Navigating Matieland – Growth, Belonging, and Success with Dr Leslie van Rooi
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In this powerful episode of SiyaKhula Live, recorded during the height of the 2026 registration season, Katlego Letlonkane is joined by Dr Leslie van Rooi, Acting Dean of Students and Senior Director of Social Impact and Transformation at Stellenbosch University.
Dr Van Rooi shares his "phenomenal" first impressions of a campus that is officially buzzing with energy, as thousands of students settle into the new academic year. Reflecting on his own journey as a student arriving in the Eikestad all the way from Upington, he provides a deeply personal and professional roadmap for how the #ClassOf2026 can thrive in their new home.
In this episode, we explore:
- The Pulse of Campus: Dr Van Rooi’s impressions of the first few days of the year and the "ripple effect" of energy created by the University’s welcoming programme.
- Support for Every Matie: A look at the specialised structures—including the SOAR programme—designed to support first-generation students, students from marginalised communities, and students of colour as they navigate the adjustment to university life.
- Holistic Success: Why true transformation happens both inside and outside the classroom, from joining societies to finding "informal" support networks in your residence or koshuis.
- The New Dean of Students Office: How the university’s recent structural shifts are putting student well-being and success at the very centre of the rectorate's agenda.
- A Changing Landscape: An update on the renovations of the University’s iconic Admin buildings on Victoria Street and how these projects aim to create a more accessible and inclusive campus for all.
Dr Van Rooi leaves listeners with a vital message: the university is here to "hold" you on your journey, but you must be ready to seize every opportunity that comes your way.
Jou Matie-reis begin hier. Once a Matie, always a Matie. MFM 92.6 – celebrating the start of your story.
Dr Van Rooi shares his "phenomenal" first impressions of a campus that is officially buzzing with energy, as thousands of students settle into the new academic year. Reflecting on his own journey as a student arriving in the Eikestad all the way from Upington, he provides a deeply personal and professional roadmap for how the #ClassOf2026 can thrive in their new home.
In this episode, we explore:
- The Pulse of Campus: Dr Van Rooi’s impressions of the first few days of the year and the "ripple effect" of energy created by the University’s welcoming programme.
- Support for Every Matie: A look at the specialised structures—including the SOAR programme—designed to support first-generation students, students from marginalised communities, and students of colour as they navigate the adjustment to university life.
- Holistic Success: Why true transformation happens both inside and outside the classroom, from joining societies to finding "informal" support networks in your residence or koshuis.
- The New Dean of Students Office: How the university’s recent structural shifts are putting student well-being and success at the very centre of the rectorate's agenda.
- A Changing Landscape: An update on the renovations of the University’s iconic Admin buildings on Victoria Street and how these projects aim to create a more accessible and inclusive campus for all.
Dr Van Rooi leaves listeners with a vital message: the university is here to "hold" you on your journey, but you must be ready to seize every opportunity that comes your way.
Jou Matie-reis begin hier. Once a Matie, always a Matie. MFM 92.6 – celebrating the start of your story.
