BUA Vol 8 Issue 4

Orion Residence Triumphs in the
2024 TUT Inter-Res Debate
Competition
The 2024 TUT Inter-Residence Debate Competition, held from
August 20th to 27th tackled some of society's most pressing social
issues. The event brought together seven residences—Minjonet,
Polonaise, Astra, Orion, Monitor, Heidehof, and Lizard—to debate social
ills such mental health, substance abuse, and gender-based violence
(GBV).
The competition commenced on the 20th of August with the motion:
"This House believes that students with mental illness should get
exemption from exams." This debate underscored the challenges faced
by students struggling with mental health issues, balancing academic
integrity with the need for institutional support . The discussions were
empathetic and well-reasoned, highlighting the importance of mental
health awareness within the educational system.
On August 21st, the focus shifted to substance abuse with the motion:
"This House believes that harm reduction strategies are more effective
than abstinence-only approaches to addressing substance abuse."
Participants engaged in a robust discussion about the efficacy of harm
reduction versus abstinence, examining which approach better addresses
the complexity substance abuse. The arguments were insightful and
thought-provoking, demonstrating commitment to understanding and
solving this critical issue.
The grand finale, held on the 27 th of August, centred on the motion: "This
House supports the #MeToo movement." In this powerful final debate,
teams explored the significance of the #MeToo movement in combating
gender-based violence and advocating for social justice. The discussions
were intense and impactful with debaters articulating the movement's
role in challenging societal norms and supporting survivors. Orion
Residence emerged victorious, showcasing exceptional debating skills
and a profound understanding of the topics. Their win not only marked
a triumph in the competition but also emphasised the importance of
engaging in meaningful dialogue about the social issues affecting
us all.
Lethlogonolo Mpho Manyuha, Debate Coach
Arts and Acardia
Miratul Tshinshipela Fundi
Journey of an
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT
By Miratul Tshinshipela Fundi
My name is Miratul Tshinshipela Fundi. I am a graduate with a
higher certificate in electrical engineering, currently enrolled
as a student at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT),
pursuing a BEng Tech in Civil Engineering. I am leading an incredible
academic team under the Tshwane University of Technology South African
Institution of Civil Engineering (TUTSAICE Student Chapter), and I, as an
Academic Officer at the International Student Organisation Council (ISO
Council).
Throughout my academic journey I had the opportunity to work as
a Student Assistant at the Civil Engineering Department. I believe
that within TUT a rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds I find
inspiration. TUT had profound impact on my educational experience as an
international student originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo
(DRC).
As I reflect on my time at TUT, I am filled with mixed emotions;
excitement, gratitude, and a hint of nostalgia. I had the privilege of
calling TUT my home away from home. From the moment I arrived on
campus I was confused but I had faith in the structure put in place at TUT
for international students
Despite being far from my family and friends, I felt a sense of belonging
and connection with other fellow students from diverse backgrounds and
places in South Africa, they have taught me so many languages and ways
around South Africa and I am deeply grateful.
Academically, TUT offered me a world-class education that challenged me
to grow and pushed me to reach my full potential. I had a deep love for
building and infrastructure, but I was not able to enrol in civil engineering
at that time. It pushed me to perform well to be able to apply for it in
2020.
The lecturers were knowledgeable, supportive, and always willing to lend
a helping hand because without them I would not be able to soar with
greater heights. I have to highlight that TUT has to reinforce the structure
in order to offer students the level of support and assistance they need.
The training of stuff must be more inclusive in terms of language as it is a
first step towards communication and English is universal.
However, my experience was not without challenges. As I prepare to
graduate, I am filled with gratitude for next year. I value the lifelong
friendships, and invaluable lessons I learned at TUT. If you are an
international student considering studying at TUT, I say “take the leap!
You will not regret it. I went from better to great and empowered.”
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