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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

UFS sets deadline for applications

2007-11-03

The University of the Free State (UFS) calls on all prospective students wishing to study at the UFS in 2008 to submit their applications for admission by no later than 30 November 2007.

“This applies to first-time entering first-year students and senior students who have interrupted their studies for at least one year,” said Mr Vernon Collett, Registrar: Academic Student Services at the UFS.

According to Mr Collett students whose applications for admission are received after 30 November 2007 and until 15 January 2008 will be accepted subject to the availability of place on the programme they applied for.

Applications from prospective students with conditional exemptions will be accepted until 2 January 2008.

Prospective students who want to apply must pay a non-refundable fee of R130.
The signed application form must be accompanied by a certified copy of the prospective student’s identity document or passport and a proof of payment of the application fee.

The application form of a minor must be signed by his/her parent or guardian and the field of study should be clearly indicated.

“More than 26 000 students are registered at the UFS Main Campus for the 2007 academic year. We expect a considerable number of applications and foresee that our numbers for next year will be similar to what it is now,” said Mr Collett.

First-time entering first-year students from the Faculties of Economic and Management Sciences and the Humanities (including Education) will be welcomed by the Rector and Vice-Chancellor of the UFS, Prof. Frederick Fourie, on Friday, 11 January 2008 at 09:00 in the Callie Human Centre.

The welcoming of students from the Faculties of Health Sciences, Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Law and Theology will take place on Saturday, 12 January 2008 in the Callie Human Centre.

The registration of first-time entering first-year students will commence on 15 January 2008 and that of senior students on 21 January 2008 at the Callie Human Centre according to a programme.

Students who applied for admission after 30 November 2007 and are accepted can register from 4 February 2008

Lectures will commence on 4 February 2008 and the registration process will end on 8 February 2008.

Prospective students who want to apply for admission or who have any enquiries can call 051 401 3000 or visit the UFS web site at www.ufs.ac.za .

Media Release
Issued by: Lacea Loader
Media Representative
Tel: 051 401 2584
Cell: 083 645 2454
E-mail: loaderl.stg@ufs.ac.za
2 November 2007

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