Welcome to the club

To give you a break from the books, think about joining one of UCT’s many clubs and societies. With more than 100 student societies to choose from, there’s something there for everyone.

Why sign up?

Achieve a balance.

Clubs and societies allow you to do just that; you can take a step back from the books and do something you enjoy.

Make a difference.

If having a tangible impact on the world around you is your thing, there are plenty of opportunities available. We can think of at least one society that places animal welfare close to its heart, for example.

Meet new people.

We get that it’s difficult to settle in during your first year, but joining a club or society can help. You’ll meet people outside of your department or faculty, and you’ll get to know campus a little better.

Looks good on your CV.

In time you will need an internship and, depending on your course, there are a bunch of clubs and societies that look really good on your CV.

Learn more about yourself.

Joining a student organisation presents many opportunities to get to know yourself, your goals and your strengths better. This self-awareness can be beneficial in future.

How can I join?

In 2021 you can join clubs and societies via PeopleSoft or Vula online. You can then pay a membership fee via EFT or have the club, society or development agency charge it to your fee account.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) does not fund extramural activities, but if sponsored students would like to participate in societies or development agencies, they can contact societies@uct.ac.za.

“First year is the time to experience different clubs, societies and groups on campus. While it is important to dedicate time to your studies, it is important to have experiences as well. Do a little salsa, some fencing, maybe bang on the drums.” – Aamirah

Here are a few club options to pique your interest:

Academic:

• AIESEC (the world’s largest student organisation)
• Association of Black Securities and Investment Professionals
• Association of Built Environment Students
• Association of South African Black Actuaries

Special interest:

• Art of Living – SMILE
• Debating Union
• Fashion Society
• Film Society
• Habitat for Humanity
• Photographic Society

Faith:

• Acts Kolbe Catholic Society
• Christian Medical Fellowship
• Hindu Students Society
• Muslim Students’ Association
• South African Union of Jewish Students

Politics:

• Economic Freedom Fighters Student Command
• Democratic Alliance Students’ Organisation
• Palestine Solidarity Forum
• The South African Students’ Congress
• United Nations Association of SA

National/Cultural:

• Abantu Zambian Society
• Congolese Society
• East African Students’ Association
• Ghana Society
• UCT Asian Student’s Association

Check out the full list of available clubs and societies.

“Learn from people who are different from you. Engage with discourse that is outside your discipline. This helps you graduate with a well-rounded perspective of the world around you.” – Velile