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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. 

News Archive

House Madelief turns over a new leaf
2013-02-15

 

The new year has come with a lot of changes for House Madelief. The residence, home to 179 female students, had a make-over which changed its inside appearance. The changes include new relaxation and meeting spaces, changes in decor, as well as renovations to the residence’ and visitors’ bathrooms.

Notable changes include four different spaces which each present a unique, but blending identity. When not in class, residents can make use of the little coffee corner, a conference room for quick meetings, a lounge and relaxation area. New paintings were also hung in the men’s gazellie, consisting of artworks painted by talented Madelief resident, Kondi Shikwambani. 

With new decor came a new theme. “A place we call home, our home, Madelief," says Diatile Mohlakane, Prime of the residence. "Madelief is a vibrant place of colour, which has postitive energy flowing throughout the house."

Rudi Buys, Dean of Student Affairs, congratulated Madelief on its new appearances. "We are immensely proud of Madelief and of both the Residence Head and the Residence Committee for achieving change, not only in terms of what the residence’s facilities offer Madeliefies, but also in the apparent sense of community among students which have become a proud reality. Madeliefies are now known as people who live with values which inspire all around them."

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