The beginning of new and exciting things to come, with the University of the Free State (UFS) being recognised and acknowledged by its peers and society as a top-tier university in South Africa, ranked among the best in the world. This is the message
communicated to staff, student representatives, alumni, members of the UFS Council, and external stakeholders as the university ushered in its new Vision 130.
Launching the new strategic direction for the UFS at an event hosted on the Bloemfontein Campus on 29 November 2022,
Prof Francis Petersen, Rector, and Vice-Chancellor, told guests that Vision 130 articulates bold steps that will ensure that the UFS is a university for the Free State, South Africa, the continent, and the global domain.
He highlighted that Vision 130 is a formulation of the university’s aspirations and intentions, celebrating 130 years of existence in 2034.
“The basis of Vision 130 is to reposition the University of the Free State, to strengthen the institution in terms of excellence and the impact it has on society. We will do this by providing cutting-edge
research, but also by providing knowledge, reimagining knowledge, and producing globally competitive graduates.”
Prof Petersen acknowledged the university’s values of excellence, innovation and impact, accountability, care, social justice, and sustainability, and said everything is done to provide an institutional culture that is welcoming, inclusive, and
diverse. This is so that everyone who comes to the university or engages with the university – student, staff, visitor, or stakeholder – feels a sense of belonging.
Giving attendees a glimpse of the UFS’ future in 2034, guests were taken on a journey that started the moment they entered the university’s main gates. Stepping onto the grounds of the Bloemfontein Campus, they were greeted by sounds and sights
signalling a university going places. Inside the Odeion Auditorium where the launch took place, guests were treated to visual performances of the six UFS values, among others.