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Security Policy 2024
Security Policy ensures a safe haven for learning and growth at the University of the Free State.

Fostering an environment conducive to high-quality learning and teaching is paramount at the University of the Free State (UFS). “This commitment extends beyond academic pursuits to encompass the well-being and safety of every member of our university community,” says Cobus van Jaarsveld, Deputy Director of Threat Detection, Investigations, Compliance, and Liaison at the Department of Protection Services.

The university’s dedication to safety in alignment with Vision 130, our Strategic Plan 2023-2028. Protection Services at UFS adheres to a standard of excellence in all aspects of university life. “We prioritise integrity, accountability, and responsibility, striving to create an environment where the happiness and the well-being of our community are central,” adds Van Jaarsveld.

To uphold these values effectively, UFS has initiated a review of the Security Policy, reflecting a renewed approach to safety and security. This policy aims to enhance the UFS experience by ensuring the safety and security of individuals, property, and information across all campuses, satellite sites, and university premises.

Foundational principles

The Security Policy is built upon several core principles. These include a commitment to excellence, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and national legislation, as well as prioritising safety across UFS locations. Partnerships with stakeholders are emphasised to effectively address security challenges. Additionally, the policy highlights universal access, aiming to make safety measures accessible to all members of the university community, including those with disabilities.

Aim and strategies of the policy

The aim of the Security Policy is multifaceted. It seeks to establish a unified approach to safety and security, engaging all pertinent stakeholders in a coordinated effort. Furthermore, the policy endeavours to bolster infrastructure and equip security personnel with the necessary resources to preemptively identify and address potential threats. It also strives to cultivate a culture of heightened security consciousness and active community participation. Compliance with pertinent legislation, particularly in areas such as firearm control, is prioritised. The execution of all security-related functions is entrusted to Protection Services as outlined within the policy framework.

Protection Services personnel are tasked with:

• Identifying and assessing security risks.
• Issuing early warnings and incident reports.
• Responding to emergencies and investigating incidents.
• Developing and implementing security guidelines and protocols.
• Educating and raising awareness within the university community.

• Supporting off-campus students in emergencies and reporting incidents.

At UFS, safety and security are not just policies; they are foundational elements of the university’s commitment to excellence and community well-being. Through collaboration, vigilance, and a proactive approach, the UFS strives to create an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to a brighter future.

Contact Protection Services 

Bloemfontein Campus Protection Services: +27 51 401 2911 or +27 51 401 2634
South Campus Protection Services: +27 51 505 1217 
Qwaqwa Campus Protection Services: +27 58 718 5460 or +27 58 718 5175

Click to view documentClick here to download the UFS Security Policy.


News Archive

Faculty of Law establishes a Centre for Labour Law
2009-12-02

Here at a recent certificate ceremony for the students in Labour Law are Prof. Voet du Plessis, Ms Kotie Prinsloo (middle) from Netcare who received the Certificate in Labour Law with a distinction and Ms Alet Ellis from the Department of Private Law at the UFS.
Photo: Stephen Collett

 The establishment of a Centre for Labour Law in the Faculty of Law was recently officially approved by the Council of the University of the Free State (UFS).

This centre aims to promote teaching and research in labour law at the UFS and to nationally and internationally establish collaboration with centres and institutes of labour law.

The first certificate course in Labour Law was presented in 2001 when a need was identified from persons who not necessary qualified for a LLB. An advanced course in Labour Law followed in 2004 and a postgraduate diploma in Labour Law followed in 2007. Since 2001, a total of 1 400 certificates have been awarded to students who successfully completed the certificate course and the advanced course in Labour Law.

“Where Labour Law is already to a greater degree functioning independently, the already existing operations will now be formally grouped in a centre,” said Prof. Du Plessis, acting head of the Centre for Labour Law at the UFS.

Apart from the Main Campus, the certificate course is also being presented in Qwaqwa and in Welkom. Distance learning is also provided for.

The official launch of the centre will take place early in next year. The board as well as the advisory panel, existing of experts from outside the university, will also then be appointed.

This centre can also be seen as one of the faculty’s community service arms,” said Prof. Du Plessis. The centre amongst others gives to persons who not have university admission the opportunity to study and to qualify themselves in their work. If a person completed all the certificate courses in Labour Law, he will be able to qualify for the postgraduate diploma in Labour Law with the recognition of prior learning process. Since the presentation of the last mentioned course in 2007, approximately 120 students have successfully completed this course.

“I am thankful that we are at this point where the Centre for Labour Law is officially approved. It is a great milestone for the Department of Mercantile Law as well as the Faculty of Law at the UFS,” said Prof. Du Plessis.
 

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
2 December 2009

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