About Us

The first students at the "Transvaal University College", as it was then known, were housed in a house in  Skinner Street, the Kaya Rosa. In 1914 construction of a men's residence on campus was started, and in 1915 the first residents moved in. The residence was referred to as "the hostel at the college" and so Kollege got its name.

Through the years Kollege has been responsible for many contributions to the Tuks culture. For example, the University Anthem, the University's Coat of Arms, the Tuks rugby jersey, the mascot Oom Gert and the University's newspaper "The Perdeby". In 1959, the university started construction of a new men's residence on the experimental farm. During a house meeting it was decided that Kollege would move to the new building. The new building was known as "New Kollege" and in 1960 Kollege moved into it. The first home of Kollege, now known as "Old Kollege", is the home of Student Affairs.

 During 1981 and 1982 certain revolutionary groups within Kollege tried to bring about changes in the the house that would have endangered the unique spirit and culture of the house. In order to prevent a coup, Kollege was declared a republic. Ever since, the hostel has been known as the Republic of Kollegtehuis and the House Committee as the Executive Council. The history and culture of the Republic is an integral part of the residence's rich culture and it is continuously expanding. If you would like to learn more about this unique residence, you are welcome to visit us!