"You are embarking on the greatest journey of your life … There's no doubt, you've come to the right place for your life-changing experience."

With these words Prof Wim de Villiers, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University (SU), officially welcomed thousands of excited new students as Maties on Thursday evening (19 January 2017). They and their parents attended the welcoming ceremony in the Danie Craven Stadium.

Apart from Prof De Villiers, Ms Delecia Davids, Head of the Cluster Conveners, and Mr Pierre Lombard, Head of the Prim Committee, also addressed the students and their parents.

In his welcoming address, Prof De Villiers talked to new students about SU's five core values namely empathy, shared accountability, excellence, leadership in service to others and innovation.

He mentioned that mutual respect and appreciation as well as the acknowledgment of other people's dignity are important characteristics of an inclusive SU community.

Prof De Villiers encouraged new students to live SU's values and to help make the world a better place.

"You are the new generation Maties. You must help us think and do things innovatively and afresh."

Prof De Villiers also told new students to take their academic, personal and social live on campus seriously and to use the many opportunities SU offers.

Echoing the rector's sentiments, Ms Davids encouraged new students to explore the wonders of their new environment and to add value to the lives of other students.

"It is your responsibility to take this chance and turn it into a success. Use this opportunity to broaden your horizons, to listen to others and to leave a legacy," was Mr Lombard's advice to new students.

The official welcoming for new students runs from Thursday, 19 January to Saturday, 28 January. Academic classes start on Monday, 30 January. 

• Click here for the Rector's welcoming speech. 
• Click here for the story about the welcoming of international students at SU.
• Visit www.sun.ac.za/welcome for the complete Welcoming Programme.