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14 June 2023 | Story Kamohelo Tshabalala | Photo Supplied
Dr Kamohelo Tshabalala
Dr Kamohelo Tshabalala, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Physics, shares his UFS journey.

The University of the Free State (UFS) is celebrating Youth Month by showcasing the positive influence of the institution on career development. As part of this initiative, we are sharing the stories of UFS alumni who are now working at the university.

Dr Kamohelo Tshabalala, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Physics, shares his UFS journey:

Q: Year of graduation from the UFS: 

A: 2004 and 2015.

Q: Qualification obtained from the UFS: 

A: BSc in Physics and Mathematics and PhD in Solid State Physics.

Q: Date of joining the UFS as a staff member: 

A: 2003 to 2004 and 2012 to date.

Q: Initial job title and current job title: 

A: I began my journey as a Lab Assistant, but over time, I advanced to higher positions within the academic realm. Presently, I proudly serve as a Senior Lecturer and Subject Head in the esteemed Department of Physics. Additionally, I have taken on the role of acting Assistant Dean in the distinguished Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences.

Q: How did the UFS prepare you for the professional world? 

A: First and foremost, I successfully completed my BSc degree, followed by the attainment of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). I firmly believe that these educational achievements serve as a solid foundation for excelling in both teaching and leadership roles.

Q: What are your thoughts on transitioning from a UFS alumnus to a staff member? 

A: It is a very interesting aspect; however, this transition may entirely depend on an individual’s interest in whether to continue with their studies or not. The stimulation may come from the undergraduate teachings that exhibit real interventions for new developments towards empowering the society at large.

Q: Any additional comments about your experience? 
A: As both an academic and a departmental leader for the past nine years, I am very grateful for all the support from the university community. I would encourage young scholars to explore more leadership roles that are available in the sector, because one is always up to date with new initiatives and strategies for the betterment of human and academic projects.

News Archive

UFS works closely with employees in the post-Reitz settlement process
2013-05-20

20 May 2013

In the light of an article in IOL News on 18 and 19 May 2013 and in Sunday Independent and Sunday Tribune on 19 May 2013 in which it is alleged that the University of the Free State (UFS) has failed to honour its commitment to the five Reitz employees we are pleased to report on the ongoing process and progress made with respect to their employment.

The university remained consistently true to the settlement agreement and High Court order of 2011 and cannot apologise for complying with the law. It was therefore impossible for us to talk to our colleagues directly until last week when we had a breakthrough meeting, which was cleared by the Human Rights Commission (HRC), and matters were resolved.

The UFS continues to work closely and now directly with the five employees to ensure that their rights as employees remain the highest priority in the post-settlement process.
 
All but one of the conditions of the Reitz settlement (own business) has already been met; however, we are in the process of providing training and support for the establishment of an independent business led by the employees.

After some delays, and frustration on all sides, we have found the right training provider for them and are satisfied that the process remains on track. The business office (furnished) has been allocated at the South Campus in Bloemfontein.

Already in late 2012 the Chair of the HRC expressed his satisfaction with the commitments made by the university to the process. By 30 June 2013 this outstanding commitment to establish an independent company with trained employees would also have been met in full.

Beyond the settlement agreement, the UFS has also committed to providing free education and training to the children of the employees so that their next generation of families emerge as strong, independent, well-trained and productive members of society. The child of one of the colleagues is in fact finishing Grade 12 this year and we are in discussion about possible studies at the UFS. This is our pledge and commitment as a university.

This final step in the post-Reitz settlement is being led by Dr Choice Makhetha, Vice-Rector of the University of the Free State.

 

Issued by: Lacea Loader
Director Strategic Communication
Tel: +27 (0) 51 401 2584 / +27 (0) 83 645 2454
E-mail: news@ufs.ac.za
Fax: +27 (0) 51 444 6393
Web: www.ufs.ac.za

 

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