Eendrag aims to be a community of individuals that every Eendragter can embrace as their own and that allows them to develop into more well rounded global citizens.
This is Eendrag
Die Huislied | House Song
In Eendrag we stand
Heads held high, outstretched hand
Staying true to the people around us
We our home, to the core
Like an Eagle we will soar
Taking charge of out new generation
Ngapantsi kwencambu ezomeleleyo
Kumthi weJakaranda, apho kuphuma
Amaqabi amatsha awavela kumlilo
Siyasanyuka, sadubuleka
Eendrag is hier gebou
Om ‘n eenheid voor te hou
Hegter as al die ander hegte bande
Vir Eendrag se naam
En sy glorie, eer en faam
Is daar nêrens iets groter te vinde
Our Values
— Respect
— Care
— Trust
— Challenge
Our Ethos
— Character
— Style
— Pride
Established in 1961
The History of Eendrag
For 60 years voices of young men have been echoing through Eendrag, ever since Kosie Koen, the first resident, moved in after the building (at a cost of R360 000) had been completed in 1961. The dining hall, which was the first to operate in cafeteria style, is to this day hailed as one of the best on campus. This is also where one finds the Hoek van Helde , where the most prominent Eendragters are honoured. Among them are Dirk Hertzog, Johann Rupert, Koos Bekker, Michiel Le Roux, Chris Otto, Riaan Cruywagen, Jacko Maree, Jurie Roux, Jan Scanell, Schalk Burger and Bun Booyens.
Residence Heads include iconic names such as Prof. FC Fenscham, Bun Booyens (who famously quoted that Eendragters were “handpicked”), Dok. Jannie Malan (namesake of the Archive), Oom Piet Eloff (legendary rugby player whom the Eetsaal had been named after) and Dok. Pierre Viviers, a well known Sports Physician, much loved and respected by current Eendrag residents.
A notable Eendrag story is when disaster struck on 9 August 2007 – when the top story of our beloved residence building caught fire and was completely destroyed. Residents pulled together in true Eendrag brotherhood and although they temporarily lost their house, they didn’t lose their home.
As winners of the academic cup three years consecutively, Eendrag is known for its academic excellence. This achievement fuelled rumours of a secret tunnel running directly from Eendrag to the library. Strange events led to further raise suspicion that this was indeed the case: In 1971 Dries Pienaar, the Minister of Transport, visited Eendrag. A vague explanation for his visit was given –Eendrag civil engineers supposedly requested his help with an unnamed project. Shortly afterwards,160 bags of cement were stolen from the Helshoogte construction site and the perpetrators were never found.
As far as cultural and sports activities go, Eendrag has also had a strong presence, reaching the finals of the Sauer Rugby Cup for the last three years, while the hockey boys were placed second. The debating team has dominated the orators platform and the Ser group always finish in the top three. In addition to these accolades, Eendrag has produced 9 Chancellor Medal recipients and a staggering 14 SRC Chairpersons.
Socially, Eendrag residents believe that one should work hard and play hard. The Eagles Pub is one of its kind and creates a warm environment (and boasting a fireplace), for Eendragters to bond with friends. First opened in 1981, it has since been moved to the quad and expanded in 2001.
Eendrag is famously known for its rich traditions throughout the years. The longest standing of these, Teekan, originally named Koffiekan, was introduced in 1968 and later renamed (1984). The Soete Teekan is still enjoyed on a daily basis by residents today. Damestouch, brain child of Anton Els, is another Eendrag tradition. This touchies-tournament for women’s residences, is a highlight on the social calendar. The event is also an opportunity to support needy communities.
After six decades of excellence, Eendrag residents pride themselves on being excellent citizens, by having a truly positive impact on society. Eendragters, old and new, are deeply aware of the privilege of being able to call this illustrious establishment their home. The Eendrag eagle, nestled in orange, sits proudly on their swollen chests.
Newcomers 2022
Feeling uncertain about what to expect when you arrive at Eendrag?
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions:
What can I expect from welcoming?
A friendly, information-packed experience where all Newcomers are properly introduced and welcomed to the University, residence life and the senior house.
Will there be sport, cultural events & socials?
Depending on the state of Covid-19 at the time, the University decides whether events are allowed. We will, however, still ensure you have the best possible welcoming experience.
When can I expect communication from Eendrag?
All necessary information will be communicated to you via email. Be sure to check your inbox about two months before welcoming.
House Committee 2021
Eduan Beukman
Primarius
Jaco Wagener
Vice-Primarius
Zahn Rijnen
Strategic Development
Chris Albertyn
HK - Foreign Affairs
Nicholas Campbell
HK - Chief of Staff
Todd Lewis
HK - Financial Manager
Sefan Rossouw
HK - Alumni Relations
Aidan Parsons
HK - Sport
Ronin Daniels
HK - Transformative Development
Gerrit Hugo
HK - Eendrag Appreciation
Carlton Matingo
HK - Culture and Campus
Tadiwanashe Kurewa
HK - Student Affairs
Petrus du Preez
HK - Public Relations
Johann Fourie
HK - Structural Development
Ruan Mackridge
HK - Social Affairs
Residence Head
Dok. Pierre Viviers
Doctor Pierre Viviers, also known as “Dok” to all Eendragters, joined the Eendrag community in 2012 as our residence head (inwonende hoof). Dok plays a pivotal role in Eendrag as a long- standing member of our House Committee. Dok gives critical input when decisions are being made by the HC that will affect the House. Dok has been looking out for the best interests of Eendragters for many years now and will continue to do so until his term ends. Dr Viviers, while also working as Eendrag’s residence head, works for Campus Health as the Senior Director of Primary Health Care and as a Sports Medicine Physician. More recently, Dok was appointed to the University of Stellenbosch’s Institutional Committee for Business Continuity (ICBC) as an advisor for managing the COVID-19 pandemic at Stellenbosch University. Another notable position held by Dr Viviers is that he is the current president of Maties Rugby.