Dear new Libertarian,

First and foremost I would like to welcome YOU to the most renowned PSO ward on campus and I’m glad that Libertas got this wonderful opportunity to form part of the best time of your life, as a student at the University of Stellenbosch.

Libertas is the PSO with the richest history, traditions and achievements. We pride ourselves in the men we help sculpt, at their time in Stellenbosch, and that enters the world there after. The friendships you make while at Libertas will be the best you’ve ever made.  

Libertas is excited to say that in 2012 we are celebrating our 39th year of existence and makes us the oldest PSO ward on campus. Libertas was named after legendary old Matie and founder of Libertas, Mr. Robbie Blair’s old farm, in Stellenbosch.

Libertas as such can be broken up and each letter holds its own meaning.

L: stands for the essence of being a Libertarian, it stands for "liberty"/liberté "freedom". This idea also lies behind that very beautiful and rich Libertas symbol of the eagle with its sprayed wings. It is one of the oldest symbols of humankind. It is rich in meaning, but basically it stands for a free and exploring spirit, like the eagle who has a god's eye view from a distant perspective. Cherish this new freedom, extent your academic and human horizons, for as the saying goes: an unexplored life is not worth living. But remember freedom without boundaries is no freedom, it is slavery.

I stands for interaction: you have become part of a universitas, a human totality. Never again will you have contact with a such a wide variety of people coming from all spheres of life. You will learn very soon that Libertas is a ward famous for interaction, we are fond of socializing! Don’t lock yourself in your room, get out, participate, meet new people and most important of all, enjoy every moment!

The B stands for balance: You’ll soon see that this is very important as you’ll need to balance your academics, sports, culture, lovelife etc.

E reminds me of one of the most central values in human society, namely "equality". The motto of the French revolution was liberté, egalité (equality) en fraternité. We in Libertas are all equals. We don't discriminate against each other on account of the fact that we are coming from different provinces, schools, different cultural groups or religions, we are ONE big family!

The R spells responsibilty: Liberté (freedom) without responsibility is no freedom. At this institution you will be confronted daily by a myriad of choices. Shall I stay away from class, shall I allow myself another drink? Eventually the onus lies with you to say: I will grasp this opportunity, I will leave that one. Therefore, cultivate a healthy sense of responsibility. You will need this quality sooner than you think.

The T stands for "talent". At this University you are going to meet alot of people that is very talented academically, in sport etc. Don’t get discouraged, there is a place for you here, you just need to find YOUR talent.

The A stands for "academic". Remember that your first and primary purpose here is to study. The word study derives from a Latin word studere which means "to dedicate yourself to something". It is not easy, it will take time, but believe me, you will reap the benefits.

The S in Libertas equals "spirit". This is one you should come and see for yourself and I promise you, you won’t be disappointed.

Libertas is more than just a lot of words, it’s a way of life and I’m looking forward in welcoming you personally in 2012.

Libertas excels in various terrains from sport where our First Years Rugby Team WON three out of the last four years, our Soccer Teams WON the Premier League for the last five years and much more to cricket, culture and academics. We are the BEST on campus and we were awarded the prize for the BEST academically PSO Men's Ward of 2009... and the list goes on!

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