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23 October 2023 | Story Samkelo Fetile | Photo Supplied
The finalists in the 2023 Matriculant of the Year competition

In a culmination of academic prowess, leadership, sportsmanship, cultural achievements, and community engagement, the University of the Free State (UFS), Matriculant of the Year competition for 2023 has declared Michael de Bruyn, the head boy of Futurum Akademie in Tadcaster near Jan Kempdorp in the Northern Cape, as the 42nd winner. This prestigious event, in collaboration with Netwerk24 and Volksblad, witnessed the participation of 66 outstanding matriculants from eight provinces.

The journey to success for these matriculants was not only a test of academic acumen but a comprehensive evaluation of their leadership skills, involvement in sports and cultural activities, and commitment to community projects. The top 25 entrants were honoured with bursaries from the UFS, a testament to the institution's dedication to nurturing talent and fostering academic excellence.

The stakes were raised even higher for the top 14 finalists, who gathered at the Monte Bello Estate near Bloemfontein for the final judging. This phase involved personal interviews and group sessions, challenging the finalists to showcase not only their intellectual capabilities but also their interpersonal skills and collaborative spirit.

Sponsors and Supporters

Despite the economic challenges, the Matriculant of the Year competition has continued to thrive, thanks to the unwavering support of its sponsors. The final round judges, representing the Kovsie Alumni Trust, Absa, Mazars (official auditors), and Pick n Pay Preller Walk, played a crucial role in determining the ultimate winner.

In addition to the overall winner, the Kovsie Alumni Trust went above and beyond by sponsoring two special prizes for exceptional achievements in culture and sports. Ilke de Klerk of Goudveld-Hoërskool in Welkom received the sports accolade for her outstanding accomplishments in athletics and netball. Recognising cultural excellence, two accomplished pianists, Karli Janeke from St Dunstan’s College in Benoni and Elizabeth Joubert from C & N Meisieskool Oranje in Bloemfontein, were honoured for their exceptional contributions.

Culture and Sports Recognised

The spirit of the competition extends beyond academic and extracurricular achievements, acknowledging the vibrant personalities that contribute to a well-rounded community. Renienke van Heerden from Jim Fouché High School in Bloemfontein was voted as the sparkling personality, showcasing that the matriculants of 2023 are not only accomplished in their fields but also possess a captivating and engaging presence.

As the 42nd winner of the Matriculant of the Year competition, Michael de Bruyn stands as a beacon of inspiration for future generations and symbolises the UFS's commitment to recognising and nurturing excellence in all its forms. The competition serves not only as a celebration of academic achievement but also as a platform for the holistic development of young minds, moulding them into leaders, athletes, artists, and compassionate community members.

Nomonde Mbadi, Director at the Department of Student Recruitment Services, extends her congratulations to the finalists of the Matriculant of the Year 2023 competition. “I commend the learners for their outstanding achievements, and I do acknowledge the potential they carry for the future. May their accomplishments serve as inspiration for many others to pursue excellence and contribute positively to the world.”

News Archive

Prof. Letticia Moja leaves the UFS
2009-06-02

Photo: Stephen Collett 

Prof. Letticia Moja (pictured), Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of the Free State (UFS), has resigned from her position to take up the post of Principal and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Limpopo, MEDUNSA Campus.

She will take up her post at MEDUNSA as from 1 August 2009.

“It is with sadness and with appreciation of all the work Prof. Moja has done in the Faculty of Health Sciences that we are making this announcement,” said Prof. Gert van Zyl, Head of the School of Medicine in the Faculty.

Prof. Moja joined the Faculty of Health Sciences in early 2002 to take up the position of Deputy Dean. At this point in time, she made a significant contribution towards alleviating the workload within the faculty and immediately took over some strategic issues from the office of the Dean, including issues pertaining to equity, selection, research and transformation.

She was just settling within the Faculty when the sudden death of the then Dean, Prof. CJC Nel, obliged her to take over as Acting Dean of this Faculty. Prof. Moja acted as Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences for ten months before she was appointed as the Dean on 1 December 2003.

After her appointment, Prof. Moja also obtained her MBA Degree from the UFS and made significant contributions at national and international level. She was recipient of the Shoprite Checkers Woman of the Year Award. She was also Chairperson of the National Committee of Medical Deans and was elected Vice-President of the Health Professions Council of South Africa.

In addition, Prof. Moja served on a number of accreditation teams, both at national and at health sciences level. She continued with excellent work in the Faculty of Health Sciences and, via the three schools, namely the School of Allied Health Professions, the School of Medicine and the School of Nursing, contributed significantly to the quality of human resources at national level.

The UFS wishes her all of the best with her new endeavours.

Media Release:
Mangaliso Radebe
Assistant Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 051 401 2828
Cell: 078 460 3320
E-mail: radebemt.stg@ufs.ac.za
2 June 2009
 

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