The
Centre for Graduate Support (previously known as the Postgraduate School) welcomed postgraduate students enrolled for 2022 to the University of the Free State (UFS) during an event hosted on Thursday, 24 March 2022. As part of its ‘You belong’ ceremony, the centre focused on making postgraduate studies, programmes, and funding accessible to a new cohort of students.
Over the years, the UFS has committed itself to excellence in postgraduate education, with a focus on the output of work by postgraduate students as a measure of institutional productivity and research skills.
Embarking on solutions-based research
Speaking to postgraduate students during the welcoming ceremony held at the Centenary Complex on the Bloemfontein Campus,
Dr Yong Sebastian Nyam said: “The aim should not just be to be called doctor or professor; you need to go beyond studies and build communities.”
Dr Nyam, an alumnus of the UFS who was recently appointed as an African fellow at the
World Bank, said: “As a postgraduate student, do not do research to just fill a gap. Strive to make positive contributions and solve societal problems. Be a tool and show how useful you can be. Your network should be your net worth.”
Navigating studies for academic excellence
Noting the “importance of finishing what you have started”,
Dr Mikateko Mathebula, Senior Researcher within the SARCHI Chair for Higher Education and Human Development Research Programme, said, “Postgraduate studies expose an individual to new ways of approaching research, connecting ideas, and developing presentation skills.”
She said: “If you are convinced about pursuing your studies, speak to people who have been there, do not doubt yourself, and if wondering whether it is the right path, seek advice.”
Postgraduate studies can be a challenging journey; during the welcoming event, the importance of students taking care of their mental health and making use of the free Student Counselling and Development services, was also covered.
To make life easier and to ensure success, the centre and the UFS also support postgraduate students by accessing funding options, developing academic writing, complying with research ethics, and applying for ethical clearance.
He said: “When conducting research, do not limit yourself and consider global literature. I hope you will leave the institution with a global outlook.”
The centre will host two welcoming ceremonies this year. The second ceremony will be in the Senate Hall on the Qwaqwa Campus on 30 March 2022.