Message from the Rector and Vice-Chancellor

South Africans can breathe a little easier. As spring approaches and the weather warms up, we can relax a bit. COVID-19 statistics are veering downwards, and it seems that we have indeed ‘flattened’ the curve and strengthened the country’s health system. The virus and its consequences will, however, be with us for a while. We will have to remain vigilant to be safe.

At the University of the Free State (UFS), we carefully navigated the COVID-19 journey, always taking cognisance of the best science. We will continue to do so as we start with the return of our staff and students to our campuses and a ‘new normal’. We have put together a short documentary on these procedures, which you can watch via the following links [Return to campus: fast guide for students: https://bit.ly/30U9bsq Return to campus: fast guide for staff: https://bit.ly/30UmtVTlink ].

Over the past month, I have held a fascinating series of ‘Co-creation Conversations’ with chief executive officers (CEOs) and executive members from the different sectors of the economy to learn how they are re-imagining their business models post-COVID and to share ideas on what the university could look like.

It is clear that collaboration, including engagement across different sectors, is at the top of their minds. Two sets of principles seem to be non-negotiable: doing more with less, and doing good while doing business, underpinned by a green agenda.  As the pandemic has promoted social solidarity, the private sector will continue to place a high premium on societal impact and sustainable community development. 

New partnerships need to be forged, and existing partnerships need to be strengthened. I believe Government should consider incentivising such relationships, for example, by introducing matching grants on strategic, growth-oriented research and development. To read more about this series, click here.

Our alumni remain important partners and I greatly value the interaction I have with our former students. In the coming months, we are stepping up our communication with more regular newsletters and a new series of conversations with alumni. We will keep you informed of new developments. 

We celebrate Women’s Month in August and I want to acknowledge the roles that our women alumni play in their communities, in the economy, and in caring for others in these uncertain times. As we enter Stage 2 of lockdown in SA, I wish you and your families the very best as you remain vigilant and safe.