Department of Geography & Environmental Studies, Stellenbosch University

Parents of Geography students will be pleased to hear that our students take both their studies and socialising very seriously. Aandklas (Evening Class) is the most popular hangout spot among our Geography students, according to a survey recently conducted by the SA City module students among first- to honours-year Geography students. The top five places are:
1. Aandklas (35,4%)
2. Ginos (31,2%)
3. Akker (28,6%)
4. Fools Gold (27,5%); Kapstad Brauhaus (27,5%)
5. Dorp (27%); Lapa (27%)

The Department had the opportunity to host students from Rollins College from the USA this week. A great learning experience, and we look forward to welcoming you next year!

Suzanne Grenfell took her Geomorphology Honours students out on one of their field classes this week. Much was learnt.

A final few photos of a memorable visit by students and staff from the University of Iceland to the department. I personally will visit them in three weeks' time. It was great hosting you!

The Department was delighted to host again a group of staff and students from the University of Iceland who focus on geography and tourism issues this past week. We have expanded on a now firm tradition of exchanges between us.

Dr Nora Winsky of the University of Freiburg and Research Visitor, presented her preliminary report on "German Swallows" in the Western Cape. Many new insights were shared.

Today, Frida and Edda, University of Iceland, presented students and staff with an insightful talk on energy utilisation in Iceland. They have been trusted partners of the Department within the Erasmus+ programme for a number of years.

Please join us for this wonderful story!

Last week, Dr Lydia Osei organised a highly successful symposium titled "Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining: The past, present and future" in the Department. The keynote speaker was Professor Bjorn von der Heyden of Earth Sciences at SU. He is currently the ARM Chair in Geometallurgy at SU.

Hannes van der Merwe gave a wonderful presentation on his newly released book about the "Houdenbek uprising of 1825". It also became something of a mini reunion for some past and present staff members.