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26 January 2022 | Story Rulanzen Martin | Photo University of the Western Cape
The late Prof Jaap Durand.

The management of the University of the Free State (UFS) is saddened to learn of the passing of Prof Jaap Durand, revered theological academic and author. Prof Durand obtained his master’s degree from the UFS and received an honorary doctorate in Philosophy from the UFS in 2004. 

Prof Durand has had a colourful career as academic, writer, and struggle activist: from Professor of Systematic Theology and Dean of the Faculty of Theology at the University of the Western Cape to Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the same university. He also served as the ombudsman of Stellenbosch University from 2002 to 2003. 

During his life, Prof Durand was a unifier and a critical voice, speaking out against injustice. He has also authored several books, including Dit is amper dag; Evolusie, wetenskap en geloof, and Protesstem

The UFS joins the higher education community in mourning and is deeply saddened by the loss of such a great theologian and academic. We wish to convey our deepest condolences to Prof Durand’s family, friends, and loved ones during this time.

News Archive

World-famous action researcher shares knowledge with UFS
2010-03-03

From Left: Prof. McNiff and Prof. Beylefeld at the workshop
Photo: Lize du Plessis 


Prof. Jean McNiff from the Department of Education at the York St. John University in the United Kingdom (UK) recently paid a highly successful visit to the Faculty of Education at the University of the Free State (UFS).

Prof. McNiff is a world-famous action researcher and has published nineteen books. She holds professorial positions at various universities across the world, including the position of Visiting Professor at the Ningxia Teachers' University in the People's Republic of China.

Staff members from the Faculty of Education attended a seminar presented by Prof. McNiff to introduce them to the methodology and conventions of action research.

According to Prof. Adri Beylefeld, Teaching and Learning manager at the faculty, action research is increasingly recognised as a rigorous research methodology. It can enhance the professional development of educators as they study their own practice with the purpose of improving the learning of students.

Prof. McNiff also presented a workshop to staff members of the UFS, titled “Using our educational responsibilities to transform our violent histories into life-affirming futures”.
– Lize du Plessis

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