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
Celebrate diversity, unity, and culture at the International Cultural Diversity Festival (ICDF) on 4 October 2025!
Join us outside the Centenary Complex on the Bloemfontein Campus as the University of the Free State hosts its annual International Cultural Diversity Festival (ICDF) on 4 October 2025 from 12:00 to midnight. This vibrant Heritage Month celebration will feature student performances competing for the title of Most Culturally Diverse Performance, alongside live music, dance, food stalls, and headline acts by Babalwa M and Shakira Peach.
Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of unity, creativity, and cultural richness!
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
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
Using global partnerships to combat local issues: University of San Diego’s visit to the University of the Free State
On 6 June 2025, the University of the Free State Centre for Environmental Management hosted a symposium with a delegation from the University of San Diego (USD), consisting of students and staff members.
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6 June 2025 | Story: Lekiti Ranstsane
Sip, paint, and celebrate the end of the year with UBP & SASUF!
Let's close off 2025 in style! The Umoja Buddy Programme (UBP), together with SASUF, is swapping the usual formal end-of-year event for something fun, fresh, and creative, a Sip and Paint afternoon at Mooimeisiesfontein (the fountain by the main gate).
Join us on 1 November 2025 from 15:00 to 18:30 for laughter, colour, and good vibes as we celebrate the year's achievements and enjoy one last get-together before the holidays.
Bring your energy, your creativity, and let's make it an afternoon to remember!
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.