Hail to Obz Square

It's official: Professor Thandabantu Nhlapo (front) and Archbishop Njongonkulu Ndungane declare Obz Square officially open.

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."

And with grand beginnings comes great responsibility.

"While the amazing technology and engineering are the bones and flesh that make up the residence, the spirit that animates its life come from its students and leaders," Lewis added.

Speaking on the night, both the chair of Council, Archbishop Njongonkulu Ndungane, and acting vice-chancellor, Professor Thandabantu Nhlapo, agreed that providing accommodation for all UCT students who need it remains an on-going challenge. The opening of Obz Square is, however, a step in the right direction. "The answer, in part, is in this residence," said Nhlapo.

The evening also marked the unveiling of the much-anticipated sculpture Layers of Mind by sculptor Angus Taylor, which now stands in front of the residence.

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