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31 July 2023
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Story Lerato Lesiu
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Photo Supplied
The Umoja Buddy Programme (UBP) in the Office for International Affairs at the University of the Free State (UFS) celebrated International Day of Friendship by visiting students and staff members all over campus and handing out treats with messages of friendship attached.
This day is celebrated every year on 30 July; the UBP’s ambassadors and buddies participated on Friday 28 July by hosting an event to encourage a sense of togetherness and solidarity among the university community. It emphasised the importance of friendship and how it contributes to the spread of kindness, love, and peace among people from many cultural backgrounds.
Bulelwa Moikwatlhai, who leads the Internationalisation at Home and Incoming Exchange Students portfolios in the Office for International Affairs, says the participants representing different countries in the Umoja Buddy Programme celebrated the day by visiting students and staff members all over campus and handing out treats with messages of friendship attached.
“The goal was to make someone’s day while learning about their understanding of friendship and to encourage people to reach out to their friends, express their appreciation, and engage in acts of kindness.”
“The participants had the opportunity to share their personal stories and experiences of friendship, discussing the challenges they faced and overcame, and the lessons they learned. The event allowed individuals to reflect on the value of friendship and its transformative power in promoting understanding and acceptance,” said Moikwatlhai.
Furthermore, she stated that the UBP has launched a social media campaign to encourage individuals worldwide to celebrate International Day of Friendship. Through inspiring stories, videos, and messages, the campaign aimed to spread the message of friendship and unity across borders.
Overall, the Umoja Buddy Programme’s celebration of International Friendship Day was a testament to the programme’s commitment to fostering lifelong friendships and promoting intercultural understanding. By providing a platform for individuals to connect, learn, and appreciate each other’s background, the UBP continues to create a world where diversity is celebrated, and where friendship knows no boundaries. The UBP recognises that friendship has the power to bridge cultural divides and create meaningful connections. The UBP firmly believes that these interactions can break stereotypes, enhance cultural awareness, and foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity.
- The Umoja Buddy Programme is a programme that pairs newly admitted international students with current students at the UFS for social, cultural, and academic integration. It seeks to ensure the smooth transition and integration of international students into student life at the UFS, helping them to integrate into the campus and local communities. The programme aims to connect international and local students through meaningful lifelong friendships and to foster their academic, social, and cultural integration at the UFS.
Dean of student affairs leaves the UFS after 29 years
2008-12-11
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Prof. Teuns Verschoor (left), Acting Rector of the UFS, and Dr Luyt during his farewell function. Prof. Verschoor and Dr Luyt worked together in student affairs at the UFS for 26 years. Prof. Verschoor was Dean of Student Affairs before Dr Luyt took over the reigns from him.
Photo: Lacea Loader |
The Dean of Student Affairs at the University of the Free State (UFS), Dr Natie Luyt, will be leaving the university after 29 years of service.
Dr Luyt decided to retire in order to spend more time with his wife, Ria, and his family. He will also be involved with his farm on a full-time basis.
“I have experienced a lot during my career and have learnt a lot from the staff and students at the UFS. There are students of exceptional quality at the university and it was a privilege to work with these young people. It was also a privilege to see the UFS grow to become the exceptional institution it is today,” Dr Luyt said during his farewell function this week.
Dr Luyt started working at the Department of Political Science of the UFS in 1980 and was appointed as Director of Student Affairs in 1997 and in 2005 as Dean of Student Affairs. During this time he was also closely involved with the Abraham Fischer Residence, where he was residence head since 1982.
Prof. Teuns Verschoor, Acting Rector of the UFS, said in his farewell message that the UFS has appreciation for Dr Luyt’s decades of service. “Dr Luyt had a meaningful life at the UFS. We have appreciation for his ability to deal with difficult cases and for his kind heart where student affairs are concerned. He will be remembered for the way in which he always knew what went on in the residences and that he always put the needs of students first,” said Prof. Verschoor.
Dr Choice Makhetha, Deputy Dean of Student Affairs at the UFS, will act as dean until the post is filled.
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Media Release
Issued by: Lacea Loader
Assistant Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 051 401 2584
Cell: 083 645 2454
E-mail: loaderl.stg@ufs.ac.za
11 December 2008
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