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01 October 2019
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Story Prof Francis Petersen
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Photo Pixabay
During October, the national focus is on mental health. Mental Health Awareness Month also coincides with a time when our students prepare for the end of the year exams, making it a particularly valuable time for us to think about how we can continuously assist them during their time at university. The value of peer support and genuine care can never be overstressed; that is why I want to encourage our students to reach out to their support networks such as our Department of Student Counselling and Development, as we move towards the end of the year.
Mental health is an equally important matter for our staff. During this month, I want to encourage our staff to also take cognisance of their own well-being. There is a lot of wisdom in the old adage: Healthy body, healthy mind. Many of the initiatives of our Division of Organisational Development and Employee Wellness are focused on the value of physical activity and the negative impact that inactivity can have on one’s productivity and mental health. They also present regular lunch-hour sessions for our staff, where experts share information and practical tips for mental wellness. I want to encourage our staff to attend these sessions and to make use of the services the university has to offer in this regard. It is important to note that suffering from mental and anxiety disorders is not weaknesses and it is not always indicative of a deeper psychological issue; it is an illness and hence can be treated.
On 20 September 2019, a 21-member team was sent off on their run of 1 075 km to Stellenbosch to raise awareness for mental health. The run was organised by the Division of Organisational Development and Employee Wellness and the Faculty of Health Sciences. The team ran in relay format throughout the night and handed the baton of hope to Stellenbosch University on 25 September 2019. I admire and thank them not only for their commitment and stamina, but also for addressing this crucial matter in the public domain and for raising awareness in the many towns and communities along the way.
This is an excerpt from a message by Prof Francis Petersen.
UFS announces SRC election results
2008-08-23
The results for the Student Representative Council (SRC) and Student Parliament of the University of the Free State’s (US) Main Campus were announced today. The elections took place on Wednesday, 20 August 2008.
Ms Heloïse Jordaan, B.Com.Hons. student and Freedom Front+ candidate, was elected as SRC President. She was SRC member for media, marketing and liaison in 2007/2008.
This year three organisations, namely the DA, Sasco and Freedom Front+, took part in the elections. Altogether 6 926 students took part in the voting this year, while 6 820 students voted last year.
“I am glad to report that, according to the Independent Election Authority (IEA), the elections and the announcement of the results took place without any incidents,” said Dr Ezekiel Moraka, Vice-Rector: Student Affairs.
“While the percentage of students participating in the elections remains low, the various initiatives by the IEA in partnership with student organisations are starting to yield good results. This includes communication efforts to improve awareness of the elections and the access to voting stations,” said Dr Moraka.
“The UFS will provide its full support to the efforts of the newly elected student leadership as well as representatives of various student organisations to further improve student participation in the elections. We want to work with the student leadership to continue the process of transformation currently under way at the University,” said Dr Moraka.
Media Release
Issued by: Lacea Loader
Assistant Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 051 401 2584
Cell: 083 645 2454
E-mail: loaderl.stg@ufs.ac.za
22 August 2008