Stellenbosch University's (SU) newly elected SRC chairperson, Axolile Qina, a master's degree student in Theology, says his first and biggest goal for his term is to unite the campus.
Axolile, known among fellow students as Diamond, was elected by the new Student Representative Council (SRC), last night (27 August). He also served on Helderberg Men's residence's house committee for the last three years, this year as primarius (head student).
"I am so overwhelmed, it is such a humbling experience," Axolile said at a breakfast with former SRC chairs, among others Erica Venter, the first women to hold this position, and Chris Jones, Chairperson of the Club for former SRC chairpersons.
"My vision is to unite the campus and to change the mind-set of students to a human consciousness, realising we are all human. I want to get all the student bodies and societies around one table, because this needs to be an united effort.
"We are at a crossroads, not only at Stellenbosch, but in our country, and there are going to be some big challenges on the road ahead, but I am not one to shy away from a challenge. I am looking forward to this opportunity."
Prof Wim de Villiers, Rector en Vice-Chancellor, congratulated Axolile and wished him all the best with the term ahead.
"The University finds itself in turbulent times, and it is now more than ever that we need visionary leadership. I look forward to working with Axolile and the SRC to take the University forward and to make it a place everyone can be proud of. We have a deep appreciation for the hard work that the SRC has put in over the last few months to not only advise but also to challenge Management on issues that are important to students. This includes fruitful discussions on transformation. I am confident that Axolile and his team will successfully take over the baton in this regard."
