament
“ University of Pretoria
“
year of studying in this study program. How do you manage to juggle academics and sports?
South African wheelchair tennis player, Donald Ramphadi, made his Grand Slam debut
time. What are some of the challenges that you face and how do you overcome them?
Who do you look up to and why?
India we had to fundraise and pay for ourselves an What did it feel like when you made your national debut?
debut at the Australian Open at the end of
How do you keep your head in the game? I have triggers that help me maintain my
What advice would you give to your younger self? sport player needs to set a goal or a dream and
th
in the
UNIQLO.
TuksVolleyball announce new EC
How did this shape how you view sports now?
Are there any other sports that you would like to explore? sihlengubane5
Some fun facts about Sihle Ngubane: My pre-game ritual is… prayer. Something people don’t know about me is
Erwin Güther. Thomas
A weird thing that I do is myself.