Rhodes staff feel the soccer fever

The Rhodes University’s senior administration management team has provided staff with a maximum opportunity to be part of the Soccer World Cup fever by adapting work hours so staff don’t need to miss a single match, and by hosting an opening ceremony celebration at Rhodes on 11 June.

The idea was initiated by the Human Resources Division and staff were consulted through the two main unions – NEHAWU and NTEU. All have welcomed the arrangements with a big dose of enthusiasm and are looking forward to the “world cup opening ceremony” to take place on the Drosdty lawns at 12h00.

Subject to operational requirements and excluding staff in the food services and housekeeping areas, for those days when matches are at 16h00 (except for 11 June), the Rhodes working day will run from 07h30 to 15h00 with half an hour for lunch from 12h30 to 13h00. A 15h00 finish time will give staff time to travel to the Mickey Yili (Stadium) FAN PARK.

For matches taking place at 13h30, staff have been given the opportunity to take leave for the afternoon hours. For those attending matches elsewhere in the country or wanting to take leave days, normal leave applications apply.

Staff can also apply for flexi-time for the day after a 20h30 match, provided that a full day is worked. However, such flexi-time must be applied for in advance. “We believe that due to the foresight exercised by the University leadership and these special arrangements, the University will go through the soccer world cup period with minimal disruption,” said Human Resources Director Sarah Fischer.

The 11 June kick-off ceremony at Rhodes promises to be quite festive. The Rhodes working day will run from 08h00 to 12h45 (subject to operational requirements and excluding Food Services and Housekeeping staff). Staff will be encouraged to wear yellow and purple on the day.

Festivities include refreshments, singing, a diski dance and a soccer match with senior staff.