Professional Documents
Culture Documents
The Oppidan Press Edition 6 2011
The Oppidan Press Edition 6 2011
nly 27% of participating students were registered to vote in yesterdays local government elections, according to the results of a survey of 480 Rhodes students conducted by The Oppidan Press. Though some survey responses indicated a desire to vote, many students said they were uninterested in politics, too lazy to have registered, or had simply forgotten. A recurring response revealed that numerous students felt their vote would be ineffectual. I dont see the point of voting when all the structures of service delivery remain the same no matter who is in power, one respondent said. Others, particularly those from provinces further afield, stated their indifference towards local Grahamstown politics. A common answer read, I dont really care. Professor Leonhard Praeg, Associate Lecturer in the Department of Political and International Studies, is of the opinion that general political apathy is not the cause for the low registration figures: Because of the transient nature of many students stay here, theyre more likely to care about the politics of the place they will go back to, Praeg said. If I were only in a place for two years I wouldnt really care about voting either. Thats just human, he said.
His sentiments were echoed by many of those surveyed. One survey read, I study in Grahamstown but live in East London therefore I dont feel I should really care who is elected here. It appeared that few students are aware of the Special Vote option available to them through the Independent Electoral Commissions (IEC) election website. By downloading and completing a form, students would be able to vote for their home municipality, despite physically casting the vote in Grahamstown. I think Activate, The Oppidan Press and the University ought to make this known to students in the lead up to registration, Praeg said. The percentage found of registered students, in comparison to broader registration statistics, is extremely low. We can never get a 100% voter registration, said Rev. Bongani Finca, a provincial Electoral Officer for the IEC. In the province we have about 81% and we are satisfied. Though we would like to see every citizen exercise their supreme democratic right, the reality is that people also have the right not to participate if they so feel. Issues of student involvement in local elections and the Grahamstown community were addressed at the recent All Party Election Debate held on 10 May. Organised by the Dean of Students Office, the debate offered Ward 12 candidates an opportunity to share their views with the Rhodes community
80 and respond to questions. Many stressed the need for Rhodes as a University to be involved 70 in affecting positive change in the Grahamstown area. 60 Carolene Brooks of the Makana Independent New Deal (MIND) spoke particularly to 50 students from outside Grahamstown: You students are not just temporary sojourners in 40 73% this place. This city cannot function without you, she said. 30 As students we need to ask ourselves if we are planning to become engaged in the com20 munity, not just in a token way, but in a very 27% real way, agreed independent candidate Chris 10 Mc Michael, a Rhodes student. Other candidates present spoke of the 0 Have registered to vote Havent registered to vote University as having a duty towards the comReasons given for the DAs support in this munity on account of their privileged access to election were based on their role as the strongest resources. According to Zukiswa Mhlawatika, canopposition to the ANC and due to their success in didate for COPE, As much as we have our rights, we have a responsibility. the Western Cape. ANC supporters commonly said they were votResults from the 2006 Local Municipal Elecing for the ruling party for a sense of loyalty to the tions saw the ANC holding a majority of over 90% previous liberation movement. Many ANC supin seven of the twelve wards in the Makana area. porters also claimed to love the drama associated Results from Ward 1, which included Rhodes with the partys rule. campus at the time, showed ANC with 67.88%, the DA with 25.88%, and the African Christian DemoThose voting COPE, MIND, or for Chris Mc Michael, were generally looking to see a change cratic Party (ACDP) with 2.74% of the vote. from the more prominent parties. The Oppidan Press election survey indicated The results of yesterdays election will be made that 57.6% of those registered intend to vote DA, with 38.1% meaning to vote ANC in Ward 12. available within seven days.
Domestic and international flights, car rental, van rental, accommodation reservations, bus/coach bookings, visa applications, travel insurance.
Shop 3, Graham Mall, 123 High Street, Grahamstown. 046 622 9129. Fax: 046 622 8980. Cell: 083 518 4036.
News
SA Campus News
Complied by Senior Reporter Khangelani Dziba
New campaign to support Africa Week male rape survivors preparations underway
Lebogang Tlou Members of Masithethani, an antirape group standing in solidarity with male rape survivors, are planning to tie themselves to the railings outside the Rhodes University Drama Department next week. According to Aidan Prinsloo, the organiser of the Masithethani (isiXhosa for Let us speak out) group, the event is designed to symbolise the powerlessness often felt by men who have been raped. A recent study found that 44% of male school children reported being forced to have had non-consensual sex, Prinsloo said. That is two in five men before they hit 19 that we can say have been raped. The immediate aim of this protest, he continued, is to raise awareness about male rape specifically. While we admit that rape is devastating among women and not enough is being done about female rape, there is next to no real knowledge or awareness about male rape. Prinsloo stressed that Masithethani should not be misinterpreted as stealing the 1 in 9 Sexual Violence = Silence campaigns thunder. The rape of women remains one of the biggest problems which our country faces; and the campaign ought to receive a lot more attention than it already does, he said. According to Prinsloo, all the men taking part will be wearing brown T-shirts, with a statement written on them in blue, as well as information as to what the protest is about. Women are also welcome to join us, he said. But [they] will wear blue and stand in support. There will also be a loudhailer and we will be informing passers-by about male rape, he said. The event is being funded by the Dean of Students office. This is an extremely important issue deserving attention in its own right, said student services officer Larissa Klazinga, the organiser of the 1 in 9 campaign. The protest will hopefully highlight the issue and begin to create a space for male rape survivors to speak about their experiences, and to access the support [that] they need without stigma, Klazinga continued. The protest is planned to take place on 27 May between 12:30 and 14:00. Enathi Mqokeli The third annual Africa Week, scheduled to begin on 23 May, is set to wow Rhodes students. The week was first initiated in 2009 by the Dean of Students (DoS) Office in conjunction with the International Office. The week came about to highlight the contributions of great African states people and scholars, as well as the diversity of students and staff at Rhodes, said Larissa Klazinga, the co-ordinator of the weeks events. A regular feature of the event is the hosting of a high profile speaker organised by the Pan African Youth Dialogue (PAYD). However, the founders of PAYD, Xolani Nyali and Siyabulela Gebe, relocated to Cape Town. According to Gebe, PAYD is experiencing a number of problems due to this, including the cancellation of this years PAYD programme and their inability to organise such a speaker. Klazinga has arranged for Rhodes graduate, Tracy Hammond, to present a seminar titled 'On being a working sociologist in Africa' on 24 May 2011. It will be held at the Humanities Seminar room during the lunch hour. On 20 May 2011, the International Office will also be hosting a parade with the theme Celebrating Diversity: Global to Local. Participants will gather at the Drostdy Gate at 14:00, and local community groups, schools, and a number of societies and academic departments will showcase different African cultural performances. Various other proceedings, such as a soccer match between the universitys South African and Zimbabwean teams, food stalls at the Great Field and a themed party at the Union, will take place. The School of African Languages has also planned to participate, and hopes to merge with other cultural-based societies. The main aim is to urge people to know more about their roots, commented John Blouw, the Xhosa 1 Mother Tongue class representative. According to the SRC President Mbongeni Allan Magubane, the week is important in giving students an opportunity to celebrate their African identity, and in encouraging students to engage in various discussions about the African continent. This is the time to be talking, this is the time to be making plans and expanding research and development. The time is always now! exclaimed Magubane.
News
Bjrn Krietsch
Natalie Nyamutumbu of the SRC shows off her Rhodes spirit in front of the SRC wall devoted to Purple Thursdays mfusa qha, baya kufumana amatikiti okutya simahla ezivenkileni zokutya. Ukuba abafundi bafuna ukuzuza kwezi zipho kubalulekile ukuba baxhase lo msebenzi kangangoko. Bjrn Krietsch
Pis sourced
This years Africa Week is set to celebrate Africas people and diversity
Wine Tasting Society banned from RU campus Oppi robbed while sleeping
Athina May The Wine Tasting society has been banned from hosting events on campus due to the misconduct of some of its members during an event hosted at the St Peters building earlier this year. The banning was attributed to the discovery of cigarette butts and burned matches in the womens restroom, as well as the theft of some ornaments. Secretary of the society, Efemia Chela, discovered that the society had been denied access to all campus venues after she had made a booking for a weekly wine tasting event. We booked a venue two weeks in advance and we were only informed the [day before] our wine tasting that our request to book a venue had been denied, Chela said. The society then received a letter from facilities officer Lorna Meaton informing them of the ban, and saying that they would not be able to use any of the Universitys venues to host events until the end of the second term. Society members have expressed dissatisfaction at the decision by the facilities office, as their weekly tasting sessions have been reduced to two sessions a month hosted at Pirates, which requires a fee for each events. Head of Wine Tasting Max Walker said, This is not up to [our] usual standard. The wine tasting society is the most expensive society on campus, and the members expect tastings of a certain standard. The SRC has appealed to Meaton to have the terms of the ban reduced. However, the appeal was dismissed. [The] looking after [of] venues is the number one rule Lorna Meaton has, said SRC Societies Councillor Jean-Michel Gaud. The SRC does not have the final say in making rulings, they [SRC] are [only] there to help have your voice heard, [and] people should be aware that offices and venues are not a given right, they are a privilege, Gaud continued. Despite this, Walker does not believe that the penance given to the society was unwarranted. However, he does believe that the punishment given could have been more lenient. Joshua Oates Thieves broke into a digs at 38 New Street while a student was asleep in her room, on Saturday 30 April. No suspects have been arrested, pending the processing of results from finger prints taken from the scene. SAPS Spokesperson, Captain Mali Govender, confirmed that the investigating officers are still busy. The occupant of the digs, Jamie-Lee Willis, a Third Year BA student, said she had gone to bed at 4:30 after arriving home from a party. She believed the thieves entered the digs at about 5:00. Willis had been alone in the house, her digsmate was away for the long weekend and her friends next door were also not home. The whole flat was wrecked, trashed, said Willis. They ate our food and then proceeded to throw it around the house. Items that were stolen include cellphones, a laptop, a camera, a modem, watches, a CD player, suitcases and many of her other personal items. She said that the thieves had emptied all the cupboards in the house; Some [items] were even [placed] on top of me, on the bed, said Willis. The thieves left the front door open as they escaped. I was completely shocked and was freaking out, said Willis, I felt violated and terrified. She reported the robbery to the police that afternoon. They (the police) were fast and very sensitive, said Willis. They were a great help. Detectives and a fingerprint specialist arrived at the scene to collect evidence. The constable that came to see the crime left me with his number in case of future emergencies, she said. Several suspects have recently been arrested in connection with various robberies throughout Grahamstown, but the SAPS have yet to link them to this particular break-in. Girls especially should not come home alone, it is too easy and quiet for [thieves] to get into their houses, said Willis as advice for other students. The people breaking in [to houses] are using [bolt]cutters to cut padlocks, she said. She further advised Oppidans to take extra safety precautions to ensure that their digs was secure from intruders.
Students gathered by the Drodsty Arch on Sunday 15 May to protest against corrective rape in South Africa. Hosted by the OutRhodes society, participants moved down to Peppergrove Mall to raise awareness of rape that targets lesbians, gays, transsexuals, bisexuals and intersex people, mainly occuring in rural and township areas. The protestors had one minute of silence for those who have been raped and/or murdered. Ayanda Kota, of the Unemployed Peoples Movement, and representatives for Students for Social Justice, and the Gender Awareness Program also attended. A simultaneous protest was held in Cape Town on the steps of parliament.
year with a culture exploration garden party where the society served various traditional meals, played cultural music and shared Zimbabwean culture with others. They are looking towards creating discussion forums amongst the student body and members of the society about the situation in Zimbabwe, focusing specifically on politics and the socioeconomic conditions in the country. Mavura added that his aim was to include a variety of other cultural groups and to hold effective forums about land distributions. The society has worked on getting sponsors to aid their finances and is also trying to join the Chamber of Commerce with an aim to create training links for future graduates. Zim Unlimiteds plans for the remainder of the year include hosting a Zimbabwean stand-up comedian, as well as hosting talks by members of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) and Zanu PF political parties to discuss the future of Zimbabwe. [This will] hopefully encourage Zimbabwean students to return home to seek work after graduation and improve the country, Mavura said.
Do you have something to say? Email us your thoughts and opinions letters@theoppidanpress.com
Features
The problem, however, is the word comrades. According to Ellis their conception of using the word in the mural has nothing to do with any kind of serious political undercurrents. It simply runs with the theme. Nel and Coetzee further add that the mural was made to be deconstructed and to provoke. So, the matter of comrades versus Rhodents was made on an artistic whim and the text accompanying the mural was never specified or agreed upon in the original proposal. Some students said they would have liked Rhodents instead of Comrades. Unfortunately, according to Mohammed Shabangu, SRC vicepresident external, the mural is to be decommissioned as soon as the Purple Thursday initiative is over. Speaking on the erasure of their art, Coetzee and Nel jointly had this to say: We were always aware that the mural would be temporary, to which Ellis adds, Fluid art is the best kind. If its temporary its that much more precious.
THE DOPENESS
year. The centre has seen a rise from last years figures, where 30 abortions took place. This is clearly an issue affecting female students at Rhodes, therefore, there is a need for some discussion to take place.
Chelsea Nelson
It took us about two years of backwards and forwards wrangling to try and identify someone who was prepared to undergo the training.
Up until a month ago, Settlers Hospital in Grahamstown, a demarcated TOP clinic, was unable to perform abortions. Due to the lack of staff, women would have to travel to a TOP clinic in PE. Sister Ferreira of the Rhodes University Health Care Centre said: All our clients had to be referred to PE; either to Dora Nzinga [hospital] or to Marie Stopes clinic. But now this year the hospital has employed a Sister. It took us about two years of backwards and forwards wrangling to try and identify someone who was prepared to undergo the training, says Larissa Klazinga of the Dean of Students division. If the procedure is declared legal under South African law, why is it so difficult to find staff to perform a TOP? There are moral issues for staff. Many staff [members] dont believe in abortion so they are simply Pregnant students seeking abortions now have the option of having the procedure done in Grahamstown as opposed to out of town not prepared to undergo the training and provide the service, explained Klazinga. If a female student falls pregnant and is thinking of having an abortion, what should she do? Go to the Health Care Centre for the initial check up. Then we will refer you to Dr. Bull who will work with either Settlers... or with Marie Stopes. One way or the other we will assist students to access abortions, said Klazinga. It is always important in making this decision that a woman speaks to someone about it. Sister Ferreira described how many of the women would arrive at the clinic unable to discuss the pregnancy with their partner or parents, they just want to get rid of the baby. Sister Ferreira advises students to confide in a friend, a partner or parents: Its important to have that support structure, because it is not an easy decision to make. This article was not aimed at entering the abortion debate. It does not wish to preach the ideas of pro-life or pro-choice. This article seeks to inform women, particularly students, about the options that are available to them. The posters for backstreet abortions clearly indicate a market, but before a decision is made, we hope Rhodes female students understand that there are safe affordable methods. Rhodes University provides access to these options which places the health and the well-being of the women first.
Nel and Coetzee, along with fellow art student Dee Ellis, were approached by the SRC to create a mural based on the SRCs Purple Thursdays initiative. The initiative is to celebrate the centenary of the existence of the SRC. The mural sports three Rhodents standing proudly with the slogan: Comrades, Thursdays are purple under them. Many people like the mural as it finally brings some colour and difference to the industrial-like atmosphere of the library and its surroundings.
Many Rhodes students like the new mural but have problems with the slogan, in particular, the use of the word comrades.
Victor cites the main reasons for gaining weight during the winter months as:
1. Over indulging in comfort foods, particularly carbohydrates. 2. Shying away from fruits and veggies. 3. Drinking less water, which is ultimately replaced by hot beverages; 4. Increasing coffee and tea consumption, which inevitably increases sugar intake. 5. We simply think more about food during the quieter winter months. All of the above however, can be painlessly avoided by simply: 1. Limiting the comfort foods one usually eats, even when youre not hungry. 2. Sticking to your eating plans (especially your fruit and vegetable quotas). 3. Drinking more than enough water. 4. Limiting hot beverage consumption to 2-3 cups of unsweetened herbal tea a day (this includes Rooibos). 5. Finally, remain active, this means less time to dwell on thoughts of over indulgence!
Magick is a word given to the process of imposing an intention upon energies around you. Many Wiccans cast magick in order to commune with the world around them and to request changes for things.
Magick is a word given to the process of imposing an intention upon energies around you. Many Wiccans cast magick in order to commune with the world around them and to request changes for things, says Chloe Monilo, a Fourth Year student. Therefore, most of the rites Wiccans observe are for personal well-being and feelings of integration with the lived world. Further, none of these rites involve devil-worship or praising of obscure/ occult entities. Wicca does not believe in Satan because he is a part of the Christian religion, adds Mikhaela.
Sewry however focuses more on the physical aspects attributed to weight gain:
Lets face the facts, huddling under a warm blanket and watching a movie is much more appealing than braving the bitter cold to work out. Sewry believes that even the weather isnt a good enough excuse to stop exercising and gave the following tips as motivation: 1. Change your exercise routine to accommodate the weather, swap your outdoor sports for indoor sports or join the gym. 2. For those who arent gym members, a simple exercise such as skipping can be just as effective in burning calories, elevating heart rate and keeping fit. The best thing about it is it can be done indoors and in very little space. 3. The amount of exercise you do doesnt have to increase during winter months, as your body naturally works harder to keep you warm during these months. By sticking to the tips above we all can maintain our summer bodies relatively easily throughout the winter months, ready to flaunt it when summer graces us once again. In the meantime, dont let winter be the excuse!
Some of my Christian friends have sat in during spells and rituals to debunk that myth. In earnest agreement, Chloe defines the difference between white and black magick as the difference between the intentions when someone practices magick. If a person casts a spell with benevolence as the prime directive, then no harm will come to him or her. Otherwise, as in all other religions, there are those people who do not follow the loosely prescribed path of the Wiccan. For this, there is a further law to the Rede: the law of three, which at base states that all a Wiccan does in the world (good or bad) will be returned to him or her threefold. This, like the Ten Commandments in Christianity or the normative statements within other religions serves, to slow down the more extremist members of the religion; since, most Wiccans will not go over and above violation of the first law. Wicca also has its own festivals and special occasions which are celebrated by one and all. In fact, a week ago, the occasion of Samhain was held. As Chloe puts it, this is specifically a celebration of those who have gone before, a celebration of the New Year. As a result of some bad plot devices and sometimes stereotypical conceptions, the media has led many to view Wiccans as one of the big bad wolves of the religious realm. Hopefully, with Rhodes being an open-minded environment, where all voices and creeds are given equal valuation, we can come to see that most of the media is mistaken. Who knows, a few of you may even want to experience the next sacred rite yourselves.
Regular trips to the Rhodes Health Suite is just one way student Chevawn Blum plans to stay fit and healthy this winter
Politics
of South Africans. The group emphasises the need for people to be empowered rather than rely on those elected into political structures. With the divide between the rich and the poor, which is evident in Grahamstown, there is a need to readdress the political system in South Africa. More specifically, to help build a new politics and ensure a just future in South Africa. However, how will students address
The SSJ started earlier this year in response to the municipalitys attempt to shut down UPMs protests and we felt it was disgusting and we as students should show solidarity with the UPM
such a need? How does the SSJ plan to empower the people of Grahamstown? Fogel says that there is no set agenda, but he describes the act of building links with social movements both here and around the rest of South Africa. This will be achieved through creating awareness of certain social problems in the community. There are a number of issues that affect Grahamstown residents on a daily basis and one such issue is the bucket system. The SSJ are working with the UPM to address such matters and make a point to encourage problem solving discussions. The SSJ stress that it is crucial to create links with other organisations. If we
are going to create alternative power structures and take on an unaccountable state, links between students and social movements need to be formed, said Fogel. In order to create awareness of the organisations ambitions, there is a need to raise awareness about the group. How have the SSJ been achieving popularity amongst Rhodes students? Like most web tools in life these days, Facebook is a viable platform for galvinisation. A Facebook page has been set up where group members are able to post links and events relating to the organisations mission. However, the most successful advertising has come from aligning themselves with the campaign of independent student ward candidate, Chris Mc Michael. The most crucial element of the organisation, according to Fogel, is to be active instead of having these one week spurts of activism. The SSJ have stirred up a significant following for Mc Michaels campaign, but they reject the rumour that they are a political party participating in the election. The group is merely in solidarity with the candidate and has seen similarities in their aims with those of Mc Michaels campaign. No matter the SSJs political affiliation, there is a clear indication that the people of Grahamstown are upset. Students and residents are no longer willing to stand by and accept their circumstances. The social networks are all a twitter with a call for revolt in South Africa. Who knows, Grahamstown may be the start of South Africas own revolution and the SSJ, along with the UPM, could be leading the fight.
Politics
at the debate, it would appear that a number of political organisations believe that the public broadcaster demonstrates a clear bias towards the ruling party. The Democratic Alliances (DA) Michael Whisson said the current SABC programming does not ensure quality programming and diversity. Whisson argued that if the ANC was incapable of treating other parties equally, how would it be possible for impartial broadcasting under a ruling party? A dumbfounded audience could not help but wonder the same thing. Furthermore, to add to the criticism, Nozipo Plaatjie of the Congress of the People plainly said that the SABC is biased towards the ANC. Plaatjie pointed out that people in political power must not be employed by the SABC, as it is a public service provider. In agreement, The New Unity Movement represented by M P Giyose, said that news coverage in the Makana region in the recent period is not impartial, the SABCs impartiality exists only on paper not in reality. A speaker that stood out was Benjamin Fogel, the campaign manager for Chris McMichael. According to Fogel, the Eastern Cape needs more local content and the Eastern Cape is not being reported on to the extent that it should be. The media also must ensure different perspectives such as those of social movements. The audience was struck by the criticisms and opinions from all parties
A meeting of minds: Rhodes discusses the importance of media freedom in the Eastern Cape. as well as what the people of Grahamstown felt regarding this important issue. Statistics were revealed regarding interviews with the local people of Grahamstown and it seems many people in the focus groups revealed that they actually are content to a large extent with the SABC; contrary to what the party representatives were saying. Whilst people feel that etv is better than the SABC in terms of news coverage, the people of Grahamstown appreciate that the SABC broadcast in all 11 languages. When the locals were asked what they want from the SABC, they communicated that they want more youth programmes and celebrity news. Whilst there were overflowing criticisms highlighted in the debate, there is one thing that grasps the audience as a positive, and that is that the local people are engaging to some extent with the issues of the Eastern Cape and want to see improvement. Apathy seems to be on the decrease in Grahamstown, with the many issues faced in the Eastern Cape, and the municipal elections at the forefront in Grahamstown, this could not be better news.
Catherine Baytopp
Giving back to [the] community is never in vain, whether we question the motives behind it or not.
Ngcangca said she has been struggling to get aid from the Department of Social Development since 2002. One of the challenges they encounter as a home is that when the young men in the community see Rhodes students, particularly white students, they think they brought money to her and they come asking for money. She says the home is blessed especially through the exposure she has received through the media and she receives a lot of help from people. She remembers that one day Spar came in and gave her a voucher worth R4000. She also receives R3000 per month from a group of women in China who had read about the centre on the internet.
We have never slept a day without food, said Ngcangca. On behalf of these kids I say thank you. Their parents are at the same age as yours. Its great for them to see that they have other parents, she said to the ANC cadres. After hours of storytelling, games and singing, the time came for the ANCYL to depart. Sub regional convener, Andile Hoyi, made the closing statement, We are concerned as young people as to what happens to other young people. There are many parties that promise to do better but it is all lies. Go to Western Cape and you will see the bad living conditions people live under. At the end of it all Ngcangca walked the cadres out and her last words to them were: This was a very nice day to me. Thank you for making it a nice one. You have the keys to this home, so you are always welcomed. However, this act of kindness raised a number of questions as to whether this was a genuine kind act, or whether the home was used to get votes for the upcoming Municipal elections. The branch chairperson, Vuyokazi Gwayi, stated that this act of kindness had nothing to do with the approaching local government elections on 18 May 2011 and that it was part of their Freedom Week programme. I think it is fantastic that they are taking initiative. Giving back to [the] community is never in vain, whether we question the motives behind it or not, said Second Year B.S.S student Siya Sonandzi.
MINDs Carolene Brooks hopes to use their independent status to improve communication between the students, the community and their leaders. When implementing ideas they plan to monitor situations and plan to assess the impact on the community. Community awareness and involvement is very important to MIND and they want to be a voice for Ward 12.
Chris Mc Michael an independent candidate and a student at Rhodes University, made it clear that he did not intend to make promises that he was unlikely to keep and that as a student he is not able to do what a party can. He hopes to use his relationship with other students as a way to improve communication between the students and the councillors. He hopes to make resources on campus more accessible to the community and to improve the working relationship between the community and the university. He believes that because he is not accountable to a political party, he can only be accountable to the people he serves.
We have the right to vote and making an informed one is of the utmost importance. This debate proved to be successful in getting students thinking about who they will vote for and is a start in the relationship between the students and their future councillors.
Welcome to Burlesque
Fest Focus
Antigone Sub-
David Williams Rhodes students from the music department will be showcasing a series of concerts at this years National Arts Festival. Having received recognition for performances in Bulgaria and Germany, music student Mia Pistorius will offer South African audiences a series of piano recitals that include compositions by Liszt, Beethoven and Lowell Liebermann. This will be Pistorius first time playing at the Arts Festival. Theres a lot of work to organise [in] a concert because there is so much admin. Its scary but its also exciting, said Pistorius. Rhodes pianists Jacques Du Plessis and Andrew Duncan will be performing a recital entitled 4 Hands. This duet will be including Faures Dolly Suite and Schuberts Fantasie in F minor. This will also be Duncan and Du Plessis debut performance at the Arts Festival. Du Plessis said that he feels nervous but also excited about the prospect of performing for a national audience.
Ben Greaves Based on Sophocles classical play, MA student Jen Schneebergers Antigone is an exploration of the potential of the human voice. The piece is in many ways a continuation of Schneebergers earlier works, which also involved exploratory vocal work that pushed the boundaries of contemporary performance. As part of the so-called inTranceit programme in collaboration with other MA theatre-makers, Schneebergers piece is a site-specific work that promises its audience a tantalizing and atypical trip to the literal and methaphorical fringe of Festivals dramatic offerings. Vimbai Midzi Masters student Gavin Krastins Sub- explores the complexities of hierarchy as seen in political and social contexts. The play refers to anything beneath something else - a perpetual position that we find ourselves in throughout our lives. Krastin believes that where language fails, symbols take over. His piece is one of three under the group inTranceit, which consists of two other site-specific plays by Nadine Joseph and Jen Schneeberger. Breaking conventional boundaries, Subis set in nine different classrooms at Nombolelo Secondary School, as all three productions encourage audiences to search for theatre and actively take part in its creation.
Wet Paint
Pic sourced
Ananda Paver This exhibition by Rhodes Universitys own is an opportunity for Fine Art Masters students to show off their unfinished final examination pieces. All of the creations on show are works-in-progress, hence the title: Wet Paint. Professor Dominic Thorburn, head of the Fine Art Department, views this exhibition as an excellent opportunity to profile Rhodes Fine Art and our postgraduate offerings. The pieces will include work of various art mediums. Each MFA student will submit between one and three pieces, and the chance to showcase their work at Festival will allow them a collective sounding board for their work so far.
Ananda Paver A regular at the National Arts Festival, the undergraduate exhibition showcases the best work from Rhodess first to fourth year fine arts students. The specific works to be shown have not yet been finalised as this decision rests heavily on the results of the June exam assessments,which ensures the high standard of work necessary for a national platform. This show will no doubt have some fantastic artworks and is a great opportunity to witness the very best that Rhodes has to offer.
dis.clo.sure
Tarryn de Kock This year three MA Drama students will present a triple-bill enitled inTranceit. One of them is Nadine Joseph, whose piece, is entitled dis.clo.sure and explores the idea of recall and memory. The audience is taken on a literal journey to a post-apocalyptic site which simultaneously serves as a safe haven for the performers. By having an intense journey to and from the site, the experience of the audience contrasts with the experience of the performers, who undergo a catharsis through emotional and body memory. Emotions are crafted to manipulate the audience through physical manifestation; as Joseph says, Bodies dont lie.
Taste
Kristen Birch Rhodes MA student and director Debbie Robertson makes her Festival debut with a piece she describes as a comic thriller that blends aspects of realism and surrealism. Dumisa Lengwati, a student taking part in the production, feels that, like its director, Taste is a dark and comical play with anti-stereotypical characters. Its an enjoyable show [in which] seven talented people portray complex characters in a unique storyline, commented Lengwati. Robertson, for her part, aims to not only to entertain its audience but also to shock it: It has surprises up its sleeve at every turn!
Wreckage
we recommend
Listening to the infused sounds of American producer Danger Mouse and Italian composer Daniele Luppis Rome. Its taken five years of production and vintage recording equipment to create an album inspired by spaghetti Westerns. The clean muted guitar effects and added choir gives it that Western film score sound, only renewed thanks to Danger Mouse. And the bonus? Jack White and Norah Jones are featured on vocals. Its well made, well worth the listen and perfect for chilled sunsets. By David Williams
catching a showing of the acclaimed independent film. Winters Bone. Seventeen year old Ree Dolly works hard to provide for her shrinking family in the rural Ozarks, but her life is compounded when she is told she has just a week to find her absent father or risk losing her house and possessions to the justice system. A cutting and somber investigation of methamphetamine addiction and first-world poverty, Winters Bone combines the tragic depth of a novel with riveting yet subtle on-screen performances. By Ben Greaves
reading Graceland. Set in a Nigerian slum, Graceland tells the story of Elvis Oke, a young Elvis Presley impersonator who dances on the poverty-riddled streets of Nigeria to make a living. His struggles and complicated family life lead him into a world of cocaine-peddling, the black market and other underhanded dealings while he navigates his way into adulthood. Nigerian author Chris Abani describes the adversity, piles of fermenting rubbish and destitution of the slums and its inhabitants with a visual intensity that has you catching whiffs, noisy jangles and hardships of urban life. Graceland throbs with an energy and is definitely one to read. Available at the Rhodes Library. By Wilhelmina Maboja
Vimbai Midzi Wreckage emerged from the collaborative work of Rhodes own Professor Andrew Buckland, Juanita Firestone-Praeg, Brink Scholtz and Athina Vahla. For the first time, First Physicals movement and choreography will be meshed with the musical talent of Ubom! Based on Hazel Cramptons The Sunburnt Queen, the story centres on the social complexities that arise as a result of a shipwreck along the Wild Coast. Trapped in the meeting point between land and sea, the play explores the psychological landscape of wreckage, said Buckland. For him, the National Arts Festival is Christmas, and this performance definitely promises to be an early present.
Tarryn de Kock It is the true story of a family pieced together through a song sung by their ancestors, says Sifiso Sikhakhane of his first National Arts Festival work as a choreographer. Entitled The Language We Cry In, the piece is presented by Ubom! Eastern Cape Drama Company and Rhodes Drama Department, in collaboration with Amaphiko Township Dancers and the Kingswood College Band. Creating an exciting fusion of contemporary dance and live music, it intends to make audiences question their roots and will attempt to explore the intangible emotion contained in our ancestry using a simple metaphor: No matter what language people speak, they will always cry in their mother tongue.
Opinion
Matthew de Klerk Malema has done it again. Just when we thought it was safe to open a newspaper without reading another hateful, illogical and baseless rant from the ANC Youth League president, he opened his big mouth- this time in front of a crowd of nearly 3000 people at the Galeshewe stadium, just outside Kimberly. Malemas first targets were the ever-popular scapegoats, white people. Malema called them criminals, claiming that they took our land without paying. According to Malema, the government cannot afford to create jobs or build a university in the Northern Cape (a campaign promise that Jacob Zuma made in 2009) because there is no money. So where is the money? Well, Malema says that it is in the hands of the Oppenheimers, who mine diamonds right here in Kimberley and leave nothing behind. He added that the Youth League was not requesting permission to nationalise the countrys natural assets. In light of the spate of service deliv-
Opinion
Julius Malema has no verbal filter when talking about politics held by the masses. By dehumanising and belittling the other political parties, and making such outlandish, crowdpleasing comments, the ANC will no doubt maintain its one-party position of power. Its a fearsome thought: will this hatred and idiocy continue for the years to come? If it does, I cannot imagine the South Africa we will live in under a president Julius Malema. Such illogical comments are similar to those of other presidents such as Muammar Gaddafi and Robert Mugabe. Will our future land swing the same way as the violent and oppressed Zimbabwe and Libya? Or will we finally do something to stop this big-mouthed bigot before its too late?
There has been much controversy around Osama Bin Ladens death, and whether or not he really is dead indeed Osama bin Laden who was shot in the head and chest, and President Obama himself viewed the pictures to be sure (although that probably doesnt count for much). Obama then announced to the world that no one else would be seeing this photographic evidence, stating that we don't trot out this stuff as trophies. Although if bin Laden were alive, dont you think he would have made a video by now to contradict the USs claims? Whether or not we can believe the US government and all that they say is very debatable, and everyone is more than entitled to hold an opinion as to whether bin Laden is dead or not. However, what we should really be worrying about now is what will happen next. Just because Osama bin Laden is dead, it doesnt mean Al Qaeda is now dead too. I think that the remaining Al Qaeda members are going to be pretty angry that their beloved leader has been killed by the enemy. So instead of being overly concerned about photographic evidence and genetic proof that we got the right guy, I think we should start worrying about what the next world news headline is going to be
The ignominy of ingratitude Boring kisses and bad fashion Student apathy
Matthew de Klerk I recently read an article on the Times Live website that infuriated me. According to this article, Atlantis, a poverty-stricken and crime-ridden area just outside of Cape Town, has undergone massive changes since the change of leadership from ANC to DA. In 2009, Helen Zille said the murder rate in Atlantis was thought to be among the highest in the country. Many employers and factories in the area have shut in recent years because of surging Chinese imports and the global economic crisis. The city, originally built by the apartheid government as an industrial city for coloureds, has been effectively transformed. Atlantis had always been an ANC stronghold but, in 2009, the tide turned when the ANC councillor for ward 32 resigned. DA councillor Barbara Rass won the by-election, and began to change things. The city of Cape Town spent R40 million on servicing 1835 plots, as well as on roads and drainage. Neighbourhoods in ward 32 have had floodlights installed, their parks revamped, and many overgrown bushy areas once used by criminals have been cleared. Most noticeable is the R14-million Witsand housing project of 200 two-bedroom eco-friendly homes, with energyefficient tiled roofs and, in many cases, solar-powered geysers. The province has approved the construction of 500 more houses. The DA hails Witsand as a success story, where its interventions helped reduce crime, improve healthcare and extend housing. DA mayoral candidate for Cape Town, Patricia de Lille, said that the Witsand housing project was a model of how the city, working with the provincial government and business, can create sustainable housing. The ANC supporters even admit that the change is noticeable. Witsand resident Nokwakakha Mhlawuli (now a first-time home owner) says that the DA built us the best houses ever built in the Western Cape. I have been staying in a shack since 1999. Life was tough in the shacks; they burned most of the time. I lost my home to fire twice and one of my children died in a shack fire. But now I can sleep properly with no fear of fire burning down my home and, since the rains started, we've seen no leaks, said the ardent ANC supporter wearing a DA T-shirt. Witsand informal settlement is the DA's greatest achievement. People came to me and said they wanted to build houses and their subsidies had been approved but they could not move forward. I started calling the housing officials in the city and province, she said. But despite the success, many residents say they will vote for the ANC. Joining the DA was just a strategy to get the development going. Some individuals among us decided to support the DA at the time because our councillor had failed us. We are now going to win this ward for the ANC come the elections," said resident Gcobani Limane. Witsand resident Elizabeth Nqampleni said it was true that the DA had changed our lives but she and others would vote for the ANC. We are all ANC in this area but we had a problem with our councillor. But on the 18th we will vote for the ANC, she said. From all this, Im sure you can grasp exactly why I felt so exasperated by the article. Whilst the ANC makes empty promises and absurd, crowd-pleasing comments, the other political parties are getting the job done. They are changing lives, and what do they get in return? I feel sorry for these misguided people: Surely if Atlantis falls back into the hands of the ANC, it will only return into its dilapidated state? Why anyone would continue to openly support an organisation that does not care for them and abandons them is beyond me: its totally illogical and self-destructive. But hey: thats political pride for you. Pic sourced Matthew de Klerk As a young boy, I always associated going to university with becoming a man. This would entail leaving the safety and idyllic carelessness of childhood to join a society where the members take firm stances to support and uphold the beliefs that they hold so dearly. Unfortunately, it has been almost the opposite. Students, instead of being outspoken and defiant, like the strong symbols of resistance seen at universities in many countries across the globe throughout history, are happy to just coast along. In fact, taking a stance has been reduced to such admin, bro. This tendency was clearly shown by the inability of the SRC to reach quorum last year. Voting, I must say, was the easiest thing to do. There was a direct link available on StudentZone: a tab from Facebook. It would have taken five minutes instead of posting an inane status about how drunk you got the previous night, to cast a vote. And still: too few voted; too few cared. A much more recent example would be the 1 in 9 Sexual Violence=Silence protest. Not on the female student bodys part (this years was the biggest in the history of the protest) but on the reactions to these protesters. According to a survey done in our last edition, over 55% of the protesters were verbally abused. Those who did so dont seem to care about the protest and its serious message enough to even show it a shred of respect. Meatless Monday seems to have suffered a similar fate. Walking past tables in the dining hall, they seem to be piling on the meat even more. For most, pork chops was still firmly on the menu. Unless the cause has direct relevance on their own life, students dont seem to care about much beyond their next assignment deadline and big night out. And yes, while there are a few doing much to further the various causes at Rhodes, they are far outnumbered by the many who are happy to just sit back, watch and do nothing.
by Stephen Mina
Were you one of the millions who just had to watch it? Ananda Paver "Go for it Will; now just a bit of tongue..." At least thats what I was expecting to hear the poncy Royal Wedding commentator suggest, especially since he had been waxing lyrical about the perfectly-timed Royal Kiss for a good half-hour. Im not sure if Im the only one who was disappointed, but I was expecting something a little less chaste after that tedious ceremony. I realise this is Britain were talking about but, really, I would not have been as excited as that crowd at a mere peck. Where was the passion? Where was that perfect fairytale moment? Why were there planes? Trust the royal family to issue a show of military force on such a joyful occasion. Kate may have been grinning, but Im not convinced: imagine having ones nuptials outshone by the military aircraft? However, my personal highlight was not the close to R3 million dress or the vows or even that pathetic excuse for a kiss, but the hats. Head gear of all shapes and sizes: some embodying the tasteful charm of the wedding, and others... well, not so much. The odd trend that prescribed perching a small hat in the middle of ones forehead was the brainchild of dubious Irish milliner Philip Treacy. This Gaga-esque design tripped up many a style-savvy celebrity, including Victoria Beckham; but none so much as poor Princess Beatrice whose bonnet resembled a cross between antlers and an octopus. Treacy said of his hats, I thought they looked gorgeous and beautiful. But no one is crying if anyone didnt. Which is definitely a good thing if they were we would certainly have an Alice in Wonderland situation on our hands. The Facebook page, Princess Beatrice's Ridiculous Royal Wedding Hat, dedicated to criticism of the fashion disaster has an impressive 136 300 likes. Comments on the hat include She looked like a creature from Dr Who and Do they live in a house without mirrors? But it wasnt only the upper crust donning millinery spectacles, Chito Salarza-Grant, a Fillopino hat maker, drew the attention of the media with his creation which he called his gift to the bride and groom. The hat was adorned with a multitude of union jacks, a couple of Beefeaters, various photos of the royal couple while on holiday and, most creepy, a toothbrush belonging to Williams old nanny. Overall, a royal wedding seems a decidedly unromantic affair: countless guests one neither knows nor likes and being forced to ride in a horse-drawn carriage despite the fact that one is allergic to the creatures. Yes: Kate Middleton is in fact allergic to horses. Oh the beautiful irony.
Letters
Editor: Lauren Granger Deputy Editor: Mikaila Thurgood Managing Editor: Lwandlekazi Gaga Marketing Managers: Jamie Bezuidenhout and Sin Rees Financial Manager: Munyaradzi Chapereka Distribution Managers: Ntombifuthi Phakathi Community Engagement Managers: Enathi Mqokeli and Neliswa Ntanda Chief Designer: Tselane Moiloa Assistant Chief Designers: Stephanie Pretorius and Motlagae Konyana Marketing and Advertising Designer: Amy Slatem Designers: Shavaughn Haack, Samkelisiwe Dlalisa, Chevawn Blum and Ayanda Mhlanga Cheif Sub-Editor: Nadia Moore Sub-Editors: Sarita Pillay and Wilhelmina Maboja Online Editors: Katherine Kirk and Maricelle Gouws Arts and Entertainment Editor: Benjamin Greaves Assistant Arts&Entertainment Editor: David Williams Environment Editor: Carina Truyts Features Editor: Bakhulule Maluleka News Editor: Benjamin Katz Assistant News Editor: Relebone Myambo Business Editor: Neo Khanyile Sci-Tech Editor: Muhammed Bemath Opinion Editor: Matthew de Klerk Pictures Editors: Chelsea Nelson, Storme Sydow and Binwe Adebayo Politics Editor: Leigh Hermon Politics Assistant Editor: Johnmark Kajese Sports Editor: Fabio De Dominicis www.theoppidanpress.com www.facebook.com/theoppidanpress www.twitter.com/theoppidanpress
Letters to the Editor: letters@theoppidanpress.com Advertising details: advertising@theoppidanpress.com Distribution queries: distribution@theoppidanpress.com
Environment
Green Eggs and Ham
Binwe Adebayo
Business
Africa to take part in the 2011 JSE/Liberty Investment Challenge as it will give them the opportunity to enhance their financial literacy, which in turn will help them in securing a better future. We hope that more teachers will be involved and encourage their students to be part of this initiative, says Senior General Manager of JSE Education Maureen Dlamini. Andrew Warren, Executive at Liberty Retail SA Marketing, says: Liberty is committed to educating South Africas future leaders. The JSE/ Liberty Investment Challenge encourages learners and students to invest in their future wealth. The JSE and sponsors have invited corporate South Africa and individuals to adopt and sponsor a school taking part in the JSE/Liberty Investment Challenge or any other school of their choice currently not registered for the challenge. This initiative aims to assist schools from previously disadvantaged communities to trade and compete on the same footing as pupils from privileged schools.This is an opportunity for both public and private sectors to put their weight behind those that matter the most, the future leaders of this country. We encourage all corporations to come on board and join this invaluable programme, says Dlamini. According to Warren, Liberty values both long and short term investments. It is our honour to be a part of an initiative that encourages young South Africans to invest in their future wealth. The winners in the various categories are judged according to how much their investment grows in a particular month. The March winner for the Income portfolio is team Zibonele from Amabhele High School in Alice. Led by Wilberforce Magala, this team has set a great benchmark for other contenders in this portfolio, putting the Eastern Cape on the map. We are so happy to be crowned winners of the March round of the competition. We entered this competition to represent the Eastern Cape and I think we are doing a great job so far, says Magala. Sponsored by Imara SP Reid, a subsidiary of the Botswana financial services group Imara Holdings Limited, this ensemble earned an impressive income of R8 373, 32. According to Warren, Being financially savvy is an important element of wealth creation and we at Liberty are pleased to be a part of an initiative that enhances the lives of our youth. As we announce the first monthly winners of this years investment challenge, we hope that more learners will acknowledge that now is the time to invest in their futures.
Carina Truyts
Understanding meatless-ness
I confess that last week Monday I timed my departure from the AMM (Journ) building to coincide with the streak of mostly- naked ROAR protestors, as they tried to raise anti- fur and leather awareness by dangling their private bits in the nipple- freezing cold. Who are these people? I thought. Well, they are more often than not a misrepresented bunch, stereotyped as bunny- huggers, veggies, and people who just dont get what canine teeth are for. The vegetarians are the ones that intrigue me. They exist on a sliding scale of meatlessness. On the far left we have that character in the film Notting Hill who thinks that the carrots have been murdered. Then there are the vegans, who dont indulge in any animal by-products, and an assortment of others who cut out either fish, chicken or red meat. As a chef, I used to be wary of vegetarians. Some dont bother to warn you about their dietary requirements. And then, when all your prep is done, with your beef fillet looking beautiful; you hear that you have to overhaul your menu. Lets just say that chefs often cuss vegetarians. Ive always had a thing for vegetables, but as a complement to meat. I could not comprehend a life without relish- smothered boerie rolls and real salami. An existence free of crispy bacon, in my mind, was a cup half-empty. At the beginning of this year, I heard that one of my new digs mates was a vegetarian. Panic gripped me: I envisioned my body reduced to lifelessness due to protein- deficiency, and visions of vegetarian sausages danced before my eyes. Then I considered the many environmental benefits of cutting out meat. According to the Food and Culture Organisation (FAO), livestock is responsible for 18% of greenhouse gas emissions, which is more than transport. Cows are pricey too; in our house a meal with beef in it costs about R30- R40 more than one without. We only eat meat once or twice a week now and so far my bones have held out pretty well. Ive also started giving vegetables their deserved respect- they add to the colour and crunch of my meals. I do pity my digsmate her loss of tender steak and winter lamb stew, but shes taught me that veggies, both the people and the food type, deserve equal love and respect. Youll never see me streak though. Green Eggs and Ham online will be featuring a vegetarian recipe this week. www.theoppidanpress.com
In the three new hilltop residences, Rhodes University is performing test runs using electricity-saving heat pump technology. In combination with motion-sensing corridor lights and the use of indigenous plants in the surrounding landscaping, Rhodes appears to be striving for a clean green impact. Saving electricity on heating water also makes economic sense. Were expecting a 22% to 25% increase in Eskom electricity costs this July, says Mr Clive Allcock, an independent contractor associated with the Estates Division, this is following on a similar size increase in 2010. Mr Calvin Pittaway, who is monitoring the project explains that A heat pump is basically an air conditioner that they use in reverse. He added that the Hilltop students have been happy with their hot water supply and that electricity usage is down. Nobuhle Hlangoti, the food and entertainment representative of Hilltop 2, agrees: Nobody that I know of in our res has had to wake up and have a cold shower. The only downside of these new systems for the students on our second floor would seem to be the noise. Brad Gehring, portfolio manager for Hilltop 3, confirms this continuous noise is due to a separate pressure pump. This pressure pump functions independently of the heat pump and is necessary to counteract the low water pressure up the hill. Viren Raja, a Hilltop 3 sub-warden, explains that these initial hot water supply problems were caused by external
This educational initiative teaches students and learners about investing through managing a virtual portfolio of R1 million. Entrants will need to select one or more risk portfolios that they wish to take part in. The portfolio options are Income (low risk), Equity Growth (moderate risk) and Speculator (high risk). Besides learning how to invest in the stock market, there are prizes up for grabs to the value of R240 000 plus an all expenses paid overseas trip. Last years winning students headed off to Morocco and visited the Casablanca stock exchange and explored the rich culture and renowned city of Rabat. Overall winners will be flown to Johannesburg from around SA to the awards ceremony which is held at the JSE every year. We encourage the youth of South
Bruce Haynes
Solar heaters installed on the roof can help reduce electricity costs in digs
The learners from Amabhele High School, the March 2011 winners. (From left to right) Ayabulela Simelela, Mthunzi Swartbooi, Nontlahla Gqomfa and Yanga Makinana.
Pic sourced
The rising rate of unemployment is affecting millions of South Africans in an appropriate manner and in good time, it will begin to impact on the countrys long term growth. Unemployment, coupled with a significant brain drain, creates a bleak outcome for the economy in the long run. If anything, it is proof of the failure of government initiatives and the inefficiency of Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). The current trend will not change until there is a momentous shift in the approach to skills development. SETAs need to be monitored to ensure that the funds which they are allocated are appropriately managed and that large surpluses do not exist, when there is clearly a need for the money to be spent. Since equality is a pillar on which this nation is built, this is but one step in the movement towards the healing of yet another scar in our past.
a week-long series of events, including exhibitions, demonstrations, lectures, workshops and talk shows. Strolling past the exhibitions, one was likely to see science enthusiasts from various backgrounds, ranging from pre-primary students right up to senior university lecturers, interacting and freely taking part in the activities and exhibitions - questioning and discussing the wonders that science has to offer. According to James Ndebele, senior helper at the SciFest, you dont have to be a Rocket scientist wannabe or a Science geek to find interest at the SciFest - there are shows and stands catering for everyone at the same time based on science. Shows like the famous laser show once again saw impressive ticket sales. The exhibitions on display are interactive, with the majority of the displays inviting onlookers (students and teachers) to actively touch, push, pull, prod, listen, watch, squeeze, balance, feel or
even taste a multitude of items. SciFest Africas aim has been to change misconceptions and attitudes towards science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Through this popularisation of science, children and adults learn that science is fun and exciting, says Dr Schaefer, Resources Manager at the Rhodes Universitys Centre for Social Development. According to spokesperson and director of SciFest Africa Anja Fourie, the SciFest Africa festival this year was much more encompassing than previous years. For the first time exhibitions and the festival were tweaked in such a way that it offered the same educational content but this time appealing to onlookers and audiences of all ages. The first SciFest was held in 1997 and it has taken place every year since then with an attendance of over 40 000. Grahamstown, home of the National Arts Festival, is once again put on the map by being home to South Africas National Science Festival.
Sports
Fietze, a committee member of Rhodes Squash commented it was a tournament of quality not quantity. The finals were epic battles. In the mens final, Adrian Hansen beat Rudi Willemse 3-0 (12-10, 11-9, 12-10). I was left speechless for hours after the game, reported Travis Steenekamp, a social player at the club, who attended the final and thoroughly enjoyed the intense match between the top men. In the ladies final, Shanna Swart beat Kate Pearson 3-2 (5-15, 4-15, 15-10, 1715, 15-10) in a tight match. Everyone Sarah King
played exceptionally well, there was great sportsmanship and support, and Im certain everyone had a great time, said Swart, a committee member and avid player who placed first in the tournament. Squash members are currently playing weekly challenge matches in preparation for the University Sports South Africa tournament, taking place from the 4-8 July at Rhodes University. Players hope to do Rhodes proud on and off the court.
Depo-Provera and Nur-Isterate are the only forms of injectable contraception available in South Africa.
Depo-Provera and Nur-Isterate are injectable contraceptives used in most countries of the world. They may both be injectables, but they are different when it comes to their effects and to how they are used. Depo-Provera in generic terms is known as medroxyprogesterone. It is a form of progesterone that is injected into the muscle. Progesterone is a type of hormone that is able to prevent ovulation. With it brings changes in the cervical mucus by making it more acidic, making it less viable for the passage of sperm, thus preventing fertilisation. Depo-Provera doesnt only prevent pregnancy but it also prevents pains caused by endometriosis. Depo-Provera may sound like the best thing since oral contraceptives, but it also has its negative side: it can cause a severe loss in bone mineral density and that is why expects advise that this injection should be used for no more than two years. Depo-Provera lasts for up to three months in the female system. If one has the following disorders then it is advised not to use
it: abnormal vaginal bleeding, breast cancer or liver disease. A history of a stroke or even blood clotting is also included. Another widely used injectable contraceptive is known as Nur-Isterate and its chemical name is Norethindrone Enanthate . Nur-Isterate lasts for two months in the females system from its injection date. The norethisterone protects against pregnancy mainly by preventing ovulation, similar to the Depo-Provera. The injection works primarily by thickening cervical mucus, which makes it harder for sperm to swim through. The hormone may also thin the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to fertilisation. Nur-Isterate is not for use in most women and is a short-term injection contraception. Like Depo-Provera, it is not recommended to women who are diabetic, have blood clotting and who suffer from depression. Both Depo-Provera and NurIsterate are injections that are used to prevent pregnancies but they do not prevent sexually transmitted diseases. To help with that, it is advisable to always use a latex condom to improve the efficacy of contraception.
Left to right: Joy Ridgard, Gwen Matthews and Carmen Foster are avid Rhodes University squash club players
are peaking this year. This might mean trouble regarding our stamina and fitness for the World Cup. Zukisa Pityana, front rower for the Troopers, said: The new format is confusing, and I dont see the benefit. It is good that there are more teams and more games, but it is bad timing to introduce the long format, as it is a World Cup year. Despite the controversy, no one can argue with quantity of quality rugby available to fans. Since this is a World Cup year, it is only going to get better.
Learning multiple ways of killing is the aim of sci-fi game, Bulletstorm an enemy in the chest? (Boring) 10 points. Throat-shot? 50 points leashing him to you, firing a rocket up his rectum and sending him flying into a wall of spikes, only to explode into a hundred chunks of meat? 1000 points! And double if you can do it while intoxicated! My conclusion to this game is simple: this is a teenage, alcohol abusing, Alistair in Wonderland and it is FUN! Dont buy it though. Rather rent the console version for an evening of madness, since you can easily complete it in one or two sittings. Or simply wait for a price drop.
Applications are open to students studying any degree and oppidans and nonoppidans alike. Applicants need to submit a letter of motivation and a copy of their CV. E-mail applications or requests for job descriptions to applications@theoppidanpress.com
Sports
Georgia beckons for Chikaka
Sean Black
Page 6
hodes has one of its very own rugby players jetting off to Georgia for this years International Rugby Board (IRB) Junior World Rugby Tournament. Tatenda Chikaka, a resident of De Beers House and a player for The Troopers, has been chosen to represent Zimbabwe. The tournament is a second tier international rugby union competition which is contested between eight
junior national teams, with players under the age of 20. The teams taking part in the contest include: Russia, Samoa, Uruguay, USA, Canada, Georgia, Japan and Zimbabwe. Clearly this isnt a second rate tournament this is top class rugby. Being selected is no easy feat, as Chikaka pointed out, the selection process began last year and it involved being picked from a handful of up-andcoming players and undergoing gruelling training sessions and various rugby camps over the December period.
This was a chance I couldnt just pass up, Chikaka said of his selection. He will be studying mainly from home and has made the necessary arrangements with the University. Chikaka said that his parents are extremely supportive of this recent development. Chikaka will play in the lock position and he certainly fits the profile of a lock quite perfectly tall and strong (interestingly though, he usually plays flank). His physique is rather intimidating
to anyone who might stand next to him. However, Tatenda is really one of the most enjoyable people to be around. Chikaka stated that he is extremely psyched to be heading off to Georgia. The passion he has for the game is apparent as he spoke about perhaps becoming a professional, but he is still committed to his studies and even plans to study abroad. The tournament runs from 19 May until 6 June 2011. As Rhodents, we give him our full support and best-wishes for his time spent in Europe.
Sarah Kingon
Sarah Kingon
Lance Ho, a member of the Rhodes University Archery Club, is being considered to represent South Africa at the World University Games in China
Simon Naude, winner of a bronze medal at the South African National Archery Championship
.com