It is currently the mid-term break for our bursary students and most of them have returned home to Masiphumelele for the vacation. We took the opportunity to meet up with them for a social event around a braai last Saturday and were rewarded with a beautiful clear winter’s day. The event took place at Gordans Camp in Glencairn, just a short drive from Masi, and in a pleasant secluded location in the Glencairn Valley.

Many of the students already know each other but these events are important for the newer students to meet those who have been studying for 3 or 4 years already and share experiences. The older students may have been several years ahead of the newcomers at high school and have some valuable tips to pass on to the newer students.

The event also gave the students the opportunity to say goodbye to departing bursary manager, Susan de Vaux, and to welcome her replacement, Dr Louise de Waal. After several years as bursary manager Susan is leaving Masicorp as she will relocating overseas for part of the year. We look forward to welcoming her back when she is once again in the area. Susan is seen here with final year CPUT agriculture student Khuselo Mchithakali.

Khuselo is also seen below in the picture with fellow student Zintle Magazi (International Studies, Stellenbosch University) and the incoming bursary manager Dr Louise de Waal. Louise previously worked at the University of Wolverhampton in the UK and is well used to tutoring students. We wish her well in her new role at Masicorp.

Sadly it was all over to quickly, and there was just time for one last group photo before the short trip back to Masi. We will be holding formal one-to-one reviews with all students later in the week and then its back to campus to complete the academic year.