ABOUT

PROSPECTIVE EENDRAGTERS

Eendrag has a rich history and legacy that has endured since its opening in 1961. It has been marked by years of growth, resilience, and a shared purpose. Eendrag has remained committed to its students, ensuring that we create an environment where we contribute to the development of all through a holistic approach.

This approach aims to ensure that you will leave Stellenbosch University as a well-rounded individual. As you join us in this landmark we would like to invite you to be part of this legacy, but in your own way, bring the ‘gees’, bring the vibrant you and contribute towards a legacy that will be long remembered afterwards. The welcoming program will be the start of a journey that will forever be part of your career.

We are looking forward to the journey with you in your new home where you will make lifelong friendships and build a network of future colleagues and business partners. Since its opening, Eendrag has remained committed to its students to ensure we create an environment where critical thinkers and the next leaders of each generation are developed holistically through academics, sport, and culture.

OUR HISTORY

When we reflect on the history of Eendrag we do it for two reasons: firstly, to look back at past achievements of the thousands of Eendragters that lived in our home before us and to draw pride and motivation from them. Secondly, to learn from the past mistakes made and to grow into the future through the preservation of old traditions and the cultivation of new ones.

Eendrag was built in 1961, and its name translates to unity: a value we try to instill in all Eendragters that is essential to the idea of a brotherhood of friends you live with for three or four years—your support structure. In those days, the residence head chose all the newcomers that were placed in Eendrag. He picked the best and the brightest, causing Eendrag to be synonymous with academic success on campus. From this practice originated the saying, “met die hand uitgesoek” which translates to handpicked. To be placed in Eendrag means that you are the cream of the crop, destined for great things. We can all stand on the shoulders of the Eendrag alumni before to achieve the same scholarly, sport, and business successes.

Eendrag’s rich academic success can also be ascribed to the direct link Eendrag allegedly has to the Stellenbosch University library. In the 1970s the then minister for transport visited Eendrag for unknown reasons, yet it was said to be of the utmost importance for Eendragters’ academic achievement. A few months later 160 bags of cement disappeared from the building area between Eendrag and Simonberg where a new residence (Helshoogte) was being built. It is said that these materials were used to build Eendrag a tunnel to the library. To this day it is thought to be one of the main reasons Eendrag has the edge over all other residences on campus.

OUR HOUSE SONG

In Eendrag we stand
Heads held high, outstretched hand
Staying true to the people around us
We’re our home, to the core
Like an eagle we will soar
Taking charge of our new generation

Ngaphantsi kwencambu ezomeleleyo
(Deep are the roots of the)
Kumthi weJakaranda, apho kuphuma
(Jacaranda tree steadfast)
Amaqabi amatsha awavela kumlilo
(From which new leaves appear)
Siyasanyuka, sadubuleka
(From the flames we have risen and bloomed)

Eendrag is hier gebou,
(Eendrag was built here)
Om ’n eenheid voor te hou
(To exemplify unity)
Hegter as al die ander hegte bande
(Stronger than the strongest bonds)
Vir Eendrag se naam en sy glorie, eer en faam
(For the name of Eendrag and his glory, honour and fame)
Is daar nêrens iets groters te vinde
(Nowhere anything greater is found)