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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 waives application fees for studies in 2016

2015-10-22

The University of the Free State (UFS) has waived application fees for all prospective undergraduate and postgraduate students - nationally and internationally - who want to study at the institution in 2016.

"Universities charge application fees that vary in amount. With 25 universities in South Africa, this fee becomes a burden for students who want to apply to more than one university. The university leadership has also realised that tens of thousands of students who qualify for university entrance stumble at the first hurdle: finding the money to apply,” says Prof Jonathan Jansen, Vice-Chancellor and Rector.

According to Prof Jansen, the UFS would like to set an example and a challenge to all public universities to scrap the application fee, so that many more young people from poor communities can realise their dream of accessing higher education. At the same time, the universities will benefit from more top talent coming into higher learning. "The more students that enrol and graduate, the stronger the financial position of universities will be; it is a win-win policy, and the university leadership has done the maths on this," he says.

The application fees for 2016 were R235 for South African students and R500 for international students. Prospective students, who have already applied for admission in 2016, will not be refunded. However, students who have already registered successfully for 2016 may apply to have the application fee credited to their tuition fee account after they have registered next year.

To support this initiative, UFS Marketing will be conducting an on-site application campaign by visiting East London, Port Elizabeth, Kimberley, Qwaqwa, Kathu, Pretoria, Johannesburg, Newcastle, Durban, Pietermaritzburg, and Ladysmith from 28 August 2015. Further details of the venues in each town will be available on the Kovsie2b Facebook page.

All prospective students currently doing their final-year undergraduate studies at either the UFS or any other university will also pay no registration fee if they want to continue with an Honours degree in 2016. The registration fee for 2016 was R950.

The closing date for applications for admission is 31 December 2015.

Apply for undergraduate or postgraduate studies at the UFS for 2016.

For enquiries, please call +27(0)51 401 9111.

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