October has long held a special place in the hearts of South African university students, despite the fact it marks a ramp-up in workload ahead of final exams. Because October possesses a virtue that is off limits to every other month: Oktoberfest, the best excuse of the year to get drunk on cheap beer. Invented by the Germans (initially in the form of a royal celebration), this beer drinking nation at the southern tip of Africa has taken to Oktoberfest like a duck to water – golden, bubbly water of the intoxicating variety.
Adding to my nostalgia this October was a visit to my Alma Mater at the University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) Auckland Park campus. There are other reasons I’ve had varsity on my mind, though. The latest global rankings from the authority on such things, QS World University Rankings, show that the University of Cape Town continues to be the pride of SA, although its ranking slipped from 141 to 171 in the world. Two of our other institutions – Stellenbosch University and Wits – made it into the top 400, with a total of nine qualifying for the rankings, which is two more than last year. UJ occupied a spot in the 601 to 650 range.
But, of course, the elephant in the room is the wave of protest from students across the country against fee hikes. Idealistically it would be wonderful if cost were no barrier for our youth to have the opportunity to further themselves. It would also be in the country’s best interests to give them the chance to be the best they can be in their area of expertise. Pragmatically, though, a university education is expensive, and the money has to come from somewhere. If only some bright spark could work out the answer to that problem.
Read more...Products of the Year 2025
News
With the electronics industry slowly rebounding after the downturn of 2024, many new and exciting products were announced across the various sectors. These are my picks for 2025.
Read more...Latest European market figures
News
The latest market figures indicate a modest, but notable return to growth across the European electronic components sector.
Read more...2025 GSA award nominees
News
The Global Semiconductor Alliance recently announced the nominees in various awards categories. Winners will be revealed at a gala event on 04 December 2025.
Read more...SAPVIA hails R2bn credit guarantee fund for transmission expansion
News
Soon after the mini budget was delivered in parliament, the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) congratulated Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, for the announcement of a R2 billion Credit Guarantee Vehicle.
Read more...Automotive Ethernet communications EBV Electrolink
News
EBV Elektronik has expanded its automotive solutions offering with Infineon’s Marvell Automotive Ethernet portfolio.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version