What is an Oppidan?

The Oxford English Dictionary defines the word Oppidan "as an inhabitant of a university town as distinguished from a member of the university itself " i.e. a student living off campus, in accommodation rented independently of Rhodes, is an Oppidan- or Oppi for short. We also call ourselves 'Digs' students.

What is the Oppidan Union?

The Oppidan Community is the single largest student body at Rhodes.  Oppis enjoy the benefits of increased independence and freedom from somr of the structures of life in residence, but off-campus living also provides its own challenges.  Thus the Oppidan Union was formed to help our Oppi's face all these challenges.    The Oppidan Union consists of the Wardens, Sub Wardens and House Committee to help with all your needs.

What is the Oppidan Warden and what do they do?

The Oppidan Hall Warden is responsible for Oppidan Affairs at Rhodes.  They attend all committee meetings and the Wardens ensures that Oppidan Students receive support and advice if they experience any problems while living in digs. 

What is the Oppidan Sub-wardens and what do they do?

Oppidan Sub-wardens help the Hall Warden to effectively run the Oppidan Union, and to provide a high-quality support service to student.  They are pro-actively involved with the Oppidan students and interested in all aspects of their lives-academic,sport, social and personal.  In particular Sub-wardens are there to offer support and advice to new and current Oppidans who are settling into digs life and to offer guidance and direction during times of crises.

What is the Oppidan Committee?

The Oppidan Committee is comprised of Oppidans selected by fellow students. Their mandate is to look after the interests of all students living off-campus and they achieve this by maintaining channels of communication between Rhodes and Oppidans.  They are also resposible for organising events and functions to get the Oppidans together and interacting.

Last Modified: Tue, 03 Dec 2019 12:18:35 SAST