You are exactly where you are meant to be.

This was the sentiment expressed by Prof Wim de Villiers, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University, and Ms Viwe Kobokana, chairperson of the Students' Representative Council (SRC), when welcoming newcomer students during two welcoming ceremonies at the Danie Craven Stadium yesterday afternoon.

The ceremonies marked the official start of the University's Welcoming Programme, comprising a comprehensive and fully integrated programme of welcoming activities during the first two weeks of February.

Make your dreams come true

In contrast to last year's welcoming event, which took place virtually, De Villiers expressed his gratitude to be back in person at the Danie Craven Stadium to face the new Maties.

“I can't tell you how great it is to speak to a stadium full of people – in person. Last year, the team that put the welcoming programme together did a fantastic job within the constraints of Covid-19 protocols.

“This year, things look different. We're still following Covid-19-protocols, but the management of the pandemic is at a point where we're at least able to host our traditional Welcoming ceremony – albeit in two sittings.

“I believe an event like this – that we attend in person – plays an important part in giving our new students a sense of identity, a sense of what it means to be a Matie."

De Villiers commended the newcomers for their academic achievements during the difficult past two years and for being accepted to study at the University.

“We've had record numbers of applications for 2022. In fact, applications increased by over 150% from the previous year, and we have limited space. You made the cut. So be proud! Give yourself a pat on the back, you've earned it."

With classes commencing on 14 February, De Villiers encouraged the newcomers to remain focused and to take responsibility for their time at Stellenbosch.

“You all have specific skills and talents that you bring to the table, and we're eager to see what your contribution will be. Because Maties is your 'dream destination'. We'll be there for you all the way, but it's up to you to make your dreams come true," he said.

“So, take every day, every class, every exam, as it arrives. Take small steps, celebrate the little victories, and then keep going!"

He also informed newcomers of the extensive support structures at the University and encouraged them to make use of the services.

New journey

SRC Chair Viwe Kobokana also commended the newcomers for choosing Stellenbosch University as their academic home.

“As you go on your journey here, in the shadow of this beautiful mountain, please remember that you are exactly where you are meant to be; you deserve to be here, never forget that!"

She encouraged them to embrace the “golden years" of their lives as students as well as being part of a diverse and inclusive campus community.

“But with the great power of being independent comes great responsibility. There is no better time than as a newcomer to get the chance to embody the values of our institution: compassion, accountability, respect, equity and excellence. Values that can be remembered with the motto 'I CARE 2'.

“We are proud of the diverse and unique identities that make up our student body, as we continue to create safe spaces for our women and queer students, as well as refugee and African international students."

Emphasising the transformative journey that every student is going to experience, Kobokana said, “Stellenbosch University is the reason for me being the strong, assertive and proud black woman I am today. It is through the laughs, the love, the tears, the sleepless nights, the nights out and the lessons that I have grown, grown and grown," said Kobokana.

During the ceremony, the newcomers were also introduced to the Rectorate, deans as well as the mayor of Stellenbosch, Advocate Gesie van Deventer, who attended the event.

The welcoming ceremonies were followed by the Dream Walk in Victoria Street, marking the start of the newcomers' journey with SU and the fulfilment of their dreams.

• Due to level-1 Covid-19 safety restrictions, a maximum of 2 000 people were allowed in the stadium at a time. This resulted in only a selected number of newcomers, University management team members and student leaders attending the welcoming events. Video footage of the welcoming addresses is available on SU's website. 

For information on aspects such as the extensive network of support services, click here.