Rector reception 2008

On Thursday 17 January, the group was privileged to attend a reception that was hosted by the Rector for the programme. Although he could unfortunately not attend the function himself, the Vice-Rector, Ms Stefanie Gropper addressed the group. She emphasised the importance of the programme, not only for learning about the German culture; but also to strengthen the partnership between South Africa and Germany. She also thanked Barbara for her efforts.
Wolfgang Mekle, the Director of the International Office, welcomed the distinguished guests and also the group. He valued the partnership that Tübingen University and Stellenbosch University – the co-ordinator from South Africa’s side – have. He also mentioned the special relationship the state of Baden-Württemberg has with especially the Eastern Cape, Kwazulu Natal and Gauteng regions in South Africa and that this relationship makes the programme possible.
The Ministry of Stuttgart was represented by Ms Melanie Gentner. She gave her continued support of the programme and wished all participants well. It was a wonderful opportunity for the group to meet with her, as the Ministry makes so much funding available to run the programme. Mrs Martha Olckers, the South African Consulate General and Mr Martin Ngundze, Vice Consul: Politics, based in Munich, also attended the function. Mrs Olckers thanked Barbara and her team for their continued support of South Africa in the form of this special programme. She encouraged the participants to treasure this once in a lifetime opportunity and to make the most of it. She ‘wished the group snow’ – something everyone hopes to see and experience before the end of the week!
Brigitte Pfeiffer and Joanne Dittrich from SAFRI (Daimler AG) also attended the special occasion and again the group could meet with the representatives of the organisation that sponsored their air tickets. What a privilege to meet the people that made all of this possible!
The participants, dressed in their colourful traditional clothes, made a great impression on the guests and gave new meaning to the South African Rainbow Nation. Traditional gifts were handed to the special guests and sponsors present. The evening ended on a high note – literally – when the group performed songs in Xhosa, Afrikaans, Sotho and German! The most memorable songs were Shosalosa and the National Anthem.
Afterwards drinks and sandwiches were enjoyed, photos were taken and yet another unforgettable memory – like so many others thus far – was made.

by Lidia du Plessis

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Update (23/01/08)