Author: Luvuyo Mjekula

By Chesley Daniels In a thrilling Score Energy Drink Epru Grand Challenge Top 12 second-round fixture, hosts Trying Stars delivered a stunning second-half performance to defeat visitors Despatch Oostelikes 59-21 at Wentzel Park Sports Ground on Saturday. The opening half was an intense, closely contested affair, with both teams creating scoring opportunities amidst challenging windy conditions. However, unforced errors hindered their progress. The second half heralded a resurgent Stars team, driven to secure a bonus-point win. They adopted a high-intensity, quick-tap game, which proved too much for Oostelikes’ defense. Stars’ pace and agility resulted in long-distance tries, capitalizing on Oostelikes’…

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By Staff Reporter The Rhodes University Chamber Choir (RUCC) recently completed a memorable tour of the Western Cape, blending performances, workshops, and collaborations with schools and community choirs along the way. As part of Rhodes University’s RU120 campaign, the tour showcased the power of music to connect people, build relationships, and inspire future generations. For some RUCC members, this tour marked their first time travelling outside Makhanda. According to choir conductor Sibusiso Njeza, the experience opened their eyes to new places and people, fulfilling one of the university’s goals of enriching the student experience. “There were students who had never…

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By Chris Totobela Young Makhanda female rugby player Lisakhanya Aplein is currently in Gauteng with the Eastern Cape province team. She is taking part in the national U20 championships where they are pitted against other provinces and she stands a chance of being included in SA U20 squad. She left Makhanda last Saturday and has played only one of the two games played so far. She missed out on her team’s opening game against Griquas where they won 17-0, but played in the 5-10 defeat against Blue Bulls and might play again in their next game due for Wednesday. She…

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By Siviwe Mxuma Rhodes University Pride Week 2024 is a significant part of the #RU120 celebrations as it ties the university’s 120th anniversary with the ongoing journey toward inclusivity and equality. This year’s event, launched with a keynote address by Dr Beverly Ditsie, a renowned LGBTQIA+ activist and acclaimed filmmaker, highlights the intersection of history, activism, and identity in South Africa’s broader struggles for human rights. Dr Beverly Ditsie, known for their award-winning work in television and film, has advocated for LGBTQIA+ rights since the late 1980s. Alongside their late friend Simon Nkoli, a prominent activist, Dr Ditsie helped shape…

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By Sindisiwe Tshona and Nosiphiwe Nyangana Diversity, heritage and inclusivity was celebrated at the Rhodes University Heritage Festival held at university’s Steve Biko lawns this week. The inaugural event, inspired by Heritage Month was hosted by the Rhodes University Zulu, Basotho, Swati societies and the Student Representative Council. The Nelson Mandela University Zulu Society and maskandi artist, Saliwa, were also part of the colourful event. Diverse cultures dominated the event – people wore traditional attires and were proud to showcase their cultures, including the Ndebele, Xhosa, Venda and others. The inclusive event featured the Eluxolweni Marimba boys group, Saliwa, the…

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By Ross Marriner The month of September is recognised in the financial planning industry as wills month. During this month, certain legal practitioners offer to assist with the drawing up of wills for a reduced fee or even without charge, so it might be an appropriate time to take advantage of this opportunity. A last will and testament is a legal document that forms the cornerstone of your estate plan. It is there to facilitate the orderly administration of your estate in the event of your death. Research has shown that around 70% of working South African adults do not…

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By Chris Totobela Sparks flew as 15 teams battled it out for the impressive R10 000 first prize in the Makana LFA heritage tournament launched last Friday. The tournament kicked off on Heritage Day in a packed JD Dlepu Stadium. In the main game of the day, which was highly anticipated by football lovers, tournament favourites Maru FC defeated Joza Callies 2-0. In another game that attracted a lot of fans, XI Attackers FC overcame a resilient New Seekers, also 2-0. Sophia Stars beat Rhodes University on penalties after a goalless stalemate. Jacaranda Aces eased past Golden Eagles 3-0 while…

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By Chris Totobela Makhanda boxing lovers were treated to a feast of entertaining boxing on Saturday. Boxers came from all over the province to take part in the all-women Breast Cancer Awareness Boxing Tournament at the Joza Indoor Sports Centre. A number of competitive bouts got the crowd excited on the day, with Andisiwe Qinela of Masakheke Boxing Club winning Makhanda’s first gold medal as local boxers started on the wrong foot on the day, but redeemed themselves later on. Qinela fought a very difficult fight against a tough opponent from Gqeberha, but her straight right punch did the job…

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