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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.
Sought-after title warms heart doctor’s heart
2013-10-02
02 October 2013
Prof Stephen Brown was recently named as Ons Stad’s Bloemfonteiner of the Year, a title Prof Brown views as “one of the greatest moments” of his life.
Prof Brown, a cardiologist in the University of the Free State’s (UFS’) Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, has dedicated his life to children’s hearts ever since he qualified as paediatrician.
He is also involved in the teaching of under- and postgraduate students, as well as the training of doctors in paediatric cardiology. He is also jointly responsible for the planning and compilation of the undergraduate training programme for final-year students.
“This title is truly one of the greatest moments of my life. I feel humbled and impressed by the quality of the nominations for the title, which makes me feel small among the others.
“As physician I appreciate it even more, because this award means that the people of our wonderful city value the achievements and work of the doctors in our city – this warms my heart.”
Under Prof Brown’s leadership, Bloemfontein’s Paediatric Cardiology Unit is the only certified and recognised unit for pulmonary-valve implants in Africa.
The development of a local prenatal fetal heart screening and diagnostic programme, as well as adult congenital heart clinics, is due to his work and passion for his study field.
At the World Congress in 2013, he was involved as operator from South Africa in the first ‘direct telecast’ of children’s heart procedures.
“I hope that the award will help in our campaign to raise awareness in the community about children’s heart diseases. They are, after all, the people I work for."
The UFS also congratulates Sheri Brynard on her nomination for the title. Paul Colditz, the winner for 2012, is also a UFS Board member.