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BUA Vol 8 Issue 4

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<strong>Vol</strong>ume 8, <strong>Issue</strong> 4, 2024<br />

TUT Music Idols<br />

season one winner<br />

shares her story of<br />

triumph and self belief<br />

By Lindokuhle Nkosi<br />

A<br />

competition like Idols would be every other aspiring artist's<br />

dream come true. To the winner of Season one, Mandisa<br />

Khumalo, it was a journey of unexpected success, selfdiscovery<br />

and inspiration all led by her love for music.<br />

"It all started when my cousin sent me the registration link. It was<br />

just two days before the deadline, so I hurriedly filled in the form.<br />

They asked for a video and I uploaded one of my old covers,"said<br />

Khumalo.<br />

"I thought I would be in the top three, but number one? Yoh! That<br />

was unexpected," she exclaims with joy. She can’t stop watching<br />

the announcement video, recalling how she could hardly contain her<br />

excitement. "I ran for that trophy. I was super happy. Life has been<br />

amazing since then," She added.<br />

“At first, I was calm and confident, but hearing the other<br />

contestants sing shook me. I started to doubt myself and my song<br />

choices. I realised this was not just my shower or my mother’s<br />

kitchen, it was a competition." She said .<br />

Fortunately, a band member’s words of encouragement helped her<br />

focus even more. "He told me, believe in God. That stopped me from<br />

changing my song. From then on, I focused on myself and blocked<br />

out the noise," She said.<br />

Mandisa Khumalo first performance at TUT<br />

Music Idols<br />

The journey gave her new found confidence and clarity about her<br />

future in music. "Before this, music was just a hobby. Now, I see it as<br />

my gift and it is my responsibility to grow it. I have been taking gigs<br />

as an award-winning artist, but my music career is fully focused on<br />

God. Everything I write from now on is to glorify Him and I pray to<br />

work with some of Mzansi’s amazing gospel artists one day."<br />

Reflecting on her favourite performance, she said, "My last<br />

performance, singing 'Ndizobizwa' by Zama Khumalo, stands out. My<br />

outfit was on point and I made the song my own. I sang every note<br />

as if I were telling a story to the audience and their reaction was<br />

amazing”.<br />

"Do not doubt yourself. Do what you<br />

love. I am just a girl who sings at<br />

church, you do not have to know all<br />

the musical keys. If you have the voice,<br />

please enter season two.<br />

Mandisa Khumalo<br />

Director in the Directorate of Extracurricular<br />

Development Dr Albert Mbada and Idols Winner<br />

Mandisa Khumalo<br />

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<strong>BUA</strong>


EDITORIAL TEAM<br />

• Editor<br />

Kgopi Mabotja<br />

• Journalist<br />

• Asiphe Mjongile<br />

• Phidiso Makwana<br />

• Nosipho Mnyandu<br />

• Lindokuhle Nkosi<br />

• Social Media<br />

Kgopi Mabotja<br />

• Layout and Design<br />

Nadia Ross<br />

TUT Printing Services<br />

• Images and photos:<br />

• Cover: ©Netball Media South<br />

Africa - Ketso Media Production<br />

• ©www.unsplash.com<br />

• ©www.freepik.com<br />

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Email:<br />

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Pedestrian Safety<br />

Campaign<br />

<br />

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<strong>BUA</strong><br />

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Elections yields<br />

A POSITIVE<br />

experience for students<br />

Members new entrant Mkhonto Wesizwe Youth League<br />

By Fundani Mgabisa<br />

T<br />

he past few months have been both challenging and exciting<br />

for student political structures. The university’s Directorate<br />

of Student Governance and Leadership Development (SGLD)<br />

hosted the TUT SRC elections online, from 03 to 05 September 2024.<br />

These annual elections are held yearly, with eligible voters,which<br />

are registered TUT students.This time logging online and receiving<br />

guidance on how to elect. Contrary from the pre-COVID-19, when<br />

physical voting on campus was a norm.<br />

Post-Pandemic, the university has transitioned to full online<br />

registration for Student Faculty council (SFC) and SRC elections. Both<br />

physical and online students have actively participated in electing<br />

their preferred representatives to lead and represent their interests<br />

to management of their respective campuses and in institutional<br />

(ISRC).<br />

Sandile Ngema, the outgoing Chairperson of<br />

the Faculty of Arts and Design, noted positive<br />

collaboration and tolerance among campus<br />

groups. Second-year student Goitsimang<br />

Sebolawa, who campaigned for his political<br />

party her voting experience was positive. Garankuwa<br />

campus student Fellang Motoung, said<br />

he was incredibly happy as students came out in<br />

numbers to vote.<br />

Members of Action SA's student Chapter<br />

Members of SADTUSC and ANC Members of Student Christian Organisation<br />

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The Tshwane University of Technology Arts<br />

Festival has been held annually since September<br />

2018. It brings together creatives to showcase<br />

various art forms across the institution including,<br />

spoken word performances, music, drama, painting,<br />

and other art forms.<br />

<strong>BUA</strong><br />

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<strong>BUA</strong>


TUT students bring smiles to<br />

KORWE MULTI-<br />

PURPOSE CENTRE<br />

By Asiphe Mjongile<br />

The Student Affairs and Extracurricular Development (SAED) organised a delightful event<br />

for the children of Ga-Rankuwa on Wednesday, 24 July, at the Korwe Multi-purpose<br />

Centre.<br />

The event was held in celebration of Nelson Mandela Day and it brought a large number of<br />

students together, who dedicated 67 minutes of their time to give back to the community,<br />

making it an impactful and memorable day.<br />

Center Manager<br />

Seanokeng Kgosana<br />

The Center looks after over hundred vulnerable children from the immediate community and<br />

provides meals on a daily basis.<br />

Olga Shikwane, the Social Auxiliary worker at the Center, emphasised the challenges they face,<br />

particularly in providing meals for the growing number of children. Additionally, she highlighted<br />

the need for educational resources.<br />

As a response to some of these needs, SAED donated non perishable food items and mobilised<br />

volunteers to plant a vegetable garden.<br />

The volunteer also played fun-filled activities with the children , including face painting,<br />

dancing, indigenous games and drawing activities . Student, Isaiah Makuasaid volunteering was<br />

fulfilling. "The event not only provided valuable resources, but also support to those in need<br />

while fostering a sense of unity and collaboration among the community of Ga-Rankuwa," he<br />

explained.<br />

TUT Sports Head of<br />

Department,Dumisani Chauke<br />

"What counts in this life is not the fact<br />

that we lived, but the significance we<br />

have made.”<br />

Dumisani Chauke, Head of the Department (HOD) for TUT Sports<br />

<strong>Vol</strong>unteers planting a<br />

vegetable garden<br />

Officials from SAED and volunteers donating food parcles<br />

<strong>BUA</strong><br />

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Disability Unit<br />

Students and alumni attended the event to celebrate excellence<br />

Celebrates Excellence in the Community<br />

By Fundani Mgabisa<br />

The University’s Disability Unit hosted an event to celebrate<br />

the remarkable talents and contributions of persons with<br />

disabilities On Tuesday, September 10. This initiative was<br />

held in collaboration with the Student Development Support (SDS),<br />

Transformation, Employment Equity and Diversity, and the Directorate of<br />

Health and Wellness.<br />

The day was filled with many activities including spoken word<br />

performances, rap and singing. Alumni who have made significant<br />

contributions in their respective fields were recognised, such as Thuto<br />

Chopo, an emerging businessperson and artist.<br />

Calvin Mogajane, a renowned master of ceremonies who has excelled<br />

despite being blind was also recognised.Business Administration student<br />

Abongile Mthamo was also celebrated for academic excellence, having<br />

achieved distinctions in her undergraduate studies.<br />

Dr Gift Chweu,Head of the SDS Department, said the annual event<br />

aims to mobilise support from various faculties to learn more about the<br />

plight of persons with disabilities but also to appreciate their indelible<br />

contribution.<br />

Phathi Makuvire, a National Professional Development Specialist,<br />

presented insights on new Artificial Intelligence technologies designed<br />

to assist students with special needs in achieving academic success.She<br />

underscored the importance of accessible education and encouraged<br />

students to make use of technological advancements.<br />

Ivy Morulane, the Institutional Disability Unit Coordinator, emphasised<br />

that the event fostered inclusion and a sense of belonging.<br />

“Even with insightful conversations<br />

shared throughout this awareness event,<br />

let us remember that our work is far from<br />

over. The path towards true inclusion is a<br />

continuous journey that requires ongoing<br />

commitment, action, and vigilance from<br />

our entire university community.”<br />

Ivy Morulane<br />

Thuto Chopo<br />

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Orion Residence Triumphs in the<br />

2024 TUT Inter-Res Debate<br />

Competition<br />

The 2024 TUT Inter-Residence Debate Competition, held from<br />

August 20th to 27th tackled some of society's most pressing social<br />

issues. The event brought together seven residences—Minjonet,<br />

Polonaise, Astra, Orion, Monitor, Heidehof, and Lizard—to debate social<br />

ills such mental health, substance abuse, and gender-based violence<br />

(GBV).<br />

The competition commenced on the 20th of August with the motion:<br />

"This House believes that students with mental illness should get<br />

exemption from exams." This debate underscored the challenges faced<br />

by students struggling with mental health issues, balancing academic<br />

integrity with the need for institutional support . The discussions were<br />

empathetic and well-reasoned, highlighting the importance of mental<br />

health awareness within the educational system.<br />

On August 21st, the focus shifted to substance abuse with the motion:<br />

"This House believes that harm reduction strategies are more effective<br />

than abstinence-only approaches to addressing substance abuse."<br />

Participants engaged in a robust discussion about the efficacy of harm<br />

reduction versus abstinence, examining which approach better addresses<br />

the complexity substance abuse. The arguments were insightful and<br />

thought-provoking, demonstrating commitment to understanding and<br />

solving this critical issue.<br />

The grand finale, held on the 27 th of August, centred on the motion: "This<br />

House supports the #MeToo movement." In this powerful final debate,<br />

teams explored the significance of the #MeToo movement in combating<br />

gender-based violence and advocating for social justice. The discussions<br />

were intense and impactful with debaters articulating the movement's<br />

role in challenging societal norms and supporting survivors. Orion<br />

Residence emerged victorious, showcasing exceptional debating skills<br />

and a profound understanding of the topics. Their win not only marked<br />

a triumph in the competition but also emphasised the importance of<br />

engaging in meaningful dialogue about the social issues affecting<br />

us all.<br />

Lethlogonolo Mpho Manyuha, Debate Coach<br />

Arts and Acardia<br />

Miratul Tshinshipela Fundi<br />

Journey of an<br />

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT<br />

By Miratul Tshinshipela Fundi<br />

My name is Miratul Tshinshipela Fundi. I am a graduate with a<br />

higher certificate in electrical engineering, currently enrolled<br />

as a student at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT),<br />

pursuing a BEng Tech in Civil Engineering. I am leading an incredible<br />

academic team under the Tshwane University of Technology South African<br />

Institution of Civil Engineering (TUTSAICE Student Chapter), and I, as an<br />

Academic Officer at the International Student Organisation Council (ISO<br />

Council).<br />

Throughout my academic journey I had the opportunity to work as<br />

a Student Assistant at the Civil Engineering Department. I believe<br />

that within TUT a rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds I find<br />

inspiration. TUT had profound impact on my educational experience as an<br />

international student originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo<br />

(DRC).<br />

As I reflect on my time at TUT, I am filled with mixed emotions;<br />

excitement, gratitude, and a hint of nostalgia. I had the privilege of<br />

calling TUT my home away from home. From the moment I arrived on<br />

campus I was confused but I had faith in the structure put in place at TUT<br />

for international students<br />

Despite being far from my family and friends, I felt a sense of belonging<br />

and connection with other fellow students from diverse backgrounds and<br />

places in South Africa, they have taught me so many languages and ways<br />

around South Africa and I am deeply grateful.<br />

Academically, TUT offered me a world-class education that challenged me<br />

to grow and pushed me to reach my full potential. I had a deep love for<br />

building and infrastructure, but I was not able to enrol in civil engineering<br />

at that time. It pushed me to perform well to be able to apply for it in<br />

2020.<br />

The lecturers were knowledgeable, supportive, and always willing to lend<br />

a helping hand because without them I would not be able to soar with<br />

greater heights. I have to highlight that TUT has to reinforce the structure<br />

in order to offer students the level of support and assistance they need.<br />

The training of stuff must be more inclusive in terms of language as it is a<br />

first step towards communication and English is universal.<br />

However, my experience was not without challenges. As I prepare to<br />

graduate, I am filled with gratitude for next year. I value the lifelong<br />

friendships, and invaluable lessons I learned at TUT. If you are an<br />

international student considering studying at TUT, I say “take the leap!<br />

You will not regret it. I went from better to great and empowered.”<br />

<strong>BUA</strong><br />

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Vice-Chancellor & Principal<br />

reviews book of the month<br />

By Nosipho Mnyandu<br />

The Dinokeng building at Pretoria Campus was nothing short<br />

of inspiration as the Vice-Chancellor & Principal Professor<br />

Tinyiko Maluleke reviewed his favourite book for the<br />

Women’s month titled An Ode To My Mother-In-Law by Dr Gloria<br />

Tomatoe Serobe.<br />

“I wrote this book because I believe<br />

that stories of wonderful mothers are<br />

hardly told. Books are less likely to bring<br />

attention unlike commercial shows that<br />

we see on public platforms”<br />

Dr Gloria Tomatoe Serobe<br />

In this book written as a homage to her late mother-in-law,<br />

Serobe speaks about the relationship she shared with her, the<br />

teachings, lessons, difficulties, and most importantly, the love<br />

and support she received from her.<br />

Executive Dean of the<br />

Faculty of Science<br />

Professor Ntebogeng<br />

Mokgalaka stated that<br />

the narrative applauds<br />

the special relationship<br />

that bridges the age<br />

gaps, highlighting the<br />

significance of family<br />

ties and the impact of<br />

women in fostering and<br />

guiding. “In a society<br />

where the relationships<br />

between a makotis and<br />

their mothers-in-law are<br />

often vilified , and with so many stories that we<br />

hear and some of us experience about our mothers-in-law, stories<br />

that are portrayed are hardly good stories,” she concluded.<br />

“After I lost my mother, my mother-in-law came and slept beside<br />

me. As we were tossing and turning, she would put her hand on<br />

my shoulder, and that was her way of letting me know that I still<br />

have a mother in her even after my tragedy.”<br />

Professor Tinyiko Maluleke highlighted some of his favourite<br />

quotes and discoveries from the book. “I think the most striking<br />

aspect of this book by Dr Gloria Serobe is the least obvious. When<br />

we read it, we must read all the lines. We must read between the<br />

lines, read above the lines, read behind and below the lines,” he<br />

stated. He further added that this book resonates well with the<br />

month of August because it tells a story of a woman supporting a<br />

woman.<br />

Proffesor Ntebogeng Mokgalaka, Executive Dean of the Faculty of<br />

Science, expressing her sentiments about the book<br />

Proffesor Tinyiko Maluleke shares his<br />

views upon reading the book<br />

Dr Gloria Serobe is gifted with flowers as a token of appreciation for<br />

her dedicated time and patience<br />

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<strong>BUA</strong>


Industrial Engineering graduate<br />

BREAKS BARRIERS<br />

By Asiphe Mjongile<br />

Thato Mokhela, an alumna, holding a bachelor’s degree in<br />

industrial engineering has transformed her childhood dream into<br />

reality. Born and raised in Itsoseng, a small township between<br />

Lichtenburg and Mahikeng in the Northwest, Thato founded a youth<br />

movement called The Spear while still a student. This movement<br />

is dedicated to empowering the youth by providing them with the<br />

necessary resources to run businesses.<br />

In addition to founding The Spear, Thato has also successfully launched<br />

her own clothing company. Together with her team, she designs clothing<br />

and hosts events that focus on youth entrepreneurship and digital<br />

skills enhancement. Notably, she has employed TUT students in various<br />

leadership positions, including sales and modelling, illustrating her<br />

commitment to nurturing talent within the university.<br />

Mokhela said achieving her goals required unwavering discipline. She<br />

emphasises the importance of discipline in overcoming setbacks and<br />

staying focused on the path to success, highlighting the need to start<br />

over each time one falls short of a goal.<br />

Her journey has not been without its share of obstacles, as she has<br />

faced resistance, loss, rejection and prejudice. However, she has<br />

developed a determined mindset to overcome these adversities,<br />

leveraging her education in Industrial Engineering to shape her<br />

business and emerge as a successful Chief Executive Officer (CEO).<br />

She is currently undergoing a graduate training program at Alstom, a<br />

prominent company in the rail industry.<br />

Morema Rodney Phukunye, the Chairperson<br />

of The Spear, describes Mokhele as a<br />

truly inspiring leader. He commends her<br />

open-mindedness and her eagerness to<br />

embrace innovative ideas and perspectives,<br />

particularly those of the youth.<br />

Thato Mokhela<br />

Thato Ya Modimo Dlalisa<br />

THATO YA MODIMO<br />

DLALISA’S<br />

impressive journey in student<br />

politics<br />

By Asiphe Mjongile<br />

Thato Ya Modimo Dlalisa, a 21-year-old third-year student<br />

majoring in clinical engineering, has made a name for herself<br />

in the world of student politics. Thato has shown exceptional<br />

leadership skills, becoming the uncontested 2023/2024 Student<br />

Faculty Council Chairperson for the Faculty of Engineering and Built<br />

Environment (FEBE).<br />

Thato highlighted that her journey in politics began when she joined<br />

the South African Student Congress (SASCO) in 2021.She is driven by the<br />

organisation’s mandate and the meaning behind its logo, “first friend<br />

on campus”. This experience sparked a passion for politics, which has<br />

since become a defining aspect of her life.<br />

She organised two unforgettable events, the<br />

launch of the Council of Built Environment<br />

Youth Assembly and Women’s month<br />

celebration. The inaugural event took<br />

place on June 21, 2024. Thato serve as<br />

a panellist facilitator, engaging with<br />

various stakeholders in the Engineering<br />

and Built Environment on topics such<br />

as registrations, policy formulation, and<br />

advocacy for inclusivity and diversity.<br />

She said organising the Built Environment Women's Network and the<br />

Council of Built Environment (CBE), the Women's Month Celebration<br />

event was a huge success. Thato mobilised donations from several<br />

sources, such as the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA),<br />

the FEBE departments, the Dean's office, and the local councillor.<br />

Consequently, 1000 packets of sanitary towels were collected, and 250<br />

dignity packs were given to individuals in need.<br />

<strong>BUA</strong><br />

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The Directorate of<br />

Extracurricular Development<br />

celebrates women<br />

through Conversations<br />

Ladies celebrated Women's month at the Leadership<br />

By Nosipho Mnyandu<br />

The Pretoria campus recently hosted a memorable event, titled “Women Crush<br />

Wednesday Conversations,” which brought students together to celebrate<br />

women and to address key issues affecting them.<br />

The inaugural dialogue session provided a platform for discussing women's concerns.<br />

Keynote speaker, Nomsa Kulehile spoke about the challenges faced by women; and<br />

students actively engaged with the topic by sharing their thoughts, sentiments, and<br />

potential solutions to the issues raised during the discussion.<br />

Kulehile encouraged young women to take every opportunity to empower themselves<br />

to take up their place in every space they occupy.<br />

“It is important to be meticulous about what you carry in your cup. Your cup cannot<br />

overflow with what you do not have,” she said.<br />

Also speaking, Carol Vilakazi from the Student Governance and Leadership<br />

Development encouraged the ladies to speak out and have the courage to walk away<br />

when they are facing Gender- Based Violence in relationships.<br />

“I encourage girls to be kinder to each other, take care of one another as sisters, be<br />

there for each other and build each other as mbokodos,” she said.<br />

Carol Vilakazi<br />

"It is important to be meticulous about what you<br />

carry in your cup. Your cup cannot overflow with<br />

what you do not have,”<br />

Nomsa Kulehile<br />

Nomsa Kulehile<br />

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MENTAL HEALTH<br />

under the spotlight<br />

By Nosipho Mnyandu<br />

The International Students Organisation (ISO) hosted a<br />

seminar at the Pretoria Campus. This initiative was aimed<br />

at counseling students about mental health issues and to<br />

equip them with tools to cope with demanding academics.<br />

Speaking on the day, Dr Festus Oluwadane, from the Faculty<br />

of Engineering and the Built Environment encouraged students<br />

to dream big. He said it was important to remember that they<br />

carry hope for their families, adding that they should strive to<br />

reach the greater milestones in academia to access limitless<br />

opportunities.<br />

He shared his difficult journey to<br />

obtaining a Doctorate. He urged<br />

students to keep focus and to yearn for<br />

knowledge so they can become credible<br />

leaders in their respective industries.<br />

He concluded by quoting the late<br />

statesman, Nelson Mandela, “Education<br />

is the most powerful weapon that you<br />

can use to change the world.”<br />

Grace Mutoko, inspirational speaker<br />

The inspirational speaker, Grace Motoko, advised students<br />

to seek help when feeling under pressure. She said students<br />

should manage their time carefully to ensure that they cope<br />

with the demands of academics. She also encouraged them to<br />

build a community among themselves to encourage one another,<br />

especially since many were from far-flung places.<br />

Members of the International Student Organisation<br />

Students and speakers gathered at the ISO mental health seminar<br />

<strong>BUA</strong><br />

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Cultural and Musical<br />

Event Encourages Unity in Diversity<br />

By Fundani Mgabisa<br />

RISING STAR<br />

in distance running<br />

By Asiphe Mjongile<br />

Morema Rodney Phukubye, a second-year student studying<br />

crop production, has made a name for himself in the<br />

distance running race.<br />

TUT Ga-Rankuwa choir performing Give Me My Soul, a classical choral<br />

piece<br />

The Directorate of Extracurricular Development (DED) Choral<br />

Music Society hosted a cultural and music event at the Ga-<br />

Rankuwa Campus on Wednesday, September 11, celebrating<br />

cultural diversity and promoting gender inclusivity.<br />

The event featured various activities including musical<br />

performances and dance. Campus choir member showcased their<br />

versatile talents by performing multiple music genres such as choral,<br />

gospel, and hip-hop.<br />

Guest artist Andiswa “Andz” Mbabane, performed “Count on Me”<br />

alongside the TUT quartet ladies- Angela Mashaba, Amukelane<br />

Chauke, Sinethemba Mkhwanazi, and Tumelo Tshikombeni.Other<br />

highlights included performances by the South African Army HQ Choir<br />

and the South Africa Air Force Choir.<br />

He holds a remarkable second place finish in the 10 km race at the<br />

Tshwane University of Techonology Corporation event on the 27th of<br />

July. As a result of his outstanding performance, He has been selected<br />

to join the prestigious Athletics Gauteng North team.<br />

Phukubye said being selected as number two at the TUT Corporation<br />

Race and joining the Athletics Gauteng North team is an incredible<br />

opportunity . He is looking forward to contributing to the team, and<br />

he is committed to succeeding.“The race went well overall, I felt<br />

strong and focused throughout, but I did face some challenges, such<br />

as tough competitors,” he said.<br />

Phukubye is preparing for the highly anticipated South Africa's (SAs)<br />

Championships and the Cross-Country University Sport South Africa<br />

(USSA) event scheduled for spring.<br />

A spectator,Allen Ramafela, said that watching the race was inspiring,<br />

and seeing Phukubye finish as number two was a standout moment.<br />

“Joining the Athletics Gauteng North team is a big achievement, and<br />

I am excited to see how Morema will continue to excel and shine in<br />

future competitions, he said.”<br />

His mentor, Beauty Matsemela, said, “I am incredibly proud of<br />

how my athlete performed in this race,finishing second in such a<br />

competitive marathon is a testament to their hard work, dedication,<br />

and resilience.”<br />

The South African Air force choir performing at the inaugural Ga-<br />

Rankuwa choir concert<br />

Rodney Morema Phukubye<br />

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<strong>BUA</strong>


good oral health habits<br />

By Andisiwe Magoba<br />

The Department of Health and Wellness, the Sefako Makgatho<br />

Health Sciences University, organised Healthy Smiles<br />

Campaign at Tshwane University of Technology’s Pretoria<br />

Campus on Friday, 20 September.<br />

The campaign aimed to raise awareness among students about oral<br />

health and wellness. The event saw a large turnout of enthusiastic<br />

students who were eager to learn. The campaign offered free<br />

dental screenings, allowing students to assess their dental health.<br />

Experienced professionals carefully examined the students,<br />

identifying potential issues and recommending further dental checkups<br />

as necessary.<br />

The primary objective of the campaign was to emphasize the<br />

importance of maintaining good dental care and its impact on<br />

overall health. Students engaged with healthcare professionals,<br />

seeking advice on effective ways to maintain healthy teeth and<br />

gums.<br />

Thabo Mofokeng, a Peer Educator, expressed his excitement<br />

about the Healthy Smiles campaign, highlighting the personalized<br />

guidance he received. He stated, "I'm thrilled with the Healthy<br />

Smiles campaign. As someone who struggles with dental issues, I<br />

was impressed by the guidance I received. The campaign's experts<br />

not only identified my problems but also provided personalized<br />

advice on how to maintain good oral health."<br />

Thabo Mofokeng, Peer Educator receives a dental examination<br />

during the Healthy Smiles Campaign<br />

Attendees showcase cultural attire<br />

GA-RANKUWA CAMPUS<br />

showcases<br />

a melting POT of cultures<br />

By Andisiwe Magoba<br />

The Ga-Rankuwa Campus was alive with the Cultural<br />

Extravaganza, attracting a large crowd of students on Thursday,<br />

19 September. The event provided a unique platform for<br />

students from diverse cultural groups to share traditions, customs, and<br />

heritage in a joyous celebration of diversity.<br />

Students took center stage, proudly sharing their cultural identities<br />

through fashion shows and musical performances. The Cultural<br />

Extravaganza offered a unique opportunity for students to connect<br />

with their peers on a deeper level. By exploring the rich cultural<br />

heritage of South Africa, attendees discovered common threads that<br />

unite people across cultures, fostering a stronger sense of community.<br />

Student, Zilungisele Ntshangase, said, "Cultural<br />

Extravaganza broadened my understanding<br />

of other cultures by exposing me to their<br />

traditions, customs, and histories. Discovering<br />

diverse dances, music, and attire enriched<br />

my understanding of community diversity.<br />

Interacting with individuals from other cultures<br />

demonstrated that we are more alike than<br />

different. This realization encouraged tolerance,<br />

understanding, and a deeper connection to our<br />

shared humanity.”<br />

Healthy smiles team<br />

Known for their dancing prowess, students representing the<br />

Amazulu culture also entertained the crowds<br />

<strong>BUA</strong><br />

page<br />

14


TELKOM RESIDENCE<br />

win Football League meant to<br />

raise awareness against GBV<br />

By Fundani Mgabisa<br />

Telkom Residence Accommodation, Residence Life, and Catering<br />

(ARLC) were crowned the champions of the 2024 Gender-Based<br />

Violence Internal Football League at Soshanguve Campus. Their<br />

coach, Mpilo Zulu, was awarded Coach of the Season, and Sithebe was<br />

recognized as the top striker for scoring eight goals. The Gender-Based<br />

Violence League took place over two months from July to September<br />

2024.<br />

The tournament, organized by TUT Soshanguve Sports and Recreation,<br />

aimed to engage accredited residents in sports activities available on<br />

the campuses, with participation limited to on-campus residences.<br />

Kgolokoane Rakgoale, the Soshanguve Sports and Recreation Stores<br />

Manager, said the league consisted of ten teams who played nine<br />

games each in a round-robin format. The league was designed to raise<br />

awareness about gender-based violence, promote equality, and respect<br />

among university students through football.<br />

Sandile Ntini, the Telkom Residence Committee<br />

Sports Officer, emphasized that the league<br />

helped students build friendships and avoid<br />

negative habits. Ntini also highlighted the<br />

challenges faced by the Telkom Residence<br />

team during the tournament, noting the strong<br />

competition and the need for rigorous training<br />

due to the demanding schedule of playing two<br />

games per week.<br />

The winning Residence secured seven victories, drew one match, and<br />

suffered one loss. Ntini expressed their happiness at winning the GBV<br />

league, attributing their success to their hard work and determination.<br />

He also acknowledged the crucial support they received<br />

from their fans.<br />

TEAM TUT EXCELS at<br />

University Sport South<br />

Africa Championship<br />

By Fundani Mgabisa<br />

Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) athletes who competed<br />

at the University Sport South Africa Championship (USSA) in<br />

Gqeberha came back with significant wins on Wednesday, 18<br />

September. The athletes performed exceptionally well, returning with<br />

two silver medals and a bronze medal.<br />

The Cross-Country competition is hosted annually for universities<br />

to compete in sporting codes for the tertiary education sector,<br />

representing and protecting the sporting interests of all students at<br />

member institutions based on the principles of unity, accountability,<br />

non-racialism, non-sexism, and democracy. This year’s installment was<br />

hosted in Gqeberha, where nineteen universities competed, and TUT<br />

returned with significant wins.<br />

In the women's four-kilometre individual<br />

competition, Karabo Motsoeneng secured the<br />

second position, earning a silver medal, while<br />

Simonay Weitsz claimed the third position<br />

with a bronze medal in this competition.<br />

Additionally, in the women’s team competition,<br />

TUT secured a silver medal, placing team TUT<br />

overall in fifth position out of the nineteen<br />

universities.<br />

Telkom Residence football team celebrating their win<br />

Team TUT wins big at the University Sport South Africa Championships<br />

page<br />

15<br />

<strong>BUA</strong>

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