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12 December 2024 | Story Edzani Nephalela | Photo Supplied
Stefanus Scheepers
The recently dual-capped Stefanus Scheepers, Senior Admin Assistant Officer in the UFS Faculty of Education, says his success lies in mastering the art of balance.

Completing a master’s degree in record time is a remarkable achievement, but for Stefanus Scheepers, Senior Admin Assistant Officer at the University of the Free State Faculty of Education, it marked the beginning of an even more extraordinary academic journey. In a feat few could match, he earned two master’s degrees in just 20 months.

Scheepers’ first degree, a Master of Education specialising in Higher Education Studies, was conferred by the University of the Free State (UFS) on 9 December 2024. His thesis, ‘Effective Pedagogical Practices Teaching Assistants Use in Hybrid Teaching Modes: A Community of Inquiry Approach’, explored innovative teaching strategies in hybrid learning environments.

The second degree, a Master of Science by Research in Sustainable African Futures, was conferred through the Wits-Edinburgh Sustainable African Futures (WESAF) Doctoral Programme. His thesis, ‘Investigating the Perception, Adoption, and Utilization of Generative Artificial Intelligence in South African Higher Education Institutions’, examined the impact of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) on sustainable education in South Africa.

“My experience presenting workshops on GAI tools and its misuse by students sparked my research interest,” he explained. The resulting mini-dissertation shed light on the critical need for sustainable education practices in an era increasingly influenced by AI. This theme will continue as Scheepers embarks on a PhD at Wits University in 2025, exploring how to balance GAI’s benefits and risks in education.

Initially, Scheepers embarked on a part-time master’s degree in 2023 at the UFS while working full-time. “I hadn’t planned to complete two degrees,” he said, “but my supervisor’s encouragement and excellent guidance made completing the degree within a year seem possible.” Midway through, however, a nomination from the Dean and Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Education changed everything. The WESAF Doctoral Programme offered an opportunity that was too valuable to pass up, even though it added another degree to his demanding schedule.

“At first I was very hesitant, but my supervisor said that I would regret not taking it”, he said with a smile.

Time management does the trick

Balancing the demands of studying for two master’s degrees was no small feat. Scheepers chose to embrace meticulous time management, creating a schedule that integrated study and rest.

“Time management is not just about making a plan but sticking to it,” he emphasised. This structured approach allowed him to maximise productivity without burnout. “I must admit, working at night in your office did feel strange at first, but tranquil after a while.” Weekends included much-needed downtime, which helped him maintain resilience throughout.

Reflecting on this intense period, Scheepers attributes his success to cumulative skills gained over the years. “Every skill learnt in prior degrees was put to the test. The journey wasn’t easy, but intentionally applying these skills made the challenge rewarding.”

After nearly six years at higher education institutions – Scheepers’ career ambition is to transition into a lecturer role, with the hope of passing on his research and hands-on experience to a new generation of students.

When asked what he would share with prospective students at the UFS, Scheepers said, “The path to success isn’t always straightforward. I’ve experienced setbacks, even dropping out twice before finding my footing. But each challenge taught me resilience and determination. To all students: Keep going, even when the journey feels daunting. Every obstacle you overcome is a step closer to your goals. Remember, success is not about avoiding failure but learning and growing stronger with each experience. Stay focused, believe in yourself, and trust the process – you can do much more than you may realise.”

This remarkable dual graduation is not only a rare achievement in academia but also highlights Scheepers’ exceptional time management, strategic planning, and unwavering commitment to advancing the fields of education and sustainable futures.

News Archive

UFS a much safer place
2011-09-20

 

First-year students Chuma Nyiko (left) and Mabasa Teleni next to one of the red poles installed on our Bloemfontein Campus.
Photo: Amanda Tongha

Students and staff at our Bloemfontein Campus can feel even safer, with several initiatives being put in place to ensure their safety.

The stop-and-search actions of the recent past, which are being carried out at all the main gates of our Bloemfontein Campus, seem to be successful, since car theft has decreased on the campus. Mr Willie Frankim, Head of Protection Services, says the stop-and-search actions are carried out sporadically, but have a definite effect on crime at the campus. Mr Frankim says only one vehicle has been stolen in the past two months as opposed to the many more that have been stolen in the past.

The message that safety is viewed in a serious light reaches as far as our university’s parking areas and walkways, which are being patrolled by security staff. Mr Frankim says a security officer is placed in all the large parking areas, while other personnel are distributed across the entire campus, especially at key areas, such as at the library and student centre.

Our university also recently installed more than 30 red poles across the entire campus. Each of these red poles is fitted with a panic button by means of which help can be summoned. Should a student or staff member feel unsafe, all they have to do is press the button and cameras, which are installed in the vicinity, will focus on the pole and Protection Services will send assistance. Twenty five of these poles are already working and ten more still have to be activated.

Students and staff can also phone Protection Services on 051 401 2911 if they feel uncomfortable about their safety. They can use this number, for example, to ask a security officer to accompany them to their car.
 

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