UL WItness. 2011 August another - University of Limpopo

UL WitnessAugust - September 2011N E W SEditorial Notestur 21 Edition of UL Witness leadswith an informative Open Day CareerOExhibition story, which completedNelson Mandela Month in style. More than 23000 learners congregated at our TurfloopCampus and four University Facultiesshowcased their programme offerings. Withthe information accumulated we hope thatthey will be able to make informed choices fortheir future career path. It is unavoidable notto embark on this annual event as somestudents wonder at institutions of higherlearning at the beginning of the year for theyhad not applied anywhere. They unfortunatelyend up doing whatever programme availableespecially where they meet requirements eventhough it was not their utmost choice. Readcover story for detailed information.Editorial TeamScience and Technology holds the future of ourcountry. As we are expected to meet thisuniversal challenge, we responded to this byjoining the festivities attributed to the NationalScience Week (NSW). This national eventserves as a platform to raise awareness aboutthe importance of Science and Technology as acareer and it is hosted in conjunction with theDepartment of Science and Technology. Itsapproach is definitely to reach out to learnerswith a view to win their hearts and minds totake up science, engineering and technology astheir future fields of study. Read the story onpages 6 and 7Our sister paper, The Dawn shall be carrying astory about Rural Development and InnovationHub whose idea has been championed by theVice Chancellor. Our approach will be to unveilwhat this unit does and how it contributes tothe lives of our ordinary people.It would be wrong if we do not make acontribution to the role that the School ofAccountancy under the leadership of ProfCosmos Ambe has done regarding SAICAAccreditation Visit. In his own words, ProfAmbe appreciated the role that Marketing andCommunications played towards thepreparation of this visit, "I wish to extendappreciation to you and your staff for yourguidance, role, participation and supportbefore and during the SAICA Accreditation Visitlast week. The organisation and functioning ofthe event could not have been a successwithout your leadership and support of yourstaff". This is the collegial spirit and attitudethat we so wish that it can prevail to the entireUniversity Community.The success of any academic programme at theUniversity is dependent on the requisitehuman capital and infrastructure support thatyou avail to the end users. The newly builtstate-of-the-art laboratory for sciencestudents which was unveiled by the Vice -Chancellor is a facility that will help us toachieve such immense objectives. This is howthe University intends improving the quality ofteaching science on both theoretical andpractical levels. The laboratory is clearlyintended to marry the theoretical teachingwith practical experiments, right away, with itsinnovative modern technologies. Read thestory on page 3As we conclude this editorial comment, wesubscribe to this assertion that:" You strike awoman, you strike a rock". As part ofhonouring heroines of 1956 who stood firmand said NO to the carrying of passes, we madea tribute to honour them. Read the interestingtribute on page 8.Happy Women's Month and enjoy reading thendrest of the stories!!! See you in the 22 Edition.The EditorByEditorial TeamEditorial TeamMANAGING EDITORMr Kgalema DK MohubaSENIOR JOURNALISTSMaureen Talane and Padi MatlalaJOURNALISTSJohannes Selepe, Dorcus Manziniand Tumelo MoilaCADET JOURNALISTSMabore Thosago and Metji MakgobaPHOTOGRAPHERSPadi Matlala, Johannes Selepe,Tumelo Moila and Dorcus ManziniDESIGN & LAYOUTThabo MadishaIf there are any contributions you wish tomake, CHAT TO US VIA E-MAIL ORTELEPHONICALLY:Kgalema.mohuba@ul.ac.zaTel: 015 268 2625/2121Daphney.kgwebane@ul.ac.zaTel: 012 521 45632

UL Witness August - September 2011State - of - the - art laboratory for science studentsBy Metji Makgoban an effort to enhance thequality of training andteaching, the University Iof Limpopo has madeavailable a sophisticated400-seater laboratory at theTurfloop Campus. The newlybuilt laboratory “is a state-ofthe-artfacility equipped withhighly advanced equipmentsuch as air conditioning,audio and video equipment,including an electronicoverhead system”, says DrElbert van Rensburg, Head ofDepartment: Biochemistry,M i c r o b i o l o g y a n dBiotechnology.N E W S“This technological housewill give lecturers andstudents an opportunity tointeract electronically duringtheir practical lessons. Theusers of the laboratory willtake instructions throughLiquid Crystal Display (LCD) screens and classinteraction will facilitate both theoretical andpractical information, simultaneously”, saysvan Rensburg.Van Rensburg says the building comprises twofloors. The ground floor is allocated foracademic activities in the Department ofBiodiversity and will mainly deal with first yearBiology Modules, whereas the upper floor isdedicated to train second and third yearstudents registered for Biochemistry,Microbiology and Biotechnology modules”.With this multifaceted purposeful facility, hebelieves that the School of Molecular and LifeIN PRACTICE: Science students conducting experiment at the newly built 400-seater laboratorySciences will safely be able to accommodatemore students during single session with avision to increase a number of students in theupcoming years. He says this double storybuilding boosts latest modern technologies,including autoclaves; spectrophotometers,400 compound microscopes, safety cabinet;centrifuges, among others. “We have built thisfacility to expose students to the practicalaspect of their studies with the correcttechnology and keep abreast with increasingnumbers of students in our School”.The construction of this laboratory was mainlyfinanced by the university utilising allocatedfunds from the Department of HigherEducation and Training, and according to DrVan Rensburg, it will assist in improving thequality of their teaching and to give allregistered students in their School anopportunity to use advanced technologies toconduct their practical classes. Whenapproached for comment, students expressedtheir elation: “The building is “extremelyexcellent” and with its equipment we are readyto compete with anyone in the scienceindustry”, said Flunky Sithole, a Bachelor ofScience second year student.Reginald.makgoba@ul.ac.zaCOLLECTION OF 2012 NSFASAPPLICATION FORMSTurfloop Campus Undergraduate students who are looking for financial assistance are advised to collect the NationalStudent Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) application forms for 2012. The forms are available at the Financial Aid Officethnumber 0036 (S Block) and closes on Friday, 14 October 2011.Applicants must bring along their proof of registration and student cards.NSFAS is a funding body mainly for undergraduate students, based on performance and total household income.For more information contact:015 268 2405 / 3226 / 13933

Making a humble contribution to changethe world on Mandela DayBy Padi Matlala and Tumelo Moilarue to the letter and spirit of NelsonMandela Day, staff and students joinedTthe rest of the country and the world incelebrating the legacy of Nelson Mandela, onhis birthday- 18 July 2011. Mandela Day hasbeen unveiled to inspire people from everycorner of the world to embrace the values thathave embodied Nelson Mandela's life -democracy; equality; reconciliation; diversity;responsibility; RESPECT & FREEDOM - for theseare the values of Nelson Mandela and they arehis legacy to the world.The Nelson Mandela Day events programmehad two main events: one was to raise funds inwhich staff who could afford, contributed R100or less into a fund to buy sewing machines.The machines were donated to OSHAD (OdiSelf Help Association for the Disabled).Representatives of the Department of HumanResources attended the machine handing overceremony at the OSHADS's premises.Mr Samuel Sebothoma, the OSHAD CentreManager, in accepting the sewing machines,said: " We are accepting the machines in thefull knowledge that they are not presented tous as hand outs, but they are presented toempower us to be self- sufficient and not bedependent on hand outs”.Sebothoma expressed the wish that therelationship that has been established shouldgrow and he extended an invitation to theUniversity to be part of the disabilityawareness-raising-campaign scheduled for 20August 2011. In reply, Ms Mercia Makgati, theNEW SEWING MACHINES FOR OSHAD: Mr Sam Hlabati, Mr Samuel Sebothoma and Ms Mercia MakgatiSenior Human Resources Business Partnerthanked OSHAD for having accepted thesewing machines. She added that the sewingmachine donation was not meant to be a onceoff affair, but it was a gesture that seeks toopen doors for future cooperation.Those who were not at the sewing machineshanding over ceremony divided themselvesinto work groups. They moved to designatedspots on Campus wearing protective gloves,face masks and carried big refuse bags in whichthey threw litter that has been picked up.“Identifying the need to clean up the campuson Nelson Mandela Day, was a demonstrationof my commitment towards lending a helpinghand and also getting out of my comfort zone",said Prof Nomathemba Taukobong, theHead of the Department of Physiotherapy,who participated in cleaning up campaign.Padi.matlala@ul.ac.za and Tumelo.moila@ul.ac.za4

UL WitnessWitness August - September 2011N E W SMore than 67 minutes for MadibaBy Staff Reporterhe University of Limpopo (UL) joinedmillions of people worldwide toTcelebrate the birthday of the world icon;Nelson Mandela by giving more than 67minutes of service to the communities. The 67minutes simplifies one minute for each yearMandela devoted to South Africa andhumanity. As part of its celebrations,University Recruitment Team embarked on aweek-long Open Day Mobilisation Campaignall over Limpopo Province. The Open Daywhich ended Mandela month in style on 30July 2011 was aimed at informing youth aboutavenues to access higher education as well asvarious career opportunities which wouldenable them to shape their future.This campaign came after realising that mostlearners do not apply timeously to study atinstitutions of higher learning, as a result; theyend up enrolling for any available degree at thebeginning of the year because their desireddegrees shall have been occupied by thosewho applied on time. The campaign reachedmore than 100 high schools, especially thosesituated in deep rural areas as it believed thatthey are ones that lack information and theybecome victims of circumstances. Educationalcircuits, government offices and parastatalswere also targeted.Mr Johannes Selepe, who was part of thecampaign, reciprocated that, "I have to concurwith this former Statesman; Nelson Mandelathat Education is the most powerful weaponUL serenades its programmes to thousands of learnersContinued from page 1said S.J Van Der Merve, Grade 12 learner; PoeloMokgotho.Mr Kgalema Mohuba from Marketing andCommunications extended words ofappreciation to the University community fortheir commitment which resulted in thesuccess of this premier event of the Institutionas well as the sponsors for their funds andresources. Mohuba further acknowledged theservices of external partners who madeinformation and material available to learners.NELSON MANDELA DAY CELEBRATIONS: From Right; Mr Johannes Selepe informing Gojela High Schoollearners about the importance of attending UL Open Day. Middle is Mr Tlou Meso and at the left side isSchool Principal; Mr Edward Nemudzivadiwhich can be used to change the world. This isthe reason UL embarked on this communityoutreach empowering youth with educationalknowledge. I feel honoured to have been partof this successful campaign.According to Ms Angie Mhlodi, UniversitySenior Recruitment Practitioner, it wasinevitable for UL to attempt curbing thissyndrome of prospective students notapplying on time. "Visiting these learners intheir respective schools informing them aboutthe coming Open Day (30 July 2011) willservices to everyone".External partners were National Treasury,Eduloan, Marzies, National Student FinancialAid Scheme (NSFAS), South African PropertyOwners Association (SAPOA), KPMG and theDepartment of International Relations andCooperation.absolutely help in this regard." It is believedthat this campaign will definitely contribute incurbing, if not eradicating the number of firsttimewalk-in applicants in the beginning of the2012 academic year."In all the schools we were warmly welcomedand it was exciting to notice that mosteducators and principals take massiveinitiatives to ensure that learners attend thesevital career exhibitions", said campaignmember, Thabo Madisha.In working a new recruitment and marketingstrategy, Mohuba said: "We have attractedmore than 23 000 learners and close to 900educators and it is imperative that we changeour strategy. From next year, we will have aCareer Week which will start on Monday toFriday in order to avoid congestion andstampede. However, we are glad to have givenFACULTY OF HEALTH SCIENCES STALL: Universityrepresentative explaining to learners how theFaculty can help them to shape their future5A LEARNER COLLECTING HIS OPEN DAY PACKAGEFROM STUDENT ASSISTANTS AFTER HE WASINFORMED ABOUT UL PROGRAMMES. THEPACKAGE CONTAINED: Application form, ruler,pen, 2012/13 undergraduate prospectus and TheDawn/ UL Witness. He was exiting the hallJohannes.selepe@ul.ac.za

UL Witness August - September 2011University of Limpopo receives PMR.Africa Golden Arrow awardBy Johannes Selepehe University of Limpopo received a2011 Professional Management ReviewT(PMR.Africa) Golden Arrow award,during the annual ceremony that took place atBolivia Lodge 12 August 2011. The recognitionserves to appreciate the University for itscontribution to stimulate the economic growthand intellectual development of the LimpopoProvince, in the category for Institutions ofHigher Education, for the past 12 months.N E W SJohan Hattingh further congratulated all thewinners for operating their businesses andinstitutions with vision and integrity. Heeloquently advised that costumers are pleasedby simplicity and accountability in any businessundertaking. "It is good to operate yourcompanies or businesses in a simple andunderstanding manner so as to keep in touchwith your costumers and stakeholders", heconcludes."The purpose of the awards is to create a globaland unique marketing tool for the institutions,businesses and government departments, toenhance excellence and set a benchmarkwithin the corporate environment", says JohanHattingh; PMR.Africa Chief Executive Officer.The verdict for the awards was based on thesurveys conducted in all spheres of corporateworld for the past 12 months.Giving a Keynote address, Councillor FreddyGriever; Polokwane Municipality ExecutiveMayor, said it is always stimulating to celebratea success. He cited that when somebody iscalled for an award it means that they havecompeted against their peers and became thebest. He spelled out the fact that the awardswere based on surveys or views and companiesshould ensure that their profiles are perceivedFrom left; Mrs Maureen Talane - Marketing andCommunications Acting Director bestowedPMR.Africa Golden Arrow award on behalf ofUL by the company's CEO Johan Hattinghpositively. "If your company is perceivednegatively, even if you do something decentthe public will not appreciate. He added thatnegative perception is resulted due to the factthat leaders and managers commit themselvesto good services which do not materialise atthe end.He concluded that institutions, businesssectors, government and parastatals shouldcommit themselves to service delivery in orderto grow the country's economy from strengthto strength.UL Vice-Chancellor, Prof Mahlo Mokgalongwelcomed the award by saying: “These kindsof awards are important for the purpose ofbenchmarking with other institutions of higherlearning. Our University is happy to beassociated with excellency".Various businesses and governmentdepartments within the Province also receivedawards ranging from Diamond, Gold and Silver.Award rankings:stŸ Diamond Arrow Award: Ranked 1 overall(outstanding)ŸndGolden Arrow Award: Ranked 2 overallŸ(excellent)Silver/Bronze Award:rdRanked 3 (verygood)Johannes.selepe@ul.ac.zaNSW stimulates school learnersBy Tumelo Moilaepresentatives of the School ofPathology & Pre-Clinical Sciences atRMedunsa Campus visited and hostedseveral schools during the National ScienceWeek (NSW), which took place from 1-5August 2011.Activities organised and conducted during theNSW were aimed at achieving the followingobjectives: to contribute to the developmentof a society that values and appreciatesScience Engineering Technology (SET); toprovide a platform for scientists to engageeach other and also to engage with the nonscientificcommunity; to promote partnershipbetween media and scientists; to profile thework of the Department of Science &Technology (DST) and its priorities (forexample, the grand challenges and theTechnology Innovation Agency); and to attractlearners to SET careers (including research).Activities showcased by Medunsa Campusduring NSW include Biochemistry: ForensicChemistry; Chemistry: Liquid NitrogenExperiments, Separation Techniques; Pressurev/s Volume Acid Tests; Electrolysis; Biology;Physics: Electricity; Capacitors and Physics:Electricity"National Science Week made me realise thatthere are many different paths one can followin the world of this interesting subject calledScience", said Clever Gahadzikwa, Grade 10learner form Meriting Secondary School.Amogelang Matjeke, grade 11 learner fromNtolo High School said, "I have experienced theimportance of Science in our lives andeverything around the world evolves aroundScience. National Science Week should beextended to a year event because it helpslearners a lot".Nkepeng Mokhine, Grade 12 learner, Micha-Kgasi High School said, "I have learned moreabout Mathematics. Mathematics is simpleand easy when you put your efforts and willhelp you choose a career path".6Tumelo.moila@ul.ac.zaOHM'S LAW: Demonstration of relationshipbetween voltage, current and resistanceBOYLE'S LAW APPARATUS: Demonstration ofRelationship between pressure and volume

UL Witness August - September 2011N E W S'Science and technology playsdecisive role in economic development'By Johannes Selepe“Without science and technology, life would bedifficult". These sentiments were echoed by DrRegina Maphanga when addressing learnersfrom Capricorn District schools during thepremiere of 2011 National Science Week(NSW) organised by the University ScienceCentre. She continued that cellphones werederived from science and technology; withoutthis gadget people's lives would be difficult, ifnot expensive. "In order to make morediscoveries we need to have more scientists.We can only have these experts if youth arepursuing science related careers".Emphasising the impact of science in economicdevelopment, she highlighted that morescientists are needed to steer the country'seconomy. Maphanga; UL Researcher andLecturer who holds 2010 National ResearchFoundation (NRF) award for DistinguishedYoung Black Female over 2 to 3 years, opinedthat in order to grow the country's economy,government should invest in this career for itspositive role in economic development. Shefurther said that energy (electricity) isevidence that science and technology plays adecisive factor that affects economicdevelopment; "as such you should take thiscareer very seriously", she counseled thelearners.She concluded that climate change and globalwarming are among the plights that needscientists' intervention. "Scientists of theworld are coming with solutions for thisproblem for their respective countries and inSouth Africa only a few gurus are trying to solvethis turmoil".University representative (seated wearing Lab coat) explaining the functions of sciencechemicals to learners during the National Science WeekDuring this week-long event, learners wereexposed to science-based experimentsconducted by various science role players aswell as the University science departments.The experiments intend to show learners theimpact of science in every day life as to spurthem to pursue science related subjects anddegrees. Other activities during the eventincluded career and interactive exhibitions.The festivity was extended to SavannaShopping Mall on the 6th and 7th August tomake science awareness to the public.NSW is an annual initiative of the Departmentof Science and Technology (DST) implementedby the South African Agency for Science andTechnology Advancement (SAASTA).UL staff demonstrating Science activities at Savanna Mall during NSW outreachJohannes.selepe@ul.ac.za7

UL WitnessAugust - September 2011N E W SExclusive women's month commemorationSouth Africa commemorates Women's Month in August. UL Witness Reporter, Tumelo Moila, interviewed women across all the races at MedunsaCampus to share views of being a womanKhumbudzo Rambuda said, "I commend the women that marched to Union Building in 1956 tofights for their human rights. They stood for their rights and made sure that we have a betterfuture. It is a good thing that here in SA we celebrate women. It makes me feel honoured andhappy. It symbolises that women are important. My mother is my role model because she and Ihave been through a lot together. I believe that she is a strong and passionate woman who inspiresme. To all those women whose dignities have been stolen through abuse, this month is time foryou to take them back. For those who are being emotionally abused, stand up against yourabusers and don`t let them win. It is not a good thing when women and children are being abused.It takes away their dignity, self-esteem and it destroys them."Bianca Werner said, "My message to fellow women is that be proud to be a woman and don`t feelthat you need to make excuses or apologise for being one. My Mother is my role model becauseshe is proud to be a woman and does not feel she has to have a high paying job or dress in fancyclothes to be loved and acknowledged as a woman. I think abuse whether in a woman, man orchild is cruel and should be a priority to stop. Certain cultural beliefs and values tend to devaluewomen and they lead to abuse.Verusha Somaru said, "I appreciate the fact that women's month is commemorated and I wishpeople would carry those values throughout the year and not just during women's month. I amstrongly against women abuse and I despise men who find power and enjoyment in abusingwomen. My mother is my role model and inspires me because she is able to balance her careerand family. Fellow women, please do not let society model you. Be true to yourself. Iappreciate being a woman".Charlene Petersen said, "Fellow women, be proud of yourself, respect yourself and others, behopeful and make your dreams come true. Love yourself and that way you will love others. Movetowards the future, forget about the past, and do not live in fear of the past. Inspire others andknow God. My mom is my role model. She is very courageous and a strong women. Always therewith her mighty love and power, no matter what her circumstances she is a courageous personwho keeps our family together. She has been through difficult times but proves to us over and overthat she shall prevail. Women abuse is a no no. Speaking of experience I thought it was a normalthing. Till one day I decided to make a difference in my life. Women do not have to live with abuse.Even after 15 years, if I could help someone go without the abuse I would share my experienceswith them. I feel that women are entitled to commemorating women's month as it is their time. Awomen never makes time for herself, her family always comes first. She would bravely give upeverything in order to make everyone around her happy and love them unconditionally. Even ifshe is tired at the end of the day. She would accommodate her kids, and husband, her parent etc.before thinking of how she feels.Dr Thanda Kyaw said, "It's good to commemorate women's month in recognition of their role incommunity. No matter what happens in life, keep trying with good faith. Provide loving kindnessto all. Women abuse should be rooted out. A person who abuse women is a person who insult hisor her own mother. Let's celebrate women by showing them respect and promote their roles.8

UL Witness August - September 2011Vice - Chancellor provides details on the repositioning of ULBy Metji Makgobahe Vice - Chancellor and Principal of theUniversity of Limpopo (UL), Prof MahloTMokgalong, recently briefed theTurfloop community on the development ofthe process of decoupling and repositioning ofthe University of Limpopo's Medunsa andTurfloop Campuses.In his short speech, Prof Mokgalong said thatthe implications of decoupling the twocampuses and establishing both of them asindependent university are very insignificant."There is going to be a little shift in therestructuring of our institution and ourinstitution is doing well financially. We havejust received an unqualified audit from theauditor general", said Mokgalong whoseannouncements were cheerfully welcomed bystaff members.Mokgalong said that the proposal for thedecoupling of these campuses is, however, notyet gazetted. "We are still waiting for thisproposal to be gazetted, and for now we arestill operating as the University of Limpopowith the two campuses". When approachedfor comment, Dr Makgwana Rampedi, anLimpopo Writing Project imparts literacy skills among EducatorsBy Mabore Thosagoepartment of Education recentlyrevealed shocking results that learnersDfrom the foundation phase onwardsare struggling to read and write. The LimpopoWriting Project (LWP) under the auspices ofthe School of Languages and Communicationsdid not take this finding lightly. They had aweek-long workshop to impart their writingskills to Educators, which they believed willhelp eradicate illiteracy among learners. TheDirector of the project Prof Leketi Makalelaand the Director of San Antonio Writing ProjectDr Roxanne Henkin, Professor of EarlyChildhood, Elementary and Middle Level &Literary Education trained thirteen educatorsabout writing skills.Dr Henkin facilitated sessions whereparticipants wrote stories to expressthemselves, shared manuscripts to help oneanother in selecting the best piece forpublication. It is an initiative to encourageEducators to publish books hoping to pass theskill to learners in return. Educators whoattended the workshop had a chance tocommunicate with their counterparts fromAmerica using Skype. They paired the teachersand they are also going to pair each learnerActing Dean of Faculty of Humanities said thatif the imminent demerger is implemented,they are ready to maintain the continuedimprovement of the university.Mokgalong indicated that if the proposalmaterialises UL will still have its four faculties;the Medical School that will be built inPolokwane and the Faculty of Health Scienceswill close the gap which might be left by therepositioning of the University.Prof Andries Gous who heads the University'sPharmacy Department, lamented theimminent demerger, and maintained that theywill continue to work with Medunsa to ensurethat the standard of their academicprogrammes does not deteriorate.Shortly after the briefing session, staffmembers accompanied Prof Mokgalong on avisit to the newly built facilities: the 400-SeaterLaboratory at Q-Block and a short walk furtherto the Multi-Purpose Centre, located at Gate 1.In his brief address, Mr Maphasa Tloti, aScience Lecturer said the laboratory istechnologically advanced and a multipurposefulfacility and students are going tobenefit from it if they take care of itssophisticated equipment.In his concluding remarks, Prof Mokgalongcalled on all students and staff to take care ofthe University facilities. "Let's protect ourfacilities; these buildings show our stability andthat we are also ready to work independently.Visitors from Leeds in the United Kingdomcommended our campus for its excellentinfrastructure", he concluded.Limpopo Writing Project Members sharing one goal of eradicating illiteracywith a learner from America and be pen pals.This initiative is to encourage writing andreading among learners.The LWP also sent an educator for training inthe United State of America; Ms Ms NgokoanaDikgari, English Curriculum Adviser at Morokein Sekhukhune District. She is already sharingher knowledge with other educators backhome.N E W SVice - Chancellor addressing Turfloop CommunityReginald.makgoba@ul.ac.zaMs Mokgadi Lekota from Kotankwe LowerPrimary who came for the training says shenever thought she could write so beautifullywhile Esther Motimele from MamolemaneHigh School was also surprised by her innertalent.As part of encouraging learners to have apassion for writing and reading, LPW wouldaward them bursaries.Mabore.thosago@ul.ac.za9

UL Witness August - September 2011Debating Society securerights to host NUDC finalsAddressing low literacy in rural communitiesBy Johannes SelepeN E W SBy Johannes Selepehe University of Limpopo DebatingSociety (ULDS) successfully secured theTrights to host 2012 17th annual NationalUniversities Debating Championships (NUDC)unopposed. These noble news wereannounced by the tournament's organisingcommittee during this year's championship,held at the University of Pretoria in July. Thedecision to grant UL the rights to host thistourney was influenced by the impressive bidpresented by thirteen ULDS delegates. Theproposal was given a nod by UL Management,based on the University's facilities andabilities.A TEAM BEHIND SUCCESS: ULDS members whosuccessfully secured 2011 NUDC hosting rightsNUDC is a major debating competition inSouthern Africa. It is aimed at embracing thespirit of intellectual dialogue and enhancingthe use of English language at a tertiary level. Itboasts over 500 delegates from twenty-ninedifferent tertiary institutions in SouthernAfrica. "This could be the largest studentorganised venture ever held on our soil; theULDS, have with no hesitation, accepted thisenormous feat of exploring new frontiers onbehalf of both the University and LimpopoProvince as a whole", said TournamentConvenor, Blessing Mpofu.Ruvimbo Gonese; ULDS President, said thatthey are obviously delighted by thisphenomenal triumph and they believe that ULgot what it takes to make the tournament asuccess. "With no doubt, our hospitality willease our quests to feel at home", she said.Johannes.selepe@ul.ac.zaEducators sharing ideas during the recent Rural English Teacher's Association (RETA) conferences part of addressing low level of literacyin rural communities, the University'sALanguages Department held its fourthannual Rural English Teacher's Association(RETA) conference. RETA plays an integral roleof community outreach programme for EnglishStudies. The conference intended to instillliteracy to pupils within rural areas of LimpopoProvince via their educators.During the event, motivational speakers andcurriculum pundits interacted with educatorsabout the channels of curbing illiteracy. In herspeech, Ms Ngokoana Dikgari; EnglishCurriculum Adviser in Moroke Circuit,indicated that the 2011 Annual NationalAssessment (ANA) results revealed a shockingdiscovery that learners in grades three and sixrespectively cannot read nor write. She saidthat this situation can be reformed only ifeducators can be catalysts, share informationwith their counterparts, do thoroughresearches on the subject matter and undergoextensive writing training workshops regularly.To the pupils, Dikgari highlighted that theyshould have regular brainstorming sessions,review their writings and be ready for critiqueby their peers. She, however, confessed thatthis cannot be changed over night but changeis inevitable.Prof Mahlapahlapana Themane; Head ofEducational Studies, indicated that educatorshave always occupied a position ofresponsibility for literacy teaching. Headmitted that on a daily basis these educatorsface a number of challenges but those do notstop them to carry their mandate. According tohim, challenges for Limpopo Province includemultiplicity of languages spoken in theProvince (at least 5 of the official languages),most parents have low levels of literacy, lack ofappropriate qualified teachers and resources(classrooms, desks, books, etc.).Themane conceded that recommendationsmade by Human Science Research Council(HSRC) in 2008 should be implemented toeradicate this low literacy problem. Thoserecommendations include optimising preschoolliteracy benefits, ensuring that everylearner has a textbook in their hands, fosteringhome learning environment and ensuring thatthere are enough reading and writing activitiesin classrooms.The symposium further gave educators aplatform to network with their counterpartsand share their forte in the profession. MrsRamperi Sehume, an Educator at RamperiPrimary School in Ga-Molepo (CapricornDistrict), appreciated the informationaccumulated through the conference."Learners can do better in classroom only if weencourage them and show them their mistakespolitely. Instead of calling them funny nameswe should encourage creativity"."Using visuals can be another effective methodof teaching pupils how to write as itencourages creativity", asserted Ms JoyceNokeri, who teaches at Mosebo PrimarySchool at Madiga village (Capricorn District).Prof Leketi Makalela who heads RETA said thatafter the conference educators should be ableto change the status quo of literacy in theirrespective schools.Ms Lehogonolo Makola, one of the facilitatorsadded her satisfaction. "The turnout of theeducators was marvelous and membership ofthe Association has increased significantly. Inthe near future, we hope to have moreconferences of this kind".Johannes.selepe@ul.ac.za10

UL Witness August - September 2011Badminton winsUSSA TourneyBy Tumelo MoilaN E W SGraham explores on treatmentfor people with disabilitiesBy Dorcus Manzinihe Medunsa Campus Badminton teamsparticipated in the annual UniversityTSport South Africa (USSA) NationalInstitutional Championship from 4 - 8 July 2011at the University of Free State. Medunsaentered two teams to participate in both B andC sections of the championship.UL staff and students saying 'I love you' using sign languageduring Mr Graham's (in a wheelchair) address at DSUCHAMPIONS: Standing from left to right: JacobSeitshiro, Lehlonono Seema, Obakeng Mnguni,and Sibusiso Ntuli. Sitted from left to right:Ofentse Lekubu, Manakoli Mafisa, LebohangTlakedi Mmalerato Komane. In absentia, ClementKhaha, Alfred Sekwele, and Mnqobi MthembuMedunsa B Section team beat University ofVenda, North West University (MafikengCampus) and North West University(Potchefstroom Campus) during round-robinstage to win the Section tournament. In the CSection, Medunsa played against TshwaneUniversity of Technology, North WestUniversity (Mafikeng Campus) and North WestUniversity (Potchefstroom Campus) to clinchthe silverware.Ofentse Lekubu, Sibusiso Ntuli and ClementKhaha were rated among the top ten players ofthe tournament and were subsequentlyselected to represent the USSA National Team"This is the first time ever that UL MedunsaBadminton Team has secured both B and CSections trophies and are currently rated thebest University Badminton Team in thecountry. We hope to participate and win the Asection during the 2012 Championships" saidwinning captain of B Section Team, SibusisoNtuli.Lebohang Tlakedi, one of the players said, "Weare very happy and proud of our achievementsby both teams. With continual hard work attraining, we hope to defend our titles ".Tumelo.moila@ul.ac.zahe University community enjoyed andlearned from a recent address by MrTJohnny Graham from the Association ofPeople with Disabilities (APD). The addresstitled: How to treat people with disabilitieswas aimed at raising awareness to all as peopleliving with disabilities deserve to be treatedwith respect.In her opening remarks, the Director of theDisability Students Unit (DSU), Mrs GraceMotshologane said: “We have decided to bringMr Graham so that people can have betterunderstanding of how it feels to live withdisabilities, more especially in theenvironment which is not accommodative”.In his presentation, Mr Johnny Graham defineddisability as a long term or recurring physical ormental impairment that limits a person'sability. He continued that most people lack theskill of how to treat people living withdisabilities; how to approach and how tocommunicate with them. “People are advisednot to push a person in a wheelchair or assist aperson with disability without his or herpermission. I am also touched by the issue thatsome parents continue to hide their childrenliving with disabilities at home. This makesthose children to grow up without selfconfidence, and it is done mostly by blackpeople”, he said.One of the University staff with disability, MrMarisane Moruthanyane spoke on thechallenges and experiences he had since hewas visually impaired. He lost sight at the ageof six due to measles and since then, life beganto be difficult for him. “Everything becamedifficult for me and my family; I had to startliving a new lonely life and become a toy toother kids whenever I go closer to play withthem. As I grew up, I refused to live adisadvantaged life because of my disability. Ihad to be creative and show extra efforts ineverything I do in order to be recognised andconvince the world that I am able. I feel proudof myself today because I can do things on myown, such as bathing, cleaning, washing,cooking, etc. My plea and advice to all peopleis, treat us with respect, talk to me when wemeet on the way, don't just pull me withoutasking if I really need your help”, saidMoruthanyane.Ms Eve Steun from APD encouraged theUniversities community to support peoplewith disability by buying R10stickers during the “Casual Day”on the 2nd September 2011.“APD visits schools annuallysince 2009, from July toSeptember for talks ondisability. These talksvary from awareness onphysical disability orknowledge thereof andthey are presented toc o m p a n i e s o rinstitutions that arei n t e r e s t e d i ndisability”.Dorcus.manzini@ul.ac.za14

UL Witness August - September 2011N E W SUniversity community undergoes HIV testing to celebrate Mandela MonthBy Metji MakgobaStudents registering their names with New Start Administratorsoutside testing shelters next to the Student Health Centree m b e rs o f t h e U n i v e rs i t ycommunity successfully undertookMHIV testing recently during the"Operation Hlasela and Test Everyone"campaign in celebration of the MandelaMonth at the Turfloop Campus. A ten-daycampaign, targeted at both students and staffmembers, was aimed at "de-stigmatising HIVand increasing the HIV testing-rate within theUniversity", says Ms Pontsho Tsotetsi, ULHealth Promoter. She added that their HIVtesting campaign also helps first enteringstudents to start their careers with confidencebecause they know their status. This annualcampaign was organised under the auspices ofthe Student Health Centre in partnership withthe Student Development Training (SDT).The counselling and testing process wasfacilitated by South Africa's largest Non-ProfitHIV counselling and testing programme, NewStart, and their Administrator: Mr WilliamMagolego, commended the universitycommunity for taking the responsibility toknow their status. "People came in numbersand it is very encouraging to see individualstaking an audacious step to know their HIVstatus", he said. The Student Health Centre hasbeen working with New Start since 2009.Magolego added that their reciprocalarrangement with the Centre is very satisfyingand the university community has to takeadvantage of its benefit.With this campaign, Ms Tsotetsi, said that theywanted to introduce a culture of responsibilityamongst people and hoped that theircampaign would enlighten the Universitycommunity about the fear of being stigmatisedbecause one is living with HIV. The Universityof Limpopo topped the rankings during theFoundation for Professional Development(FPD)'s First things First, for conducting theUL Student Trust FundGolf DayAs part of celebrating its 15th Anniversary, the University of Limpopo Student Trust Fund (ULSTF) will behosting their annual Golf Day on 07 October 2011 at the Polokwane Golf Club. This Trust Fund was initiatedby the 1995/96 Students Representative Council (SRC) and has contributed significantly to the wellbeingof financially needy and academically deserving students. The focal point of the Trust is tosupport rural students mainly in the fields of Management, Health, Agriculture, Medicineand Natural sciences. The Trustees are convinced that by encouraging students to followthese paths they will contribute to the so much needed societal development.The 2011 tailored investment packages rate from R750 per individual and R3000 perFour Ball; Price on Request for Companies and Sponsors. The green fee covers for prizesand gifts - Golf Shirts, Halfway house. Each Player will have access to a Betterball-Scramble-Drive. The Trust will also appreciate any amount of donation from supporters,donors and sponsors who would only like to make a contribution onto this worthwhilecourse. The golf day will be attended by most well-known golfers, including representativesof business, professional organisations as well as local and provincial government officials.Members of the University, Alumni and the public will also be part of this event.All payments should be made into the following account:University of Limpopo Student TrustBank Name:Standard BankAccount No: 011152923Branch Code: 010145Swift Code: sbzazaJJ(Cheque A/C)highest number of HIV tests.Thus, Ms Tsotetsi sees this as a good start andshe hopes that the campaign can assist inmaintaining this position by increasing thenumber of HIV tests every time. "It is ourresponsibility to promote a testing trend in ourcampus and to know our HIV status", she said.She, however, advocates that students have tounderstand that undergoing an HIV test is theresponsibility of an individual.It is discouraging to see that students expectpromotional items or 'freebies' when they gettested to know their own status. Sheemphatically called on them to realise thesignificance of undergoing HIV counseling andtesting. When approached for comment afterundergoing a test, a first year student whoasked not to be named, said that "it is not aneasy decision to go for HIV testing but theprocess is inevitable if someone has to live aresponsible life". He appealed to his fellowstudents to undergo HIV testing for their ownbenefit and to lead a responsible lifestyle.Reginald.makgoba@ul.ac.zaKindly email your proof of payment to maria.moja.@ul.ac.za or fax them to +27(0)15 2670485 (Attention Maria Moja) OR contact +27(0)15 268 3288 for more information before15 August 2011.15

UL Witness SportUNIVERSITY OF LIMPOPOUNIVERSITY OF LIMPOPOSchool of Health Care SciencesMoilacrowned Inter-School ChampsBy Tumelothn the 6 of August, the School ofHealth Care Sciences dethroned theOSchool of Medicine (defendingchampions) after beating them 3-0 to becrowned the 2011 Inter-School Tournamentchampions. The games took place at MedunsaStadium, with a maximum of four games takingplace throughout the day.The rest of the results were as follows:Semi-Finals: School of Health Care Sciences 6 -0 School of Oral Health Sciences; School ofMedicine 4 - 1 School of Pathology & Pre-Clinical Sciences and 3rd & 4th place results:School of Pathology & Pre-Clinical Sciences 7 -1 School of Oral Health Sciences.For their accomplishments, Health CareSciences were rewarded with a trophy and goldmedals; Medicine with a trophy and silvermedals and Pathology & Pre-Clinical Scienceswith a trophy and bronze medals. Oral Healthwent home empty handed.Several individual prizes were also awarded todeserving players and a fan:Best Female Player - Talent Biyela (Pathology& Pre-Clinical Sciences)Men of the Matches - S f i s o N g e m a x 2INTER-SCHOOL CHAMPS: Health Care Sciences displaying their trophy(Health Care Sciences), Solly Kumako(Medicine) and Andile Baloyi (Pathology &Pre-Clinical Sciences)Player of the tournament - Sfiso Ngema(Health Care Sciences)Best Goalkeeper - Themba Shivambo, (HealthCare Sciences)Top Goal Scorer - Senior Mabaso (five goals),Health Care SciencesFan of the Tournament - Moloko Mehlape(Health Care Sciences)"The award for man of the tournament makesme feel happy because my hard work didn't godown the drain. I encourage fellow players towork very hard whenever they represent theirrespective teams", said Sfiso Ngema, afterbeing named player of the tournament."I feel great most especially after coming shortlast year against the same team (Medicine). Itwas a good performance by the team. Weprepared very well for the tournament and Ijust didn't think they can beat us, though thegame was very tough." said Vusi Valoyi,winning coach.Best Female Player, Talent Biyela, "I am veryexcited about the award, this is all thanks to myfellow teammates who showed support andentrusted me with the opportunity to play withthe guys."I am so excited to win the award, football is myhobby. I loved cheering for the guys and I amhappy that I was chosen as the fan of thetournament", said Moloko Mehlape.REWARDS: Standing from left to right: TalentBiyela, Moloko Mehlape, Andile Baloyi, SollyKumako, Siya Mtoboyi, and Tiisetso Ntsie.Sitted from left to right: Sfiso Ngema,Themba Baloyi and Senior MabasoTumelo.moila@ul.ac.zaIssued by Marketing and CommunicationsUniversity of Limpopo