The University of the Free State (UFS) has a heritage of Kovsies who embody excellence, leadership, service, and impact – alumni whose work reflects the UFS’ commitment to inspiring excellence and transforming lives through quality, impact, and care. The 40th Chancellor’s Distinguished Alumni Awards (CDAA) presents a unique opportunity to celebrate and recognise alumni at this year’s ruby anniversary of the prestigious awards ceremony. 

Nominations are now open for the 40th Chancellor’s Distinguished Alumni Awards and will close strictly at midnight on Saturday 28 February 2026. Alumni, colleagues, community members, industry partners, and members of the public are invited to nominate deserving UFS alumni across a range of award categories. The awards honour alumni whose professional achievements, ethical leadership, and service to society bring distinction to the UFS, locally and globally. A list of previous award recipients is available here, reflecting the calibre of individuals recognised through this prestigious programme

Who can nominate?

Nominators must be 18 years or older and do not need to be affiliated with the University of the Free State. Nominators are asked to secure the nominee’s consent before submitting a nomination.

What is required for a complete nomination?

To ensure that a nomination can be considered, all required fields on the online nomination form must be completed. The following information will be required:

Only nominations that meet the eligibility criteria and include all required supporting documents will be considered. Late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted.

Award categories and criteria

Below is a guide to help nominators identify the most appropriate category for their nominee.

Chancellor’s Distinguished Alum of the Year Award

This award recognises alumni who have built sustained, meaningful careers and who continue to make a difference through leadership, service, and ethical conduct.

Nominees must be at least ten years post-graduation from the UFS and should demonstrate outstanding accomplishments in their field, such as professional advancement, awards, or significant contributions to their industry. Strong candidates are actively involved in community service or initiatives that benefit society and show continued dedication to the UFS through mentorship, alumni engagement, or other forms of support.

Leadership, innovation, academic excellence or professional development, a commitment to diversity and inclusion, and exemplary ethical conduct are central to this category.

Chancellor’s Distinguished Young Alum of the Year Award

This award celebrates exceptional young alumni who are already making their mark.

Nominees must be under the age of 35 at the time of nomination and must have graduated from the UFS within the past ten years. They should demonstrate significant professional achievements early in their careers, with recognition at a national or international level. In addition to professional success, nominees are expected to show leadership, innovation, involvement in community or volunteer initiatives, and continued engagement with the UFS through mentorship or other forms of contribution.

Executive Management Award

The Executive Management Award recognises alumni who have demonstrated high-impact leadership at a senior management or executive level.

Nominees should have at least 10 years’ experience in management or executive roles, with a proven track record of strategic leadership and organisational growth. This includes a measurable impact on an organisation’s success, sustainability, or profitability.

Recognition by peers or industry bodies, alongside a strong commitment to ethical leadership and corporate social responsibility, is a key consideration in this category.

Cum Laude Award

The Cum Laude Award honours excellence in any field, whether vocational or voluntary.

Nominees should demonstrate sustained excellence in their professional or personal pursuits, with significant contributions to their community or industry at a local, national, or international level. Integrity, ethical conduct, and a positive influence on peers or the broader community are essential.

This award is well-suited for alumni whose work consistently inspires others and whose contributions are recognised by peers, organisations, or external bodies.

Kovsie Ambassador Award

The Kovsie Ambassador Award recognises alumni whose achievements have brought distinction to the University of the Free State. 

Nominees should demonstrate leadership, vision, and innovation, and have achieved significant success in their professional or community work. Strong candidates represent the UFS with distinction on national or international platforms and are recognised by peers and stakeholders for their advocacy and excellence.

This category is ideal for alumni who actively embody and promote the UFS' values through their work and public presence.

Nominate a Kovsie who inspires

Behind every award is a story of commitment, resilience, and impact. By submitting a nomination, you help ensure that these stories are recognised and celebrated.

Nominations are open online and close strictly at midnight on 28 February 2026.

For further information or assistance, please contact:

• Godfrey Mabasa on +27 72 261 6917 or MabasaTG@ufs.ac.za