Thousands of newcomer students will arrive on Stellenbosch University’s (SU) campuses from Monday 26 January to take part in the official Welcoming Programme, which runs until 8 February.

The jam-packed programme is designed to help new students settle into university life. Newcomers will meet their mentors, be introduced to campus spaces, make new friends and learn more about their academic programmes, as well as the wide range of support services and activities available across SU’s campuses. There is an additional SOAR Pre-welcoming programme for first-generation students, starting on Saturday 25 January. 

As part of the University’s commitment to providing a transformative student experience, the Welcoming Programme consists of three core components:

1. An institutional welcoming programme, including the official welcoming event at the Danie Craven Stadium, the group photo and the iconic Dream Walk;
2. An academic welcoming and orientation programme within each faculty; and
3. Welcoming activities within student communities and residences, including organised student life, sport, societies, mentorship, clusters, social events and support services.

One of the highlights of the programme is the official welcoming ceremony, hosted by Rector and Vice-Chancellor Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, on Wednesday 28 January at the Danie Craven Stadium. This festive event will also be attended by members of the Rectorate, deans, senior management, the Student Representative Council, other student structures and the University’s much-loved mascot, Pokkel. 

Following the formal proceedings and the taking of the official 2026 photograph, students will set off on the symbolic Dream Walk down Victoria Street, where they will pass a banner marking the symbolic start of their academic journey. 

In keeping with tradition, newcomers will also have the opportunity to attach handwritten cards capturing their hopes and dreams to the trees along the route.

"We are delighted to welcome our newest Maties to Stellenbosch University. The Welcoming Programme is designed to help students settle in, feel supported and start building the connections that will shape their student experience, says Ramjugernath. “One of the most meaningful moments is the Dream Walk down Victoria Street. It’s a symbolic reminder that students’ time at Stellenbosch is not only about what they will learn, but also about who they will become.”

Other highlights of the two-week programme include the Welcoming Fair held at the Danie Craven Stadium on Friday 30 January. Here students will have an opportunity to engage with various societies, Maties Sport and Facilities Management. Maties Sport will also host a fun run from the Maties Sport Gymnasium the following day.

The Welcoming Programme culminates in the vibrant Vensters/Connect festival at the Coetzenburg sports fields on Saturday 7 February. This carnival-themed afternoon features newcomer performances, food and craft vendors and interactive partner activations.

Classes for newcomer students will commence on Monday 9 February, marking the official start of the 2026 academic year.

More information about the University’s 2026 Welcoming Programme:

• Welcoming programme
• SU Welcoming website
• Social media updates about the Welcoming Period will be posted under the hashtag #helloMaties.