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 2015 group for Stanford Sophomore College announced
2015-06-09

Photo (from left to right): Farzaana Adam, Cornel Vermaak, Anje Venter, Tristan van der Spuy, Precious Mokwala and Naushad Mayat. |
Six second-year students from the UFS were selected to attend a two-week seminar at the Stanford Sophomore College in August/September 2015.
The Stanford Sophomore College (SoCo) is an immersive learning experience. Participants attend class meetings during the morning while afternoons include class activities, explorations of Stanford University (USA), field trips, and other organised events.
Since 2012 UFS students have been invited to apply. This year’s successful applicants were recently announced. They are:
• Farzaana Adam
B. Accounting student
Attending the SoCo seminar on Great Ideas in Computer
• Naushad Mayat
Medicine student
Attending the SoCo seminar on HIV/AIDS Epidemics
• Precious Mokwala
Social Sciences student
Attending the SoCo seminar on Photography: Truth or Fiction
• Tristan van der Spuy
B. Accounting student
Attending the SoCo seminar on A Walk Down Wall Street
• Anje Venter
Actuarial Science student
Attending the SoCo seminar on New Millenium Mix: Cross between Race and Culture
• Cornel Vermaak
Medicine student
Attending the SoCo seminar on The Intersection between Arts and Science
SoCo group of 2014 announement:
http://www.ufs.ac.za/templates/news-archive-item?news=4019
2012:
http://www.ufs.ac.za/templates/news-archive-item?news=2344