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The University of the Free State (UFS) is gearing up for its annual Gateway FTEN Kovsie Week, which is set to take place on 10 February at the Bloemfontein and South Campuses, and on 17 February 2024 at the Qwaqwa Campus.

This week’s events, including Kovsie Week, a programme to welcome first-time entering students (FTENS), and the Dream Walk, mark the commencement of the academic year.

The Gateway FTEN Kovsie Week has become a tradition at the UFS, serving as a vibrant and inclusive introduction for new students that aims to celebrate the aspirations, dreams, and potential of the incoming class of 2024. The Division of Student Affairs orchestrates these events to ensure that the university's newest members feel embraced and supported as they embark on their academic journey.

Kicking off with activities on the Bloemfontein Campus, the programme includes the highly anticipated Dream Walk from the Callie Human Centre to the Main Building on Saturday 10 February 2024; a symbolic procession highlighting the hopes and dreams of the incoming students, and signifying the beginning of their academic adventure.

Dr WP Wahl, Director of Student Life said: “As a university community, it is crucial that we create an environment that is conducive to students’ learning, development and success.  The purpose of the Dream Walk is to create a memorable experience at the beginning of students’ academic careers that highlights their respective aspirations and dreams.  Symbolically this event conveys the message that we, as a university community, care and take collective responsibility to make the dreams and aspirations of our students a reality.”

Helping to ease the transition to life at the UFS, Gateway Kovsie Week is also an invaluable opportunity for new students to familiarise themselves with the university, its facilities, and the array of opportunities available to them. Campus tours, interactive sessions, and informative workshops help them to adapt and make informed decisions about their academic journey.

The week provides a platform for students to build connections and friendships, fostering a sense of belonging in the university community. It is part of the UFS’s holistic approach to welcoming students academically and socially, and to promote a well-rounded university experience.

“As the UFS prepares for the annual Gateway Kovsie Week, it is not only ushering in the new academic year but also establishing the groundwork for a positive and enriching journey for its first-time entering students. The UFS community is eagerly anticipating the arrival of the class of 2024, and is poised to offer a ‘stepping stone’ and guidance to help them realise their dreams and aspirations,” said Dr Wahl.

Students who will not be able to attend the Callie Human Centre event will have the chance to view the welcoming speech by Prof Francis Petersen, Vice Chancellor and Principal at Kovsie Village.

Programme: