By Hlakaniphile Vilakaz
Pretoria, South Africa – With the impending TUT SRC online elections scheduled for September 4-6, 2023, various organizations are launching robust campaigns to secure more student votes. The drive to garner support and engagement is in full swing as groups strive to connect with the student body.
On August 16, 2023, the TUT African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) extended an inviting gesture to all students. They welcomed students to join them for a cup of coffee and doughnuts at the South Campus building. Sibonokuhle Nkwanyana, the ANCYL secretary, highlighted the event’s objective, stating, “Our intention is to provide our cherished students with a warm cup of coffee during these chilly mornings, helping them start their day on a cozy note.”
Nkwanyana further emphasized that the event underscores ANCYL’s commitment to being a dependable organization. Nothando Ngobeni, a first-year student, expressed her gratitude, saying, “The campaign’s warmth and concern are palpable. It’s evident that they genuinely care about the students. Some of us weren’t able to prepare breakfast, and their presence really made a difference.” She also noted that students who had experienced power outages found the invitation particularly helpful.
Tshepo Mhlala, a member of ANCYL’s Branch Executive Committee (B.E.C), elucidated the campaign’s broader objective. “Our aim is to rally and mobilize young leaders, providing them a platform to shine. It’s time for the youth to take the center stage and showcase their potential,” he affirmed.
Cornelius Dipee, ANCYL’s Treasurer of the B.E.C, shed light on the strategy behind the coffee drive. “We are actively seeking to secure more student votes through this initiative. Our track record of winning elections over the past two years and obtaining a seat in the student parliament last year propels our confidence.” Dipee concluded optimistically, “This year, our aspirations extend to capturing 2-3 seats in the student parliament.”
As the election fervor intensifies, organizations like ANCYL are utilizing creative means to engage and connect with the student populace, promising dynamic leadership and empowerment for the future.
