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01 October 2019
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Story Prof Francis Petersen
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Photo Pixabay
During October, the national focus is on mental health. Mental Health Awareness Month also coincides with a time when our students prepare for the end of the year exams, making it a particularly valuable time for us to think about how we can continuously assist them during their time at university. The value of peer support and genuine care can never be overstressed; that is why I want to encourage our students to reach out to their support networks such as our Department of Student Counselling and Development, as we move towards the end of the year.
Mental health is an equally important matter for our staff. During this month, I want to encourage our staff to also take cognisance of their own well-being. There is a lot of wisdom in the old adage: Healthy body, healthy mind. Many of the initiatives of our Division of Organisational Development and Employee Wellness are focused on the value of physical activity and the negative impact that inactivity can have on one’s productivity and mental health. They also present regular lunch-hour sessions for our staff, where experts share information and practical tips for mental wellness. I want to encourage our staff to attend these sessions and to make use of the services the university has to offer in this regard. It is important to note that suffering from mental and anxiety disorders is not weaknesses and it is not always indicative of a deeper psychological issue; it is an illness and hence can be treated.
On 20 September 2019, a 21-member team was sent off on their run of 1 075 km to Stellenbosch to raise awareness for mental health. The run was organised by the Division of Organisational Development and Employee Wellness and the Faculty of Health Sciences. The team ran in relay format throughout the night and handed the baton of hope to Stellenbosch University on 25 September 2019. I admire and thank them not only for their commitment and stamina, but also for addressing this crucial matter in the public domain and for raising awareness in the many towns and communities along the way.
This is an excerpt from a message by Prof Francis Petersen.
Drama department presents shows to promote literature
2009-03-09
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The Department of Drama and Theatre Arts at the University of the Free State is presenting two stage plays based on prescribed works in an effort to make literature more accessible to senior school learners. Reza de Wet’s Mis, prescribed for Grade 12 learners, was presented from 2 to 6 March 2009 in the Wynand Mouton Theatre. More than 18 school groups attended the performances during the morning and the afternoon, while the evening shows were scheduled for the general public. Michelle Luwes, former drama student and local teacher, directed the play. The production will tour to Klerksdorp, and negotiations for performances in Potchefstroom are under way. Another stage play based on Die Potlooddief en die Engel by A.S. van Staden, prescribed for Grade 11 learners, will be presented from 18 to 20 March 2009 in the Scaena. Pieter Venter, a researcher on youth theatre and lecturer at the Department of Drama and Theatre Arts, directed the production. Pictured are some of the learners who watched Mis.
Photo: Emmie van Wyk
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