By Jolandi Snyders
Vulindlela is back to open the way into the Africa Media Matrix, the School of Journalism and Media Studies and the future for a select group of students. It is with great pride and excitement that we announce the return of the Summer School in 2010. Twelve incoming JMS first year students from the Extended Studies Programme will participate in the programme, starting Tuesday 26th to Saturday 30th January.
Nicky Cockcroft, Vulindlela co-ordinator, explains with much enthusiasm the essence of the programme. “Vulindlela gives students a head start, a grounding so that they are best placed to deal with the challenges of university. It enables them to feel more confident and connected, so they have a greater chance of succeeding in their academic and personal endeavours.” Nicky is pleased that the programme is back after a two year gap.
Vulindlela integrates the academic, social and emotional aspects of student life. During the days students will engage in various workshops on a wide variety of issues such as "What is journalism and why do we want to become journalists?, "Academic Writing", "Taking charge of stress!", "Reading between the lines: a critical look at newspapers" and "Note-taking skills". On a lighter note students will take part in tours of the AMM and campus, and be treated to a movie night at Roxbury's as well as a pizza evening at Debonair's.
Success speaks for itself, and is evident in three students who attended Vulindlela Summer School in their first years. Tinyiko Mushwana, first year 2006, recently received academic colours in a joint Media Studies and Politics Honours. This year she will study towards a Masters degree. Tinyiko as well as Kgaugelo Motlafi were both senior student mentors on the TAI programme. Kgaugelo completed her BJourn specialising in New Media last year, and is currently working for Unisa's Department of Communication – she aims to become a New Media strategist. This year’s Vulindlela senior student assistant is Tselane Moiloa, a third year JMS student who attended the Summer School in 2008.
The School of Journalism and Media studies is the sole funder of Vulindlela and covers the cost of accommodation, tuition and meals.