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25 April 2024 | Story ANTHONY MTHEMBU | Photo Stephen Collet
His Excellency Dr Reuben E Brigety II
His Excellency Dr Reuben E Brigety II presenting his guest lecture at the Centenary Complex.

The University of the Free State (UFS) recently had the honour of hosting a thought-provoking guest lecture delivered by His Excellency Dr Reuben E Brigety II, the United States Ambassador to South Africa. Held on 23 April 2024 at the Centenary Complex, on the UFS Bloemfontein campus, the lecture delved into the vital role of higher education in fostering and safeguarding democracies.

Describing the occasion as a pivotal moment for the institution, Prof Francis Petersen, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the UFS, articulated, "Having the United States Ambassador to South Africa visit our institution and deliver this guest lecture presents an invaluable opportunity. It allows us to gain unique insights into the parallel dynamics and challenges facing our sister democracies, particularly as both our countries approach significant electoral periods.”

Dr Brigety, in his address, underscored the significance of higher education in the context of Freedom Day, celebrated in South Africa on 27 April 2024. He emphasised the role universities play in advancing democratic values, drawing upon the UFS motto, “In truth is the light of wisdom” to elucidate this connection. Highlighting the inspirational figure of the late Charlotte Maxeke, a prominent social and political activist, Dr Brigety noted her pivotal role in both South African and American contexts.

Maxeke, a graduate of Wilberforce University, and her husband Marshall Maxeke, founded the Wilberforce Community College upon returning to South Africa. Dr Brigety underscored the significance of Maxeke’s commitment to civil liberties and education, along with her enduring ties to the Wilberforce University network, in shaping subsequent generations of activists and leaders.

Moreover, Dr Brigety stressed the importance of collaborative efforts between South African and American universities amidst today’s complex global challenges. He advocated for initiatives such as collaborative research projects, joint academic programmes, and student exchanges, citing their role not only in knowledge creation but also in fostering mutual understanding and strengthening bilateral relations.

In concluding his address, Dr Brigety urged the audience to emulate the examples set by individuals like Charlotte Maxeke and Prof Jonathan Jansen, the former Rector and Vice-Chancellor of UFS. He encouraged them to champion the cultivation of the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and change-makers. 

Prof Francis Petersen, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of the Free state with His Excellency, Dr Reuben E Brigety II.
Prof Francis Petersen, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of the Free state with His Excellency, Dr Reuben E Brigety II.
Delegates with Dr Reuben E Brigety II.
Delegates with Dr Reuben E Brigety II.
Prof Vasu Reddy, Vice-Chancellor: Research and Internationalisation of the University of the Free State (UFS).
Prof Vasu Reddy, Vice-Chancellor: Research and Internationalisation of the University of the Free State (UFS).
Dr Reuben E Brigety II Presents.
Dr Reuben E Brigety II Presents.
Jerry Laka, Director of KovsieSport at the University of the Free State and Dr Reuben E Brigety II.
Jerry Laka, Director of KovsieSport at the University of the Free State and Dr Reuben E Brigety II.

News Archive

UFS unveils Women’s Memorial Garden
2011-08-12

 

The Women’s Memorial Garden, between the Main and Chemistry building, seen from the top.
Photo: Siegwalt Küsel

Our university rewarded the hard work of women at the university by unveiling a Women’s Memorial Garden at our Bloemfontein Campus on National Women’s Day, 9 August 2011. University Staff, students, some members of our Council and other guests gathered at the university for the unveiling of the new memorial garden.

Prof. Driekie Hay, Vice-Rector: Academic, told the somewhat 50 people at the unveiling that it was a historic day for the UFS, as this was a sign of how far the university have come. Prof. Hay told the women at the function to be proud of their achievements. She said the purpose of Women’s Day was to celebrate the historic struggle and sacrifices of all South African women, especially those who fought against racism and sexism.

The Women’s Memorial Garden consists of a botanical garden with more than 80 plant species. In the middle of the garden is a stone statue with a wild fig tree planted within. Prof. Hay told the guests that the tree’s numerous seeds represent unity and is an indication of real understanding, knowledge and faith, characteristics women at our university should pursue to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for the UFS. The University leadership will now embark on a process to identify and recognise women from the university community who have made significant contributions during its 107 years of existence.

The memorial garden was designed by Habitat Landscape Architects. Mr Siegwalt Küsel, an architect at the firm, said the garden was developed to be a living monument to women. He said they hope that the garden will become an active learning space for visitors.

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