The University approaches the start of the 2021 academic year with relief and gratitude. COVID-19 continues to test our resilience and commitment to supporting and serving our society, but through collaboration with our trusted partners, we are succeeding.
We say “Thank You” to individuals and organisations who continue their financial support; to those who mentor and guide; to staff, students and the UFS community who work tirelessly to make a positive impact.
#UFSThankYou
On this page you will find links to stories that demonstrate the impact made by your support. They show that together we can achieve even more.
Bursaries create opportunities
The UFS serves more than 40 000 students on three campuses across seven faculties. Close to 50% of UFS students require financial aid. We are grateful for donors who work together to create a pathway for student success and integration into the workplace. THANK YOU for inspiring excellence and changing lives.
Food gardens promote student success
Many students at institutions of higher learning, including the UFS, are faced daily with the challenge of food insecurity, negatively affecting their academic performance. Through partnership and collaboration, the vegetable production and training programme is able to assist. THANK YOU for making this a sustainable project.
Students with disabilities supported
The Centre for Universal Access and Disability Support (CUADS) facilitates access for students with disabilities. Through the development of various initiatives, students with disabilities can feel confident and empowered to pursue their studies and make valuable contributions towards society. Generous support ensures successful student integration programmes. THANK YOU for caring.
Make the First 1000 days count campaign
The first 1000 days, from conception to age two, is critical for child-brain development. This project in Central South Africa provides the foundation for more healthy and prosperous generations to come. Raising awareness and knowledge can influence unwanted pregnancies, lower morbidity and mortality rates and lessen the economic burden in our country. THANK you for supporting life-changing work.
Make the First 1000 days count
Transforming agriculture
A robust agri-business sector is fundamentally important to growth. Black commercial farmers and sustainable black-owned agribusinesses in the Free State were identified to take part in a developmental programme leveraging expertise, skills and infrastructure from the UFS and strategic business partners. Transformation is possible through collaboration, THANK YOU.
Two Observatories
The Boyden Observatory and Naval Hill Planetarium (formerly the Lamont Hussey Observatory) promote science communication while preserving and sharing an important astronomical heritage. Boyden is also an important research facility. The project promotes tourism and creates opportunities for engagement among many institutions. THANK YOU for contributing to the project’s sustainability.
Science for the Future
Teaching Mathematics and Science in South Africa remains challenging. This project demystifies important concepts in the foundation phase through strategies that empower teachers with knowledge, skills and resources and promotes parents’ involvement in learning. Training sessions create many opportunities for interaction. THANK YOU for playing an active role in the future of South African children.
University Access Programme
With a track record over two decades, the University Access Programme (UAP) continues to create opportunities for students. The continuously developing curriculum has proven to be a successful academic enabler assisting deserving students to meet university entrance requirements to further their studies. THANK YOU for creating opportunities for our students.
Project Video
Solar Vehicles and Green Energy
The UFS is at the forefront of many projects that focus on the utilisation of renewable energy resources. The eco-vehicle project is an initiative that alerts students to the power of renewable energy. Together we can make a difference, THANK YOU
RUFORUM
In collaboration with The Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), our research and community project focus on building competitiveness for communal farmers, through developing the wool value chain in the Free State Province of South Africa.
Feenix
Based on this vision and the shared belief that “access to education is not dependent on wealth”, the UFS and Feenix have partnered to crowdfund for these UFS students. Your investment in these UFS students is an investment in our future. You will ensure that they can graduate, fulfil their exponential potential and make a difference in our society.