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19 April 2023
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Story Kekeletso Takang
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Photo Provided
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Among the thousands of new graduates obtaining qualifications during the University of the Free State’s (UFS) April graduation ceremony, were twins – Angel and Angelica Eksteen. The duo obtained their Bachelor of Education degrees in the Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching with distinctions during the Faculty of Education ceremony on 18 April 2023.
Angel says the journey to graduating was challenging, but worth it. “The most fulfilling thing about graduating was seeing the excitement and pride on our aunt and grandmother’s faces, making the challenges worth it.”
Angelica says their education journey has only just begun. Next in line for the twins is Bachelor of Education honours degrees. “And while we strive towards that, we will be the best teachers in the profession.”
Meet our Councillor Ryland Fisher - media expert, political commentator, art lover
2016-07-13
Ryland Fisher
Photo: Johan Roux
With more than 30 years’ experience in the media industry as former editor of the Cape Times and New Age, as well as assistant editor of the Sunday Times, and thanks to a profound understanding of the political situation in South Africa, Ryland Fisher was an obvious choice to serve on the Council of the University of the Free State.
Racial issues and diversity
He was born and bred in Cape Town, and studied Journalism at Rhodes University before the political situation in South Africa interrupted his studies. Despite this, Ryland has made a deep impression on the academy. Among others, he presented lectures on racial issues and diversity at the University of Cape Town, the Institute for the Advancement of Journalism in Johannesburg, Emory University in Atlanta, and Ohio University.
Author and editor
Ryland has published two books, Race in 2007 and Making the Media Work for You in 2002, and was editor of the Official Opus on Nelson Mandela.
He was elected to the UFS Council in 2015. Ryland believes that his particular background and understanding of the media industry, as well as race and diversity issues, will make a valuable contribution to the Council.
Politics, media, and entrepreneurship
"I have proven experience in politics, the media, and entrepreneurship. I often lecture on media and social transformation. I believe this offers me a unique view that could benefit Council," he says.
Ryland has a particular enthusiasm for the arts, and is executive chairman of the Cape Town Festival. He has been married for over 30 years, and his three daughters lie close to his heart.