LOAD-SHEDDING BREAKS BRING RELIEF TO STUDENTS

Lesiba Dikhoba

@lesiba.dikhoba

South Africa has enjoyed over 100 consecutive days without load shedding, marking the longest streak since 2020. This achievement is largely attributed to the enhanced performance of Eskom’s coal-fired stations.

In recent months, students at the North-West University (NWU) have experienced an unusual break from load shedding — a disruption that had become a regular part of their lives. This unexpected break has brought relief to students. However, they remain mindful of the country’s unpredictable energy situation.

The regular power cuts that have long plagued South Africa for years have greatly affected students’ academic lives. Assignments, late-night studies, and online classes were often interrupted, prompting students to make adjustments to their schedules.

Despite the absence of power outages, many students stay vigilant in case load shedding returns. “So many months without load shedding calls for a cautious celebration,” said Andrew Moremi, a second-year Bachelor of Commerce in Management Sciences with Tourism Management, who continued to remark humorously that he still keeps his power bank and portable study light fully charged in an attempt to remain cautious.

In response to power cuts, NWU students implemented strategies to handle potential load shedding. For Thabang Seloane, saving study slides and staying updated prepares him for disruptions. “I always download my study slides immediately after they are made available to us by our lecturer because things can take a quick turn easily. I still have my EskomSePush app on my phone to keep myself in the loop,” said Seloane.

The emotional strain of load shedding is also evident as more students are less anxious, and the current break has allowed them to focus effectively on their academics. “It’s been a relief not having to worry about power going off when I have to prepare for an upcoming test and I can now study at any given time of the day,” said Liyema Radebe, a first-year Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences with Psychology and Labour Relations Management student.

At the NWU, students are enjoying the benefits of the current stable power supply, hoping this streak will become a new norm.

Edited by Simoné de Witt