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08 April 2024 | Story VALENTINO NDABA | Photo SUPPLIED
UFS Graduation April 2024
The University of the Free State celebrated autumn graduation season from 12-20 April 2024.

As the autumn season unfolded, the University of the Free State (UFS) eagerly anticipated the commencement of its graduation ceremonies, a time to celebrate the academic achievements of its esteemed students. The ceremonies, scheduled from 12-20 April 2024, honoured the accomplishments of the graduating class of 2023, across the Qwaqwa and Bloemfontein campuses.

Undergraduate and postgraduate achievements

The graduating class represented a diverse array of disciplines, showcasing the university’s commitment to fostering excellence across various fields. In total, 5 442 undergraduate qualifications and 2 345 postgraduate qualifications were conferred, reflecting the dedication and perseverance of both students and faculty members.

Honouring distinguished individuals

The graduation ceremonies also recognised the contributions of distinguished individuals who have made a significant impact in their respective fields. Among them were Archbishop Thabo Makgoba and Prof Salim Abdool Karim who received honorary degrees from the UFS on 12 and 18 April 2024, respectively.  

Archbishop Makgoba, Archbishop of Cape Town and President of the South African Council of Churches, was recognised for his outstanding contributions to theology, social justice, and education activism. Prof Karim, renowned for his groundbreaking research in AIDS and COVID-19, was honoured for his exceptional work in medical virology. 

Nurturing excellence and social impact

The graduation ceremonies not only symbolised the culmination of academic journeys but also underscored the UFS Vision 130 commitment to academic excellence, societal impact, and the cultivation of future leaders. The university continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual landscape of South Africa and beyond. 

As the graduating class of 2023 embarks on new endeavours, they carry with them the values instilled by their alma mater, poised to make meaningful contributions to society.


WATCH: April 2024 Graduation Ceremonies.

News Archive

A Rag procession to remember
2013-02-06

Photo: Albert van Biljon
05 February 2013


   YouTube Video

A Rag procession to remember and one of the best in years. This was the opinion of many spectators at the Kovsies’ annual Rag procession on Saturday 2 February 2013. Large numbers of people came to watch the procession moving through the streets of Bloemfontein as students showed off their floats.

A festive atmosphere prevailed along the route and some people came prepared with camping chairs and picnic baskets.

The proceedings began with a morning procession to the Twin City shopping centre in Heidedal and the Kenilworth shopping centre in Mangaung. About 10 000 food parcels were handed out in the two suburbs, while the UFS Cultural Office and KovsieFM entertained the residents.

Prof. Jonathan Jansen, Vice-Chancellor and Rector, as well as members of the senior leadership, went along on the journey to the two suburbs. Dozens of children and adults were at the Twin City shopping centre where hundreds of balloons were released. Kovsie staff, students and members of the SRC at the Bloemfontein Campus met with members of the community and helped to hand out food parcels.

The main procession left from the Bloemfontein Campus at 18:00 and proceeded to the Old Grey’s sports grounds for the Rag concert. Rag-goers were entertained by the music group Mi Casa, the singing duo and twin brothers Locnville, as well as Bobby van Jaarsveld. People were also treated to a fireworks display.

The float of the residences Karee, Soetdoring and Imperium was announced as the winning float.

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