Wits University academic confronts the ongoing dispossession of Black communities in post-apartheid South Africa in new book.
Growing up under the shadow of stark inequality, Dr. Dineo Skosana developed a lifelong commitment to understanding and challenging the historical forces that shaped them. Now a lecturer in politics and researcher at the Society, Work and Politics Institute (SWOP) at Wits University, she weaves her academic and activist role around the themes of land, memory and social justice.
These are not just abstract ideas in her work, they are rooted in South Africa’s contemporary reality. “There’s a dangerous and growing discourse that says Black people don’t need land back, just jobs,” she says.
Dr. Dineo Skosana. Photo: Supplied
For Skosana, this narrative is both ahistorical and harmful. Her work consistently pushes back against such distortions, asserting that land is not only an economic asset but also a site of identity, heritage, and spiritual connection.
In her newly released book, No Last Place to Rest: Coal Mining and Dispossession in South Africa, Dr. Skosana reveals how coal extraction continues to dispossess Black communities, not just physically, but spiritually. “Dispossession is a continuing lived experience,” she explains. As South Africa faces both an energy crisis and an unresolved land reform debate, her book arrives at a crucial moment. It challenges whose knowledge and experiences are centred in national policy and how we define the meaning of land.
As a Black academic working in a historically white-dominated institution, Skosana has had to navigate systemic barriers. When she first entered Wits as a student, there were few Black South African lecturers. “Academia was associated with whiteness,” she recalls.
That legacy, she says, still lingers. “Many of us are challenging this,” she says. Urging senior African scholars to mentor emerging academics rather than gatekeep. “To bask in the company of European scholars can’t be our measure of success. We must build legacies with our communities and younger Black scholars.”
Her teaching is deeply informed by her research and by the knowledge of African communities themselves, co-producers of the insights she brings into the classroom. “Understanding the correlation between research and teaching maintains the integrity of what I teach,” she says.
Dr. Skosana’s journey is a reminder that academic spaces can be sites of resistance, and that knowledge especially when grounded in lived experience, remains a powerful tool for justice.
FEATURED IMAGE: Photo of No Last Place to Rest: Coal Mining and Dispossession in South Africa book. Photo: Supplied by Dr. Skosana
University students in South Africa, like their counterparts globally, experience substantial mental health issues characterised by high levels of psychological distress and limited access to professional help.
A nurse allegedly dismissed a student experiencing depression, advising that more sleep would resolve her condition.
A student having an anxiety attack was allegedly scolded by a nurse while seeking help.
The Centre scheduled additional sessions for the student to resolve the matter, but she never showed up.
The student raised serious concerns about the quality of mental health support provided by Wits Campus Health and Wellness Centre.
“Sister Simangele Sitoe told me I was lazy and dismissed me with sleeping pills and antidepressants,” the student said.
Only after filing a complaint with a former intern named Karabo Molefe, was psychiatric assistance made available.
However, the issue continued in 2025. During an anxiety attack, the student returned to the Centre, only to be scolded by another nurse, Sister Ntombi Dantjie. “She shouted that she’s been a psychiatric nurse longer than I’ve been alive and that I was wasting her time”, the student alleged.
Wits’ Campus Health And Wellness Centre – Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Wits Vuvuzela reached out to both psychiatric nurses. Dantjie was unavailable for comment.
However, Sitoe denied the allegations, “I only interacted with the student once, after the first session, she decided that she does not want to interact with me ever again. After we referred her to another doctor here at the centre, the student would not avail herself and she did not come to collect her medication.”
In response, former intern, Molefe said, “The student came to me and complained about Sister Sitoe. I proceeded to book her multiple times to get assistance and sort out her issues with the nurse, but she never came.”
The head of department is currently not in the country to comment, standing in for him Mr. Brian Jele, the Primary Health Care Nurse at the Centre said: “There is a suggestion box available to all our patients here at the Centre, if any student has an issue, they have a right to voice out their matters, write everything down and put it in a box and everything will be investigated”.
Mr. Jele added, “When Mr. Ntshabele returns on Monday, I will report the matter to him and proper investigation will be conducted from there.”
FEATURED IMAGE: The Campus Health and Wellness Centre’s working hours. Photo: Dikeledi Ramabula
Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana agrees to a court order to suspend his decision to increase VAT and this means economic relief to many
VAT increase suspension leave students with a sense of relief
Increased VAT rate was met with resistance from various political parties
Reversal comes with a R75 billion shortfall for the government revenue
Wits University students expressed relief as Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, announced reversal of the 0.5% VAT increase on April 23, 2025 after the DA challenged the legality of the parliamentary process that passed the increase.
The initial proposal to increase the VAT rate by 0.5 percentage points was met with resistance from various political parties, including the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).
For many South Africans, the suspension has provided much-needed relief, including Wits students. As consumers, particularly from lower-income households, funded by bursaries, the VAT increase would have been a big blow.
Shaunice van Wyk, 3rd year student said: “The VAT increase would have forced me to stop buying the basic products that I am used to buying, so the suspension comes with a relief”.
Another third-year student, Patience Msiza, echoed similar sentiments, “As a student I am already struggling to make ends meet, so the increase of VAT rate was going to make things even worse.”
Although the suspension comes with relief, it will result in a R75 billion shortfall in government revenue, prompting the National Treasury to revisit its budget.
Professor Imraan Valodia, an economist at University of Witwatersrand, who previously written in support of the VAT increase, expressed concerns about the long-term implications.
“We’ll have to see what comes in the revised budget, but I think government will have to cut expenditure, which means we’ve missed the opportunity to address the social and economic infrastructure backlogs, which are important for shifting the economy onto a growth trajectory to address unemployment and growing levels of poverty.”
FEATURED IMAGE: Black wallet Photo: Abena Mahlahlane
Institutions of higher learning collect millions in non-refundable application fees while thousands of hopefuls are rejected.
As South Africa’s university application season gets underway, the issue of application fees rears its head again, as many wonder why some institutions of higher learning continue to profit while access remains deeply unequal.
Every year, thousands of hopeful students submit university applications, dreaming of a better future. For many, higher education is a way out of generational poverty, a shot at stability, or simply the next step in their growth. But beyond the administrative process of applications lies an overlooked yet significant source of revenue for institutions: non-refundable application fees.
Take the University of the Witwatersrand as a case study. According to Wits news, the university received around 85 000 undergraduate applications for the 2025 academic year. Yet, only about 6 000 first-year students could be registered. This means the vast majority of applicants paid the fees and were ultimately not admitted.
The undergraduate application fee at Wits is R100 for South African citizens and a steep R700 for international students. Postgraduate applicants are charged R200 per application. Multiply those numbers across tens of thousands of applicants, and the revenue becomes significant, even before a single student sets foot on campus.
Wits is not the only institution profiting from this model. The University of Pretoria (UP) and Sefako Makgatho University (SMU) each charge R300 – a hefty amount for many South African families.
This issue has also sparked national debate and caught the attention of Parliament, according to IOL. In a media statement, the Portfolio Committee on higher Education said the practice of collecting fees regardless of whether a student is admitted is concerning.
On the other end of the spectrum, the Public Servants Association (PSA) has called for the “abolishment of unjustifiable application fees.” The PSA argued that these fees result in universities making massive profits even when applications are rejected. “One university reportedly received over 600 000 applications, with applicants each paying a R200 application fee. The university made an enormous profit of R150 million to just reject applications,” a PSA statement said.
From the institutions’ viewpoint, the financial strain they face is real. Universities like Wits carry the weight of providing world-class education in an economy where many students can’t afford to pay tuition. Some students register with fee waivers, which is a progressive move, and many owe thousands in unpaid fees. Yet, the university must continue operating – paying staff, maintaining facilities, and ensuring academic quality.
Speaking to IOL, Wits University’s spokesperson, Shirona Patel, said the university employs hundreds of assistants, senior students, and part-time staff to support the application, administration, and orientation processes at the start of the academic year. Additionally, the university highlighted the ongoing costs of maintaining online platforms and associated technology.
Still, one can’t help but ask: If a large institution like the University of Johannesburg (UJ) can process thousands of applications without charging a cent when one is applying online, why can’t those who charge application fees follow suit?
According to UJ news, the university received more than 760 000 applications (study choices) from 400 000 applicants. UJ said in a Facebook post, almost 99% of these applications were made online, meaning they were processed without an application fee.
This raises the question: Is the application fee truly an administrative necessity?
In a country where education is supposed to be a pathway out of poverty, monetising the application process, especially when rejection is more likely than acceptance, begs for critical reflection.
FEATURED IMAGE: A list of South African universities without application fees. Photo: Nthabiseng Baloyi
In a country where government controlled electricity supply is often unreliable, Asiphe Nhleko’s water-powered generator offers a sustainable alternative.
Wits student invents a water-powered generator.
Nhleko is supported by Wits to continue breaking barriers and being a champion for innovation.
The generator could power mines, households and businesses.
Asiphe Nhleko is a second-year Mining Engineering student at Wits University. She came up with Hydrogen, which is a water-powered generator. It is registered under her company, Innovation for a Sustainable Future.
The idea for the generator came to Nhleko when her mother got sick and needed support at home. At the time, electricity was one of their biggest costs.
“What makes our generator unique is that it only requires a small amount of water to start, and once it begins, it continues generating power without stopping,” said Nhleko
Nhleko needed to ensure that the generator could operate for a long period of time, as she stays far from home. When she goes home, she can refill the generator, and the process continues.
Nhleko is unable to share more operational details regarding the project. She is currently in the process of registering for Intellectual Property (IP), ensuring that her work is legally recognised and safeguarded.
While the idea came to Nhleko easily, building the prototype was not in her skill set. So she consulted her friend Musa Molefe, who has no tertiary education background. “He is so talented in terms of his technical skills,” said Nhleko. “I know that whatever that I say he can make it, with his hands,” said Nhleko.
After telling her mentor, Isaiah Chiraira (25), studying a Master’s in Electrical Engineering at Wits, about the project, he encouraged her to proceed. He helped to do the electronics and 3D modelling of the generator and helped in securing funding.
“Everyone at the engineering school has been incredibly supportive. They believe in the idea, some have even helped by conducting research for me. I had the innovation, the concept, but not all the solid research to back it up,” said Asiphe.
Asiphe believes her project has the potential to assist with the energy crisis in South Africa. She mentions that the project is beneficial, as it can power basic household items. Her main goal is to target the mining industry. “It’s millions that are spent per day on electricity in the mine[s], to power machines and just to power the mining plant[s],” Nhleko said.
Asiphe Nhleko is ambitious, with a clear vision for herself and her project. She says, “In the next five years, I see myself as a successful entrepreneur… I believe that us as young minds have all the solutions to the world’s problems.”
FEATURED IMAGE: A profile photo of Asiphe Nhleko: Supplied/Luphumlo Golela
The Constitution Hill opened its doors for free entry to commemorate Freedom Day.
Free tours were given to honour South Africa’s journey from apartheid to democracy.
Visitors reflected on the painful history of apartheid and the importance of protecting constitutional rights.
Civic organisations and young South Africans called for stronger civic education and wider access to historical spaces.
Visitors at the Constitutional Court foyer at Constitution Hill. Photo: LikhoMbuka
Exactly 31 years after the fall of apartheid, Constitution Hill opened its doors to South Africans, offering free tours to unite them through shared experiences that give meaning to South Africa’s constitutional democracy.
The tours on April 27 allowed visitors to explore the historic prison cells and exhibitions free of charge. For many, it was a powerful and emotional reminder of a painful past.
A bench marked ‘No Whites Only’ on display at Constitution Hill. Photo: LikhoMbuka
For Nomonde Velaphi, a community activist, walking through the harsh prison conditions was a sobering experience, one that reminded her not to take her freedoms for granted. “Sometimes we forget our history.” She said.
Sipho Sibiya, said the tour stirred deep emotions. Seeing the cells where prisoners once suffered made the reality of injustice in South Africa’s past feel immediate and personal. For him, the constitution’s Bill of Rights stands as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with freedom.
Irfaan Mangera, from the civic education group We The People South Africa, said Freedom Day is not just about commemoration, but about sustaining democracy through civic education. The group recently launched a free online constitutional literacy programme, supported by Saturday workshops in partnership with institutions like the Constitutional Court and Alt Advisory.
Two visitors watch the Freedom Day exhibition on a TV screen. Photo: LikhoMbuka
Katlego Mahlasela, a student cyclist, echoed the day’s message of civic learning. She said spaces like Constitution Hill are essential for her generation to understand the roots of freedom.
Constitution Hill’s communications officer, Janine Muthusamy, reinforced this sentiment, adding that the “Free for All” initiative is about more than just opening doors. ‘It’s about ensuring access and engagement, especially among young people, to deepen constitutional awareness,” she said.
The day’s visitors made one thing clear: remembering history is important, but building an inclusive, evolving democracy is the task that lies ahead.
FEATURED IMAGE: Visitors explore exhibitions at Constitution Hill during a free tour on Freedom Day. Photo: LikhoMbuka
Wits postgraduate students tackle a conversation on black masculinities in South Africa, examining the impact of apartheid, absent fathers, and social pressures.
Book club dives into Dr. Malose Langa’s, “Becoming Men: Black Masculinities in a South African Township.”
Langa examines the lives of 32 young boys living in Alexandra, over 12 years.
Panellists highlight the performative nature of both masculinity and femininity, signifying the need to create ‘safe spaces’ for positive self-expression.
For their first pick, the Division of Student Affairs’ Postgraduate Book Club, discussed Senior Psychology Professor, Dr. Malose Langa’s book, ‘Becoming Men: Black Masculinities in a South African Township.’
Langa’s work looks at a study done, from 2007 to 2018, on 32 boys from the Alexandra township. In chapter one of his book, ‘What makes a man a man’, Langa starts with the grim environment, “The place is overcrowded and underserviced, and poverty, violence, and crime are rife.”
Through his study, Langa examines how masculinities were understood and formed over time, and the roles these developments played in negative masculine outcomes, such as abuse against women and other men, alcoholism, gangsterism, and more.
“If crime is being committed by young males, then it means that young males are who we need to focus on, and that’s how the journey started,” said Langa on the night.
Through stories like that of Hilton, a young boy who struggled with his sexuality, Themba, a teen father who fought for a relationship with his daughter, and Simon, the youngest son of four who tried his hardest to reject the norms that took boys down dangerous paths, we learnt about how masculinities in a township are a performance.
In the chapter titled ‘Backdrop to Alex – South African Townships and stories in context’, Langa explained that through a community’s fight against the Apartheid regime “various other forms of violence also increased in townships, including violent crimes …[the] rise of the ‘jackrolling’ phenomenon, whereby gang members committed violent crimes that included harassing, kidnapping and raping young women.”
Iracelma Adriano, a BSc Honours student in Geography at Wits and panellist at the book club, said, “There was a time in the book where the boys actually had to take photos with their disposable cameras and then they had one-on-one interviews with prof and they showed parts of their daily life, what was important to them, and afterwards there was a focus group and now they had this pressure of other men around them, and what they shared was different, and this to me just solidified the idea that masculinity and femininity are things that we perform, they are not inherent or fixed constructs.”
Reading these stories and appreciating the personal journeys of these boys exhibits how masculinities are shaped by historical forces and the subsequent social expectations that arose. Langa’s study reflects a key idea within feminist thought – that gender identities are not predetermined but constructs of society, politics, and history.
To dive deeper, specifically for the context of this book, one must look at the intersectionality discussed by the feminist movement, which recognises that identities are also shaped by one’s experiences and influences. Absent fathers and the vacuum mothers fill was one of the issues discussed. While mothers were credited with helping boys understand their emotions, the flip side was that this was trumped by the societal expectations to be more masculine, ‘Jaro-boys’, who were sexually successful with girls, defining them as men.
Langa’s book ends with a call for the urgency to create ‘safe spaces’ for ‘listening, hearing, and action’, calling for proactive educational measures, encouraging conversations around masculinity, and support for mothers as role models for emotionally healthy sons.
To end the book club’s discussion, the professor emphasised that the “responsibility is on all of us, what is it that you are doing in your private space?”
FEATURED IMAGE: Dr. Malose Langa’s book, “Becoming Men: Black Masculinities in a South African Township.” Photo: Ekta Seebran
The multi-award-winning artist continues to prove that he has mastered the art of capturing his listeners’ emotions with his sound.
Since debuting in 2018 with his album “USHUN WENKABI”, Big Zulu’s versatility has made him one of the most complete creators in South Africa’s music industry – and his latest offering is one worth listening to.
Big Zulu’s fifth studio album, ICALA LE MPUMELELO dropped on April 11, 2025, featuring several artists including Shwi Mntombazane, Nkosazana Daughter, Zakwe, Siya Ntuli, Zeh McGeba, Zee Nxumalo, Aymos, Maseven, Emtee, Toss, Sir Trill, Xowla and Zakwe – on songs ranging from hip hop to afro pop.
Big Zulu’s music is the kind that one effortlessly falls in love with. After listening to the album only once, I was captured and able to pick the tracks that stand out the most.
Unlike some artists who make music based on trends, Big Zulu invests in making music that has a message, resulting in longevity of his work because what he sings about is relatable.
In the album’s opening track titled “ICALA LE MPUMELELO” the artist tells a story that many in South Africa relate to – raised by a caring grandmother who worked as a maid to provide food on the table, taught him survival skills, then succeeding against all odds.
“MTHULISE”, “MINA NGEDWA” and “MBALI YAMI” demonstrate the artist’s consistent devotion to love songs. Track 2, MTHULISE, stands out as an emotional and sad song. The artist sings about the challenge of being in a relationship with someone who is an orphan because when they cry, you also cry.
Big Zulu takes listeners on an emotional rollercoaster – from sadness to feeling like turning up in a club with friends vibing to “iNkululeko”, a rap track featuring Toss & Sir.
In a song already released in March, “ABAZAZI BAFUNANI” featuring Emtee, Big Zulu appears to have turned their rivalry into a beautiful collaboration.
This is certainly an album worth listening to.
Vuvu Rating 7/10
FEATURED IMAGE: Big Zulu’s album cover. Photo: Big Zulu‘s Instagram
Finally, the dolomite chambers reopen for public exploration after two years.
Sterkfontein Caves reopens after a two-year closure, visitors can now explore the World Heritage Site.
Wits University now fully owns and manages the caves.
Visitors will now be able to interact with researchers and view fossil preparations.
On Tuesday, April 15, the world-renowned Sterkfontein Caves reopened to the public after being closed in December 2022, due to flooding at the entrance of the caves. The UNESCO World Heritage Site located within the Cradle of Humankind now offers visitors the opportunity to have first-hand engagement with artefacts.
Visitors walking in the Sterkfontein Caves. Photo: Bonolo Mokonoto
The Sterkfontein Caves house excavations are responsible for the crucial discoveries that expand our understanding of early hominin fossils. Regarded as one of humanity’s most important paleontological sites, as it has hundreds of fossils that detail the origins of man.
As you walk into the cave, you are greeted with multiple steps to reach its deepest part. The environment is moist as the temperature is 20°C, and water droplets hang on the ceiling as testament. LED lights line the passageway to assist visitors as they venture deeper into the cave. It is eerily quiet, and an echo can be heard when you speak.
After taking over the property in 1966, Wits will now fully manage the site as of April 15, 2025, under the supervision of the Faculty of Science. Professor Job Kibii, Head of Wits Sterkfontein Caves said the Caves were originally co-owned by Wits and the Gauteng Provincial Government, now it is fully owned by Wits.
Professor Dominic Stratford, the leading researcher at the caves said, “Visitors might see people working, whether they are student groups or specialist researchers working in excavations”. This has never been done before and adds into the management’s efforts to make the cave tour experience interactive and educational.
Visitors will be accompanied by a tour guide and tour the caves, reaching the lowest point, the Elephant Chambers. They will have access to the fossil preparation laboratory, where they can engage with researchers and finally enter the museum.
“Part of the role of a university is to be about research, teaching, learning and outreach and interaction in the community… it is important for a university in its role as a public good entity to play its part in the preservation of human heritage,” said Wits’ vice-chancellor, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi.
The new developments make visiting the World Heritage Site a truly transformative and informative experience.
FEATURED IMAGE: From left to right: Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, Professor Job Kibii, Professor Dominic Stratford, Professor Nithaya Chetty, inside the Sterkfontein Caves. Photo: Bonolo Mokonoto
With the release of Marc Webbs’ Snow White, the Wits Palestine Solidarity Committee call for a boycott of the film starring former Israeli military officer, Gal Gadot.
Wits PSC call to boycott Snow White due to the casting of Gal Gadot, former IDF officer.
SAUJS member says that the boycott is “harmful” and “discriminatory”.
PSC supporter says the action is not about the film, it’s about not supporting someone who participated in genocide.
At the end of March 2025, the Wits Palestine Solidarity Committee (PSC) took to Instagram and called on supporters to boycott director Marc Webbs’ film, Snow White, starring Gal Gadot, former member of the Israeli Defence Force (IDF).
This cinematic protest call follows the 20-year Boycott, Divestment, and Sanction (BDS) Campaign in support of Palestine.
According to the official BDS website the campaign is “inspired by the South African anti-apartheid movement, the BDS urges action to pressure Israel to comply with international law … Israel maintains a regime of settler colonialism, apartheid, and occupation over the Palestinian people. This is only possible because of international support … the world help[s] Israel to oppress Palestinians.”
Jacob Boner of the South African Union of Jewish Students (SAUJS) at Wits, says that “SAUJS stance on the BDS led boycott of films due to actor’s [Gal Gadot] political views is harmful.”
He further explained that they believe, “these are not boycotts against entities such as governments and corporations, but against individuals, boycotting a movie because it has an Israeli actress in it is tantamount to persecuting her for her religion and is thus discriminatory.”
In contrast, Wits student and PSC supporter Sameera Karolia, says that she, “completely and unapologetically support[s] the BDS led boycott of Snow White and all projects involving Gal Gadot […] by proudly supporting Israel’s war, she [Gadot] is complicit in the violence and ongoing oppression of Palestinian people.
“This isn’t about judging a film, it’s about refusing to support people who are complicit in genocide.”
In the conversation around the boycott of Snow White, it is also significant to note that the lead of the film, Rachel Zelger, is an outspoken supporter of Palestine, but there has been no call to boycott the film by Zionist movements.
To this, Boner says, “unlike the harmful BDS movement we do not endorse boycotts of art based solely on an individual’s identity or beliefs, we believe that opening engagement and dialogue is the way forward – not the demonisation of an entire group of people and their beliefs.”
When asked if Zegler’s stance would impact her decision to boycott, Karolia said, “No, it does not. The boycott targets Snow White because of Disney’s deliberate decision to platform and profit a vocal Zionist, who has actively participated in Israel’s genocide – both as a former IDF member and through her public statements.”
Discussing what message the boycott sends, Karolia said that it, “sends a message that entertainment isn’t worth moral compromises.”
Whether choosing to boycott the film or not, one cannot argue that film – and all art for that matter – is apolitical. Art and, significantly, film – considering its reach – has the ability to send messages globally. The act of endorsing or boycotting is a personal decision that demands accountability.
FEATURED IMAGE:Snow white (2025) cover. Photo: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snow_White_(2025_film)
The second block is in full swing, but an estimated 100 Wits students still don’t have a place to sleep.
Libraries, bathrooms and the streets are some of the places homeless Witsies scramble to find shelter in every night
The university lacks sufficient beds to meet demand, especially after a spike in first-year admissions.
Wits is offering food and emergency accommodation support, but sustainable solutions require broader systemic change.
The right to human dignity and adequate housing are enshrined in the South African constitution, but for some 100 homeless Wits University students, they remain a distant reality.
The university only accommodates a fraction of its student population. Of 37,295 registered students, including 25,200 undergraduates and 12,098 postgraduates, Wits has just 5,700 beds available across its 15 on-campus residences spread around Braamfontein.
Many students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds or without bursary support, feel abandoned by a system that seems to be failing them.
One affected student, Monkopane Mokgalabong, is a first-year geology student from Tzaneen, Limpopo, who revealed just how dire the situation has become.
“I’ve been sleeping in a security guard’s office near Charlotte Maxeke because I had nowhere else to go,” he told Wits Vuvuzela. “Sleeping outside wasn’t an option. I even had to beg the residence manager for help, but nothing came through.”
Defunded by NSFAS due to academic failure at a previous institution, Monkopane says he was shocked he could even register this year. “My luggage was too much to go back home, and I come from a disadvantaged background. Wits was always my dream university,” he said.
Deputy President of the Wits SRC, Boipelo Setsepu said: “We started engaging with management on this last year. They are aware of the issues, but our demands haven’t been met. We’ll have confidence in management if they finally come to the table and meet us halfway.”
Setsepu confirmed the depth of the housing problem, particularly for returning students and postgraduates. “At the start of the year, there was an oversubscription of first-year students. That alone created a deficit of beds for returning students; we have about 78 spaces left, mostly for male students under 24.”
Wits communication officer, Tiisang Monatisa said: “It is estimated that there may be over 100 students in need of accommodation… More than 450 students have been supported through the Wits Hardship Fund, and we expect to assist about 800 by the end of the year.”
To address the crisis, Wits launched the Transitional Accommodation Programme, backed by a R10 million allocation. “This year alone, 333 beds were acquired. The programme continues to support students as vacancies arise,” Monatisa said.
Wits also cited efforts beyond accommodation, pointing to food relief from Wits citizenship and community outreach as part of its student support infrastructure. “A thousand students receive a hot meal per term day,” he said.
The reality remains that the scale of the problem far outweighs the available resources. For many, the dream of studying at Wits is shadowed by nights spent in libraries, guard rooms, or even on the street.
FEATURED IMAGE: A picture of a student sleeping in the library. Photo: Phenyo Selinda
Paige Harvey, a Wits graduate on a mission to spark change, one crown at a time.
Harvey posing atop the Great Hall steps after her graduation. Photo: Supplied/Rendaldo Verde
Beyond the Miss Soweto crown, Paige Harvey’s quest is for purpose and impact
Beauty, brains and a desire to make a difference
The Miss Soweto winner has eyes set on the Miss SA 2025 crown
In a world where traditional paths are often expected, Paige Harvey stands out as someone who has seamlessly transitioned from the world of diplomacy to the glamour of beauty pageants.
As a Wits University international relations graduate, Miss Soweto 2023, and a contestant for Miss South Africa 2025, Harvey’s journey is more than just a career shift. It’s a testament to her passion, determination, and multifaceted talent.
Paige grew up in Eldorado Park, Soweto, where her love and passion for modelling started. “I have entered Miss SA 2025 to stand as a beacon of hope, pioneering positive change in the mindsets of the youth. As South Africa prepares to host a G20 summit, the world is turning its eyes to us, this is more than a political moment; it is time for us to showcase the strength, resilience, and brilliance of our people,” she said.
From a young age, Harvey was fascinated by how countries interact and how policy shapes lives. “Studying international relations at Wits gave me the academic ground to explore complex topics and sparked a deeper desire to be part of the solution,” said Harvey.
Pageantry became a platform where Harvey could merge beauty with purpose. “I realized that pageants could elevate voices and causes,” she explained.
Harvey doesn’t see her academic and pageant personas as separate entities. “Both require discipline, confidence, and authenticity,” she said. Her academic journey grounds her, while pageantry empowers her to express that foundation publicly.
Harvey has faced her fair share of challenges, from balancing self-doubt and public expectation to navigating scrutiny and criticism. But she’s learned to stay rooted in her purpose and protect her peace. “I remind myself that I’m not just doing this for applause, I’m doing it for impact,” she said.
Paige Harvey taking the Miss Soweto 2023 crown. Photo: Supplied
One of the most impactful moments for Harvey was when she spoke to a group of schoolgirls about self-worth and purpose during Miss Soweto 2023. “One of them later told me that hearing my story gave her courage to apply for university,” she recalls. “That moment reminded me why I do pageantry – it isn’t just about the crown, it’s about connection,” said Harvey.
Her advice to young women pursuing multiple passions is simple: “Don’t let society box you in. You are allowed to do many things – smart, stylish, strategic, soft. Own every facet of your identity and don’t be afraid to show up fully.”
As she looks to the future, Harvey Paige hopes to continue competing on international stages and using her platform to spotlight youth empowerment and African excellence. She envisions a career that merges diplomacy, media and humanitarianism.
FEATURED IMAGE: Paige Harvey’s Miss SA 2025 entry picture, Photo: Supplied/Rendaldo Yarde
Since her announcement as the Democratic Alliance’s mayoral candidate for Johannesburg, Helen Zille has dominated national headlines. In this bonus episode of We Should Be Writing podcast, hosts Lulah Mapiye and Bonolo Mokonoto dissect a media meet-and-greet with the mayoral hopeful. From her extensive political résumé to her controversial public utterance, we examine why the Democratic Alliance has chosen Hellen Zille as their candidate for the 2027 local mayoral elections. Additionally, […]
