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UFS confers honorary doctorate on Archbishop Thabo Makgoba

16 April 2024 | Story Precious Shamase | Photo Stephen Collett

Archbishop Thabo Makgoba stood before a crowd of eager faces, memories of his turbulent past intertwining with the present moment. In his speech during the University of the Free State (UFS) Qwaqwa Campus graduation ceremony on 12 April 2024, he recounted a pivotal moment from his youth, marked by the echoes of apartheid's oppression. "I am so pleased to be here," he began, "not least because the last time I was in this beautiful part of the country, I departed under less auspicious circumstances."

Reflecting on his teenage years amid the turbulence of the 16 June 1976 uprising, Archbishop Makgoba shared his journey of resilience and transformation. Forced from his home in the Alexandra township to Soweto, he found himself entangled in the struggle against apartheid. Yet, amid the chaos, his parents sought refuge for him in a rural haven – Makabelane in Phuthaditjhaba.

Gratitude and reflection

Returning to the university decades later to receive an honorary degree from the Faculty of Theology and Religion, Archbishop Makgoba expressed profound gratitude. "It is with enormous gratitude and thanksgiving that I return to this campus to receive this honour," he expressed, reflecting on the transformative power of education and the support of communities.

Receiving the Doctor of Theology (Honoris Causa), Archbishop Makgoba dedicated the honour to the unsung heroes of society. "I receive this honorary degree on behalf of all the lay people ... the pillars who sustain us," he remarked, acknowledging their enduring contributions amid historical injustices and contemporary challenges.

Championing equality and social justice

In his address, Archbishop Makgoba stressed the relevance of theology in addressing contemporary societal issues. Drawing upon the doctrine of the incarnation, he emphasised the divine solidarity with humanity, urging a renewed commitment to social justice and equality.

Advocating for a ‘new struggle’ for a just and equitable society, Archbishop Makgoba called upon graduates to embrace a legacy of service and activism. "Let's dedicate ourselves to serving our society in a way that will enable those who are the least among us to live lives as full and as rich as those we aspire to live ourselves," he urged, invoking a vision of collective empowerment and societal transformation.

Legacy of leadership

The newly honoured Dr Makgoba's journey from the streets of apartheid-era South Africa to the helm of the Anglican Church stands as a testament to the power of resilience, education, and service. As he continues to champion social justice and equality, his legacy resonates with hope and inspiration for generations to come.

Dr Makgoba's call for societal transformation aligned with the UFS’ Vision 130. This strategic intent aims to reposition the university as a beacon of academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. His honorary degree ceremony echoes the institution's commitment to nurturing leaders who embody the values of accountability, social justice, and care, contributing to a future where education becomes a catalyst for positive change.

Congratulatory Message

The Chancellor of the UFS, Prof Bonang Mohale, conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to Dr Makgoba on his honorary title, commending him as an unwavering champion in the continuous struggle for justice. Prof Mohale expressed gratitude for Dr Makgoba's tireless efforts, which paved the way for future generations to assert themselves and challenge authority. “Your accomplishment serves as a testament to your passion and unwavering commitment. Congratulations,“ said Prof Mohale. In conclusion, Prof Mohale warmly thanked Dr Makgoba for his selfless dedication and significant contributions.

News Archive

UFS establishes links with the University of Ghent

2007-11-15

The University of the Free State (UFS) recently formalised its co-operation ties with the University of Ghent in Belgium. The two universities signed a memorandum of understanding during the Accenta Trade Fair, an annual event that incorporates activities such as business seminars, cultural events and exhibitions.

The signing of the memorandum of understanding took place via a live video conference linking the two institutions of higher learning.

“It was a wonderful moment because, after signing the memorandum of understanding on the Main Campus in Bloemfontein, the Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Frederick Fourie, actually showed us his signature on the screen while we were in Ghent”, said Prof. Koos Bekker of the Department of Public Management at the UFS, who was part of the delegation from the Free State.

The delegation consisted of the Premier, Ms Beatrice Marshoff, and several MECs and senior officials from the Free State provincial government, as well as the mayor, councillors and senior officials of the Mangaung Local Municipality. Several staff members of the UFS were also part of the delegation.

According to Prof. Bekker, the two universities will co-operate in various areas in terms of the memorandum of understanding.

“In the short term the collaboration will be focused on bio-fuels, public management and the digital divide, while discussions in other areas such as health services and organised crime are also under way,” he said.

As part of the memorandum of understanding, the following collaborative efforts are also envisaged:

Mr Lyndon du Plessis, a lecturer in the Department of Public Management, will be enrolled for a Ph.D. at both universities as from September 2008.

A research project involving both universities, the Mangaung Local Municipality and the City of Ghent, will be undertaken.
An investigation will be conducted by both universities regarding the possibility of writing a book on performance management in the public sector (negotiations with the publisher in this regard are under way).

An exchange programme involving students and staff from both universities will be established.

Academics from the UFS delivered papers during one of the forums that formed part of the Accenta Trade Fair programme in Ghent. Prof. Koos Bekker and Mr Lyndon du Plessis from the Department of Public Management delivered papers on strategic planning in practice on the first day of the event, which was devoted to scientific seminars. On the second day Prof. Lucius Botes, Director of the Centre for Development Support at the UFS, delivered a paper on economic development issues, and on the third day Prof. Gustav Visser, Associate Professor in the Department of Geography at the UFS, delivered a paper on tourism.

Papers on bridging the digital divide were presented during the video conference by academics in both Bloemfontein and Ghent.

As guests of honour at the Accenta Trade Fair, the Free State delegation was allocated the main exhibition floor space, covering 1 092 m². The Main Exhibition Hall covers a total surface area of 40 000 m². The Accenta Trade Fair attracts an average of 100 000 visitors annually. The UFS also participated as an exhibitor at the Trade Fair.

This visit was a follow-up of the previous visit, during which the Free State delegation was hosted by the City of Ghent and the provincial government of East Flanders for planning purposes from 14 to 24 April 2007.

Media Release
Issued by: Mangaliso Radebe
Assistant Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 051 401 2828
Cell: 078 460 3320
E-mail: radebemt.stg@ufs.ac.za
14 November 2007

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