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10 June 2021 | Story Dr Cindé Greyling | Photo Supplied

A brand-new modular space for students was recently completed on the University of the Free State Bloemfontein Campus. The Modular Lecturing Space and Assessment Centre is a bold step to engage with the changing academic environment. It is an example of how collaboration between UFS faculties, the Centre for Teaching and Learning, ICT Services, and University Estates can create cutting-edge and innovative learning and teaching environments.

One space, many functions

The centre, which took 22 months to complete, consists of innovative multi-functional spaces that can be used for large- and small-scale lectures or group work. The biggest venue, which can accommodate up to 980 students, can also be converted into five acoustically separate venues with a variety of table configurations depending on the educational needs. 

In line with the newly adopted blended learning approach, the digital infrastructure in the centre allows for the seamless integration of technology, as all the spaces are equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. The computer laboratory and assessment centre, which can accommodate 800 students, can be used for examination or teaching and can be divided into two separate areas if needed. 

Functional study stops 

The centre offers an area where students can pause and study in groups around tables with a laptop-friendly study ledge that runs along the length of the space. Sufficient power points allow students to recharge their devices in an aesthetically pleasing space that promotes optimal engagement with learning. 

The design brief for this multifunctional space was a collaborative effort between professionals and UFS departments to ensure the most efficient use of space and purpose. The overall focus was on effectiveness and efficiency, which is part of University Estates’ strategy to maximise the use of space.

More to this than meets the eye

The building integrates into its environment with waterwise gardens and numerous indigenous trees planted around the permanent outdoor seating, which can also be used as informal learning spaces. The landscaping is seamlessly accessible with ramps and tactile paving. 

Modern, fully inclusive ablution facilities can accommodate high volumes of traffic, and rainwater is collected in 44 tanks with a capacity of 79 000 litres for watering the landscape, as well as emergency water supply to flush water closets. Heat pump air-conditioning systems with individual control for each room are connected to the campus building management system for effective energy control. 

Further expansion

Phase 2 of the project will entail a 24/7 study space that will accommodate 250 students. The venue will also provide a small recreation area. Completion is scheduled for December 2021.

Although the project team was faced with COVID-19 restrictions during construction, they managed to complete the building within the agreed budget and quality measures. The team is looking forward to creating more functional spaces on the UFS campuses. 

Take a tour of the new Modular Lecturing Space and Assessment Centre Building:

News Archive

Campus-wide poll to determine preferences among current staff and students for language models
2015-10-28

New dates: Campus-wide poll to determine preferences among current staff and students for language models – 29 October to 4 November 2015


Due to the past week’s national #Feesmustfall student protest action, the language poll has been moved to 29 October 2015-4 November 2015 on all three campuses.

The poll will take place at the following venues from 29 October to 4 November 2015, 08:00-16:30, including the weekend:

Bloemfontein Campus:

Kestell Residence Gazellie
(Map from Main Gate to Kestell Residence: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=zpxto53qbJos.kvfli1pCFvWQ&usp=sharing

Fish Tank, SRC Building, Thakaneng Bridge

(Map from Main Gate to the SRC Building: https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=zpxto53qbJos.kJMo3STc445g)

Qwaqwa Campus:

VIP Lounge
(Map from the Main Gate to the VIP Lounge: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=zpxto53qbJos.ka4YghcxZVxc&usp=sharing)

South Campus:

Conference Hall
(Map from the Main Gate to the Conference Hall:  https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=zpxto53qbJos.klMitM9RWCnA&usp=sharing)


Online option available:

Go to http://www.ufs.ac.za/language to participate. This URL will be active as from Thursday 29 October at 08:00. Staff to log in with their username and password and students to use their UFS credentials (your username is your student number and your password is the one you use to log in on Blackboard).

Please note that the campus-wide poll is NOT a formal voting process or referendum and will form only one part of many deciding factors that will be referred to the UFS Council on 4 December 2015 for their deliberations regarding the future of the language policy at the UFS. The poll, conducted by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), will be indicative of the preferences of staff and students for possible language model options, with specific focus on language of instruction.  

To take part in the polling at the allocated venues, a valid staff or student card must be produced. Polling will take place on the basis of one poll per current staff member/student.

We look forward to your participation in the poll and hereby thank the entire university community for their ongoing interest and responsible engagement with the review process.

For enquiries send an email to language@ufs.ac.za or call +27(0)51 401 3422.


Q & A:


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