14 August 2026
|
Story Lunga Luthuli
|
Photo Stephen Collett
Cutting the ribbon to officially open the Qwaqwa Campus Commuter and Day Residence Lounge are, from left to right: Prof Prince Ngobeni, Qwaqwa Campus Principal; Prof Hester C. Klopper, Vice-Chancellor and Principal; and Dr Temba Hlasho, Executive Director: Division of Student Affairs, Sports, Arts and Culture.
The University of the Free State (UFS)
Qwaqwa Campus has officially opened its Commuter and Day Residence Lounge and new
Division of Student Affairs, Sports, Arts and Culture buildings, reinforcing the University’s commitment to creating a student-centred environment that supports academic success, wellbeing and holistic development.
Speaking at the official opening on Thursday, 13 August, UFS Vice-Chancellor and Principal,
Prof Hester C. Klopper, highlighted the significant investment the University continues to make in student development.
She said this investment should not be underestimated, emphasising that providing students with access to appropriate support, spaces and opportunities is central to their overall university experience.
“We are here to reflect on the commitment to making sure that the University is a place where we support student access,” said Prof Klopper.
She noted that access is an important pathway to success, particularly when students are able to participate fully in academic life.
“Getting to success, it means for our students to fully participate in student life and what it brings, as this brings a sense of belonging,” she said.
Bringing support closer to students
The new Commuter and Day Residence Lounge and the Division of Student Affairs, Sports, Arts and Culture buildings are designed to bring previously dispersed services closer together, creating a more coordinated and accessible support environment for students.
“The two buildings bring together services that we believe are integral to a student's life. We hope that this will make life easier for students by finding support and for colleagues to work more effectively in one space,” said Prof Klopper.
She emphasised that students’ challenges cannot be addressed in isolation. By bringing staff from different units within the Division of Student Affairs, Sports, Arts, and Culture into closer proximity, the new facilities are expected to strengthen communication, improve referrals and support a more coordinated approach to student development.
“I hope that these buildings will not be where you meet as students and staff members, but as people who want to make a difference to the University and to the country that so desperately needs it,” said Prof Klopper.
Creating a more supportive experience for commuter students
The Commuter Student and Day Residence Lounge responds directly to the experiences of students who travel to campus each day. Many commuter students arrive early, leave late and spend extended periods between lectures without suitable spaces in which to study, rest or connect with fellow students.
“We know that is not easy, even more so in a more rural space. Having the Commuter and Day Residence Lounge, I hope it will provide you with an opportunity to have a space to spend time studying because, between lectures, time sometimes lapses. It is also a space where you can get to know each other and build connections, relaxation and collaboration,” said Prof Klopper.
The lounge, which will also include laundry facilities, together with the new student affairs building, is intended to contribute to a more inclusive and supportive student experience. The facilities will provide commuter students with opportunities to build friendships, develop leadership skills and participate more fully in campus life.
“I hope these facilities will provide a practical expression of the University’s commitment and contribute towards your well-being,” said Prof Klopper.
Supporting student wellbeing and safety
Prof Klopper also highlighted the importance of mental health support and the University’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence. She encouraged students to make use of the support available to them and to reach out whenever they need assistance.
“You are never alone. There will always be someone in the University system available to listen to you. The University of the Free State has zero tolerance for gender-based violence,” said Prof Klopper.
Concluding her remarks, Prof Klopper said the developments at the Qwaqwa Campus align with the University’s vision of being innovative, research-led and student-centred, while contributing meaningfully to a responsible societal future.