??Stellenbosch 肆客足球's (SU) Development and Alumni Relations Division, in collaboration with the Old SRC Chairpersons' Club, hosted a prestigious mass SRC reunion during the 2024 Maties Homecoming period (on Friday13 September) where Prof Tulio de Oliveira was presented with the Club's Honorary Award.
This award is given annually to a member of the SU Convocation who has made a significant contribution to South African society. Among the 270 guests were esteemed alumni including Amanda le Roux from the 1968 SRC, Dr Theo de Jager, current SU Convocation President, and Justice Edwin Cameron, SU Chancellor and former 1976 SRC member. Peggy Vreken (2000), Nomzamo Ntombela (2017), Wynoma Michaels (1999) and outgoing SRC President for 2023-2024, Phiwokuhle Qabaka, were some of the women former presidents who attended the reunion.
De Oliveira, a world-renowned bioinformatician, received the award for his groundbreaking contributions to science, most notably his work in sequencing the Omicron variant of COVID-19. In his acceptance speech, he shared two powerful stories of how bioinformatics has influenced pivotal global events. The first was the case of six foreign doctors who were imprisoned in Libya for seven years, accused of deliberately infecting 400 children with HIV. De Oliveira and a team of scientists provided critical evidence that showed the virus was present at the Al Fateh Children's Hospital in Benghazi before the doctors arrived. Their findings revealed that the HIV outbreak was likely caused by poor infection control practices, ultimately leading to the doctors' release.
The second story detailed his role in sequencing the Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus, which revealed its unique properties of rapid spread and distinct symptoms. His decision to inform the South African government, despite knowing the implications of extended lockdowns and economic repercussions, undoubtedly saved lives. However, it also placed him and his team under immense pressure, including death threats, necessitating security at both the SU Biomedical Research Institute and his home.
Reflecting on these experiences, De Oliveira emphasised the difficult choices leaders must often make for the greater good, even at great personal risk. He drew parallels between the challenges faced by scientists and those encountered by the past SU SRC leaders, stating, “A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others." His message resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom have held leadership roles during their time at the university and continue to do so in industry, society, the academy, and community today.
Dr Pieter-Schalk Bothma, Chairperson of the Old SRC Chairpersons' Club, closed the evening by thanking De Oliveira for his profound message and presenting him with the award. The event was a celebration of leadership, service, and the courage to make a difference, qualities embodied by both De Oliveira and the many distinguished former SRC members present.
The Mass SRC Reunion, which was held for the first time in 20 years, was a memorable evening, highlighting the ongoing impact of SU leadership alumni in South Africa and beyond.
Photo credit: Go Trolley
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