2012: Edition 7

Varsity

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The official student newspaper of the university of cape town

24 July 2012

Volume 71: Edition 7

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Giddy murder left unsolved Mu’Attham Carlie

I

t has been two years since the tragic death of UCT student Dominic Giddy in February 2010; all three men accused of the murder of Giddy were acquitted last week.

In a statement sent to all students, UCT expressed outrage that the Giddy case has not been solved. What is more discouraging is the fact that cases similar to Giddy’s have also not been solved.

“Giddy’s death was preceded by the fatal shooting of first-year medical student Benny Pakiso Moqobane, 19, five months earlier, and the deaths of two professors, Mike Larkin and Kevin Rochford, who were murdered in 2007 and 2008 respectively. All these crimes took place off campus. UCT is outraged that these crimes, like the one involving Giddy, have still not been solved,” said UCT. Giddy was walking to his Observatory home when he was confronted by three men and stabbed. One of the men accused of the murder, Bongani Matano, was acquitted earlier this month.

Zukisani Songwaku and Simphiwe Ngoma were also acquitted as well. Matano was acquitted on the grounds of insufficient evidence brought against him.

Legal counsel representing Songwaku and Ngoma argued that the mere possession of Giddy’s cellphone and sim-card was not enough to convict them of murdering the deceased Social Sciences student.

Andre Pienaar, representing Songwaku, argued that, despite being in possession of Giddy’s phone, all the possibilities of what could have happened had not been

ACCQUITTED – Staff and students protest the rise of violent crime and Giddy’s murder near the university campus in 2010.

Inset: Dominic Giddy Images: Morgan Morris, Monday Paper ruled out. Thus, he argued, the mere possession of his phone was not enough to find the accused guilty of murder as Giddy’s phone could have been picked up by anyone, anywhere.

For Ngoma, attorney Likhaya Makana argued that the state did not prove beyond reasonable doubt that Ngoma had murdered Giddy. “The State called various witnesses. It is a fact that there is no direct evidence linking Ngoma to the charges,” Makana said.

Additionally, Ngoma had an alibi.

His girlfriend was called to the stand

and testified that he was with her the night Giddy was murdered.

cases similar to Giddy’s have also not been solved.

However, prosecutor Nopelo Nhantsi challenged Ngoma’s alibi, arguing that Ngoma’s cell phone records showed he had called his girlfriend on the night of the murder.

This proved that they had not, in fact, been together, said Nhantsi.

Crucially, however, enough evidence was not provided to rule out all possibilities, countered Makana. He argued that Ngoma’s cell phone records showed that the call was made in Langa, where he lived. “There are various possibilities in this matter. Nine people lived in [Ngoma’s] house. [Ngoma] said his cell phone was not with him all the time. It was charging,” he said.

Thus, the accused were acquitted despite prosecutor Nhantsi’s

argument that the men should be convicted because, just 15 minutes after the murder, both men called their girlfriends and Giddy’s sim card was active in Ngoma’s phone.

UCT’s statement emphasised the university’s efforts in the fight against crime by stating the measures the university has taken to ensure student and community safety, including participating in the Groote Schuur Community Improvement District (GSCID) project.

Varsity, the official student newspaper since 1942, is committed to the principles of equality and democracy.

2

news

v71 e7 – 24 July 2012

News Bites Batman shooting COLORADO – 12 people were killed in a shooting on Friday, July 20th, at a midnight premiere of the new Batman movie,The Dark Knight Rises. A further 58 people were injured in the attack. Neuroscience graduate James Eagan Holmes was later arrested holding a handgun and rifle and is now in custody. ­—BBC News

New universities for SA CAPE TOWN – Minister for Higher Education Blade Nzimande announced the opening of two new universities for South Africa to help alleviate the stress on current tertiary instututions. The new universities’ primary campuses will be based in Nelspruit and Potchefstroom.

—News24

Controversial Police Chief JOHANNESBURG – President Jacob Zuma has appointed Riah Phiyega as the country’s first female Police Commissioner.

The move has been criticised by the South African Police Union as Phiyega has no previous policing experience.

Similar criticism was expressed regarding previous police commissioners. SAPU argue that this latest move proves that Zuma has not learnt his lesson.

—Guardian.co.uk

Protests for pay

Leaders in training: ESLP 2012 Lyndall Thwaits

U

CT students from across all six faculties participated in the annual UCT Emerging Student Leaders Programme (ESLP) from July 8th to 14th. The programme was hosted by the Department of Student Affairs and Student Development in collaboration with the Centre for Higher Education and Development and Careers Service.

The class of 2012 exposed delegates to a number of issues, both on a personal level and in a broader context. Questions surrounding transformation, race and the meaning of emotional intelligence (EQ) were raised.

The programme served to aid delegates in their own search for leadership as emerging leaders.

Delegates and mentors moved into Kopano Residence for the duration of the programme. This allowed individuals to work together in a safe space on a group project which needed to be presented to the entire delegation by the end of the week.

The first day of presentations focused on leadership from within UCT, with the current SRC President Insaaf Isaacs as well as 2010 SRC members Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh and Erik De Ridder speaking to the delegates.

Clem Sunter, known for his “Mind of a Fox” strategy of thinking, was a highlight for most

Image: Christine Immenga

EMERGING – From left, Christine Immenga (Projects Assistant: Student Faculty Councils), Edwina Brooks (Director: Student Development), and Shannon Bernhardt (Co-ordinator: Societies & Dayhouses). delegates this year. Sunter spoke to students about applying his theory of “thinking like a fox” to being effective in leadership, the goal being able to think in multiple directions and having the ability to move and adapt to change.

The list of speakers for day two of the programme included experts in human resources management, communication, marketing, media and reputation management as well as in entrepreneurship.

Day three exposed delegates to some fundamental issues surrounding personal reflection as a leader, the issues of leadership and the outlook of South Africa and leadership in a talk by Dr Vuyokazi

Mpumi Tshabalala, a postgraduate law student who participated in the Diplomacy Course as a facilitator, commented, “I loved my facilitation group.

There was great diversity in the students’ skills.”

Miller said the participant pool’s nature was varied, ranging from first-years to post-doctoral students. The fields of study were also different, featuring students of International Relations, Engineering and Commerce.

Syrian security chief killed

AIDS funding in question USA – The Clinton Foundation has found that the price of AIDS treatment is four times what it should be. The foundation carried out a study across five countries in subSaharan Africa. These findings will be used to call on leaders to increase their funding of AIDS treatments. ­—guardian.co.uk

Olivia Wainwright & Stephanie Venter

students to question leadership in a worldwide context.

The programme was well received by participants. Margo Davies said: “I’m leaving [ESLP] more selfassured about my role in the world.

It was an emotional roller-coaster, but every second was worth it.” For delegate Emma Selfe, one of the important elements she got from the programme was meeting individuals she wouldn’t normally meet in everyday life.

Fadzai Chitiyo, a mentor for ESLP 2012, said there was “a little bit too much focus on the SRC, but [she] saw a lot of growth within students.”

UNASA-UCT holds diplomacy course

Harare – On July 20th, unions in Harare called for the basic wage in Zimbabwe to be increased by nearly 100%. The protest came after the finance minister announced that wage increases would not be possible due to budget cuts. The lowestpaid government workers are seeking an increase in monthly wages from $286 to $560.

Damascus – Syrian state TV confirmed the death of security chief Hisham Ikhtiar on Wednesday, July 18th, in Damascus. Ikhtiar died during an attack on the national security offices. This is the fourth regime official to be killed in such attacks.

Mahlati, who works for the National Planning Commission.

The final day of presentations from speakers focused on EQ, discussed

by Stephanie Vermeulen, MD of the Effective Training Corporation, and looking at your own future career, by the director of the Careers Service at UCT, David Casey.

The evenings held “leadership journeys” which were more informal sessions, where delegates had a chance to discuss issues with UCT Dean of Law Prof. PJ Schwikkard and Hennie Van Vuuren, Office director of the Institute for Security Studies, both experts in their fields of work. They shared their own leadership paths and inspired

Image: Ilizwi: Empowering Youth through Photography

DIPLOMATS-IN-TRAINING – Students participate in group discussions as part of UNASA-UCT’s diplomacy course.

Cai Nebe The United Nations Association of South Africa’s UCT branch hosted the University’s inaugural Diplomacy Course in Jameson Hall on July 18th and 19th.

Around 100 students attended, hoping to gain an insight into diplomacy. Course convener Josh Platzky Miller described the event as a success.

The Diplomacy Course was designed to refine the students’ ability to debate, negotiate and bargain, while a busy programme included notable guest speakers.

These included retired Swiss Ambassador Dr Peter Sutter, Director of the Centre for Mediation in Africa and former African Union diplomat Professor Laurie Nathan, and Head of Institute for Justice and Reconciliation Dr Tim Murithi.

Josh Miller said the course was unique in that it was open to anyone and run by students: “Previously, there was not enough youth-led diplomacy interest at UCT.” Aamina Teladia, a first-year student and member of UNASAUCT, said, “I signed up for the course because I want a career as either a diplomat or an ambassador.

It was a great opportunity and the speakers were very informative.”

“Previously, there was not enough youth-led diplomacy interest at UCT.” “The students were insightful and used their diverse skills to contribute constructively to group discussions,” Tshabalala said. She added that facilitators supported the students in deepening their understanding of what they had learnt.

Zaid Legardien, a first-year International Relations student and

one recipient of the best speaker award, commented, “overall, UNASA-UCT did a good job.

Because it was an inaugural event I think it was a learning curve for the organisers as well. We had quality speakers and the ideal amount of people attending.”

Another first-year International Relations student, Tracy Wamucii, said the Stellenbosch University UNASA branch’s participation definitely helped diversify the experience of the participants.

Wamucii added that the course broadened her understanding of diplomatic complexities.

“I applaud UNASA-UCT for putting such a great event together.

I feel honoured to be part of the pioneer student group,” she said.

Miller added: “We feel it is extremely important for people to realise their own capacity to effect changes in the world. If that’s what the Diplomacy Course has done for some, then great!”

In mid-September UNASA-UCT follows up on the Diplomacy Course by hosting a Model United Nations conference where participants can put their skills to the test.

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news

v71 e7 – 24 July 2012

3

Armed robbers strike campus Tina Hsu

The GSCID is an independentlyrun security company that supervises the street patrols from Newlands to Observatory. CPS works closely with police branches in Rondebosch, Mowbray, Woodstock, and Cape Town to monitor areas outside of their jurisdiction.

S

everal instances of armed robbery occurred in UCT’s surrounding areas following the final weeks of the first semester.

The first two attacks occurred within an hour of each other on the night of May 30th, 2012. In both cases, a male student was walking alone from Upper Campus and was attacked at the approach to the M3 bridge by three men armed with knives. The students involved were robbed but were physically unharmed.

The students immediately reported the attacks to Campus Protection Services (CPS), which led to an investigation of the area. The ostensible similarities between the two attacks have led CPS to believe that they were carried out by the same assailants.

The third attack occurred at 7.15pm on June 6th in Upper Anzio Road, Observatory. A male student was approached by an armed man.

The attacker took the victim’s bag, which contained a cell phone, bank cards and ID book, and then stabbed him in the chin before fleeing on foot. The attack was reported to CPS and the student received medical attention for the minor injury.

The students involved were robbed, but were physically unharmed

Image: Uwais Razack Image: Uwais Razack THREATENED – Muggers prey on UCT staff and students despite extensive security in the area.

The fourth attack occurred on Woolsack Drive at 7pm on June 13th. A man approached a female UCT staff member, showed her a firearm and then placed the weapon in his bag. The staff member fought him off and ran to the CPS security

stationed at Kopano Bridge. She escaped unharmed and with all her possessions.

“We place our security in areas that are frequented by students, although certain areas lie outside our jurisdiction,” said Bernard

UCT mourns two staff members Ben Mendelson & Olivia Wainwright The month of June saw UCT mourn the untimely death of Professor Andrzej Okreglicki, the Deputy Head of Cardiology at Groote Schuur Hospital, and Professor John Gibson, Director of the Institute of Marine and Environmental Law. Prof. Okreglicki was killed when the vehicle he was driving collided with another vehicle en route to London Heathrow Airport. In addition to holding the position of President of the Cardiac Arrhythmia Society of South Arica, Prof. Okreglicki was responsible for pioneering Groote Schuur’s very first electrophysiology service, a facility previously unavailable in South Africa.

The establishment and success of this service, as well as Prof.

Okreglicki’s highly-regarded teaching and mentoring abilities, earned him both national and international recognition.

Okreglicki also made a name

for himself by his audacious and intrepid character, leading him to receive invitations from various hospitals to perform complicated and risky surgeries. These included, most notably, the extraction of infected pacemaker leads.

In his spare time, Prof.

Okreglicki was an enthusiastic and accomplished runner, competing in 11 consecutive Two Oceans Marathons, the last of which was in 2012. Last year, he competed in the Tor des Geants, an ultra-marathon stage race which covers over 330 kilometres.

The professor described his completion of this colossal event as an achievement which “will remain a defining bookmark in the saga of my life.”

Lusan Luscombe, a fellow cofounder of Prevent Arrhythmic Cardiac Events (PACE), described Professor Okreglicki as “very unique – an exceptional man. He was brilliant in his field.”

Prof. Gibson passed away after a short illness. He became UCT’s Director of the Institute of Marine and Environmental Law in 2002 after having been appointed Chair

of Marine Law in 2001, and specialised in coastal and marine legal issues, and pioneered the study of coastal zone law in the United Kingdom.

Not only has Gibson’s life and work had an influence at UCT, but his work has been recognised internationally. In 1997, he was appointed thematic expert on legislation to the European Union’s Demonstration Programme on Integrated Coastal Zone Management, and he worked on coastal legislation for Mauritius, Ethiopia and the Republic of Georgia as well as offering advice to the World Bank and the European Commission, among others.

In a statement released by UCT, Prof. Gibson was described as “a man of deep intellect, integrity, kindness and generosity.”

“His colleagues will fondly remember the meticulous preparation which always went into his chairing of these meetings – and his dry sense of humour, which would always diffuse heated debates,” the statement read.

Soules, the Head of Operations at CPS. “We maintain working relationships with Groote Schuur Community Improvement District (GSCID) and the police in order to extend security control to other areas.”

Most of UCT’s grounds are covered by surveillance cameras; these cameras are monitored by a group of five people in the CPS surveillance room at any given time. The cameras can easily pan and zoom in on anyone engaging insuspicious activity, and, if necessary, CPS may approach a scene personally. Following incidences of crime, patrols are increased in the targeted area.

Soules added, “CPS security patrols designated areas 24/7 during both the semester and vacation period. The cameras are under constant surveillance should there not be security present at that time.”

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editorial

v71 e7 – 24 July 2012

Editorial

Stephanie Venter

En Pointe

Lyndall Thwaits, Deputy Editor

And they all lived happily ever after.

Editor-in-Chief

*cue eye roll.

people live happily forever, fairy tales only exist in books and the world we live in now makes it the exception rather than the rule that relationships stand the test of time.

This past week, I found my conceptions delightfully challenged.

I had the pleasure of spending the last week of the holidays absorbed in a blissful world of wedding plans and preparation. Humour me on this one – I’m a newly converted cynic.

My expectations of Bridezilla, and key summary points of my wedding experiences such as ‘stressful,’ ‘breaking point’ and ‘disaster’ were washed away one by

Gun (non-) Control?

A

nother senseless shooting.

As details trickled into newsrooms around the globe, the public and the many, many, many Batman fanatics were shocked to their cores by the tale of a masked gunman opening fire on an unsuspecting cinema audience about 25 minutes into one of the most anticipated movies of the year, the Dark Knight Rises.

The growing list of similar shootings is alarming: most will remember the Virginia Tech shootings in 2007, and a few still the Columbine High School massacre of 1999. In both cases – and this most recent one too, it appears – gunmen opened fire indiscriminately in public places, killing and severely injuring many.

One of the ongoing debates in America is that of gun control, an issue that I believe is important in these apparently more-frequentlyoccurring shootings. Along with pro-life versus pro-choice, big versus small government and gay marriage, gun control is something with whichAmerican politics are highly concerned.

The most alarming part of this shooting and, if I’m not mistaken, the above-mentioned other two, is that the gunmen all bought their weapons and ammunition legally.

James Holmes, the man arrested for the Batman shooting, is said to have planned the attack meticulously. Upon reaching his apartment, police found the place extensively booby-trapped with explosives clearly intended to severely harm or kill anyone

through his front door.

According to the United States Constitution, citizens have the right to bear arms, included with the idea of self-protection in mind.

Interpretations of this have led to guns and ammunition being readily available at supermarkets in the States, making it easy enough to pick up your ammunition with your milk, bread and eggs.

Is this really encouraging a non-violent society? Consider that America is perpetually at war, has the largest, most modern, and best-funded military in the world, sells guns in their supermarkets, and still retains the death penalty in some states.

Holmes, Cho, and Harris and Klebold (the latter three shooters from the Viriginia Tech and Columbine shootings respectively), undoubtedly had many contributing factors in their lives, and it would certainly be limiting to say that it is only the availability of guns in America that led to their rampages.

However, I have long been told that a society should aim to be better than basic human nature and should shape its laws based on its priniciples. Isn’t one of the reasons that South Africa abolished the death penalty because two wrongs don’t make a right? The laws of the United States of America should reflect the society it wants to be, and while they largely do, their Second Amendment (regarding gun control) is a contradiction in the greatest of terms.

See you in two weeks.

S

The above phrase used to scare me senseless. I told myself that there is no such thing as a world where

[Ctrl + C]

one as each day was marked off the calendar to the arrival of the bride and groom’s special day.

Being behind the scenes as well as sharing the magical day made me realise that love is perhaps one of the strongest bonds, and I witnessed the start to something exceptional.

On that note, I hope I haven’t made any eyes roll ...

I trust you’re all well-rested and ready for what is to come this semester.

P.S. To the beautiful bride and the handsome groom – thank you for letting me be part of your special day.

Rhynhardt Krynauw, Copy Editor

Of rainbows, butterflies, ponies and genocide I just read the column above mine, and felt the need to respond with a whole bunch of cynicism.

My first urge, naturally, was to tell my young friend that her conversion from cynicism to, well, whatever the opposite of cynicism is, was a foolish endeavour; it wouldn’t last because, essentially, everything is shit.

As we should all have realised by now, happily-ever-afters are the stuff of fairy tales. Why should I not

enlighten people?

That was my first urge. Then I looked at the column again. It’s sweet. It’s possibly naïve. It’s nice.

Maybe cynicism cannot be trusted, pessimism will never work, but optimism and idealism must. Perhaps, despite everything I have always thought, nice is the way forward?

Ha! Had you going there, didn’t I? Everything’s still shit. Good luck.

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editor-in-chief Stephanie Venter deputy editor Lyndall Thwaits Copy Editor Rhynhardt Krynauw Managing Editor Caterina Aldera news Olivia Wainwright & Mu’Attham Carlie opinions Berndt Hannweg & Nick Corbett features Anade Situma & Aléz Odendaal sportS Sajjad Karamsi & Nicole Beale images Uwais Razack & Thabang Serumola Design Nic Botha web Chris Linegar, Alex Nagel & Carla de Klerk advertising Kaede Wildschut Finance Andrew Montandon OPERATIONS Jodi Edmunds marketing Andrzej Ogonowski human resources Tanyaradzwa Dzumbunu & Lydia Shilla I.T. Mfundo Mbambo sub-editors Caitlin Bennett, Hannah MacMillan & Laurie Scarborough HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Michael Currin Cartoonist Julian Nkuna Design Assistant Julien Speyer

opinions Burnt Toast

v71 e7 – 24 July 2012

5

The Green Point elephant

Berndt Hannweg

Opinions Editor

Is Science Selenium Xenon Yttrium?

I

n case you’ve been living under a rock (or perhaps in spite of it), you should now know that scientists have confirmed the existence of the long-elusive Higgs Boson.

In short, this is the particle that gives all other particles in the universe mass, solving, in a stroke, the mystery of why it is you weigh so much after eating that cake. Also, gravity.

The media, after a brief crash course in elementary physics, had a field day, with every nation claiming a connection, however tenuous, to the discovery of the “God Particle.”

But it seems that, following this brief flirtation with particle physics, the media and the general public will return to following the escapades of Kim and Snooki with all too much attention. But is it possible that Peter Higgs is the unlikely new poster boy for a sexy-science revival?

Science news is typically related to the denser pages of a newspaper, as a short column or two devoted to “Scientists Discover New Turnip” or “Cloned Ferret Turns Four.” Difficult news to get excited about, but these actually represent small steps on a much greater journey.

We live in an age unlike any before it. We know about tectonics and quasars and genetics and the causes of deafness and have recorded thousands of languages and meteorology and synapses and the spleen. Why are we not more excited?

In the 1800s, science was the pursuit of gentlemen, something to do between hunting and oppressing the lower classes.

Perhaps it is this association with elitism that made science seem…snobbish.

Science hasn’t been cool for many decades. There aren’t

This week’s poll Zapiro’s cartoon of President Zuma as a penis was:

many PhD holders as the faces of colognes in fashion magazines (designing it, certainly). Nobel Prize winners seldom give celebrity testimonials for Rolex.

Science is considered the domain of pale, bespectacled people wearing lab coats and droning on about equations.

But with Neil deGrasse Tyson whizzing around the talk-show circuit and Stephen Hawking becoming quite the TV star (no, seriously), it may just start to be sexy to be, well, smart.

Could it happen? Could abacuses replace rock-hard abs?

“Never!” cry the gym-bunnies!

“Oh please, rational nondeterministic universe!” beseech the nerds. “Pffft. Boys.” say the women.

Jokes aside, the world has become a very strange place for esoteric knowledge like valences and phyla. On the one hand, there has been a rising tide of anti-intellectualism in most of the non-Asian countries (that’s not stereotypical, by the by, simply the way it appears to be turning out).

In Africa and the MiddleEast, scientists and learners are oppressed for trying to be too “Western”. And in the West, religious fanaticism and a booming consumer culture attack intellectualism from opposing sides, the former accusing it of hellish antagonism, and the latter for simply not being “cool.”

Perhaps that’s the answer. When practising science and rigorous debate becomes an “uncool” thing to do, intellectuals will become the rebels, the loners, the mysterious gangs meeting in dingy chem labs and hadron-colliders.

And then it’s just a matter of time until they produce their James Dean, their Che Guevara, their rebel with a cited cause, and then scientists will be the cool guys once more, as people move predictably to a culture dynamically opposed to that of their parents.

Statistically, it could happen.

Image: flickr.com/ipickmynose

Katy Scott

I

t is hard to fathom that it has been two years since Cape Town was bustling with flag-wavers and football. Now, in its gloomy postFIFA state, the mother city has resumed its cynical ways, with only an echoing, multibillion-rand stadium as a reminder.

Owing to its present economic status, Cape Town Stadium has been dubbed a “financial white elephant”. With maintenance costing a staggering R44 million a year and hiring costs equally steep, its upkeep has proven disproportionate to its usefulness.

Fortunately, Cosatu's Tony Ehrenreich has shed light on the situation with his latest solution: a complete remodeling of the stadium into a low-cost housing complex.

It's all very well that engineers and architects have verified his proposal, deeming it “possible”, but with a title deed prohibiting housing on the common, what is possible is also most certainly illegal.

Despite this minor hitch, the expense alone would be ghastly.

Ehrenreich has argued that any public funds spent on the stadium should benefit the most vulnerable citizens. I for one can't quite picture such “vulnerable citizens” being able to indulge in a Green Point lifestyle.

Before long they would have sold and scuttled – the market would have driven prices up, the rate-payers would be making good the shortfall, and Cape Town would be left with another townhouse complex.

If Ehrenreich is genuinely concerned with resolving the lowcost housing crisis, perhaps he should consider alternatives to recover the R4.5 billion spent on assembling the elephantine structure, and put that towards his cause.

ONLINE POLL

Last poll

This late in the semester, my DP is: perfectly safe

76%

• satirical, and people over-reacted;

1

• disrespectful to the office of the president; or • deliberately insulting and hateful.

20%

4%

under threat

visit varsitynewspaper.co.za and vote

2 3

up in the air, and I don’t care

With Cape Town as divided as it is, forcing large-scale integration across race and class is bound to grate a few carrots. It's all very well to encourage integration, but realistically, those in need of low-cost houses are worlds apart from those residing in Cape Town's Soho.

Then comes the politics.

Ehrenreich has gone as far as accusing the ratepayer's association of funding the DA to maintain their privilege as well as suggesting that they are “still stuck in apartheid.”

Maybe he's right, but then again, his intentions behind the strategic relocation of pro-ANC supporters into Green Point could also be called to question.

Unfortunately, it is a lose-lose situation, as the stadium's range of

potential uses has been quelled by 14 of the restrictions from the Record of Decision that authorised the building of the stadium. The only financially viable option for the stadium at present is to convert it into a commercial hub consisting of restaurants, coffee shops, sports bars and a nightclub.

On the off chance that the records were to be amended to allow this, there would still be the punishing task of dealing with the bleating from residents surrounding the common.

Maybe demolishing the stadium is the most sensible option. After all, there really is no logic in throwing more public money away in a desperate attempt to sustain the unsustainable.

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6

opinions

v71 e7 – 24 July 2012

Syria: A revolution blurred

Should I be ashamed of my privilege?

Uthman Quick

Qamran Tabo

is notorious for torturing and killing its citizens. However, the swift downfall of previously The Arab Spring is over. Its inscrutable Arab dictators – replacement is a slew of chaos Mubarak of Egypt, Ben Ali of and uncertainty, more akin to a Tunisia and Gaddafi of Libya – has hazy winter blizzard. In Tunisia, emboldened opposition groups the democratically elected across the Middle East. government is struggling to effect The massacres of hundreds any real change on the ground; in at Deraa and Homs shocked the Egypt, the self-serving military is world, as Assad’s soldiers and clinging, tooth and nail, to power, hired thugs allegedly bombarded and Libya’s NATO-engineered residential areas with heavy revolution has produced a deeply weaponry. But Assad alone cannot divided country. be blamed for the chaos that has The latest Middle Eastern enveloped Syria. country to capture the world’s The Syrian opposition, funded attention is Syria. What began and armed by the American as peaceful protest demanding “client” regimes in Qatar and Saudi political reform has unravelled Arabia, has repeatedly rejected into a bloody civil war; the death peace talks and now seems helltoll is estimated at between 10 and bent on overthrowing the regime.

17 thousand.

The time for talk and half measures The US conseems to have tinues to lead passed. Indeed it This hypocrisy calls for harsher seems absurd to would make sanctions and actask people to talk ion against the to a government Orwell squirm government of that has just shelled Bashar al-Assad their villages and (one of its former torture out- killed their families. sourcers) under the guise of the Unfortunately, who exactly promotion of human rights – not is doing all the killing is not at all to do with the fact that Syria an established fact. The Houla happens to be the main regional massacre of over 100 people in ally of its latest super-villain: May was immediately attributed Iran. This hypocrisy would make to the Assad regime. Later reports Orwell squirm. from a German newspaper Russia and (less so) China see suggested that opposition forces Syria as one of their last vestiges of aligned with the Free Syrian Army influence and as a serious trading were, in fact, responsible. partner in the Middle East, and With most international media have therefore backed the Assad and human rights organisations regime. Washington and Moscow’s not allowed to enter the country, Cold War-esque stand-off is only it is difficult to get a clear picture exacerbating the conflict, while of Syria. What is undisputed is scores of civilians continue to die. that Syria is on the brink of a Assad, the “clean-cut monster”, disaster, and this could have dire must take much of the blame consequences for the Middle East for the bloodshed: his regime and the entire world.

I

went to a former Model C high school with a large number of black middle-class and upper middle-class learners. Some parents were doctors, lawyers and entrepreneurs.

In the South African context, we are still an irregularity. Not every black child in this country has parents that can afford to pay for them to attend acting classes, let alone feed them. It is sad, but why should I feel responsible for them, beyond their just being other human beings?

I never hear anyone calling on white and Indian people to feel bad about their privileges because there are impoverished people who belong to their racial groups, though whites do experience their own guilt for historically being the most advantaged population group in the country.

If you’re a “born-free” buppie, society tells you to feel ashamed of going to a school with resources, taught by people who historically

received a better education than the country’s majority. You speak English (SA’s language of business) and/or Afrikaans (spoken by many of SA’s highest earners) articulately, and the associations you have with white people go beyond them just being your potential employers.

Our parents didn’t gain their wealth because of government hand-outs Furthermore, you have to wallow in your own reproach for being able to enjoy the benefits of race-based academic policies (even though they aren’t really meant for “people like you”) and because your sellout parents may have not had it as bad as everyone else during Apartheid, having been in exile or racially reclassified.

Poverty is universal and guilt doesn’t feed hungry mouths or teach children how to read (isn’t that what the government is for?). No one should have to restrict themselves

from success or maintaining the freedom that comes with it (economic and otherwise) just because other people that share the same phenotype aren’t as successful.

The world doesn’t work that way.

Human beings are self-serving creatures. The best one can do is sympathise, pay taxes and do one’s bit with regards to philanthropy. You can’t save the world.

I believe I speak for most black middle-class offspring when I say that our parents worked hard to get where they are today. Contrary to popular belief, most of our parents didn’t gain their wealth because of government hand-outs. They educated themselves, got jobs and worked their butts off to make sure we would grow up in an environment better than their own. They aren’t corrupt government officials buying their kids Lady Gaga concert tickets with tax money meant to help the poor, or gangsters paying their kids’ tuition with blood money. They’re just honest people trying to live “The African Dream” – like everyone else.

That’s nothing to be ashamed of.

Mission accomplished: Katie Holmes divorces Tom Cruise

Image: Celebs.gather.com

Didi Onwu

A

nother whirlwind romance has taken a dive. After only five and a half years of marriage. Katie Holmes has filed for divorce from husband Tom Cruise. It looks like the man of her dreams no longer makes her laugh.

But was this end not inevitable?

What happens when a Scientologist meets a Catholic? A match made in heaven? I think not. They were a curious pairing; him the biggest

movie star in the world and her an angelic every-girl best known for Dawson’s Creek and a string of under-performing films. You know what they say: “Love is blind”.

But Katie just seemed too smart (I hoped) to get herself involved with the religious extremist Cruise; her robotic enthusiasm for marriage made her and her couch-jumping husband both suspect in their compelling mystery.

Many years ago, who wouldn’t have wanted to marry a rich heartthrob like Tom Cruise? After

Holmes, the likelier question should be: who would? He may have a hard time finding an A-lister who meets the criteria of soft and slowtongued beauty.

Tom’s Scientology beliefs caused his two previous marriages to end in divorce, and it seems likely that this marriage ended for similar reasons. Many believe that Katie filed for divorce before the couple’s child, Suri, had to be sent to a Scientologist boot camp called Sea Organisation.

The only people who don’t find Scientology frightening are Scientologists, so it’s good that Katie’s maternal instinct was more potent than any pusher of Scientology. As far as I am concerned, they are nothing more than a cult, leeching on to the likes of thick-headed celebrities wanting to find an alternative way to achieve an understanding of the “higher power” out there.

A simpler way would be to pay your taxes, be kind and be a good human being; you may yet find some form of “higher power.” There is no need to be tainted by the outrageous teachings of Scientology.

It is a celebrity-friendly religion and nothing more.

But who really bought them as a couple? Not me, that’s for sure. I always found him outgoing and her rather dull. Then again, opposites do attract. I suppose now Holmes can start wearing her heels again, along with Nicole Kidman.

I’ll be the petulant child by picking sides and say mama Katie did the right thing by going all double agent to file for divorce. This woman has style. Nonetheless, divorce is a painful matter.

We can only hope that there will be some happiness and peace after this whole debacle.

opinions

v71 e7 – 24 July 2012

7

South Sudan: still a long way to go Parusha Naidoo

O

n July 9th 2011, the Sudan was officially divided in two, forming the world’s newest country: the Republic of South Sudan. One year later, the South Sudanese people are reflecting on their independence with pride and contentment. However, not even the most extravagant celebration of independence can clear away potential points of conflict.

Historically, the Sudan was under British-Egyptian control. During this period, the North and South of Sudan were kept separate. With the majority of development happening in the North, the South and other regions of the Sudan were sidelined.

Fearing further marginalisation, as the Sudan gained independence, the South launched a revolt. This was followed by further conflict, caused by tribal and religious differences, which came out in the form of a civil war. As a result of years of tension, millions of Sudanese lives were lost and millions more were displaced.

Oil-related conflicts are the biggest hurdle for both Sudan and South Sudan. Oil production was halted by South Sudan in January due to a disagreement with North Sudan regarding the amount that should be paid to utilise the infrastructure and

Image: Fotopedia/Albert Gonzalez Farran

pipelines used to export crude oil. As the North is the only outlet for the Sudan’s oil exports, both parties have been negatively affected.

This directly impacted South Sudan by wiping out 98% of its annual revenue. Subsequently, the Sudan has lost 75% of its oil output, cutting down the majority of its income and raising inflation.

This “politics of the pipelines” could be compared to a tennis match played by two badly injured players; there may be a winner in the end,

but both players will be badly hurt if they see the game through.

Both players will be badly hurt if they play the game to the end.

South Sudan and its neighbour must realise that their independence relies on their dependence on each other regarding oil production.

This realisation is the solution to

overcome an oil crisis that is truly a humanitarian crisis.

Growth has also been hindered by ethnic and religious differences.

Grassroots movements must be established to work with the South Sudanese to promote peace and understanding between citizens that would otherwise traditionally be seen as enemies. Starting in communities, it will spread, eliminating factors that threaten stability.

Independence is not solely about referendums and peace talks. It is

preserved through the co-operation and support of citizens and neighbouring states.

It seems unfair for the world to expect a country that has endured years of hardship, first caused by colonial powers and then by a civil war, to transform itself, after a single year, into a fully functioning state.

Although a call for unity between Sudan and South Sudan seems unlikely, co-operation is the only answer for both states to make progress.

Preparing for the career fair

by David Casey, Director of UCT’s careers service How do I prepare?

Find out which organisations are going to be there and decide who you would most like to speak to. Research organisations’ websites and think about what you want to say/ask. Ensure you collect the Career Fair programme on the day; this contains useful facts on each employer. It is also a good idea to put together an up-to-date CV and take copies along with you. (You can get feedback on your CV by attending a 15 quick query at the Careers Service.)

Isn’t the fair just for engineers and business students?

No. Many employers look for graduates of any discipline because they are interested in the skills and attributes you have gained from your degree and your extra-curricular activities – not necessarily the degree content.

Not a final-year student?

You don’t have to be looking for a graduate job to benefit from the fair: • Learn about what employers want in applicants. You can use this information to develop your skills and experience before and during your final year.

• Enquire about work experience, placements/internships.

The Career Fair programme will tell you who offers placements and internships. You can also ask about opportunities for further informal conversations or work shadowing to further your research.

• Employers will be focused on talking about their graduate opportunities – if they don’t have time to talk about experience etc, ask whether you could contact them later.

Who should I speak to?

You can speak to any organisation that interests you. Be open-minded – you might learn about a company you hadn’t considered before. Be confident. When you meet an employer, introduce yourself, find out their name and ask if you could ask them some questions.

What do I ask about?

• The day-to-day work • The workplace culture, location, teams, etc.

• Necessary skills and attributes • Necessary experience • Training and development opportunities • Issues and developments in the industry and the business • Opportunities to work abroad/use your languages • Their experiences What about international students?

Some things to consider: • It can be frustrating to talk to employers about work permits/visas. The people you meet are often recent graduates who might not know the regulations around employing international graduates.

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• If you cannot get the information you need on the day, ask for the name and contact details of someone who could help.

• Company websites and/or job advertisements sometimes state whether the employer accepts applications from international graduates and whether they have any particular schemes for international graduates. Have a look before you attend the fair.

• Ask questions that show your genuine interest in the company and the jobs on offer. Although you need to ask questions about opportunities for overseas graduates, asking about this straight away could suggest that this is your primary concern.

Final tips…

• Be polite and enthusiastic. Eye contact and body language are important.

• You don’t need to wear a suit. Being casual is fine, but don’t be scruffy.

• Some employers get very busy. Don’t be put off; be prepared to wait or come back.

• Make notes about your conversations for future reference.

• If an employer gives you their card/contact details, it is an invitation to contact them.

• Be professional. Ask about the work and the company and avoid seeming overly interested in the salary and benefits.

ild in g ri kw ag go Bu Le ve l 1, H oe pu s U pp er C am N o rt h La n e, 4 9 7 1 6 5 0 2 ( + 2 7 ) 2 ac.za rvice@uct. careers.se

Q&A Life Nothando Khumalo Fuller (3 years), Obz Square (1 semester)

Lutho Mangwana Leo Marquard (1 semester) Have you experienced crime in res?

Lutho is new in the res and has only received emails about people from Leo M who have died. He hasn’t experienced any crime personally.

Do you feel a strong sense of community?

Hasn’t experienced a sense of brotherhood/ community yet. Leo M is chilled, but it isn’t home.

Have you experienced crime in res?

Two of my friends were mugged in res. Laptops were taken from them in Fuller. However, these instances are rare.

What do you think of room raids?

I can remember them doing it once last year. They found alcohol and confiscated it. The student eventually went for a disciplinary hearing.

Do you think res rules are sexist?

At Fuller you’re not allowed alcohol, but at Smuts you are! But I don’t think it’s sexist.

Do you feel a strong sense of community?

Yes, in Fuller. They had activities throughout the year which helped us bond. In Obz however, there is no sense of community.

Stacey Hope-Bailie Kolbe House (1 semester) (non-UCT residence) Taufiq Rashidee Glendower (2 years) Have you experienced crime in res?

Yes, I dropped my iPhone in the res and someone ‘picked it up’ and didn’t return it.

Do you think res rules are sexist?

This res was more chilled than other resindences. They weren’t sexist and were very tolerant.

Do you feel a strong sense of community?

Yes, there was a sense of brotherhood. We had monthly meetings and a big braai once a semester.

Have you experienced crime in res?

I’ve heard about a few instances but I’ve never experienced any.

Due to the location (at a certain place on Main Rd), people would get mugged often in the road and they would seek refuge at our res. My friends met quite a few people who had just been mugged.

Do you think res rules are sexist?

In a sense. The upper storey of the building was reserved for girls.

Do you feel a strong sense of community?

Definitely! The res was small but very homely, like a family.

e in res

Tendaiishe Chitima Graça Machel (2 years), Forest Hill (1 year)

Interviews and images by Uwais Razack

Have you experienced crime in res?

People broke into the res a few times and stole people’s laptops but I’ve never experienced crime myself.

Do you think res rules are sexist?

For sure! Kopano and Leo Marquard allow the boys to bring over girls and they can sleep over freely. On the other hand, at Graça, whether you were a boy or a girl, you’d be kicked out at 12am. You had to apply/get permission for someone to sleep over.

Tali Cassidy Rochester (1 year), Forest Hill (2 years)

Do you feel a strong sense of community?

Forest was quite big and we felt detached. You only knew your flat mates. Graça was much better. We were all like, “Ah, ah, ah! We’re the First Ladies!”

What do you think of room raids?

Yep, the “wardens” would search in our rooms for squatters at 1am.

Do you feel a strong sense of community?

Rochester: No real sense of community, however I met some really good friends there.

Forest Hill: No sense of community.

Clifford Ndhlovu Mahogany House (2 years) Have you experienced crime in res?

No, I had good flatmates. I’ve never seen crime overall. I’ve lived a sheltered life.

Garikai Matambo

Do you think res rules are sexist?

We didn’t have ANY rules! Rock on!

Leo Marquard (1 year) Have you experienced crime in res?

There were often rooms broken into and things were stolen.

Have you ever had a room raid?

Yes, once as I can remember. It happened during the night but I don’t think they found anything.

Do you think res rules are sexist?

Nope. Rules were pretty much standard across the residences. After 12am everyone, boys or girls, had to get out.

Do you feel a strong sense of community?

Yes! I learnt quite a lot. My experience was rich and enlightening. All-in-one. A complete package.

Do you feel a strong sense of community?

Yeah, we were all students. We built many relationships, friendships, got to meet different people, “yada yada yada…”

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features

v71 e7 – 24 July 2012

Interview

Sanda Shandu, YouSeeTV Presenter

Temi Oketunji

my constant singing and shouting in the corridors, shower, common room ...

V

arsity was fortunate enough to get Sanda Shandu, YouSeeTV presenter and personality-on-campus, to sit still for a few minutes to answer some questions.

Have you ever been cornered by the hobo on Main with the endless layers of African attire?

Unfortunately/fortunately not. I’d dig to adopt his style someday.

What are you studying?

I wish I knew, but my transcript says BSocSc Economics and Organisational Psychology.

What is the one thing you would do if it wasn’t illegal or if there were no consequences?

Get high in a Philosophy class or feed a Maths lecturer some magic muffins while they teach.

What is the best joke you have ever heard or read?

Q: Why should you never marry a tennis player?

A: Because love doesn’t mean anything to them!

On a scale of 1 to 10, how flexible are you, 1 being “I can’t even scratch my back” and 10 being “I could be in a circus”?

7! And still goin’ strong.

If you weren’t studying at UCT, what is the one thing you would want to do, apart from travel?

Everyone seems to want to do that.

Well, I would travel to the States and enrol in a performing arts college or live the life of a struggling artist trying to make it.

Have you ever been out of South Africa?

Yes. Egypt, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Mauritius, USA, Europe and Australia. And Rhodes University – that place is crazy out of this world!

What is the current value of a meal voucher?

R17.50, isn’t it? And worth a

Image: michael.currin.co.za whole array of hustling skills and discussions in res dining halls.

What is the worst Jammie Shuttle experience you have ever had?

I thought I was Superman after a couple glasses of wine (I lie, a lot of glasses) at a WineSoc event and underestimated the strength of the

Jammie door. I tried keeping the door open but my arm got stuck as I was finishing a conversation with someone who was off the bus. I mean seriously, the door was quite rude interrupting me like that.

Have you ever stayed in a UCT residence? If yes, what is the most

annoying thing about it?

Yes. I struggled to find anything annoying as I went to boarding school for many years; if anything, the quantity of food given was an issue for me as opposed to the quality, which is what most students have a problem with. And I was probably annoying for others with

If you were given R2 000 right now to split between food and alcohol, how would you split it?

Feed the underprivileged with about R1 200 and invite some friends over to share some beers with the R800. Mind you, I’ve only got two friends!

What’s the one thing you couldn’t picture your life at UCT without and why?

My Vaseline! The unreliable Cape Town weather takes a toll on my lips so my Vaseline is always there to help a brother adapt!

How to beat the Winter Blues

is online Image: capetowndailyphoto.com

Dashalia Singaram

I

n the months from June to August, Cape Town is transformed from the beautiful, kind Mother City we love into a temperamental and cruel Mother-in-law City. The month ahead might make you feel as though you’re sitting through the second half of Twilight – all you really want to do is sleep – but FOMO will force you to brave it in the hope that something good will happen. With this in mind, VARSITY has put together a guide to conquering the winter blues.

1. Keep warm, inside and out No matter what you think when you’re getting dressed in the morning, you can never wear too many layers. This way, when the outer layers get sopping wet you can shed them and not freeze to death.

When clothes simply do not help, find yourself a few friends and a warm, cosy pub. Pubs are ideal in winter, and whether it’s beer or brandy, find yourself a liquid blanket for those winter nights. Mitchell’s Pub at the Waterfront is a great place to keep warm and lighten up

the frigid winter mood. After a few pints of Old Wobbly, winter (and everything else) will be a distant memory.

2. Shop the Sales While the rest of South Africa is nearing the end of winter, triggering end-of-winter sales, Cape Town is nowhere near the end of the chilly season. This may seem like one for the girls, but, judging from the flood of skinny jeans and loafers on campus, it’s safe to assume the guys will be equally enthused by a Jay Jay’s knitwear sale.

3. Double up on the (vitamin) Ds Whether it’s physiologically or psychologically, a lack of sunshine can really be a wet blanket on the soul. The sunshine during a Cape winter is much like Britain’s success at Wimbledon: sporadic and shortlived. So keep an eye out; when you see a few rays breaking through the ever-present clouds, soak up as much Vitamin D as you can. It may be a few minutes or a few hours, but a little warmth on the skin does wonders. And if it doesn’t, let it be a reminder of the warm summer days spent on the Jammie steps and

something to look forward to.

4. Don’t fight Mother Nature In a battle between you and bad weather, you will lose nine times out of ten. On the really bad days, it’s best to just roll with the rain and thunder. Winter makes the best movie days: popcorn, bed and hours of mindless series... the student version of playing hide-and-seek with Mother Nature.

It might not seem like it, but I’m told that winter does not last forever.

Stay strong, and if all else fails, get yourself a Slanket (a gigantic fleece blanket with sleeves). As with Crocs, you may look like a fool, but at least you’ll be comfy.

• Quick campus news • Vote in our online polls • Frequently updated • Campus video gallery • Campus weather updates • Comment on articles

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features

Gig guide

v71 e7 – 24 July 2012

bunch of DJs. When: Friday, July 27th Where: Zula Sound BAr, Long Street Eina: R50 cover

Bootleg Boogie

What: Merury Live, always a good venue for any kind of party, unleashes all kinds of bizarre hillbilly shit on Cape Town in the shape of Crimson House Blues, The Bone Collectors and The Ratrod Cats.

As usual, expect lots of giveaways, economically appealing drinks specials and great DJs for before and after.

When: Saturday, July 28th Where: Mercury Live, De Villiers Street Eina: R30 cover

late July to early August Aléz Odendaal & Rhynhardt Krynauw

T

he holidays have come and gone and we’ve all set our alarm clocks back to real-world time, with some of us waking up closer to the time we were used to going to sleep.

Here at VARSITY, we’ve put together a little something for those who aren’t ready to let the dream go, and for those who spent the holidays holed up in small home-towns playing Skryim on what is now their brother’s Xbox. Enjoy and play safe.

Lark album launch

What: The band is back, and we are grateful. Inge Beckmann has been making interesting noise with BEAST recently, but this is what everyone’s been waiting for. Lark launches their new album Gong is Struck.

When: Friday, July 27th Where: Trinity, 15 Bennett Street Eina: R50 cover

Klick Klack!

What: Mix n’ Blend hit the decks in Stellenbosch; go show our Maties mates we party harder!

What: Klick Klack!

A group photography exhibition, complemented by musical performances by The Future Primitives and Black Lung. Featuring the works of upwards of two dozen artists.

When: Friday, July 27th Where: Die Mystic Boer, 3 Victoria Street, Stellenbosch Eina: TBA

When: Friday, July 27th Where: The Pit, corner of Bree and Wale Streets Eina: TBA

Rated R

A Nightmare in July

Mix n’ Blend

What: Red Huxley, Rosemary Towns End and The Dollfins bring some raw rock ‘n’ roll awesomeness. Three great up-and-comers who deserve a good listening to.

When: Friday, July 27th Where: Kimberley Hotel, Roeland Street Eina: R30 cover

What: The new Zula Bar has been going for a year now, and they’re celebrating by throwing a hell of a party. Cruise around between the Sleepy Hollow main stage, the Big Fish mini stage, the Mad Hatter’s Cafe and the Nightmare Before Christmas chill-out zone. Look forward to Cape Town’s finest gypsy, balkan and swing bands and a killer

Dating without breaking the bank Rob Byrne

L

et’s be honest: dating isn’t easy, and for your average student it can be an unwelcome expense, perhaps even a dying art.

When faced with the choice of, (a) hanging around in Tiger Tiger, getting blind drunk and whispering “I think you’re well fit” into an equally blotto girl’s ear, or (b) actually asking out a girl stone cold sober, most blokes will take the easy, alcoholic, cheap option.

If you manage to get over that first hurdle and brave the fear of rejection, you're then faced with going about impressing your newfound “fittie” (just go with it).

Here are some suggestions to help you make the most of what's in your piggy bank.

The Naked Chef Probably best not to start off the evening in your birthday suit, but who knows? It might end up that way if you can cook up a storm. If you have access to a kitchen, a meal for two can easily be put together for R50 with relatively little hassle.

Check out studentcook.co.uk for some cheap recipe ideas. You don't

exactly have to be Gordon Ramsay, as long as you've made an effort and the food is edible.

The Great Outdoors In Cape Town, and especially in the surroundings of UCT, there are ample opportunities for you to enjoy the great outdoors, especially on that mountain you see every day.

Take a walk up to Rhodes Memorial, the Blockhouse, or wander down to Newlands Forest and enjoy the stunning views, fresh air and some quality alone time. If the traditional picnic seems too effete (wicker basket optional) maybe just stick to a bottle of something nice.

Check out special offers Why not wow your other half with a swanky cocktail at the Mount Nelson Hotel? Every Wednesday from 5pm to 7pm in the chic Planet Bar, ladies receive a complimentary martini or G&T on arrival.

Enjoy your cocktail in stunning surroundings while rubbing shoulders with an international crowd.

The Mount Nelson is perfectly situated for a stroll around the nearby Company Gardens and near plenty of affordable eateries on Kloof Street.

See some Labia on the First Date Ambitious? Get your mind out the gutter. There's plenty to do near the Hiddingh Campus in town, so take advantage of the free Jammie route there and back and head to the Labia Theatre. The theatres offers movie meal specials throughout the week, starting at R75.90, for which you get two movie tickets and a meal for two at a nearby restaurant. Details can be found at labia.co.za.

The Morning After... ...Or just any morning for that matter. Why not treat your special friend to breakfast – the cheapest meal of the day!

Town abounds will special offers on breakfasts, but perhaps the most well-known and reliable is the R14 breakfast at Beleza in Tamboerskloof. If you worked up an appetite the night before, why not double up for R28, or try their excellent coffee, voted the City’s best in 2011. It's still pretty good in 2012.

Just remember that we're all on a budget as students, so there's no shame in getting the most out of what's on offer.

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for you, and if it is, there’s no need for me to sell it anymore.

When: Saturday, July 28th Where: Trinity, 15 Bennett Street Time: From 10pm Eina: Presale: R100 At the door: R120 VIP: 250

Short & Sweet Short Films

What: Premiere of the Short and Sweet short film evening. It’s a showcase of the world’s finest short films, stop-motion animations and music videos. Join them on their premiere night for free popcorn for the first 100 patrons, and rub shoulders with Cape Town’s sharpest hipsters. If that doesn’t do it for you, two fully stocked bars might.

Live Charge Tour

When: Tuesday, July 31st Time: Doors open at 6pm, films start at 7.30pm sharp Where: Wunderbar Theatre (Old German Club), Roodehoek Terrace, off Hope Street Eina: R25

When: Saturday, July 28th Where: The Assembly, Harrington Street Eina: R50 before 10pm, R60 after

Res4Res

What: The CT leg of the Stellas’ Live Charge tour hits us on Saturday night. They are joined by superstars Taxi Violence and Van Coke Cartel. so this is one you probably won’t want to miss.

Fashion Week After-Party

What: The Mercedez-Benz Fashion Week’s official after-party, hosted by Red Bull and featuring Berlin’s DJ Ralf Kollmann. You’ll know if this is

What: Res4Res, UCT’s interres theatre festival. Watch UCT’s residents show off their drama skills at the annual event.

When: August 8th–11th Where: The Little Theatre, Hiddingh Campus Eina: TBA

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features

v71 e7 – 24 July 2012

A spring in your step Daniël Geldenhuys

S

pring. Summer. Okay, stay with me. I know you’re cold and it’s probably raining as you’re reading this, but as far as fashion is concerned, the spring/summer season is upon us. It may sound crazy, but by the end of this article you’ll be able to shop the new trends with confidence and maybe (fingers crossed) the rain will let up so you can run to your next class without taking another shower.

Why get into the spring mindset now? All the stores have sales at the moment, which means one, they have their spring stock on the shelves behind all the sale stuff, or two, they’ll be receiving spring stock shortly. So why buy three going-out-of-fashion items on sale, when you can buy one great spring item that’ll breathe fresh life into your wardrobe?

But what to buy? Here are five trends to keep in mind so that, when you hit the stores, you’ll be able to keep a clear head and avoid silly impulse purchases (winter stock or Crocs).

The defining trend for the coming season is pretty pastels. Ladies, that means you can get away with wearing something overtly cutesy without being called a girl. Guys, this is for you too. Out are the bright

etsygreekstreetteam.blogspot.com

colour-blocking ways of yore.

These days, fashion wouldn’t be fashion without a strong dose of nostalgia. This season we’ll take a strong shot of 1920s Gatsbyesque glamour. That means party dress hemlines will be below the knee, and the guys will rock double-breasted jackets.

Every spring print takes on a new form. Any clothing you buy in an African print is highly fashionable,

so now we can be more proudly African than ever. And on top of that, there’s no need to pair your print with something neutral. The vibrant feel of spring ’12 calls for loud print on print… on print. More is more. (Yes, it’s true.)

This next trend is trickier to pull off. Pyjamas. Think about it: pyjamastyle silk trousers on a girl could be the epitome of laid-back lux and a pyjama-style shirt on a guy could

be very Chuck Bass. Contrast it with something more formal to show that you didn’t acually fall out of bed.

This last trend you can incorporate with any of the above.

Do yourself a favour and Google “Chanel SS12 runway”. You’ll find a Parisian wonderland complemented by the most beautiful clothes, and Florence Welch emerging from a shell à la Venus. The ocean is one of the most original trends of the

season, so if you can’t afford a Chanel pearl hair clip, get creative with shell necklaces, ocean-blue shirts and silver sunnies.

The new season’s trends are nothing serious. Quite the contrary – designers are sending a message of carefree optimism, introducing some frivolous fun into your wardrobe.

Find something that fits that brief, and I’ll bet that half-priced sweater won’t look as good any more.

features

v71 e7 – 24 July 2012

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A Dark Knight approaches Fifty Shades of Greying

Lori-Rae van Laren

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first minute to the last.

Garfield stars as Peter Parker (a.k.a. Spider-Man) and Emma Stone as his classmate and love interest, Gwen Stacy. The villain of the hour is the Lizard – played to scary perfection by Rhys Ifans – a scientist friend of Peter’s father’s who transforms into the mutant and terrorises the city.

It’s refreshing that the film does not feature Mary-Jane Watson, Peter’s usual love interest in all things Spidey. Gwen’s character is casually glossed over in the previous franchise’s films, but is in fact Peter’s first love in the original comic story. Garfield and Stone – a real-life couple – create a delightful teen couple, and the carefully crafted

dialogue between them is superb.

The film introduces a backstory featuring Peter’s parents that the previous franchise did not have. Peter’s home life is far more interesting and relevant in this film, cleverly creating a platform from which it appears the sequel will work. Watch out for the bonus scene half-way through the credits.

Webb’s direction is superb and he has mixed action and drama, comedy and tension with interesting shot choices, creating a visually pleasing film that’s hard to fault. Perhaps the only flaw was some of the action shots moving a little too quickly for me in 3D; I left the theatre nauseated.

Review

008 saw arguably the greatest super-hero movie of all time: The Dark Knight. It’s the movie that immortalised Heath Ledger in a way his previous films were never able to. It saw Morgan Freeman’s best character since, well, God. It was clever enough for UCT’s Game Theory lecturers to incorporate it into their syllabus and good enough for most of us to make room for it on our list of Best Movies Ever.

Now the long wait for the only

movie that has the potential to top the 2008 classic is over. This July: Hope is lost, Faith is broken but the Dark Knight will rise again.

So why is there so much fascination surrounding this particular super-hero sequel?

Perhaps it’s purely because we love super-hero movies. If the release of The Avengers, and its opening-week take of $654.8 million, has taught us anything, it’s that people love any story DC or Marvel Comics throws at them. The Dark Knight Rises could be just another comic-book-based film and the hype surrounding it will dissipate as soon as the trailer

for The Adventures of Flash Gordon is released. That having been said, I don’t know anyone who booked out a movie theatre and dressed in black tie to watch Iron Man 2, but I know people who did so on July 20th.

Maybe there’s something more to the story of the defender of Gotham City that is generating so much hype. Batman is the hero we can most relate to: he’s a layman fighting injustice as well as his own personal demons. Only, he has a cape. And a lot of money. Moreover, The Dark Knight Rises is an opportunity for Christopher Nolan to provide the justice we feel the hero deserves.

Is affection for a character, even if the character is Bruce Wayne, explanation enough for the sensation surrounding the sequel?

The possible reason this particular super-hero film has generated such hype could be that, while most Marvel and DC movies provide us with high-intensity action scenes and sufficient character development to keep us interested, the Batman series is both actionpacked and philosophical. The Dark Knight made us question everything from the law to what heroism really looks like, and through characters like the Joker and Harvey Dent, the dark side of humankind was confronted. If this is the case, then it is no wonder we’re so excited for the concluding film.

Perhaps the real reason we’re so excited is simply because the story thus far has been excellent, with unexpected twists and enough suspense to leave us desperate to know how the Dark Knight’s fate plays out in the final chapter.

Whatever your reason for watching the final instalment of Batman, we can only hope that The Dark Knight rises high enough to meet our expectations.

Stephanie Venter êêêêê Starring: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans Directed by: Marc Webb Rating: PG-13 Studio: Columbia Pictures, Marvel Studios It takes a well-cast group of actors, a masterful director and a strong script to make a good movie (2002’s Spider-Man) an even better one. Luckily, this year’s reboot of the Spider-Man franchise, The Amazing SpiderMan, has all three, delivering a fantastic film enjoyable from the

Theolin Tembo

Christian Grey. After meeting him, Steel realises that she wants to get closer and Grey also finds Title: Fifty Shades of Grey himself drawn to the young lady.

Author: E.L. James Shocked, yet thrilled by Grey’s taste for S&M, the couple embark Who ever said that plagiarism on a daring and passionate affair, was always a bad thing? What as Steel discovers Grey’s secrets initially started out as Twilight while also exploring her own fan-fiction led to author E.L. dark desires.

James recently breaking the $20 The large number of women million mark for her best-selling purchasing the trilogy, has led to novel series. the book series being described Fan fiction or slash fiction as “mommy porn” and “Twilight is what you get when a fan of for Adults.” Women are able a particular novel (film, comic to receive a complex love story book, etc.) uses the characters while enjoying the novel’s steamy within said novel to tell their own sexual escapades. story. It takes existing characters Twilight author Stephanie and allows for people to write Meyer has said that she has no their own stories without the problem with the numerous nuisance of having to create new, similarities to her saga as “obunknown characters. viously, [James] had a story in her, It is because and so it would’ve of fan fiction that come out in some the latest pop- Meyer has said that other way.” culture hit, the she has no problem However, the Fifty Shades of trilogy presents Grey trilogy, with the numerous a very worrying similarities has been born. issue of originality.

Though some The success of the have said that book has proven the final narrative bears little that when looking at the novel resemblance to the plot of in its simplest form, plagiarism the Twilight series, the initial allows you success. No need connection nevertheless remains. to create a purposeful, wellThe successful new book structured, thought-provoking series has been topping bestseller and original text that tackles lists such as the New York Times socio-political themes; an S&M Book Review and recently landed book will do. James’ series, along the author a movie deal worth with Meyer’s, is why today is a sad $5 million, meaning that we will day for English literature. be hearing about the series for Either way, E.L. James has some time to come. to be commended for writing Fifty Shades of Grey tells a successful trilogy, albeit one the erotic story of a university based on a weak series, and literature student, Anastasia Steel, if Meyer is okay with it, who who interviews entrepreneur can complain?

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sport Sports Shorts VARSITY’s round-up of actionpacked, homegrown sports clubs Nicole Beale Volleyball Representatives of the Western Province Volleyball Society engaged in combat at the Inter-Provincial volleyball tournament during the university vacation. Held in Durban, the tournament was in celebration of the 21st anniversary of Volleyball South Africa, the governing body of South African volleyball.

Among the elite representatives of the province’s senior men’s team were three of UCT’s finest players.

Having taken part in two rounds of trials and several practice sessions, Benson Siyawareva, Philip Montsho and UCT’s very own captain Gashirai Masvikeni were chosen to be part of the 2012 senior men’s provincial team.

Out of the five games played in the round-robin tournament by the senior men, Western Province won three and lost two of their matches – one of which was an epic clash of volleyball prowess and a display of explosive action against the hosts, KwaZulu-Natal. As expected, our

boys made sure they brought their share to the table and demonstrated just how much UCT volleyball has to offer.

While a lot can be said about the three UCT players, Western Province’s performance at the tournament was a formidable success with three gold medal positions, two silvers and one bronze medal.

Rowing As One of UCT’s top sports clubs, the Rowing Club has done exceptionally well this year. At a recent selection camp a number of students were selected to represent SA at the World Universities Regatta in September.

In the Lightweight Four division, Murray Shaw, Cameron Hoey, Marcus Crowther and Chase Hyde will be representing SA, as well as Jozef Muller and Leo Davis in the Heavyweight Pair division.

Even more exciting news for the club is that former UCT student Brendan Gliddon, current men’s and women’s coach, has been chosen as the national coach to accompany the crew to this prestigious tournament.

Yachting Over the holidays, UCT’s Lipton Cup team raced in the Pick ‘n Pay Youth Regatta at Royal Cape Yacht Club on their yacht, Southern Charter UCT Maverick (named for the event), and placed first.

This formed part of the team’s preparations for the Lipton Cup, which is the most prestigious regatta in Southern Africa and will be taking place next month in False Bay. One of UCT Yacht Club members, Neil Malan, left last week for the 29er World Championships in Germany.

He and his crew have done well at this event in the past and Varsity looks forward to hearing how he performs this year.

Even more fantastic news for the club is that one of their former members, Roger Hudson, and his crew have qualified to represent South Africa at the Olympics in the two-man 470 sailing event. We wish this former Ikey all the best at the upcoming event.

With contributions from Christine von Hirschfeld, Geoffrey Kilpin & Lydia Hall Image: facebook.com/manchesterunited

Man Utd Tour fever PREPARATIONS – The Manchester United SA Tour train at the Green Point Stadium the day before their match against Ajax Cape Town.

Stephanie Venter English football club Manchester United wrapped up their whirlwind tour of South Africa on Saturday night with a 1–1 draw against Ajax Cape Town at the Green Point Stadium. This after the Red Devils faced AmaZulu at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Wednesday, July 18th, winning the match 1–0.

Long-time manager Sir Alex Ferguson praised the South African teams, saying, “Ajax’s tactics were very good. They pressed the ball, and when they won the ball they counter-attacked well and gave us a lot of worrying moments.”

Of AmaZulu after their win against the local team, Ferguson said, “They [AmaZulu] show a lot of positive signs. I think they did very

well; they weren’t overwhelmed by the occasion in any way.”

Excitement for the arrival of the fourteen-times championship winners Manchester United was at an all-time high during their tour, with both matches selling out quickly. Durban’s match against AmaZulu took place on Mandela Day, which both teams took note of.

Excitement ... was at an all-time high ... with both matches selling out quickly Describing the tour as “amazing”, long-time Manchester United fan Jason Venter said, “Manchester United are a world-renowned club and it’s great to see the players and

manager here in South Africa.”

Some well-known United players were absent from the SA Tour squad, but this did not hamper South African fans’ enthusiasm. Wayne Rooney, Ryan Giggs, Nani, Patrice Evra, Nemanja Vidic, and Phil Jones were among the famous names that did not make the journey to South Africa.

Of the champion team’s performance in South Africa, Venter said, “Sloppy defending by Man United allowed for too many shots for AmaZulu. However, poor finishing from both sides prevented the scoreline from being higher.”

United headed to Shanghai, China, following their tour of South Africa. Ajax Cape Town and AmaZulu will participate in the MTN 8, South Africa’s oldest soccer competition starting early next month.

v71 e7 – 24 July 2012

Driven past Point

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Sajjad Karamsi Sports Editor

The dea(r)th of sporting role models Aristotle argued that individuals imbibed moral virtues by modeling their behaviour on those they look up to. Because of this, he insisted that all citizens had a duty to set a good example – to be role models, particularly if they were in the public eye. generated about personalities like I highly doubt John Terry Shane Warne, Ryan Giggs and, of knows who Aristotle was, or what course, John Terry is nauseating. being a role model entails. Do We laud them, elevate them onto most professional sportswomen the loftiest pedestals and bestow and sportswomen? Do they have upon them a multitude of awards. to strive to transform their lives Warne’s drug bans and to adapt to society’s standards of associations with bookmakers, “good role models”? Of course and the latter two’s various they do. They are uniquely placed sexual indiscretions are all swept to transform the lives of diverse under the carpet because these multitudes. They sportsmen help are perfectly our favourite positioned to teams to secure They are perfectly become beacons of positioned to become sporting glory. hope, inspiration (At least we beacons of hope and guidance fanned the flames for all those fans of Tiger-mania who celebrate once we found them for their sporting prowess. out he was a cheater; then again, They cannot live in a self-imposed golf is an individual sport where cocoon on their fields and courts, team loyalties are virtually imposand need to realise that their sible to build.) obligations to society extend There is a handful of great beyond their physical prowess. sporting personalities, some who We shouldn’t be asking ourselves may not run furthest or jump whether sports personalities can highest, but whose lives beyond the be rich, famous and virtuous. field is inspirational and uplifiting.

Rather, we should be asking: “why We need more personalities like shouldn’t they be?”

Haile Gebrselassie and Hashim There are few outstanding Amla, and less of the tabloid drama personalities in the world of sports that sportsmen and sportswomen that you can look up to and anoint inflict upon us. as a good role model. Yet the buzz

Sport VARSITY

FIXTURES If you would like your club’s upcoming match featured in this box, please email details to sports@varsitynewspaper.co.za timeously.

Sport topic ideas and tip-offs can be sent to the above email address.

Green and (going for) gold

RARING TO GO – South Africa’s Olympic representatives’ preparations are well underway for the London Olympics this year.

Clockwise from TOP left: Burry Stander (mountain biking), Caster Semenya (athletics), Sifiso Nhlapo (BMX), Joanna van de Winkel (road cycling), Cameron van der Burgh (swimming), Chad le Clos (swimming).

Images: Dave Macleod & Chris van Lennep (GamePlanMedia); geminisquest.blogspot.com; buzzdemon.com/reuters; arenainternational.com; mtb.miway.co.za.

Nicole Beale

E

very four years, the Olympics creates the perfect excuse to bring out your South African flag and feel truly patriotic. With athletes training their whole lives to reach this point, it is crucial to show support to the outstanding talent that will be making South Africa proud over the next few weeks.

During the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, South African long jumper Khotso Mokoena brought home the country’s only medal for the tournament when he won silver. With this being less than the previous tally of six medals for South Africa in Athens in 2004, this year’s participants hope to bring even more glory and silverware home.

With so many sports to watch during this prestigious event, here are some of the top South African athletes that you should be looking out for.

Cameron van der Burgh At just 24 years old, Van der Burgh is one of South Africa’s most well-

known swimmers. Competing in the 100m breaststroke division, he most recently won two bronze medals in Shanghai last year and is already a world record holder in 50m breaststroke. In contrast to the likes of Ryk Neethling and Roland Schoeman, Van der Burgh has been trained in South Africa, making him the most successful home-trained swimmer representing SA today.

Burry Stander For mountain-biking enthusiasts, the name Burry Stander is one that is buzzing through the industry right now. The young cyclist will be competing in the cross-country mountain-bike race during the upcoming Olympics.

Stander has become even more successful since his participation in Beijing in 2008, when he finished in 15th place. Now ranked second in the World Cup Series, Stander was recently victorious at the UCI Olympic Cross-Country World Cup in New York. Along with this, Stander has won the past two Absa Cape Epics. The cyclist, who has been riding for the past 14 years,

stands an excellent chance to win a medal in London this year.

Sifiso Nhlapo Sticking to the discipline of biking, South Africa’s top BMX rider hopes to bring the gold home this year. Nhlapo has brought a tremendous amount of exposure for BMX to South Africa with his incredible success. Not only is he the South African BMX champion, but also an All African champ.

Concerns were raised when Nhlapo had to undergo reconstructive surgery to his anterior cruciate ligament last year, but his recovery went well and he retained the title of SA BMX champion a few months later in the National Championships.

The Soweto-born athlete crashed during the finals of the Beijing Olympics, so he is even more driven to compete and win in these games.

Caster Semenya With media coverage centered on her gender controversy, the press often fails to praise this athlete for her brilliant ability.

Semenya earned gold medals for her performance in the 800m and 1 500m races at the 2009 African Junior Championships before her scandal hit the headlines. Since then, Semenya has joined up with the legendary Maria Mutola as her coach. Their partnership has been extremely successful, with Semenya winning a silver medal at last year’s World Championships in South Korea.

With her troubles now behind her, Semenya is a true gold-medal hope for South Africa in the athletics discipline of the Olympics.

Chad le Clos Over the past few years, South Africa has seen tremendous success from local swimmers. Chad le Clos hopes to be no different. At only 20 years old, Le Clos will be making his Olympic debut in London this year.

The butterfly swimmer won gold in the 200m event at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, as well as at the All Africa Games last year.

Le Clos will be setting a South African Olympic record when he

races in a whopping six events, including the 100m and 200m butterfly and two individual medleys.

The Durban-born swimmer may soon be a household name.

Joanna van de Winkel No VARSITY list would be complete if we didn’t mention a UCT alumnus competing in this year’s Olympic Games.

Joanna van de Winkel (née Hotchkiss) graduated from UCT in 2005 with an Electrical Engineering degree. The avid cyclist rides professionally for the Belgian Lotto Belisol team and will be representing South Africa in the road cycling event at the Olympics.

Van de Winkel will be joined by the likes of Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio and Robyn de Groot, two of South Africa’s most successful female cyclists. UCT will be supporting Van de Winkel and her squad during the road cycling race in London.

The 2012 Olympic Games begin this Friday, July 27th, and will be shown on SuperSport and on SABC.