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The University of the Free State continues to celebrate its Qwaqwa Campus as a space where access to higher education is matched by purpose, support, and academic excellence. The recent first-year welcoming programme was not simply a ceremonial start to the year; it formed part of a deliberate institutional approach to shaping graduates who are equipped to build responsible societal futures.

The Rolihlahla Mandela Hall was filled with energy and anticipation as the Class of 2026 gathered for the start of their university journey. Yet, beyond the celebratory atmosphere, the message was clear: entry into the university is an invitation to a larger Academic Project – one that links individual success with regional development and national progress.

Education as a public good

In her address, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Hester C. Klopper, spoke of a UFS education as far more than the pursuit of a qualification. She reminded students that knowledge carries responsibility. In a province and country grappling with inequality, unemployment, and social fragmentation, higher education must prepare graduates who are capable of leading change rather than observing it.

Her call to the first-years was grounded in three interlinked commitments:

• Confidence – recognising that access to university reflects potential and earned opportunity.
• Courage – engaging critically, asking questions, and seeking support when needed.
• Collaboration – working across disciplines and backgrounds to solve complex societal challenges.

This supports the university’s strategic intent to produce graduates who are not only employable, but also ethically grounded and socially responsive.

Academic success by design

The Qwaqwa Campus model integrates structured academic and psychosocial support from the outset. Through the Centre for Teaching and Learning and targeted initiatives such as A_STEP, students are introduced to tutoring, academic literacy development, and skills support early on.

This proactive approach reflects a broader institutional shift – student success is not left to chance. It is built through intentional systems, early engagement, and a culture that normalises help-seeking as a strength rather than a weakness.

The Department of Student Affairs plays a complementary role in cultivating belonging, leadership development, and student well-being – recognising that academic performance and personal stability are deeply interconnected.

A campus shaped by resilience

The Campus Principal, Prof Prince Ngobeni, drew on the symbolism of the Maluti Mountains that frame the campus. The metaphor of ascent – of steady, determined progress – mirrors the journey that many Qwaqwa students undertake as first-generation university entrants.

The message was not about ease, but about endurance and shared effort. The ‘roar of the mountain’ speaks to a campus identity grounded in resilience, community pride, and academic ambition.

From welcome to momentum

While the first-year gathering marked the formal opening of the academic year, its significance lies in what follows. Orientation on the Qwaqwa Campus is designed to anchor students in institutional values, connect them to support structures, and situate their studies within a broader societal purpose.

For the Class of 2026, the excitement of arrival now gives way to the work of learning, questioning, collaborating, and contributing. The university’s commitment is to walk that journey with them – ensuring that their time on the Qwaqwa Campus results not only in graduation, but also in graduates ready to shape a more just and inclusive future.