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Be loyal to your calling

04 March 2019 | Story Valentino Ndaba

Next Chapter calls upon you to stay true to yourself by taking care of your mental well-being.

As the academic year kicks off, the University of the Free State gives a warm welcome to first-year and returning students. In the spirit of healthy new beginnings, Next Chapter has penned a letter to fellow students that speaks to mental health. Hear what they have to say:

Be loyal to your calling and the universe will locate you; once located, dominate! Fellow Kovsies, it is really happening. Not so long ago, this was just a dream – and somewhat far-fetched.

This is your moment; be at ease and feel at home, because you’re about to become a long-term tenant in a prestigious community of diversity, love, care, family, greatness, and prosperity. With that said, I welcome the class of 2019 to a community of brilliant minds. Bear in mind that all of us want to be part of such a community, but only a few get to make it – so, be very proud of yourselves.

Tap into endless possibilities

Now that you are here, know that everything is at your fingertips; you have the upper hand, and everything is now made possible. This is a moment for growth, to reinvent yourself, and expect the greatest confusion of your life as your mind and feelings will be tested and conflicted. Here is where you learn and unlearn certain things about your community and the world around you. So, please take this opportunity to explore, engage, participate, and where you can, mark your territory and dominate.

University can be tough as you face adversities and struggle to cope with juggling your grades and a social life. Find comfort in the knowledge that these are temporary circumstance you need to contend with. You are destined to emerge at the top.

Never succumb to the urge of givingup

There will be days when your subconscious fails you, there will be days when discontinuing your academics and heading back home is tempting. Do not to give in. Do not give up. You are here for a reason. Think about the twelve years of your life spent preparing for this moment. Some of you are going to struggle with academics, social life, finances, and conflicted minds which will hinder you in focusing on your academics. Seek help when you struggle.

Surround yourself with positive people who always bring out the best in you. There are avenues available to you, such as the psychologist sessions offered by Kovsie Health, and social workers who are there to help with various issues.

Support is at your disposal

Mentorship programmes such as Gateway are also at your disposal as a first-year student adjusting to a new environment. Student Life is always there for you in times of need. Next Chapter is a student organisation that advocates for mental health and can assist as well should you need support.

From us as Next Chapter to you as fellow students, we would like to officially welcome and encourage you to make the best of this experience. Be loyal to your calling, which has led you to the University of the Free State – and never forget that you matter. This is the beginning of something great and the continuing of your story.

News Archive

Physical Planning lives in recaptured space

2014-06-18

When the Department of Physical Planning decided on a new office premises, the team decided to tackle the project with an overarching theme – recycling.

It is important for Physical Planning to not only dictate to other departments on campus, but to set the example themselves,” says Nico Janse van Rensburg, Director: Physical Planning at the UFS.

Recaptured space

New office space on campus is simply not available. It was therefore decided to recover space and a store room was identified. “Fortunately, the storage area had ceilings. However, it was dilapidated and was sagging all over. To divert attention from the ceiling, we painted it in a dark colour and the walls white.

“All wiring was also done superficially. It draws the attention away from the uneven surfaces and simplifies work on the wiring. Instead of trying to hide it, we made a focal point of it,” says Janse van Rensburg.

Recycled building materials

Lots of the building material that was used to convert the storage space into offices, was recovered from other building projects on campus. Material that would normally be discarded was utilised creatively to not only serve a practical purpose, but also an aesthetic one.

A laboratory basin was used as wash basin. Remaining parts of granite slabs from other sites were utilised as top for the basin. Existing toilets were also reused. To enhance the atmosphere, new taps in an affordable, but durable range were installed.

Recycled furniture

We rambled through every possible store room to find furniture. Tables were simply sanded and varnished and look better than new. Even the cabinet at the entrance was saved from wind and weather and reused.

Hot and smart

Only one screen wall was built. It was left in raw brick, unplastered and unpainted to contribute to contrasting textures. Existing walls were left painted or unpainted as it was before.

“The environment that was created breaks down several existing perceptions. Such as the perception that everything has to match; everything has to be plastered and painted and many others. This is an example of how different materials can be combined to create a lively environment.

“Staff members have already moved into their new offices and are very satisfied,” says Janse van Rensburg.

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