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26 January 2022
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Story Rulanzen Martin
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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.
Great is what the UFS is and should be
2013-02-15
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Photo: Johan Roux
09 February 2013 |
This passage from the book Good to Great by Jim Collis was the core message of Prof. Jonathan Jansen, Vice-Chancellor and Rector of the University of the Free State (UFS) at the official opening on Friday 8 February 2013.
Prof. Jansen warned the audience in a packed hall of the reasons why the UFS should not be good, but great.
“Good makes one become complacent. Good means you show up for class, but great means you are at the top of you class. Good means you simply do your work, but great means you’re the best amongst your peers. Good is ok, but great is what the UFS is and should be about,” Prof. Jansen said.
At the opening Prof. Jansen also highlighted a seven-point priority plan for the university in 2013.
These points are:
- The growth in numbers and quality of postgraduate students
- The planned westward expansion of the main campus (New Master Plan)
- The drive for quality and productivity in research
- The development of an advancement culture throughout the university
- The acceleration of diversity and equity in all aspects of campus life, but especially in academic appointments
- The building of a positive and supporting staff culture at the university
- The continued investment in undergraduate student leadership