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Communication students get career guidance and a glimpse into Vision 130

17 May 2024 | Story Precious Shamase | Photo Sonia Small

UFS Humanities graduate, ready to make a mark in the world.

The Faculty of The Humanities at the University of the Free State (UFS), in line with the goals of Vision 130, hosted a dynamic career webinar on Thursday 9 May. This event, organised by the Department of Communication Science, offered invaluable guidance and inspiration to students pursuing Communication Science degrees as their future career path.

The webinar featured a lineup of successful alumni who shared their diverse career paths within the ever-evolving communication landscape. Students gained practical insights from these experienced professionals, fostering a clearer understanding of the vast opportunities available to them. A particular highlight of the event was a presentation by Dr Phumzile Mmope, whose powerful and motivational graduation speech continues to resonate with many. Dr Mmope, a renowned expert in leadership communication, generously volunteered her time to address the students. This act embodied the spirit of mentorship and community that Vision 130 seeks to cultivate.

Beyond offering career guidance, the webinar served as a powerful symbol of the UFS' dedication to excellence and societal impact, as outlined in Vision 130. By connecting current students with accomplished alumni and promoting a culture of volunteerism, the Faculty of The Humanities empowers graduates to become well-rounded professionals equipped to make a significant difference in the world and contribute meaningfully to society.

A glimpse into the future of communication

The webinar not only provided practical career advice, but also offered a glimpse into the future of communication. Alumni speakers discussed emerging trends and the evolving skillsets required for success in the field. Students gained a deeper understanding of how their communication degree can be leveraged in new and exciting ways, preparing them to thrive in this dynamic and ever-changing landscape.

A network of support

The webinar fostered a sense of community and support among communication students. By connecting them with successful alumni, the event showcased the diverse career possibilities that await graduates. Additionally, the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals provided valuable insights and inspiration, empowering students to navigate their career paths with confidence.

Vision 130: building a brighter future

This career webinar exemplifies the core principles of Vision 130. By prioritising student success, fostering mentorship, and promoting community engagement, the Faculty of The Humanities equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and connections necessary to become impactful leaders in the field of communication.

News Archive

Department celebrates 50th anniversary

2009-03-25

The first Departmental Head and the subsequent Departmental Chairpersons at the dinner on 14 March this year. From left: Proff Bernard Prior (1991-1998), Piet Lategan (1962-1990), Derek Litthauer (1998-2002) and James du Preez (2002-). These are all the Heads/Chairpersons of the Department since its founding in 1959, with the exception of Prof Hans Potgieter who acted as Head during 1959-1962.
Photo: Stephen Collett

Department celebrates 50th anniversary

On 13 March the Department Microbial, Biochemical and Food Biotechnology at the University of the Free State (UFS) celebrated its 50th anniversary in a splendid fashion with a lecture entitled, The origin of life: Exactly how did life begin? as part of the Darwin commemorative lecture series, followed by a reunion of current and former staff members and postgraduate students of the department with a barbeque on the following day.

The proceedings were concluded on 14 March with a gala dinner in die Centenary Complex at the UFS attended by 153 staff members, post-graduate students (current and former) and other guests. During the dinner the guests were treated to a presentation of historical photos of the founding and development of the department. Currently the department is one of the largest departments in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences in respect of the number of staff members and students as well as research outputs. This is the result of entrepreneurial actions to increase student numbers and research activities, as well as the merging with the smaller Department of Biochemistry in 1988 and more recently with the Department of Food Science in 2002. The department comprises 20 academics, 24 support staff and 65 postgraduate students. It also boasts 12 lecturers with ratings from the National Research Foundation (NRF), which include three academics with a B-rating, an indication of international recognition for their research. The department has the largest number of lecturers with an NRF-rating at the UFS.

“It was interesting to learn during the reunion of the variety of professions occupied by former students of the department, i.e. at other tertiary educational institutions, the CSSIR, SAPPI, Sasol and a multitude of other industries, as well as at research institutions in the USA and Australia,” said Prof. James du Preez, Head of the Department.

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