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The University of the Free State (UFS) Qwaqwa Campus and five prominent Royal Houses in the region have solidified their commitment to collaborative efforts through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

A momentous occasion occurred on the University of the Free State Qwaqwa Campus when the acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof Anthea Rhoda, and the Free State Royal houses signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The historic event, held on 6 November 2024, marks a significant milestone in the university's journey towards fostering deeper engagement with the local community. In attendance at this historic event was the Executive Mayor, Her Excellency Malekula Melato, the Free State House of Traditional Leaders, and religious leaders, to mention but a few who witnessed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the University of the Free State Qwaqwa Campus and the Royal Houses.

A Shared Vision for the Future

Prof Prince Ngobeni, Campus Principal: Qwaqwa Campus, emphasised the strategic importance of the partnership, stating that it aligns perfectly with the university's core values and mission. He said it also symbolises the beginning of an exciting partnership that will benefit both organisations.  According to Prof Ngobeni, the signing of this MoU is not merely a symbolic gesture; it is a strategic imperative that aligns with the core values and mission of our university. As we embark on this new chapter, we reaffirm our commitment to the three pillars of higher education: teaching and learning, research, and community engagement.

“We recognise that a university is more than just a place of academic pursuit. It is a vibrant hub of intellectual discourse, a catalyst for innovation, and a force for social change. In keeping with this ethos, the UFS Qwaqwa Campus is dedicated to making a tangible impact on the communities we serve. Our geographical location compels us to forge strong bonds with our neighbours, to understand their needs, and to contribute to their development,” said Prof Ngobeni.

The acting Vice-Chancellor of the UFS, Prof Anthea Rhoda, highlighted the university's dedication to making a tangible impact on the communities it serves. She stressed the importance of engaged scholarship, which involves connecting academic knowledge with real-world challenges.

"We believe in co-creating sustainable solutions for and with the communities around us," she said. "This partnership with the Royal Houses exemplifies our commitment to social justice and equity."

The UFS Qwaqwa Campus is renowned for its focus on indigenous knowledge systems. Through initiatives such as the African Medicines Innovation and Technology Development programme, the university is exploring the potential of traditional African herbs and medicinal plants to address health-care challenges.

The significance and impact

The Barenas expressed gratitude for the partnership, saying that the signing of the MoU was not for them, but for the community. “This event is the first of its kind. Let us work together with the university, let us make this MoU work for our communities. We are leading our communities, not ourselves. Thank you very much for allowing us to work with you. It is not a common cause for a professor to visit and introduce himself to the royal houses,” said Morena Moloi from Makholokwe Royal House.

They also made mention of the fact that this does not only unite the Morena and the university, but also unites Borena with Borena. “It gives us a common identity – Barena from different tribes. We are partners in educating the community that we represent,” concluded Morena Tsolo from the Bakoena Royal House.

Objective of the MoU

The UFS and the Royal Houses will develop the following collaborative programmes and projects in areas of mutual interest:

• Exchange of information and knowledge, including indigenous knowledge systems and academic /research resources for research purposes
• Jointly work on community development programmes and community-based research
• Jointly develop relevant academic and short-term learning programmes
• Jointly organise symposia, seminars, and conferences
• Develop capacity development programmes for the staff of the parties involved (i.e. capacitating the emerging Royal communities, capacitating UFS staff with Royal counsel, history, and protocols)
• Other activities mutually agreed upon by the partner institutions.
  

The development and implementation of specific activities based on this MoU will be separately negotiated and agreed between the faculties/institutes and Royal Houses, which will carry out the specific projects.  All parties agreed to carry out these activities in accordance with the laws and regulations of South Africa.

The signing of the MoU signifies a promising future for the UFS Qwaqwa Campus and the surrounding communities. By working together, the university and the Royal Houses aim to create a positive impact on the region through education, research, and community engagement.