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Dr Jacques Matthee: Newly Appointed Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Law

28 February 2024 | Story VALENTINO NDABA | Photo SUPPLIED

In the dynamic landscape of academia, where traditional methodologies intersect with digital advancements, Dr Jacques Matthee stands out as a beacon of innovation and change. Recently assuming the role of Vice-Dean for Learning, Teaching, Innovation, and Digitalisation at the Faculty of Law, University of the Free State (UFS), Dr Matthee brings with him a profound dedication to knowledge, a passion for transformation, and a clear vision for the future of legal education.

With a distinguished academic background, including qualifications in LLB, LLM, and LLD, Dr Matthee has established himself as an expert in areas such as Legal Pluralism, African Customary Law, Criminal Law, and Medical Law. However, it is not just his credentials that distinguish him; it is his unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge that sets him apart.

Pursuing knowledge: A lifelong passion

Reflecting on his childhood aspirations, Dr Matthee recalls dreaming of becoming a detective – a fascination that eventually led him to the realm of law. Over time, his interest in law deepened, propelling him towards his current position as a leading figure in legal academia. Yet, Dr Matthee’s ambitions extend beyond conventional success. In 2023, he surprised many by participating in his first-ever fitness event, demonstrating a determination to challenge himself beyond the boundaries of his profession. This blend of dedication, discipline, and integrity not only characterises his personal pursuits but also informs his professional endeavours.

Charting new horizons: The Vice-Dean's vision

Assuming the role of Vice-Dean for Learning, Teaching, Innovation, and Digitalisation, Dr Matthee enters uncharted territory. "It is a new position, not only within the faculty but also at UFS," he explains. "There is no model or blueprint to guide us." However, it is precisely this challenge that excites him the most. With autonomy in his role, Dr Matthee sees an opportunity to shape the future of legal education by pioneering initiatives that integrate traditional pedagogy with cutting-edge digital advancements.

"I look forward to the challenge of creating such a blueprint," Dr Matthee remarks. "Moreover, the position will allow me to explore and introduce exciting initiatives that could make a meaningful impact on the future and direction of teaching and learning in the faculty."

For Dr Matthee, the future of legal education lies not only in embracing innovation but also in cultivating an environment where curiosity thrives and knowledge knows no bounds. Under his leadership, the Faculty of Law at UFS is poised to embark on a transformative journey, where learning, teaching, and innovation converge to shape the legal minds of tomorrow.

In Dr Jacques Matthee, the UFS Faculty of Law finds not just a Vice-Dean, but a visionary dedicated to pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and sculpting a future where the pursuit of knowledge knows no limits.

News Archive

UFS hosts the 2017 SAIMS Conference

2017-09-21

The hosts of the 2017 SAIMS conference:
Dr Jacques Nel
(UFS:Business Management), Prof Francis Petersen
(UFS Rector and Vice-Chancellor),
Dr Werner Vermeulen (HOD of UFS: Business Management),
Dr Habofanwe Koloba (UFS: Business Management),
and Prof Hendri Kroukamp
(UFS: Dean of Economic and Management Sciences).
Photo: Supplied

The University of the Free State’s (UFS) Department of Business Management recently hosted the 29th South African Institute of Management Scientists (SAIMS) conference at Kopano Nokeng in Bloemfontein. This year’s theme, ‘Management Research: Science Serving Practice’ focused on the importance of sharing our results and making it relevant and usable to different communities.

Prof Petersen motivates researchers to become part of the business cycle
On the first day of the conference, the Rector and Vice-Chancellor of the UFS, Prof Francis Peterson, welcomed 148 delegates from 18 different institutions (academic and professional) to the City of Roses. He motivated them to keep on doing highly scholarly research by being part of the business cycles.

Prof Adré Schreuder, founder of Consulta (Pty) Ltd, was the keynote speaker of the conference. He highlighted four personas needed to further enhance and develop the science-practice alignment in market research and business. “The first skills persona is called a Social Media Maven, which is in line with the rapid growth of social media networks and the growing need for social media analytics. Then there is the Data Synthesiser that supports the growth trend in Big Data and Advanced analytics, which are both driven by technological innovation and the enormous volume of available data. The third one is Marketing Strategist, which has strong representation in brand and advertising research in our industry. Lastly, we have the ‘Business Consultant’ which aligns with the industry trends towards deeper insights and consultative skills required to move beyond mere reporting, but rather getting involved in the design and implementation of recommendations.”

Conference to collaborate academics and business
Dr Werner Vermeulen, SAIMS 2017 Conference Chair, says, “This conference will underpin the need for collaboration and cooperation of individuals from the academic environment and the business world itself.” He says the conference will also provide a wonderful forum to refresh knowledge and explore contemporary trends and future-based business research.

Delegates were also given the opportunity to dress up to the carnival theme and were entertained by a fire dancer and magician. They had the honour of indulging in two Kovsie-produced food products, the St Dairy organic cheese and exotic mushrooms by Mushroom House.

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