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10 May 2024 | Story VALENTINO NDABA | Photo Supplied
Fun walk-run 2024
Step into fitness and fun at the UFS 5km Fun Run and Walk. Join us on 11 May at 6am at the Francois Retief Building, Bloemfontein Campus.

The heartbeat of the University of the Free State (UFS) is pulsing with excitement as the Faculty of Health Sciences gears up to host an event that promises to unite the campus and the Bloemfontein community in a celebration of health, vitality, and camaraderie as we mark Africa Month. Get your running shoes laced and your spirits high because on 11 May 2024, it’s time to join the free 5km Fun Run and Walk.

Date: 11 May 2024  
Time: 06:00  
Venue: Francois Retief Building, Bloemfontein Campus  

Why should you join?

Picture this: The crisp morning air filled with the rhythm of lively beats, the sun gently rising over the iconic Francois Retief Building, and a sea of smiling faces ready to embark on a journey of fitness and fun. The 5km fun run and walk is not just about breaking a sweat; it’s about fostering a sense of togetherness, promoting mental wellness, and embracing the joy of movement.

“Exercise should be fun. Most people believe that spending long hours exercising produces better results, whereas we want to encourage and show people that exercise should not feel like work – it should be fun,” says Jabulile Mabina, Assistant Officer at KovsieFit Gym.

Leading the charge in the fitness fiesta is KovsieFit, bringing its signature blend of energy and enthusiasm to the event. Mabina will guide participants through an invigorating aerobics session guaranteed to get those endorphins flowing and those muscles warmed up for the main event. Remember, exercise isn’t just about sculpting the body; it’s about nourishing the mind and soul too.

Community, connection, and compassion

At the heart of the fun run and walk lies a deeper purpose – to raise awareness about mental health and to foster a sense of community spirit as we celebrate Africa Month. Reuben Maeko, Senior Marketing and Communications Officer at the Faculty of Health Sciences, says: “The vision of the faculty of Health Sciences is to be research led and innovative, people centred, regionally engaged, and globally competitive. We prioritise the well-being of our students and staff by organising events that promote healthy lifestyles. Our focus is on our community, placing our people at the forefront of all our endeavours. Moreover, this event will underscore the importance of physical activity for students, keeping them active and healthy.”

This sentiment resonates with the theme for the 2024 Africa Month, which is World Citizenship and African Higher Education: Preparing Students for a Connected World.

Prizes galore

What’s a celebration without some rewards? Thanks to the generous support of sponsors like Standard Bank, Steers and Debonairs, Pimento, and Rhythm Finance, participants stand the chance to win an array of exciting prizes. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a leisurely walker soaking in the sights, there’s something for everyone to look forward to.

Mark your calendars, spread the word, and lace up those running shoes because the UFS 5km Fun Run and Walk awaits. Whether you’re a staff member, a student, or a member of the Bloemfontein community, come join us as we step, stride, and smile our way to a healthier, happier tomorrow. Remember, it’s not just a run; it’s a journey of joy, unity, and well-being. See you at the starting line.

News Archive

UFS commemorates 50th anniversary of Africa Day
2013-05-19

14 May 2013

Programme (Pdf)

The University of the Free State will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Africa Day, focusing in depth on issues affecting the continent. Academics from across disciplines will take part in a colloquium on the Bloemfontein Campus on 22 May 2013 discussing issues that influence the development and history of the continent, the challenges it faces, and the opportunities that lie ahead.

Hosted by the Centre for Africa Studies, celebrations will culminate with the annual Africa Day Memorial lecture to be presented by Prof Henning Melber, who will be inaugurated as an extraordinary professor at the centre. Prof Melber will speak on "Africa and Africa(n) Studies: confronting the (mystifying) power of ideology and identity".

Africa Day marks the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on 25 May 1963. The OAU underwent a name change in July 2002 to become the African Union (AU), but the day is still commemorated to symbolise Africa’s independence from foreign political control and affirms Africa’s quest for durable peace and unity.

The Africa Day Memorial lecture and colloquium will be hosted in the CR Swart Auditorium. Registration for the colloquium takes place from 08:00 until 16:00. The Memorial Lecture begins at 18:00.

Short Biography: Prof Henning Melber (Pdf)

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