By Lesedi Letwaba
The SRC 2026 Welcome Bash transformed campus into a high-energy celebration as students gathered for a night of music, dance and connection. Designed to welcome both new and returning students, the event created a vibrant social space where the pressures of registration season briefly gave way to rhythm and movement.
As the venue filled, students sang along, danced in groups and shared moments that reflected the excitement of entering a new academic year together. The atmosphere captured the essence of student life community, release and collective celebration.
Keeping the energy high throughout the night, MCs President Yadi Easy Target, known as Ngwato, and Mfana wa Molobedu, also known as Thapelo Rabothata, guided the programme seamlessly, linking performances with humour and crowd engagement.
MCs Thapelo Rabothata and Ngwato share the stage. Photo by: Mohau Seleka and Dimpho Boshomane
Performances formed the heartbeat of the evening, with artists delivering energetic sets that kept the audience entertained from start to finish. Rakgoale Nelly Machete, popularly known as Shandesh, energized the crowd with upbeat Lekompo sounds that quickly drew students to the dance floor. Jack Nthoneng Makwela, known as Nattiey Lepaka, matched the momentum with a confident stage presence and dance-driven performance.
Rakgoale Nelly Machete, popularly known as Shandesh. Photo by: Mohau Seleka and Dimpho Boshomane
Jack Nthoneng Makwela, known as Nattiey Lepaka. Photo by: Mohau Seleka and Dimpho Boshomane
Amapiano vocalist Babili Aymos Shili, known by his stage name Aymos, shifted the mood with smooth vocals that encouraged sing-along moments, while Oratile Kgwatlha, also known as Big Baller CEO, added bold Bacardi-inspired energy that sustained the festive atmosphere.
Oratile Kgwatlha, known as Big Baller CEO. Photo by: Mohau Seleka and Dimpho Boshomane
Aymos Shili. Photo by: Mohau Seleka and Dimpho Boshomane
Gundo Masokana, known as Gusba Banana, blended dance sounds that kept the floor alive before being joined on stage by Sjava for a performance of their song Xigubu, which drew loud cheers from the crowd.
Gusba Banana shares the stage with Sjava. Photo by: Mohau Seleka and Dimpho Boshomane
Reflecting on the event, first-entering postgraduate student Phetolo Mokgotho said the bash came at the perfect time. “This was the kind of entertainment we needed to refresh after the fatigue of the registration period,” he said.
First-year student Clington Mulamuri Mashaba echoed the sentiment, saying, “I had a great time. If possible, they should host events like this every two months.”
