Positive link between Grade 11 repetition rates and matric pass rates in Western Cape (2018-2021). Link became weaker in size and significance when repetition rates dropped at end of 2020. High repetition rates may not be justified.

First-year Stellenbosch University (SU) chemistry lecturer Dr Marietjie Lutz is back in the saddle for a good cause, raising funds for students in need. Lutz is no stranger to cycling for a good cause, having twice ridden 600 km from George to Cape Town as part of the “Wheels of Opportunity – WOOP” initiative. The idea for WOOP developed after Lutz discovered in 2022 that one of her students was facing homelessness because of financial need and yet was still achieving academically.

International Women’s Day was celebrated on 8 March. Experts at Stellenbosch University wrote opinion pieces. They focused on some of the challenges for gender equality.

Newly appointed extraordinary professor at the Centre for Social Justice. Human Rights Commissioner marking 30 years of Constitution, TRC and GEAR. Scholar-activist advancing horizontal accountability and intergenerational dialogue.

No one should have to choose between eating and studying. The University’s approach focuses on stabilising, practical support rather than one-off crisis aid. The campaign ends on 15 April with Giving Day – an on-campus event, alongside virtual opportunities for supporters around the world.

From Stellenbosch to the world stage. A lifelong Matie connection. Intent on supporting a revival of tennis in South Africa through the establishment of a new Stellenbosch Racquet Centre.

Thirty-seven exceptional first-year students honoured for outstanding Grade 12 results and choosing Stellenbosch University. Fifteen students received Vice-Chancellor’s Awards valued at R100 000, while 22 received Achievers Awards valued at R75 000. Recipients represent six provinces and 32 high schools, reflecting a highly competitive national pool of academic talent.

Baroness Valerie Amos warned that apparent global stability masks deep fractures of poverty, conflict and eroding rights. Social justice cannot wait for perfect conditions; it must be the foundation for peace and prosperity. Stellenbosch University marked its entry into the ILO’s Global Coalition for Social Justice with a lecture on World Day of Social Justice.

World Wildlife Day was celebrated on 3 March. Experts highlight key conservation issues. Wildlife must be valued by humans.

Three-day visit deepens South Africa-Denmark Democracy Learning Partnership. Dialogue spans welfare states, inequality, youth disengagement and experiential learning. Collaboration enters consolidation phase with plans for mobility, joint projects and research.