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19 March 2021 | Story Cobus van Jaarsveld

As students are returning to campus, Cobus van Jaarsveld, Assistant Director: Threat Detection, Investigations and Liaison at Protection Services, believes it is important that they ‘know’ and practise safety at the UFS:

1) Know the number of your Department of Protection Services:

• Bloemfontein Campus: +27 51 401 2911(also in cases of GBV)
• Qwaqwa Campus: +27 58 718 5032 / 5029 / 5033
• South Campus: +27 51 505 1298

Protection Services staff are the experts on campus safety, and they are able to point out the safest routes on and around campus, especially after dark. They can also assist with any safety concerns you may have.

As a student, you are smart; use your senses:
o Never let a stranger in your room or apartment
o Never walk alone after dark.

2) Know how to use alcohol

Although drinking and driving is a big NO, there are some other cardinal facts about drinking that you need to take note of:

• Never consume a drink provided by a stranger
• Never leave a drink unattended
• Never drink too much too quickly
• Always leave a party with a buddy

3) Know the basics of personal finance

You will be bombarded with offers from credit card companies, clothing stores, etc. Know how to budget. If you do not know how to budget, please contact the Student Counselling and Development office to assist you. This skill will not only make your life easier at varsity, but also once you start earning an income.

Be aware of fraud. If something looks too good to be true, it often is.

Watch your wallet. Theft or robbery is a possibility.

4) Know how to be safe on the internet

You are spending a lot of time on the internet. Unfortunately, criminals are also spending time in cyberspace with the aim of taking advantage of unsuspecting people like you. This may include cyberstalking, which may lead to emotional or physical harm, or it may result in them taking your information or money through phishing scams. Do not become a victim and ensure that you
- never use the same password twice;
- never use unsecured Wi-Fi to access private accounts;
- always use passwords that are difficult to guess;
- never reveal important information such as your banking login details to strangers calling on the phone; and
- never mention your location online.

5) Know basic self-defence

Avoid being the victim of any form of harassment or assault. Learning basic self-defence techniques will help you to protect yourself from physical attacks.

Protection Services offer self-defence classes from time to time. Make use of the opportunity and equip yourself with these self-defence techniques. Also buy yourself pepper spray, which can give you time to escape.

“Lastly, be aware of your surroundings. Walk with a purpose, without headphones, and always pay attention,” says Van Jaarsveld.



News Archive

Young entrepreneur takes tech world by storm
2016-09-14

Description: Steuda  Tags: Steuda

Steuda, a website which aims to simplify
the lives of students.
Logo: Supplied

Alexi Carreira, a young entrepreneur hopes to simplify the lives of students and help them become successful with the aid of his new website, Steuda.

Says Alexi, a student at the University of Free State who is currently busy with his Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration: “My willpower to be successful in my purpose motivates me, but more than that, God’s will for me to help others succeed.”

The purpose behind the website

Steuda is a platform for students, by a student, that aims to create a brand for students to advertise what they have to offer and to receive information from their peers about textbooks, course material, and accommodation - even just a lift home.

According to Alexi, Steudacurrently has six categories, general buying and selling, buying and selling of textbooks, accommodation, bursaries, job opportunities and community information. “We are in the process of providing extra short courses which students will be able to do online and once completed, they will receive a certificate of completion.

Becoming successful and pursuing your dreams

Alexi wants to simplify and empower the lives of students. Having Steudabecome a successful and well-known brand is his main goal. “My goal is for Steuda to become a national platform for students to use when they need anything or want to offer anything pertaining to student life.”

Alexi tells young entrepreneurs who are pursuing their dreams: “Do not allow the fear of past or current situations to define you. Be resilient. It’s a blessing to fail while attempting what you love.”

Steuda launches on 14 September and will be available at: www.steuda.co.za

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