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Security Policy strengthens safety at UFS

10 May 2024 | Story Valentino Ndaba | Photo Supplied

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 document Click here to download the UFS Security Policy.

News Archive

UFS Rose Ball promises to be an unforgettable experience

2005-09-08

On Saturday 15 of October 2005, the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health at the University of the Free State (UFS) in collaboration with Medi-Clinic, are hosting a Rose Ball in aid of children and babies with serious diseases and special needs.

The Bloemfontein public should get ready for one of the most magnificent events ever held in the city.

The Rose Ball promises to offer an evening of glamour, elegance and beauty which will make it an unforgettable and unique event. The Department aims to make the Rose Ball an annual event to which the Bloemfontein public can look forward to with expectation.

“Excellent food and wine, a 35 man symphony orchestra and of course a magical setting awaits those who attend the Rose Ball. We will do everything possible to make guests feel special, so that they return to the Rose Ball year after year. In this way, we can ensure an annual income from this event for children and babies who are very ill and need specialised care,” said Prof. André Venter, Head of the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health.

The Department of Paediatrics and Child Health at the UFS is responsible for the tertiary care, that is highly specialised care, of around 1 000 000 children in the Free State, Northern Cape, North-West, Eastern Cape and Lesotho. Approximately 13 000 out-patients are treated at the Universitas and Pelonomi Hospitals annually. Children who suffer from cancer, heart disease, neurological disease and endocrinological and gastro-enterological conditions are treated. The Department is also responsible for children who need intensive care and children with contagious diseases. In addition, there is a large neonatal unit where prematurely born babies are treated.

The level of health care needed to treat these children and babies, necessitate highly specialised equipment and knowledge. However, it is not always possible to replace or upgrade equipment, due to the lack of much-needed funds. That is why a fund was created within the Department to satisfy the need for funds. The Rose Ball promises to eventually give a vital boost to the fund that will go a long way toward providing in the special healthcare needs of these patients.

The Rose Ball is made possible thanks to the support of Medi-Clinic.

“Medi-Clinic is honoured to be involved in this great effort and in this way take hands with the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health at the UFS. There are so many children with life-threatening diseases today and we cannot afford to be uninvolved in any effort to make life better and easier for these children. We at Medi-Clinic, as a private sector company, look forward to establishing a long-term commitment with the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health,” said Mr Sakkie van der Merwe, Hospital Manager of Bloemfontein Medi-Clinic.

Only a limited number of tables are still available for the Rose Ball. Tickets cost R500 per person or R5 000 per table of 10 people.

Those who are interested can contact Ms Ilse Olivier at 051-4012415 or Ms Adele van Aswegen at 051-4013535 for more information.

Media release
Issued by:  Lacea Loader
   Media Representative
   Tel: (051) 401-2584
   Cell: 083 645 2454
   E-mail: loaderl.stg@mail.uovs.ac.za
8 September 2005

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