?※This sixth offering marks a most successful examination sitting for the IEB-ISC."

~ Prof Sarah Howie, Director of the SU-UIC

The Stellenbosch 万博体育官网 (SU) Unit for International Credentialling (SU-UIC) is pleased to confirm the approval of the release of the Independent Examinations Board's (IEB) International Secondary Certificate (ISC) and Further Studies examination results conducted between 5 and 27 May 2025. The SU-UIC found that the examination sessions were fair, valid, and reliable as well as being free from any irregularities that could have compromised the integrity or credibility of the examinations.

This May 2025 examination sitting was the sixth IEB ISC examinations to take place. The SU-UIC has been conducting the external quality assurance of the IEB ISC, Africa's first international school-leaving certificate and the Further Studies subjects since the former's inception in 2022.

The SU-UIC Quality Assurance Governance Committee, chaired by Prof Samuel Tshehla, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Strategy, Global and Corporate Affairs at SU, confirmed the approval of the release of the results of the ISC and Further Studies examinations on 26 June 2025, after extensive and rigorous quality assurance processes. The external quality assurance processes, amongst others, included the verification of IEB's internal quality assurance processes, external moderation and approval of the examination papers, interrogation of the quality and standard of the examinations, verification of the resulting data and standardisation of the results. Prof Tshehla announced ※The SU-UIC Quality Assurance Governance Committee has approved the release of the Further Studies results of the South African students. The Committee, after studying all the evidence presented by the Independent Examinations Board is convinced that no irregularities were identified or reported which might have compromised the integrity and credibility of the May 2025 International Secondary Certification (ISC) and Further Subjects examinations administered by the IEB. Therefore, the Committee concludes that the examinations were valid, reliable and fair. It commends the IEB for conducting the 6^th ISC examinations successfully.

In response, Prof Crain Soudien, Chair of the IEB Board, reflected on the growth of the ISC noting ※the ISC's importance for the independent (schooling) community and in betterment of our society in general." Prof Sizwe Mabizela, Chair of the SU-UIC Standardisation Sub-committee, underlined the professionalism and integrity of the process irrespective of the scale of the examinations stating ※We want to bring every ounce of integrity to this process and are committed to working cooperatively to ensure quality of assessments is at the appropriate level."

International Secondary Examinations (ISC)

The ISC, Africa's first international school-leaving qualification developed by the IEB, is rigorous and equivalent to South Africa's National Senior Certificate (NSC), allowing holders to gain admission to South African universities. The ISC is recognised by Universities South Africa and UK Ecctis as comparable to Australian, UK, and Kenyan school-leaving qualifications.

The ISC is offered in eSwatini, Namibia, and Mozambique. In May 2025, 79 learners from the three countries wrote the ISC examinations at six examination centres. All the candidates who wrote were part-time or repeating candidates. The ISC started offering examinations in May 2023 to offer candidates the opportunity to follow ※more flexible learning pathways" in addition to the original November examinations. To date 195 learners have written the mid-year examinations, reflecting the need for an Africa-centred international qualification, that provides learners with an affordable and flexible alternative.

Further Studies Subjects

A total of 895 learners took the IEB May 2025 Further Studies examinations, compared to 699 in 2024. Further Studies courses in English, Mathematics and Physics are regarded as challenging, enrichment academic offerings. These optional examinations allow learners to enhance their academic credentials before entering tertiary education, providing an advantage for local and international admissions and students' success.

This year, 95% learners sat the examinations for the first time, while 5% retook specific subjects to improve their scores. Impressively, 5% were Grade 11 learners. The IEB Further Studies courses are available to learners pursuing the IEB ISC in eSwatini, Mozambique, and Namibia, as well as the National Senior Certificate (NSC) in South Africa from both independent and public schools. A UK ENIC (Ecctis) benchmarking exercise found the courses comparable to UK A-levels, underscoring their global competitiveness.

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Diploma in Sustainable Development students recently participated in a summer school programme at China＊s Xiamen 万博体育官网, an experience that combined academic learning with cultural immersion while equipping them with valuable skills for their studies and future careers.

The summer school consisted of a business programme hosted by the Xiamen 万博体育官网 School of Management, one of China＊s leading business schools, which ran from 1 to 10 July. It also offered a language programme hosted by the International Chinese Education School which took place from 31 June to 10 July.

According to Mr Shaun Dunn, a lecturer in the Diploma of Sustainable Development programme in the School of Public Leadership, opportunities such as these are essential for preparing students to thrive in the global sustainability sector.

※We encourage our students to pursue experiences that broaden their skill sets and expand their understanding of sustainability,§ Dunn said. ※China, as a BRICS leader with a strong focus on sustainable technologies, offers an ideal environment for this. Exposure to such an environment not only boosts our students＊ employment prospects in and beyond South(ern) Africa but also helps them forge partnerships for future entrepreneurial ventures.§

Final year student Christian Christians and second-year students Yehudi Chihale and Richard Haacke all participated in the business programme at the summer school, while Ropafadzo Takawira, also a second-year student, enrolled in the language programme.

For Christians, the trip was transformative both academically and personally.

※The summer school wasn＊t just about academics, it was also about personal growth and cultural discovery,§ he explained. ※We covered a range of topics, from international business and Chinese culture to AI in business and sustainability. I especially valued the guest lectures, which offered practical insights into global perspectives. For example, one lecturer specialising in Chinese economic development explained how the country achieved such rapid growth, which made me reflect on how some of those lessons could be applied in Africa.§

He recalled two standout experiences: ※Visiting the bustling night markets in Xiamen with fellow international students was unforgettable; the lights, the atmosphere and the food captured the city＊s energy perfectly. And presenting our final projects at the end of the programme was another defining moment. I was nervous, but afterwards I felt an immense sense of pride, not only for the academic achievement but also for the confidence I had gained.§

Reflecting further, Christians added: ※Most importantly, the experience gave me a new perspective on the world. It made me realise that while cultures may differ, people share many of the same hopes and challenges. This has motivated me to be more curious, more open to diversity and more committed to contributing positively in my community.§

Chihale also pointed to the company visits and cultural tours as highlights of the trip.

※We saw first-hand the country＊s advanced technological development, visited cities like Xiamen and Shenzhen, and learned how China became one of the world＊s leading economies. It also showed me how deeply culture shapes society and business.§

He added: ※I learned that AI and technology are the future as they are one of the biggest reasons why China is so developed. It's something I want to explore more in sustainability and entrepreneurship. I also learnt that culture plays an important role in shaping people and society. It's what sets us apart. Culture shapes resilience, work ethic and innovation 每 it＊s what turns challenges into opportunities.§

Haacke found the academic and industry sessions particularly valuable.

※The lectures on AI and finance really stood out for me. They showed how sustainability and technology are driving business innovation in China,§ he explained. ※The company visits and cultural insights complemented this learning perfectly. These experiences connect directly with my studies in sustainable development and will definitely benefit my future work or entrepreneurial projects. I also built relationships with peers from across the world, who may well become collaborators in years to come.§

Meanwhile, Takawira took part in the pilot language programme, which introduced students to Chinese language and traditions while also opening up pathways for potential postgraduate study or international career opportunities in China.

She described the experience, which included lectures on Chinese traditions, lessons on the origins of the language, an island excursion and sampling local cuisine, as eye-opening.

※The programme taught me so much about Chinese culture and really challenged me to see the world differently,§ she said.

The Diploma in Sustainable Development, offered by Stellenbosch 万博体育官网＊s School of Public Leadership, is a three-year programme designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Its focus areas include sustainable design methodologies, ecological intelligence, systems thinking, facilitation and leadership, small business management, social entrepreneurship, strategic communication, and sustainability reporting.

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??Students, it's almost Spring in the Boland, and in less than two months the 25th Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees will kick off. There are nearly 400 items on the programme, from music and theater to open mic nights and more.

But don't let that scare you off. The Woordfees team has specially selected a number of shows to suit the tastes and pockets of students from Stellenbosch 万博体育官网 (SU). With this year's festival theme, you are invited to take part and be part of a meaningful experience that brightens up the Oak City from 11 to 19 October.?

Top-picks vir studente

Toyota Musiekfees

Opelugkonserte by die Jan Marais-natuurreservaat

• Soweto String Quartet | 14 OKT | Koop kaartjies
• Will Linley | 15 OKT | Koop kaartjies
• Die Piesangskille | 16 OKT | Koop kaartjies
• Roan Ash & Brandon Miles | 17 OKT | Koop kaartjies
• Early B & Salome | 18 OKT | Koop kaartjies
• Mandisi Dyantyis | 19 OKT | Koop kaartjies

The Daisy Jones Bar

• Neon Dreams & Booshle G | 17 OKT | Koop kaartjies
• Van Der Aven | 17 OKT | Koop kaartjies

Velddraf met woorde

• 5 km & 10 km | 12 OKT | Koop kaartjies

＆Boklied＊

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?This past weekend, Stellenbosch 万博体育官网 (SU) celebrated a remarkable milestone 每 its tenth annual Homecoming Weekend for alumni, held from Thursday 11 September, to Saturday 13 September 2025.

A packed programme of events made this Homecoming unforgettable. Alumni travelled from near and far 每 as far as New Zealand and Singapore, as well as the UK, USA, Canada, and Namibia 每 gathering for a variety of activities, including residence and class reunions, to celebrate notable milestones and relive cherished memories.

Several significant anniversaries were marked as part of the festivities: the 100th anniversary of both the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences and the Department of Agricultural Economics, the 120th anniversary of Harmonie Residence, the 70th anniversary of Simonsberg Residence, and an impressive 150 years of Maties Rugby.

100 Years of Pinotage

One of the standout highlights was the Matie Winemakers Showcase, celebrating a century of Pinotage. Over 20 top Matie winemakers presented their finest vintages, giving alumni the opportunity to savour some of South Africa's best wines. The showcase also featured a special performance by RAAF (Est谷 & Lourens Raaf), both proud Maties.

An alumnus from the Eastern Cape, who attended with several fellow graduates, said: ※It was incredible to experience the best of South African winemaking all in one place. We savoured wines from more than 20 top Matie winemakers and, of course, couldn't resist taking a few boxes home to share with friends. It was the perfect blend of tasting, reminiscing, and celebrating our Matie spirit."

Theatre Showcase and Matieland Concert

The celebrations began with the Theatre Showcase, directed by alumna and Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards winner Nicole Holm, celebrating the finest in Matie performing arts.

At the heart of Homecoming was the Matieland Concert, returning for another memorable evening at Endler Hall. Celebrated storyteller and musical icon Natani?l reflected: ※I looked forward to performing at Endler Hall, where I had my first shows 每 and also my most hectic exams."

Actress and comedienne Margit Meyer-R?denbeck brought her Ouma alter ego to life, while performers including Suidooster's Dean Smith, the Maties Jazz Society, alumni vocal ensemble Lyrica Nova, soprano Sashon Johnson, and pianist Karen Petersen all received standing ovations.

Maties Rugby legacy and Springbok victory

From its first match on Die Braak to producing national and international players, the legacy of Maties Rugby was celebrated both on and off the field. The Springbok victory over New Zealand at the Cake Tin added extra excitement, with one spectator noting: ※The Danie Craven Stadium is where our players and these players here today learned their try-saving tackles."

Karen Bruns, Senior Director of Development and Alumni Relations, said: ※Ten years ago, Homecoming was a dream of bringing our alumni back to Matieland to see and experience Stellenbosch 万博体育官网 today. This past weekend, walking across campus and seeing alumni laughing through reunions, residences marking remarkable birthdays, and Matie talent shining at the Winemakers Showcase, Matieland Concert and Theatre Showcase, it was clear how much the tradition has grown. Our 10th Homecoming wasn't just a milestone 每 it was a celebration of the pride we share in calling SU home."

Marking his first Homecoming as Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Deresh Ramjugernath added: ※I met so many members of the Matie community who continue to carry the spirit of Stellenbosch across the world. Whether they graduated last year or many decades ago, this was their moment to come home 每 to reconnect, relive memories, and celebrate their journey as part of the Matie family."? 

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??Thirty-six years after his assassination, Anton Lubowski＊s life and legacy continue to inspire. On 10 September, Stellenbosch 万博体育官网 (SU) and the 万博体育官网 of Namibia (UNAM) co-hosted the seventh annual Anton Lubowski Memorial Lecture in Windhoek -? the first time since its launch in 2019 that the lecture has been held outside Stellenbosch.?

The memorial lecture was held both in person and livestreamed, paying tribute to the life and legacy of the Namibian advocate, former Simonsberg resident, Matie alumnus, and anti-apartheid activist whose principled defiance ultimately cost him his life.

The event was hosted in collaboration with SU's Development of Alumni Relations Division (DAR) and UNAM. Wife of the late Anton Lubowski, Gabrielle, and his children, Almo, Nadia and extended family, attended the event, along with a host of SU and UNAM alumni and current students, former colleagues, and friends, who filled the lecture hall.

An esteemed group of speakers included Professor Peter Katjavivi, the founding Vice-Chancellor of UNAM (1992-2003) and Speaker of the National Assembly of Namibia; Rosa Namises, Namibian politician and human rights activist; and Graham Hopwood, Executive Director of the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) in Windhoek.

The theme of this year's lecture - From Exposure to Action: Strengthening Systems in the Fight Against Corruption - connected Lubowski's values to present-day challenges.

Karen Bruns, Senior Director of DAR, reflected on how the memorial lecture series began. It was Lubowski＊s Simonsberg roommate, Charl Adams, who proposed the idea seven years ago. He believed that Anton should be remembered within the context of Stellenbosch 万博体育官网, where he studied law. 

"When we spoke with Charl and later with the Lubowski family, we agreed on the importance of honouring the values Anton stood for - human rights, civic activism, and a deep and real sense of social justice. Each lecture has tried to reflect these values, and this year＊s theme is both relevant and pertinent."

※On the fateful evening of 12 September 1989, Advocate Anton Lubowski was gunned down outside his home," keynote speaker Prof Katjavivi reminded the audience. ※He was a comrade of unquestionable integrity, a dear friend who chose to join the cause of freedom at great personal cost."

Lubowski's life and untimely death were framed not only as part of Namibia's liberation struggle, but also within the wider Southern African story of resistance. Prof Katjavivi linked his assassination to those of Chris Hani, Ruth First, and Dulcie September.

※What happened to Anton should not be viewed in isolation. It is up to academic institutions like UNAM and others, both here and in South Africa, to ensure these stories are properly documented.

※As a human rights lawyer, Anton was fighting for good governance and social justice. This is his legacy. What would Anton have wished Namibia to be like today and tomorrow?"

Hopwood argued that Lubowski would have demanded bold reforms in managing and monitoring corruption and potential corruption. ※Anton Lubowski was an icon of the liberation struggle, and I believe he would have been at the forefront of the struggle against corruption in Namibia if he had lived beyond 1989."

He pointed to urgent governance gaps: ※We need workable systems of transparency. Beneficial ownership, whistleblower protection, and access to information -these laws exist on paper but have not been implemented. Without them, corruption festers."

Namises, a long-time friend of the Lubowski family, lamented the current situation not only in Namibia but also in Africa. She underscored that the fight echoes Anton's own fearlessness.

※This corruption is making our communities hungry. It is making our young people go into the dustbins, into the riverbeds. We need an anti-corruption commission that is truly independent, leaders who are accountable, and civic movements strong enough to hold them to it.

※He would have called people out and demanded a new movement. That is what we need - to refuse shortcuts, and to protect the soul of our nation."

※We indeed lost a brother, a son of the soil, and a comrade in the struggle," Prof Katjavivi said in his closing remarks. "But he will be remembered as a hero - one Namibia, one nation, built on the foundation of justice, inclusivity, equality, and fairness for all".??

• Photo:  Wife of the late Anton Lubowski, Gabrielle, and his children, Almo, Nadia and extended family, attended the event, along with a host of SU and UNAM alumni and current students, former colleagues, and friends, who filled the lecture hall.

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?In a landmark appointment coinciding with Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 每 observed in South Africa in September 每 Dr Robyn Adams of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Stellenbosch 万博体育官网 (SU) has been named South Africa's ambassador to the International Papillomavirus Society (IPVS). She joins an elite group of just 27 ambassadors worldwide, representing the country on the global stage for the next two years, starting at the 37th Annual Conference of the IPVS in Bangkok, Thailand in October 2025.

The IPVS brings together scientists, clinicians, public health experts, and advocates to advance knowledge about the human papillomavirus (HPV) and related diseases. The society promotes cutting-edge research, supports evidence-based prevention strategies like vaccination and screening, and leads global advocacy to eliminate HPV-related cancers. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection with over 200 types, some of which cause genital warts and others that can lead to cancers such as cervical, vulvar, anal, and throat cancer.

※Being appointed is a personal honour, but more importantly, it's a platform to shine a spotlight on cervical cancer in South Africa and amplify prevention efforts," says Adams. ※This comes at an exciting time as the Western Cape has recently transitioned from cell-based to HPV DNA-based screening, a major step forward. However, ongoing research, advocacy, and community engagement are crucial to ensure all women can benefit from this progress."

Adams says it is important for South Africa to have an ambassador at the IPVS because the country faces some of the highest rates of cervical cancer in the world, driven largely by the combined burden of HIV and HPV. ※Cervical cancer is the number one cause of cancer deaths in women in South Africa, despite advances in early detection and prevention. Women living with HIV are at a greater risk of persistent high-risk HPV infections and cervical cancer because of weakened immune systems." 

Adams plays an integral role in SU's Gynaecological Oncology Research Group under the leadership of Prof Hennie Botha, contributing to HPV-related research that informs cervical cancer prevention and screening. She is also developing her own research projects focused on implementation science and innovative screening strategies, including self-sampling and DNA methylation testing.

She explains that the DNA methylation marker test works by detecting specific changes in the DNA of cervical cells. These changes, known as methylation, occur when methyl groups or 'tags' are added to certain parts of the DNA. These 'tags', which act like switches, can affect how genes are activated to read the instructions in the DNA to make proteins that help the cells do their work.

Building on her PhD work, Adams' efforts align closely with the IPVS mission to advance scientific knowledge, support evidence-based prevention, and increase HPV awareness in South Africa.

During her two-year term, Adams will focus on strengthening HPV education and awareness across South Africa, engaging with schools and communities, while fostering global collaborations to improve prevention and treatment strategies. ※This role is about building bridges 每 linking researchers, clinicians, and communities, and connecting South Africa's efforts with international advocacy," she explains.?

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???The #researchforimpact series aims to spotlight the research being done by the various teams of the Public Squares Initiative ?and its positive impact on society. In this addition, we explore the work of the Science for Justice (S4J) team.  Click here to view the members of this team.

The S4J team is focused on taking a "forensic identification think tank" approach to address the problem of high numbers of unidentified persons in South Africa's mortuaries. The team consists of members from various academic and industry backgrounds such as visual arts, clinical anatomy, forensic pathology, forensic anthropology, forensic odontology, and sociology. This transdisciplinary approach fosters innovative and effective solutions that aim to improve service delivery within the country's Forensic Pathology Services sector.

In their brainstorming session facilitated by Dr. Renee Goretsky (Specialist Research Grant Proposal Developer and Writer from Stellenbosch 万博体育官网's Division for Research Development), the team identified several research projects that could involve using forensic facial imaging or forensic odontology to identify deceased people. Funding is required to bring these ideas to life and the funding strategies brainstorming session marked a pivotal step in turning vision into action. Multiple funding avenues were explored such as partnering with international institutions, local and international research grants, NGO and community trust funds, as well as industry funding.

Some of the key questions that directed the discussion were:

1. What complex, real-world problem are we addressing, and why is it important?

2. How does this problem transcend the boundaries of any single discipline?

3. Who are the key stakeholders affected by this issue, and how can their perspectives shape our research?

The process of identifying the unidentified is a powerful expression of social justice. It restores the dignity and identity of the deceased, allowing them to be remembered as a person and not only as a number or statistic. It brings closure to families, allows them to perform cultural rites, and relieves the anxiety and trauma associated with not knowing what happened to the deceased.

The S4J team also hopes that their ideas can be applicable to identifying missing persons in cases of mass armed conflict as well as identifying migrants who may not have any documentation or family members to assist in the identification process.

*Photo credits: microgen on iStock ?

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??Our #howto series aims to share the research tips and techniques presented in our workshops. In this edition, we focus on how you can write about your research to various audiences.  

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??The Development and Alumni Relations Division (DAR) recently hosted its annual capacity development programme to equip Stellenbosch 万博体育官网 (SU) colleagues with the tools and insights needed to secure philanthropic income for institutionally approved projects.

This year's programme, entitled the Big Gift Fundraising in Philanthropy, took place from 1 to 5 September at the Alumni Clubhouse, Die Stal, in Stellenbosch and at the Biomedical Research Institute on the Tygerberg campus. The initiative brought together academics and Professional Administrative Support Services (PASS) staff from faculties, schools, departments and centres across the 万博体育官网.

The week-long programme, which combined group workshops with tailored one-on-one sessions, was facilitated by DAR and Graeme Byrne, a UK-based fundraising consultant, experienced trainer and founder of Lagotto Solutions.

Explaining the purpose of the programme, David Marupen, Director of Fundraising at DAR, emphasised the importance of embedding philanthropy across the institution.

※Fundraising is an institution-wide responsibility and our aim is to ensure that we as an institution become philanthropy fit. Given the constant changes in the philanthropic landscape and the challenges faced by higher education institutions, it is imperative that everyone understands their role in contributing to the financial sustainability of the 万博体育官网."

Byrne agreed, stressing that the involvement of academic staff is essential.

※Big gift fundraising is a team sport. DAR cannot attract major philanthropy in support of the university's highest priorities, without working closely with the experts who lead this work."

He explained that the sessions aimed to demystify the process of asking for funding, particularly from South African corporates and foundations, which currently account for the largest portion of philanthropic support.

※Often the idea of asking someone for a large donation can feel intimidating. That's why we focused on building confidence, introducing the fundamentals of big gift fundraising and exploring how to approach prospective donors. We hope participants left inspired and with a better understanding of how to partner with DAR in this work."

Byrne added that it was encouraging to see academics embrace fundraising as part of their role.

※SU academic staff shape the 万博体育官网's research, teaching and social impact. Their role in philanthropy is becoming increasingly central and preparing them for this is key to strengthening SU's fundraising capacity."

For many participants, the programme sparked new ways of thinking about funding opportunities for their work.

Dr Jana M邦ller, lecturer in the Division of Rural Health (Ukwanda), said the sessions revealed new possibilities for sustaining their community-focused initiatives.

※Much of our work is based in rural and low-resourced settings, where service learning and community-oriented primary care are central. Because of this, little time is available for major research grant applications. The DAR philanthropy sessions opened my eyes to opportunities that can support our social impact work alongside, but not dependent on, research outputs. I will definitely continue exploring these opportunities with DAR, whose team is incredibly open and accessible."

Dr Marna Lourens, Project Manager: Social Justice Law, said the programme reshaped the way she approaches donor engagement.

※The sessions underscored the importance of relationship-driven fundraising and building long-term partnerships with donors who share our mission. The emphasis on storytelling helped me craft a compelling narrative that connects our projects directly to social justice outcomes while demonstrating measurable change."

For Dr Marenet Jordaan, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Journalism, the programme was an eye-opening introduction to the world of fundraising.

※As an academic, I had little knowledge of the intricacies of fundraising, yet we are constantly reminded of its importance. The DAR team was eager to help with the 'choreography' of fundraising and addressed all my concerns. I will certainly collaborate with them in future."

Prof Nadia Mans-Kemp, Associate Professor in the Department of Business Management, said she gained practical insights that will guide her approach to donors.

※I learnt to tell the story of our research and community projects to the right people at the right time. I also learnt to take the needs of the philanthropist, the project team and the receivers of the gift into account before discussing the most appropriate gift."

She added: ※Together, we can secure funding that enables us to shape more sustainable life stories and transform livelihoods."??

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