Hail to Obz Square, say residents

Obz Square has been a project of many milestones, each celebrated with due pomp and ceremony. The latest celebration, on 3 April, was to mark the residence's official opening, which of course happened earlier this year. Now settled in, the students and staff are reaping the rewards of this labour of love, and they love it.

"The people who designed this building had the chief aim in mind to make students' lives easier," says resident and arts student Nina Lewis. "This allows us to focus on our priorities, such as academics."

Speaking on the night, both the chair of Council, Archbishop Njongonkulu Ndungane, and acting vice-chancellor Professor Thandabantu Nhlapo (middle and left in photo) agreed that providing accommodation for all UCT students who need it remains an ongoing challenge. The opening of Obz Square is, however, a step in the right direction.

"The answer, in part, is in this residence," said Nhlapo.