Enter the RADC essay competition for residence students

The University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Residence Academic Development Committee (RADC) is launching an essay competition to foster diversity and inclusivity among students in residences. This will run until 23 September 2021.

The theme is “Reflections about Africa and Women’s Month”. The competition aims to promote learning, diversity, shared knowledge, values and community life among students, said RADC logistics coordinator, Tendai Mbanje.

Entries are limited to 500 words. Prizes range from hoodies to laptop bags.

The topics are:

• Critically engage on what it takes for one to count as African. Please provide reflections on lived experiences of women in Africa, highlighting the key challenges and possible solutions.
• Re‑thinking diversity: What does diversity mean in the context of higher education, and why is diversity important for Africans?
• Critically interrogate why Africa is poor and what can be done to change this. Discuss why women and children carry the burden of poverty.
• What are the core values of ubuntu and how can ubuntu be identified and experienced at UCT and in Africa?
• What does community life mean for Africans and women? Describe the best community life you have experienced within an African context. What are key lessons?
• Tell us about an inspiring challenge that you have overcome as a UCT student in residence. How is this story important for other students? What can they learn from your experience?

The essay competition has been funded by the RADC. The RADC is grounded in a collaboration protocol between residences and faculties and their Living and Learning projects are aimed at nurturing student success. RADC members include faculty representatives appointed by the deans, Student Housing and Residence Life staff, representatives from the Students’ Representative Council, and student leadership within the residences. Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Transformation Professor Martin Hall chairs the RADC.

Essays should be submitted to Mbanje at radc-logistics@uct.ac.za and copy in mbnten001@myuct.ac.za.

No late applications will be accepted. If you have any questions, please email mbnten001@myuct.ac.za