03 September 2026
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Story Teboho Mositi
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Photo Teboho Mositi
The UFS Directorate of Community Engagement hosted a training workshop for self-sustainable livelihoods at the Makholokweng Community Hall in Harrismith.
The Directorate of Community Engagement on the University of the Free State (UFS) Qwaqwa Campus, in collaboration with the Makholokweng Royal House, recently hosted a workshop to train Makholokweng community members on self-reliance, self-sufficiency, and sustainable livelihoods for entrepreneurship.
The workshop, held on 27 August 2026 in the Makholokweng Community Hall, was attended by students from colleges in the area, Morena Ernest Moloi from the Makholokweng Royal House, and community members.
Discussions centred on entrepreneurship, agriculture, and ways in which community members can identify and use available resources to create sustainable income-generating opportunities.
“We should use the resources we have to improve our lives and create opportunities for ourselves,” said Moodi Matsoso, Community Engagement Coordinator on the UFS Qwaqwa Campus. She encouraged community members to make use of what is available to them, showing how simple ideas can help communities become more independent.
Participants were encouraged to share their experiences, engage in discussions, and explore practical approaches to developing their own initiatives. The workshop provided an opportunity for knowledge-sharing between the university, the Royal House, students, and community members, while encouraging collaboration and empowering participants to work together towards greater economic independence.
Sharing knowledge and creating opportunities
Bishop Billy Ramahlele, UFS Director of Community Engagement, said the highlight of the training workshop was “the relationship between the university, communities, marena, and dikgosi, signifying the UFS’ commitment to be an engaged university anchoring community development through engaged scholarship”.
“The workshop saw community members implementing the objectives of the workshop and taking responsibility for their own lives, showcasing the potential of surrounding communities,” Bishop Ramahlele said.
Thabo Olivier, food security activist and former ward councillor in Bloemfontein, led a conversation on food security, sharing innovative ideas and practical approaches to food production. He encouraged attendees to be self-reliant and self-sustainable.
During the workshop, one of the attendees shared her experience of growing pumpkins in her garden. Olivier shared practical tips on how to improve gardening practices and increase crop yield.
“This practical exchange demonstrated the value of knowledge-sharing and highlighted the lasting impact that such workshops can have on community members by equipping them with skills they can apply in their own homes and gardens. This initiative reflects the UFS’ commitment to making a meaningful difference through community engagement and sustainable development,” concluded Matsoso.