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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

Prof Corli Witthuhn appointed as Vice-Rector: Research
2013-03-18

 

The portfolio of Vice-Rector: Research is new and was created as part of the university's academic project in which the institution aims to increase its research activities and outputs.
Photo: Supplied
12 March 2013

Curriculum Vitae

The Council of the University of the Free State (UFS) approved the appointment of Prof Corli Witthuhn as Vice-Rector: Research, during its meeting on 8 March 2013.

Prof Witthuhn brings with her years of experience in higher education, both in terms of scientific research and serving in senior management positions in university structures.

Prof Witthuhn obtained her PhD in Microbiology at the UFS in 1999. She then joined Stellenbosch University (SU) as a lecturer and served as an academic at the US for 12 years. She was appointed as Vice-Dean in the Faculty of AgriSciences at US until she joined the UFS.

Since August 2011, she has been employed at the UFS as Professor and Vice-Dean in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences. She is one of the co-directors of the university's Vice-Chancellor's Prestige Scholars Programme, aiming to identify and develop the careers of young academic scholars at the UFS.

Prof Witthuhn’s research focus is on food microbiology and she is still actively involved in research. She is a NRF C2-rated scientist who has published more than 60 international articles in peer-reviewed journals. She has supervised numerous doctoral and master’s students and acts as reviewer for leading international journals. During her research career, she has been able to negotiate research funding from national and international funders, as well as from industry.

The portfolio of Vice-Rector: Research is new and was created as part of the university's academic project in which the institution aims to increase its research activities and outputs.

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