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UFS Language Policy is now available in four languages

13 June 2024 | Story Edzani Nephalela | Photo Supplied

Dr Nomalungelo Ngubane, the Director of the Academy for Multilingualism, is at the forefront of this initiative, championing diversity and inclusiveness for all stakeholders at the University of the Free State.

Diversity in higher education institutions enriches the learning environment, fostering a culture of inclusion and mutual respect. It broadens perspectives, encourages critical thinking, and prepares students for a global workforce by supporting equitable access to opportunities and enhancing all students' personal growth and academic excellence.

The University of the Free State (UFS) has marked a significant milestone in its commitment to linguistic diversity with the official translation of its Language Policy into three additional languages: Sesotho, Afrikaans, and isiZulu. Previously only available in English, the translation of the policy – approved by the University Council in November 2023 – into these languages reflects the university's dedication to inclusivity and recognition of its diverse community.

The collaboration between the Academy for Multilingualism and the Institutional Regulatory Code was instrumental in a groundbreaking initiative: making the Language Policy accessible to speakers of African languages. Spearheaded by the Academy for Multilingualism, this endeavour involved a thorough translation, formatting, and proofreading process.

Dr Nomalungelo Ngubane, Director of the Academy for Multilingualism, emphasised that the availability of the Language Policy in multiple languages is not merely symbolic, but underscores the UFS' values of respect, human dignity, and social justice, as outlined in its Vision130. “This initiative aligns with the university's overarching goal of fostering an environment where all languages are valued and respected. We also hope that the Language Policy will not just be written in different languages but will strengthen the implementation of the policy in various domains of the university to achieve its objectives.

She further explains that the translation project is expected to have far-reaching impacts on how policies are communicated and understood within the university, because it enhances the ability of students, staff, and stakeholders to participate more fully in university life, contributing to a more cohesive and integrated community.

This initiative is a testament to the UFS' commitment to embracing and celebrating linguistic diversity as a fundamental aspect of its identity and operations.

News Archive

Qwaqwa Campus presents Indigenous Knowledge Symposium

2009-11-16

The Qwaqwa Campus of the University of the Free State recently hosted its second Indigenous Knowledge (IK) Symposium.

The event, organised by Mr Stoffel Kok and Ms Zuki Ketiw from the campus’s Library Management, was a great success with more than 70 persons attending.

There was a potpourri of presentations. Mr Magaiza, from the Department of Sociology started the morning with his presentation “Polar bear in the Sahara”, and set the standard for the morning. He was followed by the Departmental Head, Dr Crause. Other speakers included Mr Hahanke from the Department of Arts, Culture and Sports and the Qwaqwa Campus Head Dr Elias Malete. Two lecturers from the National University of Lesotho (NUL) also gave presentations. Ms Lechasa from the NUL gave a talk on the orality of the Basotho and Mr Mosaase, also from the NUL, followed her with a related talk on the Basotho’s indigenous craft. Some indigenous dancing items were also provided by learners from the Mpetha Secondary School.
Photo: Supplied

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