280 million-year-old fossil reveals origins of chimaeroid fishes

High-definition CT scans of the fossilized skull of a 280 million-year-old fish reveal the origin of chimaeras, a group of cartilaginous fish related to sharks

Rhodes University Maintains Exceptional record of Mandela Rhodes Scholarships

The Mandela Rhodes Foundation has announced its selection of the 13th cohort of Mandela Rhodes Scholars – six (6) of whom will be studying at Rhodes University this year.

Rhodes University ready for a new Academic Year

Following the #FeesMustFall protests at the end of last year, Rhodes University is one of the few universities in South Africa which successfully completed the full 2016 academic year, including the year-end exams for nearly all courses.

Big dreams for the future

Fresh from a “holiday” where she helped struggling pupils improve their maths marks, a Rhodes University honours student will look at new entrepreneurship projects she can undertake to continue supporting her family.

Rhodes University to Host Philosophy Transformation Dialogue

The terms “decolonisation” and “transformation” have captured the imagination of academics and students, and have recently found fertile ground for expression in the wake of the #FeesMustFall phenomenon.

Rhodes delays opening of term

Rhodes University’s academic year is set to start a week late as the institution wraps up the last of its 2016 exams.

Varsities upbeat on ‘new approach

Rhodes University says it is ready for the new academic year despite threats that ongoing #FeesMustFall protests that disrupted academic learning in 2016 would continue.

Revisiting the Rhodes Department of Divinity

Saturday the 21st of January saw a group of approximately 25 people gather on the lawns in front of the Environmental Science Department.

Rhodes Welcomes new Director for Communications & Advancement

Having joined Rhodes University as the new Director for Communications and Advancement, former Parliamentary spokesman, Luzuko Jacobs has hit the ground running.

EC university VCs meet Premier Phumulo Masoalle

he Vice-Chancellor for Rhodes University met with Eastern Cape Premier Phumulo Masualle together with the Vice-Chancellors of two of the Eastern Cape’s universities today.

Peer educators to drive workplace health promotion

On Monday, 30 January 2017, community engaged research in higher education met health in a collaborative project that is run under the stewardship of Mr Thandi Mzizi,

RU pledges Varsity Shield Debut winnings to education Fund

Rhodes University makes its FNB Varsity Shield debut today (Thursday, 9 February 2017) against Tshwane University of Technology in Tshwane at 6:30PM.

The battle of the varsities

The spotlight turns to varsity rugby’s second division tonight as the eagerly anticipated FNB Varsity Shield presented by Steinhoff International kicks off across the country.

Parents impressed with the first day of registration

The first day of Rhodes University’s Registration went off to an amazingly seamless start.

VC Address to new students and Parents 2017

On behalf of our academic, support and professional staff I extend a hearty welcome to you, our new students, and to your parents and other family members who have accompanied you to Rhodes University.

Rhodes University Opens Academic Year

Rhodes University hosted a media briefing in Port Elizabeth today (Tuesday, 14 February) where members of the media were briefed about some of the pertinent issues that face the University as they prepare for the start of the academic year, which starts next week.

Student Accommodation Update

By virtue of its small town location, most students attending Rhodes University require accommodation. Of the over 8 277 students that will register at Rhodes in 2017, 3 594 will have a place in the University residence as this is the capacity of the university residence system.

Office of the Premier funds academically deserving students

In line with their efforts to support academically deserving students to access higher education, Rhodes University signed a memorandum of understanding with the Office of the Premier (OTP) in the Eastern Cape last week.

3 Grahamstown learners awarded full Mathematics Scholarships

Three full scholarships for further study at Rhodes University were awarded to local Mathematics learners chosen from over 250 learners from 17 schools in the Grahamstown District

Rhodes Student wins Top National Competition

Helen Lenahan (g14L0854), currently registered for Classics Honours in the Classics section of the School of Languages and Literatures at Rhodes, has won two prestigious national competitions hosted by the Classical Association of South Africa (CASA).

Rhodes welcomes additional allocation for higher education in 2017 Budget

Rhodes University welcomes today’s announcement by the Minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan, of an increase in the budget allocation for higher education and NSFAS.

Tonight Rhodes University rugby is up against old rivals

Tonight Rhodes University rugby is up against old rivals, University of Fort Hare at the RU Great Field at 6:30pm.

Heartbreak for RU as they drop points at home

Rhodes University’s rugby team had it all to prove on Monday, 27 February at their penultimate home game in the 2017 Varsity Shield tournament.

Over 600 students volunteer for Community Engagement 2017

One of the primary roles of a Higher Education institution in a society is knowledge generation and knowledge dissemination.

Hundreds of students to serve the Grahamstown Community

Over 600 Rhodes University students opened the new academic year with an intent to be more than just academic students but to actively engage in the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge to the greater Grahamstown community.

Science Festival highlights indigenous knowledge on its 21st year

This year marks the 21st year of existence for the Science Festival Africa currently underway in Grahamstown.

SA academics receive local and international recognition for book on the current state of affairs in SA’s tertiary sector

Rhodes University academics Sally Matthews and Pedro Tabensky have been shortlisted for an NIHHS award in the Category: Best Non-Fiction edited book for their book Being at Home.

Science and indigenous knowledge: the best of both worlds

Learning is a collaborative process between teacher and learner. At least it should be.

Calls for Nominations for the Vice Chancellor’s Community engagement Award for 2016

The Vice Chancellor’s Distinguished Community Engagement Award is a prestigious and competitive annual award that recognises meaningful and committed partnerships between the members of the university and the community.

Higher Education institutions team up to take on fundraising challenges

Seeking out proactive collaboration and designing approaches to shared institutional fundraising challenges were some of the issues discussed at the first Higher Education Fundraising Forum held at Stellenbosch University (SU) recently.

Doctorate under focus

Last week Rhodes University hosted the first Inaugural Lecture of the year by Professor Sioux McKenna titled Unmasking the Doctorate.

Rhodes investigates controversial video

An investigation has been launched into the production and posting online of a controversial video titled “being a fly on the wall @ protests.” The video was brought to our attention this morning.

First Things First Campaign kicks off at Rhodes

According to research conducted by the Higher Education and Training HIV and AIDS programme (HEAIDS), the HIV prevalence rate among South Africa's university students is at 3.4%.

2016 Interdict: Court processes concluded

The Grahamstown High Court, on Friday (24 March 2017), dismissed with costs an application for leave to appeal by students named as 4th, 5th and 6th respondents against a 2016 interdict granted by the same court.

A questionable site using universities' information

It has come to our attention that a website unknown to Universities South Africa is using our corporate identity

Strengthening a counter culture to gender based violence:

In my circular last week, I provided an update about the work that we are doing to strengthen a counter culture to rape and sexual/gender-based violence in our institution.

Traditional Courts Bill, the devil in the details

Judge of Appeal Nambitha Dambuza, 45, addressed a lecture that interrogates the devil in the detail of the newly revised and approved 2017 Traditional Courts Bill on the 3rd of April 2017 as a guest of the Faculty of Law, Rhodes University, Grahamstown.

Rhodes to honour five game changers

Rhodes University will confer honorary doctorates on five world game-changers.

Rhodes University historic graduation off to a good start

Rhodes graduation got off to a smooth start this morning to mark the start of a programme in which six ceremonies will be held in three days to confer degrees and diplomas to over 2400 students.

Meet the man who wrote Rhodes University’s first isiXhosa PhD thesis

Hailing from rural Mqanduli in the Eastern Cape, 31-year-old Kunju says his love affair with the language began at a young age.

Barney Pityana conferred honorary doctorate by Rhodes University

Outspoken champion for human rights Professor Barney Pityana was conferred an honorary doctorate by Rhodes University over the weekend.

Over 2 400 capped during Rhodes University's 2017 graduation ceremonies

It was smooth sailing at Rhodes University in Grahamstown where over 2 400 graduated with degrees and diplomas in six ceremonies - the last one was held on Saturday.

PhD written in isiXhosa hailed as milestone

A chance encounter between a South African music teacher and Xhosa-speaking students in Zimbabwe has led to the production of Rhodes University’s first PhD thesis in isiXhosa.

Rhodes organised labour hand over memoranda to management

The National Education Health and Allied Workers’ Union (Nehawu) and the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU), organised labour at Rhodes University

48 year old PhD graduate champions black excellence

Dr Nyameka Kangela and her academic achievements are the embodiment of black excellence, a value which her father instilled in her at a young age.

Rhodes’ Jeff Opland awarded Ikhamanga by the President

Professor Jeff Opland, Research Associate and visiting Professor in the Rhodes University’s African Language Studies: School of Languages & Literatures will be awarded the presidential Silver in the Order of Ikhamanga Awards on Friday, 28 April 2017.

Politics honours struggle icon Ruth Mompati

The Department of Political and International Studies last week honoured struggle icon Ms Ruth Segomotsi Mompati during their graduation by naming a Seminar room after her.

Concern over illegal protest action by Nehawu as Nteu accepts revised offer and calls off industrial action.

Rhodes University is extremely concerned about an illegal and unprocedural protest action which took place on campus today against the requirements of a signed agreement between the University and organised labour in the institution.

Final year student excluded from University for 10 years for rape

A final year Bachelor of Commerce student was this week excluded for 10 years from Rhodes University after being found guilty of rape.

Men urged to attend a men only discussion around Gender Based Violence

Amidst growing statistics of gruesome murder and violence perpetuated by men against women, a men only meeting is to be held this evening at the Zoo Major to discuss the current situation and the role that men can play to make the world a better place.

A snapshot of our University today

Rhodes University, like all other public universities in our country, is in the throes of change. Much is happening in our space and all around us.

Dr Siphokazi Magadla presents Dialogue on women combatants during apartheid

Newly conferred Rhodes University Politics and International Relations lecturer, Dr Siphokazi Magadla , presents a Talk on “Yayi lixesha lento ayithethwa!": Women combatants and the armed struggle against apartheid this Wednesday at 6PM at the General Lecture Theatre (GLT).

Ambassador of Africa’s last colony gives talk at Rhodes University

Rhodes University hosted a discussion titled Africans Colonising Africans: Colonisation in present day Africa, the Western Sahara Conflict last night.

Research Conference to look into the devastating impact of climate change

Rhodes University will host the third two-day Adaptation Colloquium (Think Tank) on climate change from 30 -31 May 2017.

Alumni add their voice on the Transformation of RU

Rhodes University alumni consultations swung into action in May with several well-attended meetings in Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Namibia and in Perth.

Trading Live for Mandela Day Challenge

It is that time of the year again when Rhodes University and Grahamstown gear up to participate in Trading Live for Mandela Day.

Universities consulted on the internationalisation policy in higher education

Rhodes University recently hosted Chief Mabizela, Chief Director of higher education policy for the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) to engage on the draft Policy Framework for Internationalisation of Higher Education in South Africa as part of International Week.

Rhodes launches ambitious student support fund - Isivivane

When Phelokazi Ndaba*, a 19-year-old Rhodes University law student, became one of the first group of 150 students to benefit from the newly launched Isivivane Fund

An opportunity to make hopes, dreams and aspirations a reality

Thank you for joining us on this significant and historic day of our University.

Rhodes to raise R1 billion for students financial aid

Dr Sizwe Mabizela, Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor launched an ambitious student financial support initiative called Isivivane Fund in Grahamstown today.

Rhodes University’s SPI wins landmark media summit for Africa

GRAHAMSTOWN, South Africa – Fifteen years ago, Rhodes University’s Sol Plaatje Institute (SPI) for Media Leadership in South Africa introduced the study of media management and leadership for newsrooms in Africa and the developing world, making it the first such institution in Africa to teach this relatively new academic discipline.

Rhodes raising R1bn for 'missing middle'

RHODES University yesterday launched its biggest fundraising initiative ever aimed at raising R1billion to assist academically deserving students in financial need.

Rhodes sets sights on Rlbn

RHODES University yesterday launched its biggest fundraising initiative ever, aimed at raising R1billion to assist academically deserving students in financial need.

Dr Mkhize calls for universities to teach citizenship and ubuntu

Former Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Dr Zweli Mkhize and Treasurer of the African National Congress (ANC), urged institutions of higher education to produce citizens that consider their education as an investment in society during a public Lecture on Citizenship and our Country yesterday at Rhodes University.

Rhodes hosts conference on African intellectuals, their work and its place in academia

Rhodes University will host an intensive two-day Colloquium under the theme - Rethinking South African Canonical Writing: Centering the isiXhosa Writings of the 19th and Early 20th centuries from 21 to 22 June 2017.

Finding success against all odds: the story of Olwethu Waka

Success is no accident, says Pele, arguably the world’s all-time best footballer.

Rhodes, advocating for a multilingual learning environment

In a discussion held last week, the Transformation Language Group resolved that intensive advocacy towards language transformation at Rhodes University is essential to highlight the gains achieved over the past three years.

Carving a path for African languages in academia

Ntombovuyo Ngaphu, 21, is a petite and soft-spoken African Languages post-graduate student with an almost tangible passion for language, particularly isiXhosa.

African tongues losing favour?

THE Eastern Cape has a rich seam of intellectual and cultural heritage. This arises from the fact that in the early encounters between the colonial settlers and the indigenous inhabitants of the area of the Eastern Cape now known as the Zuurberg, the European settlers established a foothold followed by the missionaries.

Closing the gap in science leadership

For Dr Samson Khene, a lecturer in physical chemistry at a South African university, the Africa Science Leadership Programme has opened his eyes to the power and responsibility of science to solve complex social problems.

Can a university transform without Africanising?

The SarchI chair at Rhodes University has exceeded all expectations and requirements set out for its five-year duration.

Uhuru tackles the black radical tradition

The Rhodes University's Unit for Humanities (Uhuru) in partnership with the Steve Biko Foundation are currently hosting a conference on : The Black Radical Tradition from Toussaint to Biko and Beyond 1791: Haiti; 1958: Ghana; 1968: USA; 1968: Grahamstown; 1987 Burkina Faso.

Moseneke liberated himself from self-importance

Justice Dikgang Moseneke delivered an unusually relaxed and colourful address compared to the usual courtroom judgements during the opening ceremony of the Word Festival 2017 (WordFest) at Rhodes University on Monday morning.

Rhodes director receives Festival Ovation Award

A Rhodes University Masters student won the prestigious 2017 Standard Bank Ovation Award for her play Bayephi, at the Grahamstown Arts Festival this week. Directed by Thembeka Madliki, the theatre production is about finding peace after the disappearance of a loved one.

eRhini, next door to Grahamstown: a unique exhibition

A few weeks ago, I called a young man who is studying at Rhodes University to ascertain his exact location.

Dr Gcina Mhlophe to headline this year’s Schools Festival

Storyteller extraordinaire Dr Gcina Mhlophe will treat over 350 learners to her charismatic performance and storytelling when she gives the keynote address at this year’s opening ceremony for the South African Schools Festival staring this Sunday, 9 July and ends Wednesday 12, July 2017.

Common Good First consortium meets at Glasgow Calledonian University (GCU)

Rhodes University’s Community Engagement (CE) participated in a unique international European Union funded Common Good First digital project in Norway and Scotland.

Buco, first business to take part in Trading Live

Ahead of the Trading Live Week, an annual initiative by Rhodes University’s Community Engagement center, local businesses have shown tremendous interest in participating in this relationship of reciprocity inspired by the Mandela Day.

Rhodes Scientist develops new way to purify communal water

Aphiwe Mfuku, 25 is on verge of launching innovative research that will provide solutions to the water crises currently faced by the country, including Rhodes University.

Politics host the Post-American World Teach-in

The Political & International Studies department will this week present a series of lunch-time lectures as part of their annual teach-in from Monday, the 17th of July to Thursday the 20th of July at Barratt 1 Lecture Theatre.

Rhodes Trading Live for Mandela

As a contribution towards Mandela Day, Rhodes University has embarked on an intensive citywide ‘Trading Live for Mandela’ movement that takes place from March to August each year and supports the development of the whole Grahamstown community.

Dlamini-Zuma: Africa must take its economy into its own hands

Former African Union (AU) chairperson, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma delivered a talk on the African Union’s Agenda 2063 at Rhodes University, urging that instead of being dependent on outside forces, Africa needs to rely on its own resources and citizens to build the future wanted and needed.

Re-reading African Feminisms colloquium

In a bid to contribute to the intensifying need to strengthen the feminist movement in Southern Africa, the Rhodes Departments of English and Fine Art in collaboration with Finding Africa are hosting an international colloquium on African Feminisms from Friday 21 to 22 July 2017.

Clayton connects with the heart of Joza

It has been a few years since the technology-savvy Dr Peter Clayton camped on top of the water tank at Nombulelo High School in Joza, Grahamstown.

Building bridges, building partnerships

Six days, 140 events, 336 groups, 70 partners and a spirit of Ubuntu made up this year’s Trading Live campaign by the people of Makana held from 24 to 28 July, 2017.

Rhodes University Concludes a Successful Multi Sectoral Transformation Summit

Sustainability, social justice, local responsiveness and global competitiveness emerged as dominant themes at a ‘productive’ three-day multi-sectoral Rhodes University summit, which ended on Sunday afternoon.

Rhodes offers beginner isiXhosa lessons

Language is an essential tool in effecting transformation in a culturally diverse institution like Rhodes University.

Tourism, hip-hop and magic expected at Rhodes Science Open Day

Rhodes University’s Faculties of Science and Pharmacy will engage 450 local Grade 9 learners in over 20 science and maths related activities during an Open Day this Saturday, 5 August.

Rhodes strengthens scholarly activity in the visual and performing arts at African universities

During the month of July, the Rhodes University Arts of Africa and Global Souths research programme in collaboration with the School of Fine Art at Makerere University organised and hosted the 2017 Publishing and Research of the South: Positioning Africa (PROSPA) Workshop in Uganda over four days.

Forensic linguistics: Rhodes working towards an inclusive legal system

Rhodes University academics are developing a new ground breaking course that seeks to address the classism and language based discrimination of our legal system through a new discipline called ‘forensic linguistics’.

The nation needs collective psychology to heal

Professor Jacqueline Akhurst presented a thought-provoking Inaugural Lecture about the re-repositioning of community psychology (as a branch of psychology) as it is at the helm of change within the psychology profession and communities in South Africa and beyond last week.

Rhodes gives staff an opportunity to improve their qualifications

Rhodes University has a number of staff members without matric certificates. However, this is set to change with the introduction of a programme through which staff can obtain this qualification.

Womanhood and motherhood within Christianity

The Department of Politics and International Studies presents a Women’s month public dialogue titled uMama woManyano Ngumfazi: Ubufazi and Motherhood for Methodist Manyano Women tonight, 10 August at 18h00 at the Barratt 1 Lecture Theatre.

Subverting the Silence - 10 Years of Silent Protests against Rape

Thousands of students will gather on campuses in Grahamstown, Durban and Cape Town during August - Women’s Month – to participate in the annual Silent Protest – showing solidarity with rape survivors. The Grahamstown Silent Protest will kick-start at 6H00 on Friday, 11 August 2017.

Rhodes aggressively tackling HIV/Aids

South Africa has the highest prevalence of HIV/Aids in the world, at 11 percent (6 million) of the population, according to research done by Statistics SA in 2015.

Supramolecular Chemistry for industrial upgrade

The Department of Chemistry hosted its annual Barker Lecture with Professor Susan Bourne, Head of the Department of Chemistry at the University of Cape Town, speaking on Supramolecular chemistry: useful properties through weak interactions.

Rhodes Business School launches TV Channel for business empowerment

In a ground breaking move, the Rhodes University Business School this month launched a television channel, which offers lectures in Economics I, Commercial Law, Entrepreneurship and financial planning.

App allows Rhodes Communiversity to teach communities for free

Could free lectures on their phones inspire young people to start businesses, grow the economy and employ more people?

The SRC’s women ready to lead from the front

The inauguration of Nhlakanipho Mahlangu as the second black female President of the Rhodes University Student Representative Council on Friday marked a start towards the end of a culture of lack of female leaders in student governance.

VC’s Teaching Award winners present four lectures

Rhodes University will host the 2017 Vice Chancellor’s Senior Distinguished Teaching and Research Award lectures on Tuesday, 22 and Thursday, 24 August 2017.

Rhodes welcomes donation of rich Buddhist Arts literature

A limited edition encyclopaedia of Buddhist Art, comprising 20 volumes, was donated to the Rhodes University library this week by the Fo Guang Shan, an international Chinese Buddhist monastic order and new religious movement.

Second installation of the VC’s Teaching and Research Award lectures

Rhodes University is hosting the second installation of the 2017 Vice Chancellor’s Senior Distinguished Teaching and Research Award lectures on Thursday, 24 August 2017. The teaching awards aim to stimulate scholarly teaching, research, and to recognise new lecturers who are exceptional in their discipline.

Rhodes to host Women’s Debate themed: “I am the dragon breathing fire”

The Rhodes University Debating society is hosting the 2017 Women’s Debating Open themed I am the dragon breathing fire from Saturday 26 until Sunday 27, August 2017.

The Dignity Drive: Bunnady’s Challenge

For her 47th Birthday on 16 August, Donor & Office Administrator, Ms Bunnady Landman wanted all her gifts to be in a form of basic toiletries, stationery and clothing, which she would then donate to students as part of the Dignity Drive.

Highway Africa deals with accountability and local governance

The Rhodes University Highway Africa Conference hosted by the School of Journalism and Media Studies in partnership with Corporate South Africa kicked off today (Monday, 28 August) and will end on Friday, 1 September 2017 in Grahamstown.

“Journalism standards have plummeted to an all-time low” conference told

The official opening of the Rhodes University Highway Africa conference shot straight into the purpose of this 21st gathering with delegates agreeing early on that the standard of journalism and accountability is in crisis mode.

Rhodes hosts international Economics Conference on Curriculum Transformation

For the first time Rhodes University is hosting the Biennial Conference of the Economics Society of South Africa (ESSA) from Wednesday 30 August to 1 September 2017.

Media, accountability and local governance

The notions embedded in the theme of this conference take me to very special spaces in time.

Transforming education through educators: Inaugural Lecture

Rhodes University presents Professor Di Wilmot’s Inaugural Lecture titled Transformative Teacher Education in a time of crisis on Thursday, 7 September 2017 at 18h30 at the Eden Grove Blue Lecture Theatre.

Dlamini-Zuma, a “safe bet for the ailing ANC” – Verwoerd.

Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma is most likely to be elected as the next president of the African National Congress and South Africa, according to Melanie Verwoerd, former African National Congress MP and ambassador to Ireland.

Rhodes congratulates new Standard Bank CEO Sim Tshabalala

Rhodes University congratulates Simphiwe Tshabalala, an alumnus of the University, on his appointment as the first black Standard Bank sole Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

‘Passion and an honourable vision can translate to profits’ - Stone

Jabu Stone is the epitome of dreams realised through a simple, clear and honourable vision.

Scholars from three universities look at gender, sex and power in Africa

A tri-varsity colloquium celebrates 30 years of anthropologist, Dr Ifi Amadiume's ground-breaking book, Male Daughters, Female Husbands - Gender and Sex in an African Society from Thursday, 21 to 22 September 2017 at Eden Groove Blue at Rhodes University.

Gender activist Nomboniso Gasa to present the 45th Oosthuizen Memorial Lecture

Gender activist, researcher, analyst and freelance writer on gender, political and cultural issues, Professor Nomboniso Gasa will present the 45th Oosthuizen Memorial Lecture, one of the most prestigious annual lectures at Rhodes University, on Tuesday, 19 September 2017 at 6PM, at Eden Grove Blue Lecture Theatre.

Mbeki on Economic transformation and African Capitalism

Rhodes University in collaboration with the Economics Society of South Africa presents a public lecture by Moeletsi Mbeki on Economic Transformation, Economic Freedom and the role of African Capitalism, at Rhodes University on Tuesday, 19 September at 18h00 at the General Lecture Theatre.

Maxeke and Sontonga honoured at Rhodes

In line with the University’s transformation agenda and as a continued celebration of the cultural identity and geographical location of the University within Africa, South Africa and the Eastern Cape, the Rhodes Council approved the name change of a further two of their residences this week.

Rhodes Biotechnology prototype, the best in the country

In a first-ever public launch of technologies developed by the Rhodes University Biotechnology Innovation Centre, a student prototype beat over 300 innovations at the national Innovation Bridge Showcase and bagged R50 000 in prize money for Best Prototype: Fieldlab.

Humanising the university space through Umrhabulo

Rhodes University launched the first series of Umrhabulo: Breaking Bread talks, a programme through which interested staff and students converge to discuss the prospect of a university committed to social justice and Ubuntu.

Former VC Woods returns to explain our DNA

Former Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor and first Head of the Department of Microbiology, Dr David Woods is a fitting scholar to unpack in a public lecture

Rhodes Researcher attracts NRF P-Rating

Amongst those honoured at the National Research Foundation Gala Awards held in Bloemfontein on the evening of 14 September 2017 was Dr William Bennet of the Department of English Language and Linguistics at Rhodes University.

Social upliftment: teaching the teachers

For a city that is home to a respected university and some of SA’s leading private schools, Grahamstown’s educational challenges are conspicuous.

Eastern Cape marine scientists working together to plan for the future of Algoa Bay

Eastern Cape, South Africa – Seventeen scientists from across the Eastern Cape have launched a collaborative, two-year project to develop a marine spatial plan for Algoa Bay that harnesses the collective expertise of researchers in the natural sciences, humanities and law.

In conversation with Bettie, a “victorious” rape survivor

Three or so minutes tick by, slowly, as I stand watching Sue and a woman, whom I later discover is Bettie’s* friend hugging in solid embrace. The air is heavy with deep emotion.

Environmental conservation must be prioritised everyday – RU Awards

This year’s Environmental Awards honoured scholars working in the line of water conservation, an especially socially relevant area, with Grahamstown currently experiencing a water crisis, as well as the greater South Africa.

Poverty and lack of access to arable land raising stunting levels in SA

Almost 20% of South African children between the ages 0 - 5 years are stunted (preventing growth and proper development), while one in three children that have died in hospitals between 2005 and 2009 were malnourished.

Psychology has failed to radically transform from a colonialist endeavor - Prof Catriona Ida Macleod

Professor Catriona Macleod, Professor of Psychology and SARChI Chair of Critical Studies in Sexualities & Reproduction will tonight receive the 10th Social Change Award, which recognises prominent psychologists for their contribution to social change in the country.

The Revolutionary Impetus

“The revolutionary impetus emerges in situations of radical injustice, where the political order advantages one group at the cost of another and where those in power are largely deaf to legitimate demands for justice from the underclass,” Pedro Tabensky, Professor of Philosophy, Rhodes University.

Machel presents the 3rd Archbishop Thabo Makgoba Lecture

Humanitarian and activist Ms Graça Machel will give the keynote address at the third Archbishop Thabo Makgoba Development Trust Annual Lecture, titled: ‘Values Based Leadership’, hosted by the Rhodes Business School on Thursday, 5 October at 18h30 at the Barratt 1 Lecture Theatre.

RU Commerce students represent at the Student Leadership Summit

Two Rhodes University Commerce students, Letty Seshoka and Denzel Makombe have been selected to participate in a national Student Leadership programme as part of the top 30 students chosen for the Student Leadership Summit 2017.

Changing curtains and leading by example

Dr Adele Moodly is a quintessential, multi-cultural and dynamic woman who exudes an aura of diplomacy paired with a raging passion for the movement of women towards their rightful place in society.

‘SA not outraged enough about gender violence’ - Machel

Humanitarian and activist Graça Machel lashed out at the lack of collective outrage by South Africans about the rapidly escalating brutalisation of women and children by men.

Language, a part of our identity and soul - Multilingualism Colloquium

The Language Committee hosted the sixth Annual Multilingualism Colloquium with internationally acclaimed storyteller, Dr. Gcina Mhlophe, as the guest performer and speaker.

Rhodes Law team in the top 3 in African Human Rights Moot Court

The Faculty of Law team impressed at the finals of the 26th African Human Rights Moot Court Competition finals in Mauritius when they made it to the top three.

Rhodes student, one of the best in SA

Hayley Warring, 20, was announced as one of the top 10 undergraduate university students in South Africa at the GradStar Awards last week.

Community engagement at Rhodes, a manifestation of Ubuntu

The Rhodes University’s Community Engagement Division hosted a momentous Community Engagement Awards ceremony last night to honour and recognise student volunteers and community partners for their contribution towards building a more just and caring Grahamstown.

Rhodes Psychology researcher wins continental award

Rhodes University’s Psychology researcher won a top award and fifteen received honourable mentions at the Student Presentation Awards during the inauguration of continental 2017 Pan African Psychology Union conference in Durban recently.

Community Engagement: Some of the key projects of 2017

Following the Community Engagements Awards earlier this week, where student volunteers and community partners were honoured and encouraged for their efforts towards actively seeking social change and justice within the community, here are some highlights of the work by Rhodes University and the Grahamstown Community.

Education Department hosts international scholar, Dr Rose

The Education Department hosted Dr David Rose, a pioneer of the groundbreaking Reading to Learn (RtL) programme for teaching, reading and writing across the curriculum, and from primary to tertiary education.

Monitoring, a critical tool to check if the government uses the budget to develop citizens - Amisi

Rhodes University’s department of Political and International Studies hosted Matodzi Amisi, Director of Evaluation in the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation based in the office of the Presidency of South Africa.

Crossword puzzles on African heritage

Rhodes University’s Professor George Euvrard, psychologist and educator, will launch a ground-breaking book, JDE: The Original South African Cryptic Crossword, a collection of crossword puzzles inspired by African heritage.

Rhodes bodybuilder qualifies for World Championship in France

Unfortunately, natural bodybuilding does not have enough exposure and therefore is not a priority sport for endorsement.

RU students to compete for $1 million

Chemistry Masters student Zweli Hlatshwayo reckons students are among the most creative thinkers around and he’s thrilled to be the 2017/18 Director of the Rhodes University leg of the Hult Prize.

Learn to conserve scarce water

The Rhodes University Environmental Learning Research Centre is offering a free course on rainwater harvesting and water conservation for people training small-scale farmers and subsistence gardeners.

Factionalism and Robert Mugabe’s Leadership in Zimbabwe

No one is safe in Zimbabwe, not even Mugabe thinks he is safe.”

Sports heroes guests at the Rhodes Annual Sports Awards

Tonight, Rhodes University’s athletes will trade their purple and white sports kits for suits and ball gowns as they are honoured and recognised for their sportsmanship at the much-anticipated Sports Awards ceremony.

Rhodes University MBA student, African winner of prestigious six-continent scholarship

Rhodes University Business School MBA student, Godfrey Nyamande, has been awarded the Association of MBAs 50th anniversary scholarship, the only award of its kind for the whole of the African continent.

Nanotech holds promise for Africa, but not prioritised

Despite immense potential that nanotechnology holds for Africa’s development, the continent is slow in embracing it, a workshop reports says.

Rhodes pays tribute to Professor Govin Reddy

The Rhodes University community wishes to convey sincere heartfelt condolences to the Reddy Family, friends and colleagues.

My Body My Choice 2017: Intimacy As Emancipation

The phrase ‘My Body My Choice’ has been used in various contexts—all of them activist. Since its conception at Rhodes in 2009, ‘My Body My Choice’ has focused its message on the objectification of women’s bodies as well as on sexual and gender-based violence, believing that we cannot properly address violence against women without also addressing the objectification of women’s bodies.

Rhodes-Investec honour 100 student leaders

The Top 100 Rhodes University students were honoured at the annual Rhodes-Investec Top 100 awards ceremony last night in recognition and endorsement of their achievements across a range of categories.

1917-2017: The Russian Revolution and its Relevance Today

Veteran activist Oupa Lehulere and Rhodes University’s Lucien van der Walt presented a truly revolutionary lecture during the 2017 Labour Studies Seminar Series recently.

Celebrating Can Themba: one of Rhodes’ first black students

Teacher, activist and writer Can Themba is one of the first black students to be admitted at Rhodes University in the late 1940s.

The South African health conundrum, a capitalist tale

Pouring money into the healthcare system did not improve services and South Africa was a living proof of that view, Health minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, said yesterday while addressing the seventh Alfred Bitini Xuma Memorial Lecture.

Rhodes professionals on mental health awareness

October is Mental Health Awareness month, a campaign to educate South Africans about mental health to reduce the stigma and discrimination attached to mental health.

Trompie, finding gems on the streets

Several months ago, Luthando “Trompie” Dayimani, a second year Bachelor of Education student, bumped into eight young and displaced youth while walking back to his flat in High street.

Cory’s life and writings contextualised in new book

Former Head of the Cory Library, Dr Sandra Shell, launched her book titled Protean Paradox, an exploration of the life of chemist and historian King George Edward Cory.

Mgqatsa, turning her childhood into a career

The Department of Zoology and Entomology this year welcomed its first black female lecturer, Dr Nokubonga Mgqatsa.

A community remembers forced removals

The Group Areas Act of 1950 ravaged communities across South Africa. Names like District 6 and Sophiatown stain popular history textbooks, but never are places like Grahamstown mentioned.

Rhodes Scholar shortlisted for Literary Award

Professor Pamela Maseko, Associate Professor in the African Language Studies Section in the School of Languages and Literatures has been shortlisted for the prestigious South African Literary Awards (SALA) for the book William Wellington Gqoba: Isizwe Esinembali, Xhosa Histories and Poetry (1873 – 1888) and D.L.P. Yali-Manisi Imbali Zamanyange (Historical Poems).

Rhodes student launches book on walking in someone else’s shoes

Rhodes University student and author Lunga Izata launches her book, The Story is about me tonight, 3 November 2017. “There is always a reason for everything that happens in our lives.

Tony Granger

Distinguished Old Rhodian Award: South African born author and businessperson, Tony Granger has continued the Old Rhodian tradition as a trustee of the Rhodes University United Kingdom Trust.

Prof Godwell Nhamo

Distinguished Old Rhodian Award: Professor Godwell Nhamo, (a C3 Rated NRF researcher), has dedicated his life since his first enrolment at Rhodes in 2003 to opening up critical research areas in the fields of climate policy, green economy and sustainable development.

David Abbey

Emerging Old Rhodian Award: David Abbey is widely recognised in the banking and financial services industry for his high intellectual and execution capability, sound business acumen and commercial shrewdness.

Prudence Ogunlade

Emerging Old Rhodian Award: Dr Prudence Ogunlade is an Executive Manager in the Office of the Chief Operations Officer at Transnet Freight Rail. She holdsa PhD in Chemistry from Rhodes University obtained in 2007, has studied Programme in Business Management at Unisa and is currently busy with her studies towards a MBA degree.

FAST takes a look at the science of sociology

Roodt’s presentation to FAST addressed the decades-long argument about whether sociology – and in fact any of the social sciences – can be considered to fall into the category of science is no longer really a matter of debate.

Scholarships for women in media to do postgrad at Rhodes

The Open Society Initiative for Southern Africa (OSISA) will award ten postgraduate scholarships for Southern African women media leaders who wish to study media management at Rhodes University’s Sol Plaatje Institute (SPI) for Media Leadership in 2018.

Book on Rhodes a study in excellence

Rhodes University history professor Paul Maylam has written a fascinating book on the history of this iconic Eastern Cape educational institution.

Africa joins global strategists to chart future of media and journalism

How should media managers and editors cope with the shifting sands of a profession under siege from all fronts?

Constitutional Court Dismisses Appeal Against Interdict

In a unanimous ruling yesterday, the Constitutional Court dismissed an appeal by three Rhodes University students against an interdict granted by the Grahamstown High Court in December 2016.

Rhodes weather station revived

Rhodes University is reviving its Weather Station following yearly requests by the Grahamstown community for weather data for various uses.

Mobile Visa service tested at Rhodes for international students

For the first time in the history of Rhodes, the Visa Facilitation Service (VFS) travelled to the University campus last week to test the new mobile biometric on international students to ensure that they meet their visa requirements for 2018.

Umthwalo wakho uyakusinda? Is your luggage too heavy for you?

The amazing Rhodes University Rowing Club has clubbed in some of their most valuable items and donated them to fellow students for the upcoming year.

Industry joins forces with academia to ensure graduates are equipped

As part of BSG's ongoing commitment to investing in local talent and skills development, BSG CEO, Greg Reis, recently attended the two-day Rhodes University Information Science (IS) Department Advisory Board meeting.

Isivivane, taking care of our own

Throwing a single stone in a pile appears to have little impact at face value; however, a pile is made up of single stones thrown by multiple people.

2017 South African Literary Awards winners announced!

This year’s winners of the South African Literary Awards (SALAs) were announced on Tuesday night, 07 November 2017 at UNISA, Pretoria Campus.

Former Rhodes journalism student aims to address your needs

Former Rhodes journalism student Lyndsey Duff aims to address your mapping needs by dividing the world up into 3 metre by 3 metre boxes – each box having three unique words in 14 languages with isiXhosa, isiZulu and Afrikaans to follow shortly.

Rhodes Fieldlab prototype wins another national award

Once again, the dynamic duo Masters students Charles Faul and Lucas Lotter’s Fieldlab, a mobile lab-in-a-box prototype, won a half-a-million rand first prize in the Innovation Hub’s GAP-Biosciences national awards on Thursday, 16 November 2017.

Creating funding opportunities for the ‘almost theres’

“Last year, a few days before my 21st birthday I could not celebrate. My results were withheld because my student account was in arrears.

Recipient of the 2017 Distinguished Old Rhodian Awards: Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela

Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela is an author, Professor and holds the Research Chair Studies in Historical Trauma and Transformation in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at Stellenbosch University.

Dr Les Shone

Dr Leslie John Shone was awarded the Distinguished Old Rhodian Award 2017 and sadly passed away on the 10th November 2017. Dr Leslie John Shone was known for his personal integrity, exceptional leadership qualities and the ability to deal with people at all levels without pride or prejudice.

Prof Nyokong honored for impressive outputs and doctoral graduates

Dubbed the Compassionate scientist, Rhodes University’s Professor Nyokong has been raking in international and national the awards for her hard work and commitment to the advancement of health in Africa.

Recipient of the 2017 Distinguished Old Rhodian Awards: Chris Brink

Professor Chris Brink served as Vice-Chancellor of Newcastle University in the United Kingdom for 10 years and before that as Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University for 5 years.

Distinguished Rhodians honoured for being game changers tonight

Some of Rhodes University’s outstanding alumni are set to be recognised at the Old Rhodian Awards ceremony on Tuesday, 28 November 2017.

168 rural youngsters qualify in Community Development

The MEC for the Eastern Cape Department of Social Development (DSD), Nancy Sihlwayi and Rhodes University hosted an emotional graduation ceremony for over 168 young people who completed a three-year National Youth Service skills programme in level 4 Community Development on 30 November 2017 at Rhodes University.

Rhodes research output for 2016 impresses

Rhodes University’s 2016 Research Report captures impressive research outputs and activities by every department.

Ubom! presents a six-day drama festival

The Ubom! Eastern Cape Theatre Company will host a jam packed annual Christmas festival for Grahamstown residents from this Saturday, 2 to 11 December.

Legendary scientist inspires black excellence

Professor of Science, Tebello Nyokong is a legend. This week she became the first recipient of the Black Science, Technology & Engineering Professionals (BSTEP) Excellence Award.

Council decides about the future of the name of Rhodes University

At its meeting held on 30 November 2017, the Rhodes University Council considered a number of issues, the most pertinent of which being that of the University’s name.

Transforming working and learning in a local and global context

The 10th International Researching Work and Learning (RWL) Conference is underway at Rhodes University until Friday 8th December 2017.

Fascinating book on SA inventions

A grouting machine, world-renowned chutney and an enviro-loo are some of the imaginative products invented in the Eastern Cape and which are featured in a new coffee table book called What a Great Idea! by former East Londoner and Rhodes University ichthyology professor Mike Bruton.

Seventh African Potentials discuss global concerns

The Unit for Humanities at Rhodes University hosted a successful two-day 7th African Forum last week under the theme “African Potentials to Develop Alternative methods of Addressing Global Issues”.

Rhodes Exclusions a Result of Criminality, No Student Disciplined for Protesting

Rhodes University notes with deep concern the gross misrepresentation of facts and attempts at manipulating public opinion by some of the students who have been excluded from the University for committing criminal acts.

New Director for Student Affairs

Rhodes University is delighted to announce that Ms Nomangwane Mrwetyana, Manager: Student Wellness/ Harassment Officer has been appointed as the new Director: Student Affairs effective from 01 January 2018.

When Women Were Combatants

Siphokazi Magadla is a Next Generation Social Sciences in Africa Fellow (2013–14), whose groundbreaking work focuses on gender and post-conflict political life in South Africa.