A UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN PUBLICATION

Welcome to our
beautiful institution!
At the University of Cape Town (UCT), Just as important is your physical health
you are joining a vibrant community of and mental well-being. University life can
multicultural staff and students from across be overwhelming, but there are many
South Africa, Africa and the world. I want people here to support you: in addition to
you to feel that this is your home. Getting trained counsellors at the Student Wellness
started can be overwhelming, so the Service (page 22 and 23), your faculty has
First-Year Experience (pages 22 and 23) is counselling staff available. The UCT Student
designed to help you settle in and find your Careline (0800 24 25 26 or SMS 31393 for 01 Welcome
way around. Whatever programme you’ve a callback) is available 24/7. Your fellow 02 SRC
chosen to study, you are about to discover students, your tutors, your lecturers and
exciting new things about your world and wardens all understand the kind of stress 04 Your UCT
how you can help build the future. university can bring, and we want to help. 06 Student card
Our university is fully committed to I expect you to work hard at your studies,
08 Things to do
transformation — not just in terms of the but it is also important for you to grow
people who come here, but how we think, in other ways. Join one of UCT’s 100+ 10 Getting around
teach, learn and do research. We are societies (pages 28 and 29), try one of our 11 Get connected
developing African solutions to local and almost 40 sports clubs (pages 28 and 29),
global problems and graduating tomorrow’s or give something back by getting involved
12 The lingo
leaders. We want to change our world for with one of the many volunteer projects in 14 Faculties
the better — and you are an important part the local communities (pages 30 and 31). 16 UCT Libraries
of that change. And be sure to explore beautiful Cape Town
UCT remains the top-rated university in (pages 8 and 9)! 18 Studying
Africa and one of the top-rated universities UCT is here to address the challenges we 20 Well-being
in the world. Many of our researchers are face as a university and a country. I believe
22 Available services
world leaders in their fields, so you will have you are going to help make real change
opportunities to be exposed to the latest happen — so be ready to grow with us! 24 SGBV
scholarly work and research discoveries. Yours for a bright future! 25 Campus safety
Find a role model and learn from them!
Your safety is important to us. Please 26 Sustainability
read the safety and security suggestions 28 Societies
(pages 24 and 25) and take note of where
29 Sports
the Campus Protection Services offices are. Vice-Chancellor
30 Social impact
32 Essential contacts

1
Students’
Representative
Council
Molo, hallo, lotjhani, hello, sawubona, dumela, whatever the question, we’ve experienced it or
avuxeni, ndaa and a warm welcome from your have had to find the answer before.
Students’ Representative Council (SRC) for This year, we are hoping to have important
2019/2020. conversations that result in sustainable
We, the SRC, are the highest decision- programmes and policies. We want whatever
making structure of student governance. We we initiate to outlive our term. We want
represent you, your interests and well-being. students to look back in years to come and
We do this through university committees, say, “That was a problem we used to have at
policy-making and co-operative decision- UCT”. That is what we will strive for, for you
making on campus. and the university.
The SRC is made up of 15 members who If you want to know more about our duties,
either represent other student organisations functions, privileges and term of office, please
or are independent. This year’s SRC majority read the SRC Constitution and election by-
party is the Economic Freedom Fighters laws, approved by UCT Council (the governing
Student Command (EFFSC) of which I am body of the university) as institutional rules.
a member. The SRC is a very important stakeholder
On the opposite page, you have the full within UCT; there is no decision that can be
names and portfolios of all the members that taken without the student voice. This is why
make up this SRC. We want you to know we encourage you to engage with us so that
that we are here for you and that our door we can ensure that when we speak, it is your
is always open. Where exactly to find that voice that the university hears.
door is also available on the following page
and we urge you to make use of our services. Your SRC President,
Believe us when we say, whatever the problem, AKHA TUTU

2
 SRC

Where to find
your SRC
Room 7.09
Department of Students Affairs
Steve Biko Students’ Union building
Upper Campus

SRC portfolio allocations and contact details

PORTFOLIO NAME AND SURNAME AFFILIATION CONTACT NUMBER EMAIL ADDRESS

President Akha Tutu EFFSC 021 650 3539 srcpresident@uct.ac.za

Vice President Reatlegile Magano EFFSC 021 650 5928 srcvp@uct.ac.za

Secretary-General Asemahle Ntumntum EFFSC 021 650 5928 srcsg@uct.ac.za

Deputy Secretary- Siseko Kosani EFFSC 021 650 5048 srcdsg@uct.ac.za

General

Treasurer General Zinhle Hinana EFFSC 021 650 5498 srctreasurer@uct.ac.za

Corporate Relations and Declan Dyer EFFSC 021 650 5498 srccorporaterelations@uct.ac.za
Fundraising Coordinator

International Students Zinhle Geluk Independent 021 650 5928 srcinternational@uct.ac.za

Coordinator

Labour and Student Aseza Matikane EFFSC 021 650 5119 srclabour@uct.ac.za
Services Coordinator

Postgraduate Academic Jamie-lee Thomas SASCO 021 650 5119 srcpgchair@uct.ac.za

Coordinator

Residences and Housing Ntokozo Mahlangu EFFSC 021 650 5000 srcresidences@uct.ac.za
Coordinator

Social Responsiveness Sipho Zuma SASCO 021 650 5928 srcsocialresp@uct.ac.za

Coordinator

Societies and Day Asisipho Fente EFFSC 021 650 5001 srcsocieties@uct.ac.za
Houses Coordinator

Sports and Recreation Siphokazi Funda SASCO 021 650 5001 srcsports@uct.ac.za
Coordinator

Student Advocacy Aviwe Vilane SASCO 021 650 5048 srcadvocacy@uct.ac.za

Coordinator

Undergraduate Lance-Selae August EFFSC 021 650 5000 srcugchair@uct.ac.za

Academics Coordinator

3
 Your UCT Students
by faculty
5 strategic goals 40different
sports (including the Graduate
1 creating a new and inclusive
identity
Sports facilities include
a rowing club; astro turf
School of Business)
6 722
2
hockey fields; tennis
establishing global partnerships and squash courts; an Commerce
with a distinctive African lens indoor sports facility;
708
3
and soccer, rugby and
remaining a research-intensive cricket facilities. Graduate School of Business
university The UCT Gym is on
4 839
4
lower campus near
harnessing innovation in teaching Graça Machel Hall. Engineering & the
and learning Built Environment

5 achieving social impact through

engaged scholarship 100+ societies
5 021
Health Sciences

to choose from 7 358

Societies are run by Humanities
students and reflect
1 286

33
various interests,
catered or self- including academic, Law
catering residences religious, cultural, social
and political activities. 3 095
6 702 21 947 Science
students live in students live
UCT residences off campus

* Figures for 2018

4
 YOUR UCT

123 countries represented

on campus
29 029 students enrolled in 2019
15 539 female | 13 470 male | 18 transgender | 2 unspecified
South Africa Elsewhere in Africa
23 664 984 16 698 undergraduates | 11 095 postgraduates
1 236 occasional students
Southern African Elsewhere in
Development
Community
the world
1 521
5 630 new first-years were accepted
at UCT in 2019

2 796 Around 7 000 students graduate each year

Undeclared
64

5 000+
permanent staff
3 700 professional,
administrative support
and service (PASS) staff.

1 208 permanent
academic staff members
worked at UCT in 2018.

86languages
are spoken
The largest South African
English 16 084 | isiXhosa 3 020 | isiZulu 1 777 | Afrikaans 1 170 | Shona 634 | Setswana 585
language groups are:

12 things that make UCT unique

1 #1 in Africa: UCT is the highest-
ranked African university
according to Times Higher Education
5 15% of SA’s NRF-rated
researchers: UCT has 541 National
Research Foundation (NRF)-rated
9 Cape Flats: The UCT Graduate
School of Business’s MTN Solution
Space in Philippi Village means the
and Quacquarelli Symonds world researchers. university has a physical footprint on
university rankings. the flats.

2 Oldest: Established in 1829, UCT

is South Africa’s oldest university.
6 44% women: 44% of the
academics at UCT are women.
10 d-school: The UCT Hasso
Plattner Institute of Design

3 First black woman graduate: Anti-

apartheid and civil rights leader,
7 25 km2: The total area of UCT’s
campuses, including its satellite
facilities in Gardens, Observatory,
Thinking is one of only three in
the world.

Zalnunnissa (Cissie) Gool, graduated

from UCT with an MA in 1932.
Philippi and the Atlantic Seaboard.
11 Nobel laureates: UCT is alma
mater to five Nobel laureates.

4 Centre for Higher Education

Development: CHED partners
8 53 349 linear metres (and
growing): The capacity of
shelving at UCT Libraries, which uses 12 MOOCs: UCT now has
22 massive open online
with all faculties to ensure students the cutting-edge search tool, Primo, courses, which have attracted
don’t just gain access to UCT, but to help you find the information more than 230 000 people from
also succeed. you need. over 100 countries.

5
that student
card
Your UCT-issued student card is like power in your
pocket. With so much to do, places to go and things to
see, saving a bit goes a long way – and that’s what your
student card can do for you. Here are just a few places
where you can use your card to pay less and do more.

6
 STUDENT CARD

The Baxter Theatre

On campus Many productions at UCT’s Baxter Theatre
With your student card, you have access to Centre offer student discounts. Call the
computer labs and a list of other on-campus bookings office to find out what’s showing
facilities; it also allows you use of the Jammie and have your student card ready when you
Shuttle — for mahala! It’s also your entrance buy tickets. The Baxter’s in-house restaurant
into the UCT Libraries, gives you access to also offers wholesome meals at reduced rates
your res (if you’re living on campus) and for students. 021 685 7880 / 0861 915 8000
enables you to book meals too. (bookings) / www.baxter.co.za

Eat out Let’s go shopping

Everyone loves a good pizza and burger, so Camping anyone?
visit Da Vinci’s on Kloof Street in the CBD and Cape Union Mart offers students a 5% discount.
get 10 percent off your meal, any day of the If you’re looking for camping and outdoor gear
week. Note: this is a sit-down deal only. or fancy yourself a Bear Grylls in the making,
https://davincis.co.za visit a store near you.
www.capeunionmart.co.za/faq

Know your country

Visit one (or all) of the Iziko Museums in the ‘You’ve got game’
Cape Town CBD to learn more about our Game stores also offer student discounts.
country’s rich cultural and historical background The amount varies depending on the product
and get 50% off the entry fee. The South purchased and the time of year. To qualify,
African National Art Gallery in the Company’s fill out an in-store form and take an ID photo,
Garden and The Slave Lodge in Wale Street are a copy of your ID and a copy of your UCT
just two museums on Iziko’s list. registration form along.
www.iziko.org.za www.game.co.za/game-za/en/special-
discounts

Out and about

Botanical gardens iDiscounts
Spend the day at Kirstenbosch Gardens and Get reduced rates on products at iStores
enjoy the wonders of nature, or just take it easy nationwide. Discounts vary and they change
on the rolling lawns. Students pay only R40 every season, so sign up to receive the iStore
(R35 less than adults) to enter. newsletter to stay informed. And remember
www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenboch/visitor- that students also get 50% off Apple Music
information/information/ subscriptions for up to four years!
www.myistore.co.za/calling-all-students-
get-a-discounted-rate-on-apple-music
Table Mountain
For a trip up Table Mountain in the cable car,
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway has slashed
“I wish I’d
Need a workout?
rates for students. You’ll pay R180 for a return Campus gym
ticket, and if you want to hike up or down, you’ll known that the The UCT Gym is open all year from 06:00 to
pay just R100 one-way. Baxter Theatre 21:00 from Monday to Friday, and from 08:00
www.tablemountain.net/content/page/rates was part of UCT to 19:00 on Saturday and Sunday. Get fit for just
and offers really R650 per year for a full membership, or R300
annually for an off-peak membership.
Sea life
great discounts
Experience marine and sea life at the Two to students on In the zone
Oceans Aquarium. Students pay just R140 for tickets.” Yoga Zone in Gardens offers a special package
an entry ticket, so go fish! — JONO for South African students. You can enjoy
www.aquarium.co.za/content/page/ a three months unlimited package for R1 950,
opening_hours_prices or R700 for one month of unlimited sessions.
http://yogazone.co.za/fees-yoga-specials/

7
What to do
around
We get that student budgets are almost always tight. So, to
help you enjoy your time in and around the city, we’ve put
together a list of affordable places to visit and things to do
that will help you to stretch the Randelas.

1On the prom

Sea Point’s famous promenade gives you
ample opportunity for free fun. You can stroll,
2 All the way up in Bo-Kaap
Youngsta raps about it. Influencers love it.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle had to pay it
jog, rollerblade, skateboard or cycle along the a visit. Bo-Kaap is one of Cape Town’s oldest
11 km promenade. Or you can pack a picnic, and most culturally rich neighbourhoods,
find a spot on the grass and take in the ocean nestled on the slopes of Signal Hill. It’s home
breeze, try out the outdoor gym, kick a ball to the first mosque in South Africa (the Auwal
around or befriend one of the many four- Mosque), iconic colourful homes and killer
legged visitors. koesisters. If you don’t know the difference
Cost: Free between your koeksisters and your koesisters,
it’s time to find out!
Cost: Free (although koesisters will cost you
between R2 and R5 each)
 THINGS TO DO

6 First Thursdays
The first Thursday of every month is when
Cape Town’s hottest spots open their doors
for fun after sunset. Gather your besties and
visit Cape Town’s trendiest dining spots and
art galleries or check out one of the many
cultural events showcasing the incredible
talent the city has to offer. There’s no
structured tour and no schedule to follow;
it’s all up to you.
Cost: Per venue, but trawl your social media
feeds for the free shows

7 Putt putt with

a difference
There’s putt putt and then there’s putt putt
in a cave at the V&A Waterfront. It’s fun and
everyone can join in.

3Beach around
Cost: R25.00

8
The Mother City is home to some of the
world’s most beautiful beaches. From Camps
Bay to Clifton and Muizenberg to Fish Hoek, Rose picking
we’re spoilt for choice. Get a group of friends At Chart Farm in Wynberg (a stone’s
together and head on down to catch some throw from upper campus) you get to pick
Vitamin Sea. your own bunch of blooming roses for less
Cost: Free than R10 a stem.
Cost: R6 per stem

4 A walk in the park

The Green Point Urban Park is the perfect
spot for a morning park run or for lazing 9Second chances
The Cape Town second-hand scene
around on a Sunday afternoon. What sets it is booming and it’s the perfect place to
apart from others like it is the sense of serenity purchase on the cheap. There are regular
you get in the middle of an urban area, markets on weekends, a few monthly markets
surrounded by the Mother City’s unrivalled and ad hoc ones pop up at some of Cape
beauty. Town’s favourite spots. Finding them is as easy
Cost: Free as searching “second-hand” on Facebook or
checking the posters on campus. Who knows,
you could also make some extra money selling

5Take a hike
your own preloved goods.
Cost: There’s usually an entrance fee of
Since we’re almost entirely surrounded around R20
by mountains, there’s no shortage of options

10
when it comes to hiking trails. You can choose
from one of the many routes to the top of
Table Mountain, climb up Lion’s Head to enjoy The real great Gatsby
the sunset over Camps Bay, or explore the
“I wish I knew If you’re new to Cape Town, trying
trails around Constantia Nek and Rhodes that there was out the famed gatsby is a must; it’s part of the
Memorial. If you’re looking for something absolutely no fabric of the Mother City. You’ll find the best
a bit more chilled, hike the contour paths in need to stay on gatsby spots in Wynberg, Athlone and Grassy
Newlands Forest — there’s even a stream along campus all of Park, but there are gems across the city.
the way for those who want to dip in. Get friends to chip in and enjoy sharing
Cost: Free
the time and not a mouth-watering Cape Town fave.
explore the city. Cost: Varies per gatsby and place
I missed out on
so much.”
— MELI

9
GETTING AROUND

Cruising
campus
Campus is huge, and getting
around takes time, especially
if you need to get to one of
our satellite facilities. Here’s
how to get going …

6
Jump into a Jammie
The Jammie Shuttle buses are free for
students and will transport you between
campuses and other parts of the city seven
days a week. Visit www.students.uct.ac.za
for up-to-date route maps and timetables.

1 7
Stroll along City hopping
Strolling around campus is the easiest way The MyCiTi bus makes trekking around
to get around — it’s convenient and saves time. Cape Town convenient. It connects with
But always walk in groups, especially after dark. the Jammie Shuttle at the Gardens station in
Buitenkant Street and commutes to several areas

2
around Cape Town. Get your MyConnect card at
Saddle up MyCiTi station kiosks and participating retailers.
Everyone needs a bit of exercise, so

8
saddle up to get around. There are
designated cycle lanes on campus and The bus for us
a couple in and around the city too. Golden Arrow buses serve hundreds of city
routes and are accessible from the Jammie

3
Shuttle stops in Claremont and Mowbray.
Two-wheel drive Visit www.gabs.co.za for timetables and rates.
Yes, scooters and motorbikes are allowed,

9
but get your black parking disc from
traffic admin on upper campus first. Train ride
Metrorail’s Southern Line stops at Mowbray,

4
Observatory, Rosebank and Rondebosch
Cabs on call railway stations. Trains are not always on time, so
Cape Town’s inundated with cab services on visit www.metrorail.co.za for timetables and fares.
call 24/7, so why not use a cab to get around?

5 10
Gear up
Taxi time First-years are not allowed to bring
They’re cheap and operate on most major cars onto campus, but you can park
routes in and out of the city. Signal the at Rhodes Memorial if you have a parking disc,
direction you’d like to take, and you’ll be in the available from traffic admin on upper campus.
taxi and on your way.

10
 GET CONNECTED

connected
Information and Communication Technology Services (ICTS) keeps you
connected to all of UCT’s online services. Read on to find out how to
connect, how to find software and how to stay safe while you’re online.

The quick guide Be responsible

For a short guide on all you need to know about Don’t use the internet for anything illegal — especially
digital at UCT, take a look at the ICTS checklist: not streaming, sharing or downloading copyrighted
icts.uct.ac.za/digital-checklist. content. Also, respect the email and internet usage policy
in the IT Guide for Students: http://www.icts.uct.ac.za/
Connect to Wi-Fi publications_reports > Guide to ICT services (students).
Connect to eduroam, UCT’s Wi-Fi network, using your
username (studentnumber@wf.uct.ac.za) and your
UCT network password. After registration, go to 
https://password.uct.ac.za to reset your password. How to get IT help on campus
The IT Helpdesk. Get support by logging a call online
Sign in to your UCT email (https://uct.service-now.com/ess), sending an email
Sign in to your email account via to icts-helpdesk@uct.ac.za or calling 021 650 4500
www.icts.uct.ac.za/myuct. Remember to check it (during office hours).
regularly — this is where you’ll find all official university
communications. The ICTS front office. Get walk-in support in room 201
of the Computer Science Building on upper campus.
Hook up your phone The office is open from 08:00 to 16:30 during the
Go to your app store (Android/iOS) and download the UCT week (but closes at 15:15 on Thursdays).
Mobile App to access timetables, library services, maps and
more. For support, email uctmobile@uct.ac.za. ICTS-on-Main Walk-in Centre. For those nearer to
lower campus, It’s in room 1.10 of the ICTS building,
located at 7 Main Road, Mowbray, and operates at the
Get to know Vula same times as the upper campus office.
Vula (https://vula.uct.ac.za) is UCT’s online environment
for teaching and learning, research and collaboration. It’s Social media. ICTS provides basic support on
also where your lecturers will post a lot of your academic Facebook (www.facebook.com/icts.uct) and Twitter
course content. (twitter.com/UCT_ICTS), but if they can’t help, they’ll
escalate your issues to someone who can. They’re
Get free software online seven days a week from 07:00 to 22:00.
Before buying any software, first check what
site-licensed software is available for free at  Student labs. Lab administrators and assistants are
https://ictsdownloads.uct.ac.za. Office365 is on hand to help you in any of the ICTS-managed labs
available via your myUCT account, and UCT has around campus.
signed up to use Google Apps.

1
Use strong
passwords.
2
6 tips for staying cyber secure
Install an anti-
virus. Up-to-
3 Back up, back
up, back up!
4 Spread the word.
If you know of a
5 Report it to
CSIRT. If you
6
Avoid identity
theft. Dispose
The longer and date anti-virus Make sure you cyber security experience any of sensitive
more complex applications have a backup threat or incident, cyber security paperwork safely,
your password should be on all (or two). You can please inform threat, please enable SMS alerts
is, the better. A your computers. back up data to everyone you contact UCT’s for your banking,
password should Download McAfee physical devices know who might Computer and never
contain numbers, for free from or to the cloud be affected. Security Incident share personal
symbols and the ICTS website (UCT offers Response information
upper- and (www.icts.uct. Google Drive and Team at  online.
lower-case ac.za/anti-virus), OneDrive). csirt@uct.ac.za.
letters. and find a good
anti-virus for your
mobile devices!

11
Have you
heard?
If you haven’t
already, you’re
going to hear
loads of new
words and
abbreviations
around campus.
Here’s a cheat
sheet to help you
wrap your head
around them.

Caf Dean First-class pass

The Cissie Gool Café next to Cissie Gool The head of a faculty. When you get over 75% for academic
Plaza — great for cheap, good food. work. An upper second is 70–74%,
Early assessment a lower second is 60–69% and a third
Course A formal check to see how you’re is 50–59%. An S means you failed.
A unit of study that gets you credit doing in your first weeks at varsity.
towards your degree. First lecture
EDP The day’s earliest lecture and where
CPS Extended Degree Programmes you’ll find yourself at 08:00 if you’re
Campus Protection Services take care give you extra time and support to a fresher.
of UCT’s safety and security. complete your degree.
Food and Connect
Curriculum Eduroam Keep an eye out for these food
A combination of courses that make The UCT network that provides free vendors across campus. Yum!
up your degree programme. Wi-Fi on campus.
Fresher
DP Faculty That’s you! A first-year.
Duly performed — if you get a DP for a A group of academic departments.
course, you can write the exams. UCT has six. Fresher’s Braai
A first-years-only party on the
Duly performed Green Mile during O-Week.
refused. This means
you can’t write exams.

12
 THE LINGO

FYE O-Week Student card

The First-Year Experience is there to The orientation programme that gives Your multi-purpose UCT ID card.
help you get through year one. you time to get to know UCT and join Keep it with you all the time.
clubs and societies.
Student number
GREEN MILE Pass mark Once you’re registered, you’ll need this
UCT’s main rugby fields. Anything above 50%. number often. Remember it.

Hot seat Sup

A weekly appointment with your tutor Supplementary exam (for when the
to discuss your academic progress. An online database for your academic first one didn’t go so well).
record, timetable, course marks and
ICTS personal details. Transformation
Information and Communication The ongoing process of making UCT
Technology Services. They keep you Pracs inclusive and reflective of South
connected. Practicals help you put into practice African demographics.
what you’ve learned in theory.
The plaza
The open area below Sarah Baartman
Hall where tons of events take place.
RAG
“Remember and Give” — the
  Tutorials. Small group
meetings to discuss course
material. A must if you want to
fundraising arm of SHAWCO. get a DP.
Jammie Shuttle
The blue buses that get you around Res Tutor
campus and town. It’s free for Residence. The place you stay if The person, usually a student,
students. you’re living on campus. who runs tuts.

Jammie steps SAX Appeal

The steps below Sarah Baartman Hall. The RAG magazine sold at traffic
lights to raise money for SHAWCO. Vacation. Others call it ‘holiday’ or ‘leave’.
Jammie Thursdays
When cool things happen on the plaza Varsity
during meridian on Thursdays. SHAWCO Where you find yourself right now, and
The Students’ Health and Welfare UCT’s student newspaper.
Lectures Centres Organisation offers
45-minute lessons with 15 minutes in community outreach programmes. Vula
between to get to the next one. UCT’s official online learning system
SRC where you’ll find everything you need
LinkedIn Learning The Students’ Representative Council to know about your courses, and more.
An online virtual training library that is the highest decision-making
offers thousands of tutorials. structure of student governance. Year mark
Together with your exam results, this
Meridian contributes to your final mark.
Lunch break — between 13:00 and
14:00 during the week.

North Stop
One of the main Jammie Shuttle stops
on upper campus. It’s north of the
South Stop.

OIC
The Office for Inclusivity & Change
ensures accessibility and inclusivity
for all.

OL
Orientation Leader. The one who will
take you through stuff during O-Week.
Do you
know your
faculty?
There are six faculties at UCT
– Commerce, Engineering
& the Built Environment,
Health Sciences, Humanities,
Law and Science – which
are supported in their
teaching and learning by the
Centre for Higher Education
Development (CHED).

Commerce Engineering &

WHO? With approximately 6 700 the Built Environment
students, Commerce offers several WHO? With more than 5 000
undergraduate specialisations, students and staff, state-of the-art
including accounting, actuarial science, facilities and world-renowned teaching
computer science, economics, finance, staff, the faculty is home to architects,
information systems, law, management engineers, planners, quantity
studies, marketing, organisational surveyors, geomaticians, and property
psychology, quantitative finance and and construction managers.
statistical sciences. WHAT?
WHAT? Seven departments and 66 National Research Foundation-
12 research groups rated staff members; 20 active
WOW! Officially launched in research groups covering African
October 2019, UCT’s School of IT is a urbanism, fuel cells, minerals,
collaboration between the Department biomedical engineering, robotics,
of Information Systems in the Faculty alternative energy; and more
of Commerce and the Department of WOW! Baleka — Africa’s first
Computer Science in the Faculty of two-legged robot developed in
Science. mechatronics. • Leading the way with
WHERE? Leslie Commerce Building, the development of Africa’s first 5G
School of Economics and Linkoping testbed. • Bio-bricks made from urine.
House. • Green solar-powered houses.
021 650 4375 WHERE? New Engineering Building,
com-faculty@uct.ac.za Menzies Building and others
021 650 2699
ebe-faculty@uct.ac.za

14
 FACULTIES

Health Sciences Law

WHO? The oldest medical school in WHO? Made up of more than
Sub-Saharan Africa (established in 1 200 students (45% postgraduates)
1912), the faculty has more than and 165 staff, the Faculty of Law was
3 000 staff, 2 100 undergraduates and rated in the Top 100 Law Schools in the
2 600 postgraduates. It’s considered world by the Quacquarelli Symonds
a centre of excellence in teaching, World University Rankings 2019.
learning and research for health WHAT?
professionals and scientists. • The oldest and smallest Faculty at
WHAT? UCT
• Addressing health challenges facing • Home to world-class research units
our society, particularly those that provide the bridge between
affecting Africa academic endeavour and social
• 13 academic departments with application
106 divisions • Two community-serving law clinics,
WOW! The world’s first successful one focused on refugee rights Centre for Higher
human heart transplant in 1967. • The WOW! The faculty has 25 international Education Development
top-rated health sciences faculty on agreements that support law students (CHED)
the continent, and among the top to pursue international exchanges, a WHO? CHED is a faculty-like structure
100 globally. • The most National dedicated Moot Court for practising headed by an academic dean. It
Research Foundation A-rated mooting skills, a new Law and works across faculties and aims to
researchers at UCT. • On average, Technology hub focused on legal continually improve access to and the
researchers in the faculty publish more tech, a 24/7 library space and many quality of higher education, promote
than four peer-reviewed articles every facilities to support an excellent law excellence through equity, develop
day. • Home to four out of the top 10 student experience. the curriculum in partnership with
inventors by patents granted at UCT. WHERE? Wilfred and Jules Kramer faculties, enhance the professionalism
WHERE? Health Sciences campus Law Building of teaching staff, help students to
(adjacent to Groote Schuur Hospital) 021 650 3086 make informed choices, provide
021 406 6328 law-studies@uct.ac.za opportunities to make the most of
aafhs@uct.ac.za their university experience to be
employable, and enable systemic
Science improvement through the research-led
Humanities WHO? The almost 3 000 students and development of informed policies.
WHO? With over 7 000 students, staff in the Science Faculty contribute WHAT?
this faculty comprises 17 academic to globally relevant research, including • Academic Development Programme
departments, located in three main African climate and development, (ADP)
clusters: the Arts, the Social Sciences, biodiversity, chemistry and biology • Centre for Innovation in Learning
and the Performing and Creative Arts. for health in Africa, marine biology, and Teaching (CILT)
WHAT? The largest faculty at UCT southern skies and the evolving • Careers Service
with 15 research centres and institutes universe, and human evolution. • Centre for Educational Testing for
offering 30 academic majors as well WHAT? 12 departments, including Access and Placement (CETAP)
as the opportunity to choose from archaeology, astronomy, biological • Hasso Plattner School of Design
21 majors offered through other faculties. sciences, chemistry, computer Thinking (d-school).
WOW! The faculty is home to over sciences, environmental and WOW! CHED is supported by rigorous
80 National Research Foundation- geographical sciences, geological research in key areas, including
rated researchers and four SARhI sciences, mathematics and applied higher education, academic literacy,
Chairs. Many internationally renowned mathematics, molecular and cell curriculum development, work
artists and scholars, such as Pretty biology, oceanography, physics and readiness initiatives, educational
Yende, Akin Omotoso and JM Coetzee, statistical sciences. technology, online and blended
graduated from the faculty. WOW! Two alumni have won Nobel learning, assessment and diagnostic
WHERE? Upper Campus, Lower Prizes, the faculty has 27 international testing, numeracy, the first-year
Campus, Hiddingh Campus leaders in their field and our lecturers experience and multilingualism.
021 650 2717 regularly win the Distinguished • The Distinguished Teacher Award
hum-ugrad@uct.ac.za Teacher Award. • Over a third of the has been awarded to several CHED
university’s annual PhD graduates hail staff over the years, including Assoc
from the Faculty of Science. Prof Janice McMillan (2016), Tim Low
WHERE? Several buildings on upper (2011) and Carla Fourie (2009).
campus, including PD Hahn and RW WHERE? Huri oaxa (Hoerikwaggo)
James building
021 650 2712 021 650 2645
sci-science@uct.ac.za ched@uct.ac.za

15
8youthings
need to
know about
UCT Libraries
Occupying 17 000 m2 with 53 km of
shelf space, UCT Libraries is one of the
largest in the southern hemisphere.
This is what you need to know.

1
UCT Libraries
UCT Libraries is the collective name for the
university’s main library and it’s seven branch
libraries. The main library, officially the Chancellor
Oppenheimer Library, can be found on upper
campus.

16
2 3
UCT LIBRARIES

Services Spaces
Structured in alignment with the There are many spaces in the libraries for

4
six UCT faculties, UCT Libraries students to meet, study and collaborate, including
offer customised services for the dedicated undergraduate Vincent Kolbe
undergraduates, postgraduates, Knowledge Commons, group study rooms
academics and staff. and 24/7 study areas – such as the Hlanganani
Junction.

Resources
UCT Libraries has 1.2 million+ physical

5
volumes, 72 000+ e-journal titles, 28 500+
print journal titles, 1 600 manuscript
collections and 190 high-quality electronic
databases.

Connectivity
UCT Libraries is a highly
connected environment with
around 450 PCs and Wi-Fi for

6
your devices. You can register
for on- and off-site access to all
library resources.

Website

7
Accessible from your phone, tablet, laptop or computer, the
UCT Libraries website (www.lib.uct.ac.za) is a portal to a
world of information and resources. Primo, the UCT Libraries’
search tool, allows you to easily find what you need, and you
can sign in for more functionality like reserving a book, saving
“I wish somebody records and exporting citations.
had told me that
the librarians are
there for a reason
and they are a
useful resource. Borrowing and returns
If I could go back Your student card is your library card, which allows you
to my first year, to borrow six items at a time for seven days. Staff at the
loans desk will issue books to you or you can use the self-
I’d definitely use

8
checkout machine (only in the main library). After-hours
them more.” hatches at the libraries mean you can return books even
— NOLUYOLO when they’re closed.

Your learning partner

UCT Libraries staff are available to assist with all
your information and research needs. They also
provide orientation tours, library literacy and
customised research database workshops.

17
Your study
guide
With so much to read and remember,
it’s natural to feel overwhelmed in the
run-up to exams. Try absorbing these
top studying tips from students who’ve
been there, done that. They work!

Replicate the setting Get the right nutrients

“Study at the same time of the day you’re “So often people eat just a fruit ... or some
writing your exam. Apply the same amount other carbohydrate by itself. But this can
of time pressure. Mark it strictly!” cause a spike in blood sugar levels, which
— Nicholas Petersen, actuarial science then ends up with the drop coming on the
honours other side of that. So pair an apple with
some nuts or peanut butter, for instance,
Environment is key to ensure optimal studying energy levels.”
“I would suggest studying — Nicole Haird, dietetics honours
in the library and studying
at the lower section of Snack and relax
the library, the quiet “Snacks are so important. One of us is always
section.” eating something or drinking something
— Lufuno Neluheni while we are studying. But another essential
is finding a study buddy. We usually study
Find your study time together, diving into the books for a few
“I find it better to study at night because that hours and then stepping away to relax,
is when it is quiet and there’s no one talk and joke.”
to disturb me.” — Lucia Anthony and Casey Fredericks
— Sibusiso Magagula, first-year accounting

18
 STUDYING

Extend
degree
An Extended Degree Programme
(EDP) gives you the option of taking
more time and being offered support
to help you complete your degree.
To find out more, contact your faculty’s
“I wish I’d known that the
more questions I ask, the Education Development Unit.
more it improves my own and
my peers’ learning.” About EDP
— PAVO It offers extra academic and social support to help you make the
school-to-university transition and adjust to university life. The EDP
also helps you to plan your curriculum over a longer period.

The benefits
You’re able to complete your degree with stronger transcripts and it
improves your chances of getting into postgraduate studies.

How it supports you

Mentoring, more time in class and loads of interaction outside the
classroom. The classes are smaller too!
Get enough sleep The effect on your curriculum and degree
“When I am not sleeping enough, it’s easier Depending on the faculty, the alternative curriculum usually takes
for me to get overwhelmed. You need to between six months and a year longer than the standard route. The
sleep to consolidate information and once degree earned remains the same.
you learn that, you’re like, ‘I am not going
to compromise on my sleep.’ ” Is it right for you?
— Hannah Mather, third-year politics, First-year students may be selected, advised or may choose to follow
philosophy and English literature an EDP depending on the faculty. The admissions criteria vary. When
students can enter the EDP also differs from faculty to faculty.

Music matters For more info

“Music definitely helps me. It takes me For more information, contact your faculty’s Education Development
out of a headspace where I am stressing. Unit (see pages 14 to 15). You can also speak to someone at the First-
It takes me to a place where I can enjoy Year Experience (see page 22).
myself and feel myself and know that
I’ve got this.”
— Zoe Robertson, third-year
anthropology, English and linguistics

Meditate
“Meditation is important, and this might
sound clichéd, but prayer as well. It
keeps you focused and stops you from
procrastinating.”
— Femina Bompaka, first-year film
and media studies

19
10
TIPS
FOR
SUCCESS
Your time at university can be the best years of your life, but you’re
bound to feel overwhelmed every now and then. So we’ve put together
a few tips from the Student Wellness Service (SWS) to help you make
the most of your first year at UCT.

1Time management
At university, you’ll rarely have someone
motivating you to attend classes or reminding
3 Exercise
Exercise is a non-negotiable part
of looking after yourself — mentally and
you to do homework. For many first-years, physically. Whether you join a sports
this is the first time you’ll be creating your team, sign up to the UCT Gym or take
own schedule — but help is at hand! The peer laps around the rugby field, exercise is
counsellors at the SWS are there to assist with a must for holistic well-being.
scheduling, study skills, mentoring and coping
with exam stress.

2 BUDGETS
It can be daunting figuring
out how to manage your own
“I wish I had known to trust more in
my abilities and worked to thrive,
not just survive!
finances. Again, the SWS and its
undergraduate support group are — #phansiimpostersyndromephansi”
on hand to help you figure it all out.
 WELL-BEING

7
“I wish I reached

4
out for help and Manage negative
NUTRITION information thoughts
You need the right nutrition to when I needed it. This is often easier said than done, but don’t
take care of your body, reduce stress, I’ve always been allow negative thoughts to snowball into
help you focus, maintain your energy something uncontrollable. Attend one of the
independent and
levels and keep your memory in tip- SWS mental health workshops for managing
top condition. Make the effort to eat
that was a barrier anxiety and stresses.
healthily — and don’t forget to drink to getting the help

8Wellness toolkit
water and keep hydrated! I needed at the
time.”
— SINAZO Take some time to create your very own

5Sleep
wellness toolkit. Write a list of between five and
10 things that make you happy. Make sure that
A healthy adult should get around you do at least one of these activities every week.

9
eight hours of good sleep a night to
allow the body to rejuvenate and to
keep stress levels in check. Improve your WHERE Sexual/reproductive
sleep by investing in ear plugs and a TO FIND health
sleeping mask and avoiding energising THE SWS Whatever your choice is, make sure it’s safe.
drinks in the evening. SWS offices are You can find out more about protection,
available on all of prevention and contraception from the SWS.

6Drink responsibly
UCT’s campuses,

10Health professionals
but the main clinic
When it comes to drinking, many is located in the
people don’t know when enough is Ivan Toms building When in doubt, see a health professional.
enough. If you’re struggling with alcohol on lower campus If you need help with accessing SWS services,
(or any other substance) use, the SWS (08:30–16:30 contact an SWS Mental Health Peer Educator
has trained clinicians, peer counsellors Monday to Friday), or book online to see a peer counsellor.
and support forums to help. And they’ll with the most
give you all the information you need to popular office on
live a healthy, responsible life. upper campus And please remember that you don’t have to do
being in the UCC any of this alone! There are many SWS support
Steve Biko Building groups available to help you on your way:
(temporarily • Substance/Chillers forum
closed for • Undergraduate support
The contact details renovations). • Psychotherapy support
• Khulumani Madoda forum (Men Let’s Talk)
Student Wellness Service • Relationships support
• Medical consultations 021 650 1020
• Counselling 021 650 1017 (clinics and
counselling service points)
• Online bookings www.dsa.uct.ac.za/
student-wellness/about-student-wellness
• UCT app www.icts.uct.ac.za/uctmobile
• Email sws@uct.ac.za

SADAG UCT Student Careline 0800 24 25 26

(free from a Telkom line) or SMS 31393 for
a callback

Crisis Intervention Service (Psychiatric

Night Nurse) 021 650 2222/3

Sexual Assault Hotline 072 393 7824

Disability Service 021 650 2427

ER 24 ambulance 021 650 2222/3

21
 Supporting you
Are you struggling to cope with your academic programme
because you’re just not adjusting to university life? Or do
you have questions on resolving a dispute with one of your
peers? Here’s a list of student support services to make
your UCT experience stress free.

Academic concerns? Support for students Dr on call

Talk to someone at your faculty with disabilities Make an appointment to see a doctor
office about the Extended Degree UCT’s Disability Service is dedicated or nurse at the Student Wellness
Programme (EDP) (see page 19), to helping students and staff achieve Service. Medication is available at
a more flexible degree programme their full potential. The service includes cost price; the service offers support
that allows you to take a bit more improved access to facilities, extra for chronic conditions like asthma,
time to complete your degree. time for tests and exams, accessible diabetes and tuberculosis; and they
transport and providing South African help with minor surgical procedures.
Sign Language interpreters.
Struggling to adjust? UCT Disability Service If you’re on upper campus, there’s
It takes time for student to settle in Level 4, John Day Building, upper a clinic on level six of the Steve Biko
at university. At UCT, the First-Year campus (access via lift or stairs) Students’ Union building — you can
Experience offers a welcome and 021 650 2427 see a nurse on a walk-in basis for
supportive environment for freshers. cedric.williams@uct.ac.za minor ailments between 08:30
The aim — promoting a holistic www.staff.uct.ac.za/staff/support/ and 16:30.
approach to student development disability-service Student Wellness Service
that responds to your academic, Ivan Toms Building, 28 Rhodes Ave,
social and material needs. Mowbray
The First-Year Experience Anti-discrimination 021 650 1020
Hoerikwaggo Building, upper campus If you’re experiencing harassment or sws@uct.ac.za
021 650 4072 discrimination, you’re not alone. The www.dsa.uct.ac.za/student-
danny.fontaine@uct.ac.za Office for Inclusivity & Change (OIC) wellness/health-services/overview
www.ched.uct.ac.za/first-year- offers a range of support services
experience-project to ensure that the university is
accessible and inclusive to all. Brush up on your
Office for Inclusivity & Change writing skills
Need career advice? The Cottage, Lovers’ Walk, Consultants at the UCT Writing
UCT’s Careers Service helps prepare lower campus Centre can help you improve the
you for a smooth transition to the 021 650 3530 quality of your academic writing.
world of work — it’s never too early www.students.uct.ac.za/students/ They assist with referencing, help to
to start planning. discrimination-harassment guide your thinking and make sure
UCT Careers Service that you present your academic
Level 1, Hoerikwaggo Building, argument effectively.
upper campus Resolving a dispute Writing Centre
021 650 2497 The Office of the Ombud provides an Level 6, Steve Biko Students’ Union
careers.service@uct.ac.za informal dispute resolution service to building, upper campus
www.careers.uct.ac.za the university community. Operating 021 650 5021
outside the usual university academic writingcentre@uct.ac.za
and administrative structures, it’s a www.writingcentre.uct.ac.za
neutral, independent, informal and
confidential resource to facilitate fair
and equitable resolutions.
Office of the Ombud
Lovers’ Walk Extension, lower campus
021 650 3665 “I wish I knew about
ombud@uct.ac.za [UCT] Careers Service earlier
www.ombud.uct.ac.za on in my studies, so I’d know
if my field was lucrative
and in which ways.”
— NOLUYOLO

22
 AVAILABLE SERVICES

Need funding? Need mental health support? Sexual health assistance

The Student Financial Aid Office The Student Wellness Service HIV testing and counselling,
aims to help as many academically provides mental health support and medication for sexually transmitted
eligible and financially disadvantaged can make referrals for specialised infections, and basic contraceptives
students as possible. support and care. They also offer are provided free of charge by the
Student Financial Aid Office support for relationship issues. Student Wellness Service.
Level 3, Kramer Law Building, The South African Depression Student Wellness Service
middle campus and Anxiety Group (SADAG) UCT Ivan Toms Building, 28 Rhodes Ave,
021 650 3545 Student Careline is your 24/7 source Mowbray
financialaid@uct.ac.za of help. 021 650 1017/20
www.dsa.uct.ac.za/student-funding- Student Wellness Service www.dsa.uct.ac.za/student-
administration/financial-assistance/ Ivan Toms Building, 28 Rhodes Ave, wellness/health-services/overview
financial-aid Mowbray
021 650 1017
sws@uct.ac.za Can’t find the answers
Questions on www.dsa.uct.ac.za/student- you’re looking for?
accommodation? wellness/counseling-services/ The Student Orientation and
The Department of Student Affairs overview Advocacy Service offers general
will answer all your questions about information on all aspects of campus
residences and other student SADAG UCT Student Careline life, including advice and referrals to
housing options. 0800 24 25 26 (free from a other UCT services.
Department of Student Affairs landline) Student Orientation and Advocacy
Masingene Building, middle campus SMS 31393 (for a call-back) Service
021 650 2977 Room 201, Level 2, Computer
res@uct.ac.za Science Building (Cissie Gool
www.dsa.uct.ac.za/how-residences- Concerned about your Plaza), upper campus
are-organised safety? 021 650 5082
Campus Protection Services (CPS) uctorientation@uct.ac.za
is responsible for campus safety
Scouting for an internship or and security 24/7, working from Ask for help at the Department of
a part-time job? six service centres. They’ll respond Student Affairs, which oversees
Careers Service can help you write to any criminal activity or safety all student services and activities,
a CV and cover letter for job and concerns reported. including student orientation,
internship opportunities. It also CPS 24-hour hotline: 080 650 2222 sport and recreation, student
offers advice about working locally (toll-free) or 021 650 2222/3 accommodation, financial aid, and
and overseas and can even help you the Student Wellness Service.
access part-time work and internships.
Careers Service Need sexual assault support? Department of Student Affairs
Level 1, Hoerikwaggo Building, Survivor Support in the Office Masingene Building, middle campus
upper campus for Inclusivity & Change (OIC) 021 650 2128
021 650 2497 provides advice and assistance in nadierah.pienaar@uct.ac.za
careers.service@uct.ac.za case of sexual assault and rape. www.dsa.uct.ac.za/about-dsa
www.careers.uct.ac.za The OIC works to ensure that all
survivors of sexual violence receive
compassionate care.
Survivor Support (OIC)
021 650 3530
072 393 7824 (24-hour hotline)
Rape Crisis
021 447 9762
SGBV

Sexual and
en d e r
gviolence - b a s e d
Sexual and gender-based violence
(SGBV) affects all corners of our
society, including our university.
Our commitment to responding to
SGBV starts with a zero-tolerance
approach to all forms of sexual
violence and/or sexual harassment.

As a new member of the UCT community, you 021 650 3530 (office hours)

are expected to be familiar with the Sexual 072 393 7824 (24/7 hotline).
Harassment and Sexual Offences policy The OIC offers survivors immediate
(www.oic.uct.ac.za/reports-and-policies). comprehensive care and support. They will
If you would like someone to go through assist with lodging complaints and with laying
the policy with you, please attend training a charge with the South African Police Service.
in residence or on campus or book an
appointment via director.oic@uct.ac.za. The OIC has created an online portal
(https://casereporting.uct.ac.za/
Survivors of sexual violence and sexual ReportingPage/ or via the UCT App:
harassment are supported by UCT and www.icts.uct.ac.za/uctmobile) where
are encouraged to report incidents so that survivors and/or those close to them can
assistance can be provided. If you or any UCT report incidents of sexual assault or gender-
student you know has experienced sexual based violence. If you need assistance
assault or gender-based violence, please with reporting an incident using the online
contact the Office for Inclusivity & Change reporting tool, please contact the OIC on
(OIC) for assistance: 021 650 2767.

24
 CAMPUS SAFETY

Stay safe
Here at UCT, we take the safety and security of
students and staff very seriously. Check out the info
below on staying safe both on and off campus.

Who is responsible for safety at UCT?

Campus Protection Services (CPS) is in charge of the safety and security
at UCT. Save the CPS 24-hour toll free number — 080 650 2222 — on
your phone now!

What do I do if I am criminally threatened?

If an armed person (or someone who claims to be armed) confronts you,
give up your property immediately, get out of danger and contact CPS.

“I wish I had What safety precautions should I take on campus?

known that free Use the Blue Walk Route — it has emergency phones and is monitored
by camera.
HIV testing is
Always keep your valuables out of sight, and never carry large sums
available across of cash.
campus, like at Lock doors and windows, even when leaving your room for a short time.
the Sports Centre Save emergency numbers on your phone, and print a copy for
and the Student your desk.
Get to know your neighbours and keep an eye out for one another.
Wellness Centre.”
Use the Jammie Shuttles — they operate 24/7 during term time.
— NIGEL

What’s the best way to protect my property?

Keep doors locked and windows closed when you’re not in.
Don’t leave backpacks or bags unsupervised.
Keep a record of serial numbers and a description of your valuables.
Never leave items in view inside a parked car.
Invest in a steering or gear lock for your car, and a bike lock for your
two-wheeler.

If you or any student needs immediate medical

assistance or advice following a rape and/or How do I stay safe using
sexual assault, call, SMS or send a missed call Ubers and taxis?
to the 24/7 standby number: 072 393 7824. Request your ride inside a building.
Share rides whenever possible and
For telephonic counselling, please call tell a friend where you are going.
Rape Crisis: 021 447 9762 or the SADAG Don’t get into an empty taxi, and
UCT Student Careline: 0800 24 25 26 don’t sit in the back seat.
(or SMS 31393 for a callback). Only take taxis that are clearly
identified with official markings.
You can also receive individual support and If a taxi goes off route, demand
referral information by visiting the OIC office that the driver stop to let you out.
at the Ivan Toms Building on lower campus Don’t display jewellery, cameras,
(28 Rhodes Avenue, Mowbray). cellphones and other valuables.
Keep your handbag shut and close to
More information is available on the you, and keep your wallet out of sight.
OIC’s Survivor Support web page:
www.oic.uct.ac.za/survivor-support.

25
SUSTAINABLE ON CAMPUS

Sustainability
gets the green Sustainability is top of mind
for UCT. Find out how you can
make a difference to fulfilling
our commitment to becoming
a green campus.

Green Campus Initiative (GCI)

This student-led body is open to staff too and
now boasts over 2 200 members. Its ultimate goal
— building an environmentally friendly campus
community. The GCI drives several initiatives on
campus, including recycling, Ridelink carpooling
and reducing carbon emissions.

Slow the flow

Recycling in colours Water resources are under severe threat
The colour-coded bin system has been in-place at UCT globally and UCT’s mission is to reduce its water
residences and on campus for about a decade and consumption. You can help us achieve our goal by
helps to keep accommodation and campus clean. The reducing the amount of water you use on campus,
two most important colours are: whether that means a two-minute shower or
Green – recyclables: glass, paper, plastic, cardboard reporting leaks to UCT’s Properties and Services
and tin team (http://forms.uct.ac.za/#bas11).
Yellow – non-recyclables: dirty food containers,
cigarette butts, polystyrene, etc
Food security
Other colours that are used in operations/ To address the issue of student hunger, the UCT
administration are: Food Security Programme provides lunch vouchers
Blue – left-over food from the kitchens that is recycled redeemable at UCT Food & Connect stores to
into agri-protein students in need from Monday to Friday during
White – office paper term and exam periods. Please contact
edwina.brooks@uct.ac.za for more information.
 SUSTAINABILITY

6 simple Reduce, reuse, recycle

Before you buy something, think about whether

tips for there’s another option that produces less waste.

Before you throw something in the dustbin,

sustainable
think about whether it can be recycled. Before
you recycle something, think about whether

living
it can be upcycled. Reuse whatever you can
whenever you can — Google has a million ideas!

Burn calories, not petrol

Take a walk, lace up your running shoes, get
your hands on a skateboard, borrow a bicycle
– anything to avoid being a single driver in
a car. If you must, arrange a carpool or use
public transport whenever you need to get
around. Remember, the Jammie Shuttle is
freely available for students and staff, using
low emissions buses (check the Campus Guide
included for the Jammie Shuttle map).

Save energy
Eskom still relies on coal-fired power stations,
which emit carbon monoxide and dioxide into
the atmosphere, cause major air pollution and
– contribute to climate change. The less energy
you use, the lower your carbon footprint. So
turn off lights in empty rooms and unplug
appliances when they’re not being used (even
when they’re turned off a lot of devices still
draw electricity).

Grow green
With rapid urbanisation and global
deforestation, there are simply fewer plants

Did you know? around to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen.

So grow a garden wherever you are, even if it’s
just a pot of herbs on your windowsill, or plant
Many UCT courses use participatory,
or sponsor a tree (www.greenpop.org).
project-based training around campus
sustainability, which allows students
and academics to use campus as a Drink from the tap
living laboratory. If you end up working Bottled water is not necessarily better than
on a UCT research project with a the water from the tap, especially in Cape
Town, which was awarded a 98% score in the
sustainability focus that may have
Blue Drop Drinking Water Quality certification
an application on campus, contact process. The city’s tap water is clean, cheap
manfred.braune@uct.ac.za to see if it and sidesteps the environmental harm caused
could become a living lab project. by the extraction of spring water and all those
single-use plastic bottles.
The 400-seater New Lecture Theatre and
the new Graduate School of Business Ditch the plastics
Conference Centre were designed and We all know that plastics harm the
built as green buildings, achieving a four- environment when they end up in landfills or
star green rating from the Green Building in the ocean, but the damage actually starts
during the manufacturing process, which
Council of South Africa. UCT is currently
releases pollutants into the atmosphere.
busy with three other projects targeting Single-use plastic products (think straws, ear
green building certification: the Hasso buds, product packaging) are a particularly
Plattner School of Design Thinking (the big problem, so avoid them wherever possible.
d-school), the School of Education and
Avenue Residence.
27
SOCIETIES

clubs and
societies
There really is more to campus life than your studies,
and that includes over 100 student clubs and societies.
Keep an eye out for them during O-Week on the plaza.

Why sign up? How to join

1
Either pay membership fees in cash or have
Achieve a balance. Clubs and societies allow them charged to your student account,
you to do just that; you can take a step back whether that’s on the plaza during O-Week
from the books and do something you enjoy. or throughout the year at the Societies

2
Helpdesk on level five in the Steve Biko
Make a difference. If having a tangible impact Students’ Union building.
on the world around you is your thing, there
are plenty of opportunities available. We can The following are just a few options:
think of at least one society that places animal
welfare close to its heart, for example. Academic

3
• AIESEC UCT (the world’s largest student
Meet new people. We get that it’s difficult organisation) • Association of Black Securities
to settle in during your first year, but joining and Investment Professionals • Association of
a club or society can help. You’ll meet people Built Environment Students • Association of
outside of your course, and you’ll get to know South African Black Actuaries
campus a little better.

4
National/Cultural
Looks good on your CV. In time you will need • Abantu Zambian Society • Congolese
an internship and, depending on your course, Society • East African Students’ Association
there are a bunch of clubs and societies that • Ghana Society • Hellenic Students’
look really good on your CV. Association

5
Learn more about yourself. Joining a student Faith
organisation presents many opportunities • Acts Kolbe Catholic Society• Anglican
to get to know yourself, your goals and your Students’ Society • Apostolic Faith Church of
strengths better. This self-awareness can be Portland Oregon • His People • Jubilee Society
beneficial in future. • Muslim Students’ Association

Special interest
• Art of Living – SMILE • Fashion Society
• Film Society • Green Campus Initiative
• Habitat For Humanity • Photographic
Society • RainbowUCT • We Are Animals

Politics
• Democratic Alliance Students’ Organisation
(DASO) • InkuluFreeHeid • Palestine Solidarity
Forum • Pan Africanist Student Movement of
Azania (PASMA)

For more info and a full list of societies visit

www.dsa.uct.ac.za/student-development/
student-societies-organisations/overview

28
 SPORTS

On your AikidoArchery

marks . . .
Athletics
Badminton
Basketball
Canoe
Capoeira
Chess
Sport is an excellent way to keep the body fit, Cricket Cycling
the mind sharp and you feeling good all round. E-sport
And with almost 40 sporting codes to choose Fencing
Football
from at UCT, there’s definitely something for Golf
everyone. So, get set and go! Gymnastics
Hockey
Ju Jitsu
Karate
Kickboxing Mountain
Five benefits of sport Join the club and Ski
The list is endless, but here’s just a few reasons Find out more about the many UCT sports Netball
why you should think about signing up and clubs on Jammie plaza during O-Week, or Parasport (new for 2020)
taking part: sign up at the Student Sport and Recreation

Improves your sleeping quality — say

office in the Sports Centre on upper campus
any time of the year. You can either pay
Rowing Rugby
Squash
goodbye to restless nights your membership fees in cash or have them
Enhances concentration — focusing during charged to your student account. Supa Pool Surfing
lectures won’t be problem Swimming Tai Chi
Boosts self-esteem — you’ll be more confident You’ll probably know what most of these
Relieves stress — it’s a punching bag of sports are about, but here’s hoping that there Table Tennis
a different kind a few that will give you an opportunity to try Taekwon-Do
Encourages teamwork — there’s no ‘I’ in team. something new.
TennisUltimate
Underwater
Remember, you don’t need to play at
a professional level to reap the benefits!
Volleyball Water Polo

Wakeboarding
Yacht
29
Making a difference
At UCT, we believe that ploughing back into the community is an essential
part of campus life. Whether it’s engaging with climate change, social
outreach programmes, research activities or providing opportunities for
learning, social responsiveness is about making an impact on people that
lasts a lifetime, and an impact on society that lasts for generations.

The Future Water Institute expertise within the university. It facilitates

In a water-stressed South Africa, UCT’s collaboration with community partners to
Future Water Institute is doing essential work address the development challenges they define.
to ensure the future sustainability of water Participating students and academics gain work
resources. The institute draws on the skills experience, advance the quality of their research
and expertise of researchers from across the and contribute to local communities.
university to tie together the technical and 021 650 4415 | know-op@uct.ac.za
socioeconomic aspects of water management
for the country. Working together, it hopes to
transform our many human settlements into Summer School
liveable and sustainable ecologies. UCT’s flagship public education programme
021 650 5317 makes the academic and knowledge resources
https://twitter.com/FutureWaterUCT of the university accessible to the wider
community of Cape Town. Facilitated each
year by the Centre for Extra-Mural Studies,
The Global Citizenship Summer School offers a range of short
Programme courses to all, regardless of educational
The UCT Global Citizenship: Leading for Social qualifications, in the first few weeks of January.
Justice Programme provides students with an 021 650 2888 | ems@uct.ac.za
opportunity to engage with global debates
and reflect on issues of citizenship, social
“I wish I had
justice and community engagement. The known just how UCT Cycling Club
programme consists of three short courses much I would In 2019 the UCT Cycling Club was involved in
and one credit-bearing course. learn about life a number of social responsiveness projects,
021 650 3431 | globalcitizen@uct.ac.za including a scholarship programme for
and myself by
deserving learners, taking learners from high-
having friends risk communities and teaching them life skills
The Knowledge Co-op in different through sport, and a Breast Cancer Awareness
Established in 2010, the Knowledge Co-op programmes Club Ride. In lieu of entrance fees to its events,
allows external communities to access and faculties.” the club collected donations of feminine hygiene
knowledge, skills, resources and professional — TWALA products to be distributed in local communities.

30
 SOCIAL IMPACT

We’ve put together a list of seven non-profit organisations close to

campus that welcome volunteers. So give them a call, hit them up

1 5
on social media and get involved – any which way you can.

The Cancer Association of South Africa Reclaim the City is a movement of

(CANSA) is a leader in the fight against tenants and workers campaigning to
cancer and offers a support service to all stop their displacement from well-
those affected by the disease while educating located areas and secure access to decent
the public on symptoms, screening and risk affordable housing.
education. Cissie Gool House, Woodstock; Ahmed
Main Road, Mowbray Kathrada House, Greenpoint; Irene

2
021 689 5381 Grootboom House, city centre
contact@reclaimthecity.org.za
www.facebook.com/ReclaimCT/

6
Performing more than 500 life- https://twitter.com/ReclaimCT
changing orthopaedic procedures a
year, the Maitland Cottage Hospital is
a renowned paediatric orthopaedic hospital A voluntary support group of Red
that also offers post-operative care and Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital,
rehabilitation.  the Friends of the Children’s Hospital
Kildare Road, Newlands Trust never says no to enthusiastic volunteers.

3
021 674 2090 If you love children, get involved. Note: you’ll
need to undergo special screening and an
orientation session before you start work.
Ons Plek is a child and youth care Klipfontein Road, Rondebosch

7
centre whose work is focused on the 021 658 5243
girl child who has lived, worked and
begged on the streets of Cape Town. The
organisation specialises in development The Underdog Project works with
projects and therapy. vulnerable children and dogs, teaching
Malleson Road, Mowbray empathy and various life skills to

4
021 685 4052/49 underprivileged youth while bringing joy to
troubled dogs.
Main Road, Hout Bay
South Africa’s most experienced 076 166 7350
non-profit organisation working in the mail@underdogproject.org
area of adult rape and sexual violence, www.facebook.com/underdogproject/
Rape Crisis encourages survivors to report
the crime to authorities and works to address
legislation in the country.
Trill Road, Observatory
021 447 1467
www.facebook.com/rapecrisiscapetown
https://twitter.com/RapeCrisis

31
ESSENTIAL CONTACTS

Make
the call
Emergency numbers
Ambulance 10177
Campus Protection Services (CPS)
021 650 2222/3
Groote Schuur Hospital (GSH)
021 404 9111
GSH Psychiatric Emergency Unit
021 404 2174
LifeLine 021 461 1111/3
Mountain Rescue 021 948 9900
Rape Crisis 021 447 9762
SADAG UCT Student Careline
0800 24 25 26 or SMS 31393
(for a callback)
Sea Rescue 021 449 3500
Sexual Assault Survivor Support 072 593 7824
Suicide Helpline 0800 567 567

Police Campus services

Flying squad 10111 (from a landline) 112 Careers Service 021 650 2497
(from a cellphone) Centre for Higher Education Development
Rondebosch Police Station 021 685 7345 (CHED) 021 650 2645
Mowbray Police Station 021 680 9580 Department of Student Affairs
Woodstock Police Station 021 442 3117/21 021 650 2128

Cape Town Central Police Station Disability Service 021 650 2427

021 467 8000/1/2 Financial Aid Office 021 650 3545
First-Year Experience 021 650 2645
Office for Inclusivity & Change
021 650 1006
Office of the Ombud 021 650 3665
Sports Injuries Centre 021 686 7777
Student Housing 021 650 1038
Student Orientation and Advocacy Service
021 650 5082
Student Wellness Service 021 650 1020
Writing Centre 021 650 5021

(See pages 22 and 23 for more information

on these services)

32
UCT News
A fresh, informative news hub for the entire UCT community.

UCT News is your daily source of

news on ground-breaking research,
academic achievements, campus
events, community engagement,
university developments and
much, much more.

Whether it’s daily news, newsbytes,

videos, newsletters or campus
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is optimised for display across all
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wherever you are.

www.news.uct.ac.za