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The University of the Free State (UFS) Office for International Affairs recently hosted its highly anticipated Study Abroad Fair 2025 on the Bloemfontein Campus, drawing students, staff, and leading international funding partners to explore opportunities for studying abroad.

The event opened with a warm welcome from Prof Lynette Jacobs, Interim Director of the Office for International Affairs, who reflected on the life-changing power of international experiences.

"Taking part in these programmes challenges you and enables you to learn about other people and cultures,” she said. “But most importantly, you learn about yourself - how you deal with discomfort, and how to look at your home country with renewed appreciation. With a passport in your hand, you can imagine going places and start to see yourself as a global citizen."

Prof Jacobs encouraged students to be bold in pursuing opportunities, urging them to “be brave enough to apply and discover your new selves.”

Showcasing world-class opportunities

The fair featured presentations from distinguished representatives, including Marine Carbonell on Campus France scholarships, Anica Opperman from German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), Selaelo Maseko of the US Consulate in Johannesburg on Fulbright opportunities, Vhutshilo Makananise on Chevening scholarships, and Kealeboha Letlhaku from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

Each presentation highlighted fully funded international scholarships that have the potential to shape students’ academic and professional futures.

Inspiring success stories

A highlight of the event was the address by Richard Molefe, recipient of the prestigious Ernst Grant Mach 2025/2026 programme. Molefe emphasised the importance of collaboration between the Office for International Affairs and its global partners in helping to “bridge local ambitions with global opportunities.”

"This scholarship is not only a personal milestone, but a collective achievement,” he said. “It represents the dedication of my mentors, family, the support of the Office for International Affairs, and the belief that we in the Free State can produce leaders who can stand tall on the world stage."

Encouraging students to follow in his footsteps, Molefe added: "To every student listening today: believe in your vision, invest in your growth, and seize every opportunity - because the world is waiting for your contribution!"

Practical guidance for future applicants

Alongside inspiration, students received practical guidance on applying for scholarships. Representing Fulbright programmes, Selaelo Maseko stressed the importance of preparation:

"Applications require effort, and preparation is essential. Make sure your proposal clearly outlines your intentions for studying abroad. Look at the strategic goals for both countries and ensure they align with your proposal."

Expanding global horizons

The fair drew an impressive turnout of students and staff, reflecting a growing interest in international study opportunities. By connecting students with global scholarship programmes, the UFS Study Abroad Fair contributes directly to the university’s strategic goals: promoting agility through flexible, scalable international opportunities and advancing the development of globally competitive graduates.

The fair fosters key graduate attributes such as digital fluency, intercultural competence, and international leadership capacity - equipping UFS students to make meaningful contributions on the world stage.

The UFS Study Abroad Fair 2025 reinforced the university’s commitment to empowering students to expand their horizons, cultivate leadership, and translate local ambition into international impact.

For more information on opportunities, contact the Office for International Affairs at: studyabroad@ufs.ac.za