Latest News Archive
Please select Category, Year, and then Month to display items
16 April 2024
|
Story Anthony Mthembu
|
Photo Supplied
Melanie Ridgard celebrates receiving a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the graduation ceremony held at the UFS Bloemfontein campus on 19 April 2024.
In the realm of self-development, few stories are as inspiring as that of Melanie Ridgard, the Interim Administration and Events Coordinator at the South African Research Chair in Industrial Development (SARChI-ID) at the University of Johannesburg (UJ). Ridgard’s forthcoming graduation with a Master in Business Administration (MBA) on 19 April 2024 from the University of the Free State (UFS) marks not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the transformative power of higher education.
Reflecting on her journey, Ridgard shares, “This moment signifies a culmination of rigorous studying, dedication and perseverance in mastering business fundamentals, leadership skills and strategic thinking.” Her pursuit of an MBA stemmed from a pivotal moment in her career when she was promoted at the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) at UFS. Tasked with leading a group of young people Ridgard recognised the need to augment her knowledge to effectively guide her colleagues. The MBA became her vehicle for professional growth, extending beyond a mere qualification to a profound transformation of her leadership capabilities.
“Attaining an MBA milestone represents a transformative experience that has shaped my thinking to make impactful contributions in any future landscape,” Ridgard explains. Her experience not only enhanced her strategic acumen but also deepened her understanding of organisational dynamics. She acknowledges the pivotal role played by the UFS Business School in nurturing her journey towards academic and personal success.
What to expect from Ridgard
Looking ahead, Ridgard’s commitment to continuous learning remains unwavering. Selected as one of five MBA students to address the 17th International Business Conference (IBC) in September 2024, she eagerly anticipates the opportunity to share insights on her work titled, “Next-Gen Integration: Navigating the Onboarding Maze for Gen Z in Today's Workplace.” Despite her current responsibilities at UJ, she harbors plans to pursue a PhD in the near future.
Amidst her ambitious pursuits, Ridgard remains grounded, prioritising the celebration of her MBA achievement. ‘’As everyone dreams about it, I just want to walk over that stage in a black gown and a hood on my head with my loved ones cheering me on,’’ she shared.
Ridgard’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration, exemplifying the transformative potential of education and the enduring impact of determined leadership. Her story reminds us that true leadership is not merely about reaching milestones but also about empowering others and embracing continuous growth.
UFS and Griqua National Conference work together
2009-03-04
 |
|
Delegates from the Griqua National Conference (GNC) and role players from the University of the Free State (UFS) recently met on the South Campus of the UFS to put the objectives of a Memorandum of Understanding into practice. Some of the objectives are research, programmes and projects focusing on economic, educational, political, cultural/heritage and socio-social matters. “Research in different fields is important for the survival of the Griqua in South Africa and the UFS gives credibility to the Griqua’s research projects,” says Mr Cecil le Fleur, Chairperson of the GNC’s Council of Chiefs. According to Mr le Fleur, the GNC wants to work with the UFS because the institution reaches out to the communities of the Southern Free State. There is also mutualistic cooperation in this area that is of benefit to both partners. “Together with the UFS we will also be investigating the feasibility of the production of a documentary film on the role of the Griqua in the central interior, its political models and the role the Griqua played in the establishment of white settlers in this area. We also want to investigate and implement other relevant points of tangency,” says Mr le Fleur. Here are, from the left: Mr le Fleur, Ms Elizabeth le Fleur, Chairperson of the Cultural Group, which is one of the focus areas of the cooperation agreement, and Rev Kiepie Jaftha, Chief Director: Community Service at the UFS.
Photo: Lacea Loader
|