The new CGC cohort members from the Qwaqwa and Bloemfontein Campuses are ready to begin their research journeys rooted in community impact and global change. Photo: Supplied

Over the past few weeks, the Centre for Global Change (CGC) has proudly welcomed its new cohort of students from both the Qwaqwa and Bloemfontein Campuses. 
 
On the Qwaqwa Campus, the centre hosted a welcoming session that sparked conversations and connections. The session introduced students to CGC’s vision and core values and the critical role it plays in shaping community-focused research. The atmosphere was lively, hopeful, and filled with a strong sense of purpose.
 
A welcoming session was also hosted in Bloemfontein, with a few of the students' supervisors in attendance – their presence added valuable depth to the session. The intimate gathering created space for close interaction, and students expressed enthusiasm about working alongside the CGC team.
 
These welcome events were not only about introducing new members to the CGC – it was about affirming shared values of collaboration, transformation, and innovation. Students are encouraged to see themselves not only as researchers, but also as change makers.
 
The UFS is excited to walk alongside this new generation of scholars as they join hands with the CGC to respond to the global challenges of our time – rooted in local action and community engagement.
 
To the 20 students who have joined our cohort: Welcome to the CGC family! Your journey of impact starts here, and we are honoured to be a part of it.