International students taking notable historical tour

International Students historical tour at Hector Peterson Museum

Lebina Ditha

The Vaal University of Technology has devised, over the years, several ways of welcoming its new students. The first years’ experience and orientation does introduce the diverse cultures inherent within the institution, however, our new international students are given a little something extra.

So, on 3 February, the Department of International Relations planned an excursion to some of South Africa’s most notable historical and heritage sites for a day of fun and learning.

Early that morning, everyone whom formed part of the excursion huddled at the office waiting for instructions from Senior Administrator Mrs. Venessa Bradbury, better known throughout campus by students as “Mama V”. Once the formalities were sorted out, about 40 students got onto a bus and were driven to see the VUT Science Park in Sebokeng, before heading out to Soweto where most of their day was spent.

The journey to Soweto was an opportunity for students to break national and language barriers through the sharing of personal stories. When the bus eventually came to a stop across the street from the Hector Pieterson Museum, friendships had already been made. Students got to explore the museum under the guidance of Mama V, who knows the precinct well.

Once the museum tour was done, everyone took a stroll down Vilakazi Street merrily sightseeing before taking a guided tour of Mandela House Museum. After this, students were free to walk down the street to admire the art pieces that were on show at the art market before retreating to the bus for some local delicacies.

After all, what is an excursion without food?

Once everyone was done, the bus was once again filled with laughter and conversation, before making its way back to campus. Its passengers were happy to have had a lesson in South African history, made new friends and memories.