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| More pedal power |
This means there can be twice as many cars for the spaces available (though there are many designated grass areas too) …
And this, in turn, means we can expect to have a couple of disgruntled customers as proved to be the case for a third-year student who shared his parking frustrations via a letter in the local Herald newspaper. He’d been unable to find parking anywhere and then to add insult to injury was fined for parking where he eventually did find a spot.
So yes, parking is at a premium, just as it is at most of South Africa’s urban universities. (As an aside, the University of Cape uses some kind of lottery system to distribute its meager parking spoils).
But here’s the deal with NMMU.
NMMU wants to cut back on the number of cars visiting its campuses. It wants to try to reduce its carbon footprint and instill a "green approach” among its students.
That’s why the university is encouraging lift clubs, offers a free inter-campus shuttle system and suggests students use public transport – buses or taxis – instead.
It is also hoping to introduce a bicycle rental system on campus too – again in a bid to reduce the university’s carbon footprint. Bicycles may not be quicker or suitable for the rain and wind, but they’re good for your health and cheaper on the pocket.
There’s been a definite increase in the number of cyclists to campus and it’s something we should embrace.
A number of staff member are also using solar powered bicycles and scooters to move between campuses.
As we adjust to this new green way of thinking, and especially doing, let’s take a deep breath as we scout for parking (I am talking to myself here).
Let’s take a deep breath, build in some extra time and enjoy a good old stroll to the lecture hall. After all, we’re on a nature reserve – a privilege we sometimes forget as we rant about a lack of parking.
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