22/07/2022

Staff and students will return to a number of changes on its Gqeberha campuses at the start of the second semester - all aimed at better managing the Metro’s dwindling water supply.

While recent rains have granted the University a reprieve in terms of pushing back Day Zero, the water shortage will continue to impact the Metro with intermittent water outages, low water pressure and possible water leaks and breakages.

The more water we save, as the Metro also restricts the daily outflow from the supply dams through throttling, the longer we can collectively delay reaching Day Zero when the taps run dry.

As a result, the introduction of various plans  by the University is continuing, including the  implementation of medium-term alternative water supply plans to ensure that students are able to complete their studies for 2022 without too much inconvenience.

Details of these plans will continue to be shared, along with divisional interventions to better manage our limited water supply.

What to expect:

  • The presence of additional emergency water tanks at strategic points, such as high-volume lecture areas, clinics and kitchens. These tanks will be filled with drinking water should the municipal water supply be seriously disrupted, or when the taps run dry.
  • Extensive construction work across North, Ocean Sciences, South and Second Avenue campuses as part of the medium-term plans to connect alternative water sources of borehole and reclaimed water to residences (see images below), and other areas.
  • Water saving awareness reminders on outside digital screens, internal screens, social media platforms and on posters.    
  • On-campus classes, experiential learning activities, and in-person assessments as well as online LT and assessments will continue as planned. Lecturers will communicate these arrangements per module to students. Some in-person assessment activities might be shifted to Missionvale Campus, but this will be communicated to students ahead of time.

What is expected of us:

  • Continuing to be responsible, especially when it comes to decision-making around our resources e.g. hosting of events, reducing numbers of staff on campus without impacting on the academic project.
  • Using water wisely is critical. By way of example, as we continue to prioritise the health of staff and students, it is critical that we don’t stop washing our hands as a water-saving measure. Where possible, however, put some water in a basin to wash your hands instead of letting the tap run while you wash your hands. Please continue to save water to hold off Day Zero.
  • Consider bringing your own drinking water to work or to lectures if this is possible.  Or bring your own drinking bottle or container for filling up.
  • Holding one another accountable when it comes to water usage.
  • Reporting of leaks or water abuse water@mandela.ac.za or Ext 8000.

Contact information
Dr Andre Hefer
Sustainability Engineer
Tel: 041 504 1456
andre.hefer@mandela.ac.za