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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

2015 Spring Graduation Ceremony rekindles spirit of Ubuntu
2015-09-22

 

Our graduates: A new generation of future leaders
to advance South Africa

 -  Video: Spring Graduation Ceremony

“Give away your love, attention, care and more.” These words of Prof Jonathan Jansen, Vice-Chancellor and Rector of the University of the Free State (UFS), capture the spirit of the 2015 Spring Graduation Ceremony that took place on Thursday 17 September 2015.

On this special day, 599 diplomas and degrees were conferred from the faculties of the Humanities, Education, Law, Theology, Economic and Management -, Health -, and Natural and Agricultural Sciences. Central to both the morning and afternoon ceremonies was the message of Ubuntu.

The essence of humanity

“Here is my advice to you,” Prof Jansen said to the graduates, “whatever you have, give it away. Give away your love, attention, care and more.” Prof Jeffrey Sachs, guest speaker at both events, supported this message by saying that the essence of humanity is the cornerstone to success. Prof Sachs, a prominent American economist and humanitarian, asked graduates to use their hard-earned knowledge wisely, fairly and boldly. “You are the wealth of South Africa, for your knowledge is the key to SA’s prosperity.”

The UFS Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences honoured Prof Sachs by conferring an honorary doctorate on him. With this prestigious conferral, the faculty acknowledges Prof Sach’s extensive work in sustainable economic, social and political development across the globe. Dr Khotso Mokhele, Chancellor of the UFS, commended Prof Sachs for his compassion and passion for humanity. “I’m truly inspired that you agreed to associate yourself with this institution. We are proud to be associated with your excellence,” Dr Mokhele said.

Celebrating the extraordinary

One of many highlights of the day was when Leanne Kunz and Karabo Motlhakoana walked across the stage to respectively receive their Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration and a BSc degree in Information Technology.

Kunz has been compiling news bulletins for The Breakfast Special show, aired on the OFM radio station, for five years. This Kovsie Alumnus graduated with a Media Studies degree a few years ago. Kunz did not allow her successful career at the popular radio station to hinder her studying further, though. Neither has Motlhakoana’s physical challenges.

While everyone else used their hands to take notes, Motlhakoana used his foot. Despite being born with no arms, he was able to beat the odds by qualifying as a computer scientist. Motlhakoana was also involved in the Leadership for Change programme in 2011 which contributed to producing the well-rounded graduate he is today. When walking across the stage, “I felt like I achieved something that gave me a challenge,” he said.

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