Latest News Archive

Please select Category, Year, and then Month to display items
Previous Archive
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

Rag reaches out to the community
2007-09-17

The spirit of Ubuntu was again reflected this year in a community outreach programme of the University of the Free State's (UFS) Rag when residence students from the Main Campus in Bloemfontein recently visited various centres in Bloemfontein to distribute hampers. Almost 850 hampers were distributed to residents from Mooihawe, Ons Tuiste, Boikhuco Old Aged Home, Omega Service Centre, Nicro's Street Children Project, The Salvation Army, Pelonomi Hospital and the Heidedal Feeding Scheme. The students were thanked with song, prayer and dancing. During the visit to Pelonomi Hospital were, from the left: Flip van Niekerk (Project leader of Ubuntu 2007), Mandus Taljard (Residente committee member for Rag from Veritas Residence), Moretlo Phakoe (Residence committee member for Rag from Madelief Residence) and a staff member and patient from Pelonomi Hospital.

Photo: Supplied 
 

 

We use cookies to make interactions with our websites and services easy and meaningful. To better understand how they are used, read more about the UFS cookie policy. By continuing to use this site you are giving us your consent to do this.

Accept