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The city of Durban will be hosting several matches in the Soccer World Cup in 2010.

Lots of decisions, some of the controversial, are being made at a municipal level that will impact upon the way people use public space down town. There are many views on how the city is changing and the extent to which tourism is being privileged over the well-being of ordinary and poor people who use the public spaces.

Our aim is to give some space to voices and views of our diverse Indian Ocean port city, particularly those that may not always be represented in the official, glossy promotional literature.

Who are we? We are students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, and this news portal is part of a collective assignment for a first year level course called "News Media and the Internet Society".

Through the practical work of constructing this site and its news content, we are developing academic skills in design, presentation and research. More importantly, perhaps, we are giving expression to the link between publishing practices and civic agency, which is a key theme in this course.

Our assignment is to get out there and learn something about ordinary life in the city in which we are currently residing.

But there are other reasons for students to be involved:

Anele Malinga points out that "There are lots of hidden creeks and tunnels to be discovered in this multi-coloured city and we can unravel those places. Our views are real and unpolished...No politicians here!!"

"It is our job as academics to speak for those who can't speak for themselves", says Riyaadh Hanslo.

"Durban is a place many of us grew up, which means we have shared many of its hardships and good times", writes Phinda Mazwayi.

Puleng Moloi says that "especially the older people seem to be unaware of what's really going on, so it's our place to educate."

Thigan Soobramoney wants "to show the rest of the world what a beautiful country we have...we are very proud of our country."

"We are working together", says Magayana Sivuyisiwe. "which shows what South Africa has been talking about, which is 'Ubuntu'"

Hlengeka Doncabe pragmatically notes that it is 'required' in order to get a DP in the class, but also that it is a form of investigative journalism to find out "what is going on around Durban."

Phelele Nlovu says "I love working on the net and this is giving me an opportunity to showcase my talent, skills and desire to learn more."

"Durban isn't perfect but it's a great city to discover and enjoy yourself," says Thandeka Magwenyana.

"We are the new heart of Durban," says Francine Simone. "We bring a different flavour to the usual dry style of news writing. Although we may be inexperienced, our opinions are our own and they are very strong, especially when it comes to 2010."

"The youth of today and what we say really has an impact", Nondumiso Mkhize explains. "This has been evident time and again, most recently in the campaign for the 2009 presidential election. We have a voice and we were heard."

"I hope my contribution will play a vital role in changing people's minds about South Africa and the whole African continent. Western countries have a stereotype", explains Mxolisi MGcongo.

M.L. Ngwenya says "It is of significant vitality for students to give input into things like this, because in this way you'll find different views representing different perspectives."

Kyle Osborn says that "We want to encourage foreign fans to come and support their teams and tour the country and continent."

"It is a good chance to express the views of the younger generation. It makes us feel as though we have a voice and can make a change in society." says Kirsten Abboy

"I have lived and grown up in Durban and I love my beautiful home," writes Ntokozo Mnabe, "I would like to help in projecting a beautiful view of South Africa and what there is to expect for the upcoming events. I am a proud South African and willing to put in much effort into this project to help my fellow classmates and show the world what Africa is about."

"Students must be involved...because they are learners of the moving world. It gives us a chance to express our views and ideas about our city and the 2010 World Cup," says Mmeli Science Maphanga.