Over 5 000 newcomer students, accompanied by their parents, descended on Stellenbosch last week to start their academic journey with Stellenbosch University (SU).
The welcoming event, held on Thursday January 24, at 5.30pm, at the Danie Craven stadium, marked the official start to the welcoming week.
The new Maties met the University’s mascot, Pokkel, and were addressed by Professor Wim de Villiers, rector and vice-chancellor, and Carli van Wyk, SRC chairperson. Students then gathered on the field to form a massive “2019”. This symbolises the newcomers integration into the new community they will become part of.
A new addition to the programme is the newcomer marching, from the stadium to Victoria Street on the campus as part of a “Dream Launch” that symbolises the start of their journey to realise their dreams.
The students each received a card on which they could write their dreams for themselves. These cards were then placed at various points on the route, especially in Victoria Street.
A further highlight of the welcoming programme is the annual “Vensters” event taking place on Friday February 1. For these colourful outdoor performances, residences and private student organisations (PSOs) partner up to impress audiences with innovative and creative dance performances around a central theme.
Visit www.sun.ac.za for the full week’s welcoming programme and information on, among others, the registration schedule, transport, personal safety, the library, free writing advice and transport will be available.
