Prof Kobus van der Walt says many people thanked him for never shying away from his faith while he presented Omgewingspraatjies. “As a believer I am optimistic about the future and excited about all the new technology that will change the world. We should trust in God and not get discouraged.”

Saturday mornings just won’t be the same. For nearly a decade, Prof Kobus van der Walt was the expert voice behind the very popular weekly environmental programme, Omgewingspraatjies, on Radio Sonder Grense (RSG). He never failed to educate, inform and entertain radio listeners with his wit and wisdom.

As an enormously popular presenter, Kobus amassed more than 15 000 followers on his Facebook page and also wrote a book based on the radio programme. He decided to leave Omgewingspraatjies in November last year and talks to Eish! about his involvement in the programme.

“If there is one thing that most people are concerned about when it comes to the environment, it is what the future will hold for their children and grandchildren. They are worried about how their loved ones will survive as the environment is currently under enormous pressure and its natural resources are being depleted at a staggering pace.”

 

He received tens of thousands of letters and emails from people who share his passion for the environment during his involvement in the programme. “I appreciate every comment, question and discussion. The listeners of Omgewingspraatjies are engaging and knowledgeable and the quality of discourse was always impressive.”

 

The programme made him a celebrity of sorts and his popularity resulted in appearances throughout South Africa.

 

 

Many churches, farmers, boards of companies and the South African Women’s Agricultural Union invited him to speak at functions, meetings and events about topics ranging from rainfall to pollution.

 

A final word…

 

Kobus says if he could give a final message to the listeners of Omgewingspraatjies, it would be to stay responsible and always consider the impact of what you do on the environment.

 

“We can all do our part to make a positive difference. By doing something small like switching off lights that have been left on unnecessarily, we are already making a positive contribution to preserving the environment.”

Juaneé follows in Kobus’ footsteps

 

Prof Juaneé Cilliers, lecturer and chair for Urban and Regional Planning, is taking over the reins from her colleague, Kobus.

 

“I am humbled and grateful that Kobus gave me the opportunity to continue with Omgewingspraatjies. I realise that he leaves big shoes to fill, but I am truly excited about this new journey.”

 

She has known Kobus since her student days, 16 years ago, when Kobus was her geography lecturer.  “He is truly someone to look up to. Kobus is a true mentor and an excellent example of someone who loves his work, people and the environment.”

 

Juaneé says Omgewingspraatjies gives the NWU the chance to share research and expertise with the public and create awareness about crucial issues concerning the environment. “Its Facebook page brings friends of the environment together. It is wonderful to see how enthusiastically and professionally they engage with each other about important topics.”

 

Prof Juaneé Cilliers says it is an honour to be part of the programme and is glad that colleagues, students, friends and family will be cheering her on as she sets out on her new journey as radio presenter.