Latest news with #StellenboschUniversity
The Herald
3 days ago
- General
- The Herald
‘Justice not served': Family outraged as student who urinated on Babalo Ndwayana's belongings walks free
The family of Babalo Ndwayana has expressed deep disappointment after the acquittal of former Stellenbosch University student Theuns du Toit, who was caught on video urinating on Ndwayana's belongings in a university residence in 2022. Du Toit was cleared this week of charges of crimen injuria and malicious damage to property, bringing a three-year legal process to a controversial close. The Stellenbosch magistrate's court found there was insufficient grounds to convict him. The incident, which went viral on social media at the time, drew national outrage and sparked renewed debate on racism and privilege in South African institutions. Ndwayana's father Mkuseli Kaduka, told TimesLIVE the family was devastated by the Stellenbosch magistrate's court's decision. 'Babalo and myself are both disappointed and devastated by the outcome of the case. Justice was by no means served at all,' said Kaduka. Stellenbosch University said it considered the process fair and closed. Meanwhile the SU convocation lamented the damage caused by the case to the university's reputation and called for an apology to Du Toit.
TimesLIVE
4 days ago
- TimesLIVE
‘Justice not served': Family outraged as student who urinated on Babalo Ndwayana's belongings walks free
The family of Babalo Ndwayana has expressed deep disappointment after the acquittal of former Stellenbosch University student Theuns du Toit, who was caught on video urinating on Ndwayana's belongings in a university residence in 2022. Du Toit was cleared this week of charges of crimen injuria and malicious damage to property, bringing a three-year legal process to a controversial close. The Stellenbosch magistrate's court found there was insufficient grounds to convict him. The incident, which went viral on social media at the time, drew national outrage and sparked renewed debate on racism and privilege in South African institutions. Ndwayana's father Mkuseli Kaduka, told TimesLIVE the family was devastated by the Stellenbosch magistrate's court's decision. 'Babalo and myself are both disappointed and devastated by the outcome of the case. Justice was by no means served at all,' said Kaduka. Stellenbosch University said it considered the process fair and closed. Meanwhile the SU convocation lamented the damage caused by the case to the university's reputation and called for an apology to Du Toit.
IOL News
6 days ago
- Science
- IOL News
Why dragonflies are essential for freshwater ecosystem conservation
The dragonfly Allocnemis leucostica Image: Charl Deacon Dragonflies, often seen flitting gracefully above ponds and waterways, are not merely aesthetic wonders; they are crucial sentinels of our freshwater ecosystems. A recent assessment by a team of international dragonfly experts, including notable scientists from Stellenbosch University's Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology, has issued a clarion call for the enhanced incorporation of dragonflies into global biodiversity conservation efforts. Their findings highlight the urgent need for a structured and targeted approach to preserve these irreplaceable insects, which indicate the health of aquatic environments. In their comprehensive review published in the journal Insect Conservation and Diversity, the researchers outline a pragmatic five-point action plan aimed at elevating the role of dragonflies in conservation initiatives. This plan includes: Expanding dragonfly assessment and monitoring protocols. Integrating dragonflies into standard environmental toxicological risk assessments. Utilising insights from dragonfly biology to enhance landscape conservation strategies. Coordinating dragonfly conservation with broader initiatives for other species. Advocating for increased environmental education centred around dragonflies. The urgency of conserving dragonflies cannot be overstated. As stated by the researchers: 'Dragonflies are a key component of freshwater and neighbouring land ecosystems,' underscoring their value in assessing both water and land quality. By monitoring specific groups of dragonfly species within defined habitats, stakeholders can glean critical insights into environmental degradation and the necessary actions to restore impacted areas. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Unfortunately, dragonflies face significant threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and the encroachment of invasive species, all exacerbated by human activity. Yet the most daunting threat remains the rising tides of climate change, which are reconfiguring ecosystems and altering the habitats these insects rely on for survival. Highlighting the interconnectedness of these challenges, the authors argue that dragonflies can serve as effective barometers for measuring conservation success. Initiatives such as sustainable land-use practices, wetland protection, and eco-friendly city planning all stand to benefit from a focus on dragonfly populations. To underpin these efforts, the scientists advocate for ongoing monitoring of dragonfly populations, particularly at the early stages of conservation programmes. By documenting changes in distribution and numbers over time, one can quantify threats and better measure the success of implemented strategies. This data not only reinforces conservation priorities but also informs critical policy decisions that aim to enhance biodiversity protection. Yet it is not just the data that informs these initiatives; local expertise plays a pivotal role in translating research into action. Understanding the traits and capabilities of individual dragonfly species may reveal pathways for adaptation or highlight vulnerabilities to local extinction. As the database on dragonfly traits expands, researchers note the necessity for tools that facilitate species identification and foster greater knowledge of their ecological roles. Furthermore, dragonflies' charismatic presence can serve as a cornerstone for environmental education, bridging diverse communities and sparking collective interest in conservation. The scientists highlight the potential for citizen science projects to democratise conservation efforts, encouraging local participation in monitoring and protecting dragonfly habitats. Exploring the cultural significance of dragonflies can deepen public engagement and inspire policy interventions that prioritise their conservation.
Eyewitness News
6 days ago
- Eyewitness News
Stellenbosch urination saga: Lawyer says du Toit relieved after acquittal
Ntuthuzelo Nene 28 May 2025 | 7:15 Stellenbosch University Theuns du Toit Stellenbosch University, Wikimedia Commons CAPE TOWN - The lawyer of a former Stellenbosch University student charged with urinating on another student's belongings says his client is relieved that his criminal case has been finalised. Theuns du Toit was found guilty of contravening several of the university's disciplinary code for students, following an incident at campus residence, Huis Marais, three years ago. Du Toit was filmed urinating on fellow student Babalo Ndwayana's books and laptops in May 2022. He was expelled by the university and later charged with crimen injuria and malicious damage to property. Du Toit has been acquitted on all charges. His lawyer, Dirk van Niekerk, said the case was based on lies. "It was proven that the computer didn't sustain any damages, the book wasn't damaged, and various other issues, and this whole racist label that was hung around his neck in a dramatic fashion has been removed now, so we are extremely happy about that." He said he would meet with his client soon to map a way forward. "I think it will take some time to consider his position and do a proper consultation within the next couple of weeks. He's also due to start his exams now, he's studying at a different institution."
News24
7 days ago
- Business
- News24
City Power faces financial ruin; ‘Tsotsi' star dies: Today's top 7 stories in 7 minutes
News24 brings you the top 7 reads of the day. News24 brings you the top stories of the day, summarised into neat little packages. Read through quickly or listen to the articles via our customised text-to-speech feature. 'I know she fought': Murdered Olorato Mongale's final moments revealed Olorato Mongale was murdered after meeting a man she connected with online; the man picked her up in a car with cloned plates. Her friend tracked her phone to multiple locations, eventually finding her belongings in Kew and her body in Lombardy West, Johannesburg. Police are investigating the man, known as 'John', and a possible accomplice, while Olorato's family and friends mourn the loss of a loving and ambitious young woman. Stellenbosch urination saga: Court finds Theuns du Toit not guilty Theuns du Toit, a former Stellenbosch University student, was acquitted of crimen injuria and malicious damage to property. The charges stemmed from a 2022 incident where he urinated on the belongings of fellow student Babalo Ndwayana. Du Toit had pleaded not guilty to the charges in the Stellenbosch Magistrate's Court. R16.3bn crisis: Joburg's City Power faces financial ruin as mayor allegedly buries reports City Power's R16.3 billion negative bank balance is jeopardising Johannesburg's ability to deliver services and remain financially sustainable, with the municipality having to fund the utility's operations from its own budget. Mayor Dada Morero is accused of concealing reports about City Power's financial crisis from the Johannesburg council, potentially violating the Municipal Finance Management Act. Internal documents warn of a looming collapse of services in Johannesburg due to City Power's inability to pay its liabilities, with the City's funds being used to prop up the utility. Rand buoyant ahead of rates decision The rand has strengthened to its best levels since December 2024 due to a weaker dollar and speculation about a new, lower inflation target in South Africa. Analysts are divided on whether the South African Reserve Bank will cut interest rates this week, with a lower inflation target potentially limiting future cuts. The dollar is under pressure due to concerns about US tax cuts adding trillions to the national debt and investor unease over President Donald Trump's economic policies. Award-winning Tsotsi and The River star Presley Chweneyagae dies aged 40 Actor Presley Chweneyagae, known for his role as Cobra on The River and in the film Tsotsi, has died at the age of 40. Chweneyagae gained international recognition for his starring role in Tsotsi, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2005. His management confirmed his death, highlighting his legacy as a gifted actor, mentor, and advocate for empowering the next generation of artists. Veteran broadcaster Darren Scott dies after decades-long cancer battle Radio broadcaster Darren Scott has died at the age of 60 after a long battle with cancer. Scott had been battling melanoma since 1986, and the cancer aggressively returned in early 2023. His former wife expressed gratitude for the support he received, with over R515 000 raised to aid his treatment. Robyn Beck / AFP World's Strongest Man Rayno Nel happy to carry Mzansi on his back: 'It's life-changing' Rayno Nel, South Africa's World's Strongest Man, is grateful for the support he's received after his historic win, attributing his success to mental strength and his wife's support. Nel balances his strongman aspirations with his job as an engineering director, training extensively while relying on mental fortitude to overcome challenging sessions. His wife, Mayno Nel, plays a crucial role by providing support, managing his diet, and assisting with media, highlighting the sacrifices and teamwork involved in his journey to success.
