Message from the Dean: Prof Loyiso Jita

Welcome to the Faculty of Education at the University of the Free State (UFS).

Thank you for taking the time to visit our website and learn more about our faculty. Choosing where to pursue your studies is one of the most important decisions you will make, and we are delighted that you are considering the University of the Free State as your academic home.

The University of the Free State is recognised as one of South Africa’s leading higher education institutions and is renowned for its academic excellence, impactful research, innovation, and community engagement. Situated in the heart of South Africa, with campuses in Bloemfontein, Mangaung, and Qwaqwa, the University provides an inspiring environment in which students from diverse backgrounds can learn, grow, and thrive.

The Faculty of Education proudly serves students across the Bloemfontein, South, and Qwaqwa Campuses. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes designed to prepare graduates to make meaningful contributions to education locally, nationally, and globally.

Our undergraduate programmes include the Bachelor of Education (BEd) in the Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Senior Phase, and Further Education and Training Teaching. At postgraduate level, we offer the Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education (PGDip), Bachelor of Education Honours, Master of Education (MEd), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education.

These programmes are supported by dedicated academics and researchers whose teaching, scholarship, and community engagement continue to shape the future of education.

As a faculty, we are committed to developing knowledgeable, ethical, innovative, and compassionate educators who are equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Our teaching philosophy is grounded in an ethic of care, recognising that education is not only about academic achievement, but also about nurturing responsible citizens and transformative leaders.

To our new students, congratulations on taking this important step towards your future. We are excited to welcome you to a supportive academic community in which your success matters. Throughout your journey, you will be challenged, supported, and inspired to reach your full potential.

The Faculty of Education is proud of its heritage and the values that continue to guide us. At the Bloemfontein Campus, our offices are located in the Winkie Direko and Education Buildings. At the South Campus, our offices are located in the Administration Building, while at the Qwaqwa Campus, they are housed in the Sedibeng and Kgorong Buildings.

The naming of the Winkie Direko Building honours the late Winkie Direko, former Premier of the Free State and a distinguished educator whose legacy of service, dignity, and educational excellence continues to inspire our faculty.

It is both an honour and a privilege to lead a community of committed academics, researchers, professional staff, and students who are passionate about advancing education through teaching, research, and meaningful engagement with society. We remain dedicated to creating an inclusive learning environment in which every student is empowered to succeed academically, professionally, and personally.

I would also like to thank the parents, guardians, alumni, partners, and friends of the Faculty of Education for their continued trust and support. Together, we are shaping future educators who will inspire generations to come.

Whether you are a prospective student, an alumnus, a researcher, or a valued partner, we invite you to become part of our vibrant Faculty of Education community. We look forward to learning, teaching, researching, and building lasting partnerships with you.

Welcome to the Faculty of Education at the University of the Free State, where we are committed to educating excellent, caring, and socially responsive teachers who will make a lasting difference in South Africa and beyond.

Prof Loyiso Jita (PhD, Michigan State University)
Dean and SANRAL Chair in Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology Education