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The University of the Free State (UFS) is celebrating Youth Month by showcasing the positive influence of the institution on career development. As part of this initiative, we are sharing the stories of UFS alumni who are now working at the university.

Katleho Lechoo, Football Administrator at Kovsie Sport, shares his UFS journey:

Q: Year of graduation from the UFS:

A: 2019, 2020.

Q: Qualification obtained from the UFS:

A: Bachelor of Political Sciences and a Postgraduate Diploma in Theology.

Q: Date of joining the UFS as a staff member:

A: 2021.

Q: Initial job title and current job title:

A: Then: Student Reach Assistant, International Office. Now: Football Administrator, Kovsie Sport.

Q: How did the UFS prepare you for the professional world?

A: The UFS offers great support and networking systems, allowing you to gel in the world of employment and ups and downs without any fear.   It further allows you to tap into a space of intellectuals and experts in different fields, who are more than ready and willing to step in and guide you throughout the process.  This can only be enabled if you are willing to engage throughout the time spent.

Q: What are your thoughts on transitioning from a UFS alumnus to a staff member?

A: The transition, like any other workplace or environment, has its challenges and bearing.  Plus, you get an idea of what the university is like.  Unlike being a student – there is little pressure compared to the pressure you would get as a staff member.  So, the best thing to do is to prepare yourself.  Accept that environments change, and you are here to work to the best of your ability and deliver results as expected.

Q: Any additional comments about your experience?

A: I was recently elected as the youngest Institutional Forum member at the University of the Free State.  A position I look at and remind myself that, apart from my ordinary position at the university, I also have an opportunity to contribute and influence the space positively and otherwise to its benefit.  I wake up knowing that I have yet another day to do good unto others as I would expect from them.  And to sum up my experience thus far?  As Roy T Bennett simply puts it: “Be thankful for everything that happens in your life; it’s all an experience.”