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10 February 2023 | Story Lunga Luthuli | Photo Lunga Luthuli
Gateway Amigos
Volunteer Gateway Amigos, a University of the Free State initiative to assist first-entering students during Gateway First-year Orientation and the transition to life at the institution.

The University of the Free State (UFS) will be hosting welcoming ceremonies – which include the 2023 UFS Dream Walk event – for first-year students on the Bloemfontein and South Campuses on 18 February 2023, and on the Qwaqwa Campus on 25 February 2023.  

The Dream Walk – also known as Kovsie Dream – is an annual event, with the first being hosted in 2022.  With the event, the UFS welcomes first-year students to the university community, placing an emphasis on their individual dreams and aspirations. The event is also an opportunity for new students to familiarise themselves with the university, facilities, available opportunities, and to make new friends. 

The UFS recognises the importance of helping students set and pursue their dreams, especially in their first year. During the event, students will have an opportunity to interact with university staff, as well as current students who will share their experiences of pursuing their dreams and overcoming obstacles. 

Students participating in the Dream Walk will have the chance to explore their potential, identify their passions, and by completing their dream cards, they will be able to set goals for their individual futures.

Prof Francis Petersen, Rector and Vice-Chancellor, will officially welcome students to the UFS on both days – on the Bloemfontein Campus on 18 February 2023, and on the Qwaqwa Campus on 25 February 2023.  The welcoming messages on the two campuses will be followed by a Dream Walk.  Students participating in the Dream Walk will move along the same route that students follow on the day of graduation. 

The Division of Student Affairs believes that building a strong support network is crucial for students to succeed in their academic and professional lives. By connecting with staff and seniors, first-year students will gain valuable insight into their chosen courses and receive advice on how to achieve their academic goals.

Dr WP Wahl, Director: Student Life within the Division of Student Affairs, said: “The UFS is committed to providing its students with the support and resources they need to pursue their dreams. The Rector’s Welcoming, coupled with the Dream Walk, is an exciting opportunity for first-year students to start their university journey on the right foot and to set themselves up for success.”

For more information on the Welcoming, the Dream Walk event, and the programme, please click here

News Archive

Consideration of the future of Reitz Residence
2008-03-17

Against the background of the recent events surrounding the video produced in Reitz Residence and in terms of a resolution passed by the Council of the University of the Free State (UFS) on 7 March 2008, the Rector and the Management of the UFS are at present considering the future of the Reitz Residence on the main campus of the University.

According to the Council resolution, this may include the possible closure of the residence and its conversion into either a new residence or accommodation facility or a different type of facility for use by the University. The guideline by Council is that it should become a beacon of transformation, hope and liberation.

The substantive issues that will be considered in taking the above-mentioned decision include, among others: the necessity of utilising the residence for other needs; the promotion of transformation and diversity in residences and on the campus; the educational and career interests of future residents; safety and security on the campus; and the effective functioning and strategic objectives of the UFS, including the place and profile of the UFS in the national and international university context, the UFS’s co-operation with other universities, organisations and experts, the UFS’s community engagement, and strategic partnerships with the business sector.

No such decision will be taken before the persons who will be affected directly by such a decision have been afforded a reasonable opportunity to make submissions and proposals for consideration by the Management. These direct stakeholders, in law, have been identified as:

  • students residing in Reitz at present;
  • parents of students residing in Reitz at present; and
  • present staff of Reitz.

In addition, any stakeholder or group of stakeholders are invited to make proposals by way of written submissions on the basis of the above-mentioned before or on 14 April 2008.

The University gives its assurance that whatever is ultimately decided, reasonable notice will be given to all the above-mentioned direct stakeholders and that the implementation will take place in a fair and reasonable manner to avoid causing unnecessary disruption for students, parents and staff.

Please send written submissions to:
The Vice-Rector: Student Affairs
Reitz issue
University of the Free State
PO Box 339
Bloemfontein 9300

Fax number: 051 444-0740
Email address: voorstelle@ufs.ac.za  

Prof. FCvN Fourie
Rector and Vice-Chancellor

Media Release
Issued by: Mr Anton Fisher
Director: Strategic Communication
Tel: 051 401 3422
Cell: 072 207 8334
E-mail: fishera.stg@ufs.ac.za  
17 March 2008

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