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MANY residents were fooled into believing that the wailing sirens of police vehicles and the fire brigade roaring through the streets of Kimberley meant that there was a catastrophic event unfolding in the city on Monday.
However, the convoy was actually escorting Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) mascot, Gemmie, along with a team of cheerleaders as part of Varsity Shield celebrations.
SPU’s director of institutional advancement, Kashini Maistry, explained that the event was designed to “turn heads and bring the city to life” as students begin the new academic year this week.
“For the first time ever, SPU has earned its place in the Varsity Shield tournament, proving we can successfully compete with South Africa’s top university rugby teams. But this moment is bigger than rugby - it’s about putting SPU, Kimberley, and the Northern Cape on the national sports stage,” said Maistry.
She added that more activities were planned to celebrate new achievements in the upcoming year.
“We’re turning up the energy, making a noise, and ensuring everyone feels the impact,” Maistry stated.