17 October 2023 | Story NONSINDISO QWABE | Photo STEPHEN COLLETT
Prof Petersen - Qwaqwa Luncheon
Prof Francis Petersen congratulates the UFS Qwaqwa Campus during its 20th anniversary celebration luncheon.

The UFS Qwaqwa Campus held an august and memorable celebration to mark its 20th year as a site of delivery under the banner of the University of the Free State.

With the theme – 20 years of one university, three campuses – the celebratory luncheon reflected on and celebrated the shared history and diversity of the campus, and looked back on its achievements and development over the years through the shared vision that brings our diverse campuses together.

The occasion was graced by conspicuous guests, such as Morena Moremoholo Mopeli and members of the Royal House, UFS Council members, media personalities, cultural leaders and community stakeholders, and higher education officials.

Celebrating significant innovation over two decades

In his congratulatory message, the Chairperson of the UFS Council, David Noko, remarked on the institution's growth and development over its 119 years.

He said the UFS spanning and spreading across three diverse campuses brings a sense of inspiration. “For the 20 years of these combined campuses, there has been a significant delivery of teaching, learning, research, and engaged scholarship, and the results speak volumes. More innovation can happen in this institution, and I look forward to celebrating what the next 20 years will deliver for all of us, South Africa, and the world.”

He said the 20 years have been characterised by substantial growth and development on all three campuses, which have formed the basis, foundation, and launching pad for better things. 

“On behalf of the UFS Council, I would like to congratulate you, Prof Petersen, your executive management team, and the entire UFS community – not forgetting the communities surrounding this institution's campuses. Let us build on the good foundations of the past 20 years and accelerate the good outcomes going into the future.”

From humble beginnings to more than 6 000 students

In his speech, Prof Francis Petersen, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of the Free State, highlighted the growth and expansion of the campus over its 20-year journey with the UFS.

“The history of the Qwaqwa Campus dates back to 1982 when it was established under the visionary leadership of Dr TK Mopeli at the Tseki Village, with a headcount of about 230 registered students. It is a pleasure to be celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Qwaqwa Campus, but more so – the integration of this campus as an integral part of the UFS. What started as a small gathering has grown tremendously since its incorporation into the UFS in 2003.”

Prof Petersen thanked current and former staff members and students for their contribution to the growth of the campus and expressed his anticipation for the next 20 years of the Qwaqwa Campus’ journey. 

The celebration was indeed a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate, and who better than the incredible musical talents of the UFS’ Emily Dangwa, Zama Zulu, and the Qwaqwa Campus’ own Dr Patricks Otomo, to serenade the audience with their musical excellence through songs of upliftment.

Qwaqwa Campus’ longest serving colleagues recognised for their contribution

At the same event, staff members who have been with the UFS Qwaqwa Campus for more than 20 years were recognised and celebrated for their stellar contribution to the campus and the institution.

Before handing out long-service award certificates, Prof Petersen thanked the colleagues for being an integral part of the Academic Project of the UFS.

“The contribution you are making has been fantastic. You are instrumental in the delivery of the university’s core business. Thank you for making the Qwaqwa Campus your home for so long; I hope you will continue to do so.”

Staff members who received awards are:

  • Dr Julia Mofokeng: Department of Chemistry – 20 years
  • Sibongile Xaba: Department of Housing and Residence Affairs – 20 years
  • Benedict Sebastian: Department of Computer Science and Informatics – 20 years
  • Zakhele Mdluli: Department of Housing and Residence Affairs – 20 years
  • Nicolene de Klerk: Centre for Teaching and Learning – 21 years
  • Julia Nkutha: Facilities Management – 22 years
  • Dilahlwane Mohono: Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences – 23 years
  • Zukiswa Ketiwe: Library and Information Services – 24 years
  • Dr Johann van As: Department of Zoology and Entomology – 24 years
  • Lindiwe Mphatsoe: Department of Student and Academic Services – 25 years
  • Teboho Pitso: Department of Plant Sciences – 25 years
  • Thoko Madonsela: Faculty of Education – 25 years
  • Malehlohonolo Bereng: Facilities Management – 25 years
  • Dr Moipone Malimabe: Department of Chemistry – 25 years
  • Moipone Motaung: Department of Student and Academic Services – 26 years
  • Karen de Villiers: Department of Psychology – 28 years
  • Teboho Manchu: Campus Vice-Principal: Support Services – 28 years
  • Dr Albert Schoeman: Department of Political Science and Governance – 29 years
  • Patuwe Dlamini-Phelephe: Facilities Management – 29 years
  • Lehlohonolo Mohlakoana: Library and Information Services – 30 years
  • Moferefere Moeketsi: Facilities Management – 32 years
  • Sophie Tlatsi: Management (Top Management) – 33 years
  • Jack Vezi: Department of Human Resources – 33 years
  • Mampatene Vilakazi: Library and Information Services – 33 years
  • Mokitlane Manyarela: Department of Finance – 36 years


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