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28 May 2024 | Story Jacky Tshokwe | Photo supplied
Reading Culture
The University of the Free State Faculty of Humanities and the Library Information Services proudly established a brand-new school library at Kagisano Combined School on 14 May 2024.

In a bid to cultivate a culture of reading within the community and bolster the University of the Free State's (UFS) Vision 130, the Faculty of The Humanities has embarked on a transformative journey of collaboration with the Library Information Services (LIS). This partnership symbolises a commitment to not only academic excellence, but also social responsibility, aiming to make a tangible difference in the lives of those within our community.

On 14 May, the Dean’s office – in synergy with LIS and the Department of Plant Sciences – undertook a meaningful venture at Kagisano Combined School in Ikgomotseng to establish a school library, making it an engaging and welcoming space for learners.

Led by Dr Dimitri Veldkornet and supported by four dedicated PhD candidates, the Department of Plant Sciences has made a remarkable impact by enhancing the library's surroundings with indigenous flowers. Beyond mere beautification, this initiative also served as an educational opportunity, as five learners from the school were trained to care for these plants, fostering a sense of ownership and environmental stewardship.

Colleagues from LIS meticulously and simultaneously organised the library space, ensuring that reading materials were properly catalogued and shelved for easy access. In addition, LIS generously donated furniture, including shelves, tables, and chairs, to create an inviting environment conducive to learning and exploration.

The collaborative effort extended beyond academic circles, as the community of Ikgomotseng and Letsatsi Trust demonstrated remarkable hospitality by combining resources to provide refreshments for UFS colleagues and community members involved in the initiative. This gesture exemplifies the power of collective action and highlights the interconnectedness between the university and its surrounding communities.

By revitalising the school library and fostering a culture of reading, this partnership exemplifies the core values of social responsibility and community engagement espoused by the UFS. Moreover, it underscores the university's commitment to Vision 130, which envisions a future where education transcends the confines of academia to positively impact society at large.

As we continue to forge ahead, let us remember that true progress is measured not only by academic achievements, but also by the meaningful contributions we make to the communities we serve. Together, through collaboration and compassion, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future for all. 

News Archive

Armentum RC disbanded and expelled
2009-05-14

The Residence Committee (RC) of Armentum Residence at the University of the Free State (UFS) has been disbanded and expelled.

This decision was taken as a result of the RC’s involvement in the incident of alleged initiation that took place in the residence last week and as a result of which a first-year student, Alex Marais, was admitted to the Bloemfontein Medi-Clinic.

Due to the coming exams they are, however, allowed to stay in on the residence until the end of the first semester of 2009. If they are involved in any actions that contravene the rules of the UFS during this period, they will be expelled from the university.

“This decision was not taken lightly. An in-depth investigation was carried out and discussions were held with various parties in the residence. Because the RC was aware of the initiation practices that were taking place and even participated in it, disciplinary action was taken against them,” said Prof. Teuns Verschoor, Acting Rector of the UFS.

“The RC was aware of the fact that initiation practices are not allowed at the UFS and what the consequences can be if students do participate in such practices. It is a pity that we had to take a step like this,” he said.

The RC members are given the opportunity to retain their places in university accommodation and to be resettled in a residence that will be stipulated by the UFS. A work committee must immediately be appointed in Armentum to manage the residence until a new RC is elected in August 2009.

A remunerative fine will be imposed on the tuition fee accounts of senior students of Armentum, which will be used as a contribution to the medical costs of Alex Marais. All students currently residing in Armentum will be required to reapply for accommodation in the residence for the second semester and sign a declaration indicating that they are aware of the rules and will adhere to it.

Media release
Issued by: Lacea Loader
Assistant Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 051 401 2584
Cell: 083 645 2454
E-mail: loaderl.stg@ufs.ac.za  
14 May 2009

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