Internationalisation at UFS
The University of the Free State is an internationally engaged university, producing globally competitive graduates and knowledge. We take a comprehensive internationalisation approach, infusing international and intercultural dimensions into every aspect of the institution. International engagements lead to research collaboration, learning and teaching initiatives, internationalised community engagement through staff and student mobility and well as virtual engagements. Comprehensive internationalisation at the UFS ensures that all UFS students and staff benefit from internationalisation and contribute as global citizens to address the
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Fair, mutually beneficial global engagements result in knowledge co-creation and global recognition for ideas emanating from the UFS.
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The UFS international footprint
Latest News from the Office for International Affairs
UBP End-of-Year Event
On 1 November 2025, the Umoja Buddy Programme (UBP) hosted its annual end-of-year event at Mooimeisiesfontein on the University of the Free State campus. As is customary within the programme, the event served as an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the year, recognise the dedication and commitment of the ambassadors, and reflect on the programme's progress in advancing the objectives of the International Office. Read more.
1 November 2025 | Story Lekiti Rantsane
UFS Office for International Affairs contributes to global dialogue at IEASA 2025Several colleagues from the University of the Free State (UFS) Office for International Affairs (OIA) attended the 27th annual International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA) conference, which was held in Stellenbosch from 26 to 29 August 2025.
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1 September 2025 | Story Lilitha Dingwayo
The University of the Free State celebrated diversity, unity, and culture at the International Cultural Diversity Festival (ICDF) on 4 October 2025.
The event took place outside the Centenary Complex on the Bloemfontein Campus, where the University hosted its annual International Cultural Diversity Festival (ICDF) from 12:00 to midnight. This vibrant Heritage Month celebration featured student performances competing for the title of Most Culturally Diverse Performance, along with live music, dance, food stalls, and headline acts by Babalwa M and Shakira Peach.
Lusanda Madikane, Research Assistant in the Office for International AffairsThe University of the Free State proudly celebrates a double honour as two of its own, student leader Lusanda Madikane and sport manager Kesa Molotsane, were named among the Mail & Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans for 2025.
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1 September 2025 | Story Lilitha Dingwayo
ICED 2026
(Educational Developers)
Please note: the link is currently inactive
Educational development with international focus.
European international education, partnerships and transformation.
International networks, rankings, partnerships; Africa focus.
IEASA
Annual Conference 2026
South African higher education internationalisation association annual conference.