Event: CERI Fellows & African STARS Reunion
Date: Saturday, 12 September 2026
Location: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Organiser: Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI), Stellenbosch University
1. Event overview
Q: What is the CERI Fellows & African STARS Reunion?
A: It is a one-day reunion for past CERI fellows and African STARS alumni. It is the first reunion of its kind and is being held as part of the Stellenbosch University Homecoming Weekend.
Q: Who is invited?
A: All past fellows who received training at the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation are invited. This includes African STARS fellows and other CERI-trained alumni.
Q: Where will the event take place?
A: The reunion will take place at several Stellenbosch University Homecoming venues on Saturday, 12 September 2026.
Q: What is the programme for the day?
A: The CERI ticketed programme on 12 September includes:
- CERI Fellows Breakfast: Saturday 12 September | 09:00 to 12:00 | Postcard Cafe, Jonkershoek
- African STARS Virtual networking: 13h00 to 14h00 | School for Data Science and Computational Thinking
- Matie Winemakers Showcase: Saturday 12 September | 11:00 to 16:00 | Alumni Clubhouse
- Matieland Concert: Saturday 12 September | 17:00 | Endler Hall. Featuring Matie performers and a special performance by the Stellenbosch University Choir on its 90th anniversary.
Q: Is this a multi-day event?
A: No. The CERI reunion element is a one-day event on Saturday, 12 September, although it forms part of the wider Stellenbosch University Homecoming Weekend.
2. Tickets and registration
Q: Do I need to purchase a ticket?
A: Yes. Everyone who intends to come to the alumni event should purchase a ticket.
Q: How much does the ticket cost?
A: The ticket costs R200 per person.
Q: What does the ticket include?
A: The R200 ticket provides access to the CERI Fellows Breakfast, the Matie Winemakers Showcase, and the Matieland Concert.
Q: Are tickets limited?
A: Yes. Only a limited number of 60 tickets are available.
Q: Where can I buy a ticket?
A: Tickets can be purchased via Quicket.
Q: What happens if tickets sell out?
A: Because only 60 places are available, fellows should purchase their tickets as soon as possible. Once tickets are sold out, additional places cannot be guaranteed.
3. Cost and travel
Q: Will CERI cover my costs to attend?
A: Unfortunately, we will not be able to cover travel and accommodation for the fellows to attend a one-day event.
Q: Does the ticket include transport to and from the venue?
A: No. Fellows are responsible for their own transport to and from the event venues.
Q: Does the ticket include accommodation?
A: No. Fellows are responsible for arranging and funding their own accommodation if needed.
4. Virtual participation
Q: Is there an opportunity for fellows who are not able to travel to connect?
A: Yes. A virtual session will be organised for the African STARS to connect.
Q: Will the whole event be available online?
A: No, most of the events will be an in-person attendance However, the CERI reunion will include a dedicated virtual connection opportunity for the African STAR Fellows. Further details on the virtual format will be shared once arrangements are finalised.
Q: Do I still need a ticket if I will attend online?
A: No, you do not need to purchase a ticket if you are only attending the online check-in.
5. Participation, eligibility and contact
Q: Can fellows who trained at CERI but are not African STARS fellows attend?
A: The invitation is for past fellows who received training at CERI. If you are unsure whether your training experience qualifies you to attend, please check the official event communication or contact the organisers.
Q: Can I bring a partner, colleague or family member?
A: This is a reunion for CERI fellows and African STARS alumni. Any additional guest arrangements will depend on capacity and event rules, so please confirm before booking.
Q: Who do I contact for more information?
A: For more information about the event, please contact maambele@sun.ac.za.
Previous Homecomings:
2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfHCWqpVdco&feature=youtu.be