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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.
2015 Open Day on Bloemfontein Campus inspires prospective students
2015-05-14
Photo: Charl Devenish |
“Here we use our minds and not muscles. We use reason and not rage.”
This is how Prof Jonathan Jansen, Vice-Chancellor and Rector of the University of the Free State (UFS), described what being a Kovsie is.
Prof Jansen welcomed thousands of prospective students and their parents to the Bloemfontein Campus on Saturday 9 May 2015 for the annual Open Day.
“Academics are everything. We don’t expect you to do well. We expect you to excel,” he said.
Prospective students got a taste of the #KovsieFeeling with a mind-dazzling laser show, a surprise performance by Micasa, the introduction of our sports champions, and an inspiring message from our SRC President, Mosa Leteane.
“When you are comfortable, you are not challenged. You can only learn to grow when you are uncomfortable.”
Visitors also had first-hand experience of how accessible Prof Jansen really is. At the Talk to Me gazebo outside his office, Prof Jansen dished up food while having a chat with parents. This gesture echoed Prof Jansen’s message: “If you want to be a decent human being, welcome to Kovsies.”
To all its visitors, the 2015 Kovsie Open Day, with all its fun and laughter, reflected the truth of the UFS as an academic institution that inspires excellence and transforms lives.
Even if you missed the Kovsie Open Day, be sure to grab the chance to study at our university, and ensure a lifetime of excellence and innovation. You can visit our Prospective Student webpage for more information.