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iCAN Vol. 4: A Tapestry of Voices

10 October 2024

The Centre for Teaching and Learning recently unveiled the fourth volume of the Initiative for African Narratives (iCAN), a vibrant celebration of diverse voices at the University of the Free State (UFS). This latest anthology features 48 stories presented in 10 of South Africa’s official languages: Afrikaans, English, isiNdebele, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sesotho, Sepedi, siSwati, Tshivenda and Xitsonga. Contributors include Kovsie writers from all three UFS campuses, reflecting the university’s rich linguistic and cultural diversity.

“This initiative forms part of the university’s commitment to promoting multilingualism while providing a platform for a wide array of narratives,” said Dr Peet van Aardt, iCAN Coordinator. “Every student at the university has stories to tell – whether drawn from their personal experiences or shaped by their imagination.”

The launch, held on the Bloemfontein Campus, attracted around 150 students. Attendees were treated to musical performances by the Conlaures Choir, conducted by Omphemetse Phaswana, and a captivating saxophone solo by Thabo Dlamini from the Odeion School of Music. Representatives from the Academy for Multilingualism and African Languages Press were also present, underscoring the event’s focus on the intersection of language and expression.

This year's anthology, iCAN Vol. 4, is the ninth publication under the iCAN initiative in the past seven years. In addition to these collaborative anthologies, iCAN has also published several standalone works by solo student authors. Coordinated by senior student writer Siphila Dlamini, this volume showcases some of the finest writing talent across the UFS campuses.

Student of the year

Shortly after the iCAN launch, the Office of the Executive Dean of Student Affairs announced that Siphila Dlamini had been awarded the prestigious EDSA Student of the Year 2024 title. His contributions to student success and well-being were lauded as being aligned with the university’s strategic objectives.

Currently completing his Postgraduate Diploma in Governance and Political Transformation, Siphila plans to pursue a master’s degree next year. Reflecting on the award, he said, “This recognition, stemming from my work with iCAN, is a humbling reminder of the power of storytelling to transcend boundaries. It reaffirms my belief that by amplifying diverse voices and fostering creativity, we can spark change, inspire growth, and leave an indelible mark on our collective narrative.”

Siphila’s accolade marks the second consecutive win for an iCAN writer. Last year, the award was bestowed upon Tlotlisang David Mhlambiso from the Faculty of Education, further highlighting the initiative’s role in nurturing outstanding talent.

News Archive

Cultivating excellence and success through academics

2011-10-07

Unlocking potential. At the Golden Key South African Summit 2011 were, from the left: Dr Derek Swemmer, Registrar (UFS); Prof. Driekie Hay, Vice-Rector: Academic; Mr Ryk Neethling and Ms Charlene Gunter, Director: Golden Key International Honour Society, South Africa.
Photo: Phelekwa Mpono

More than 130 delegates are gathering for the Golden Key, South African Summit at the Bloemfontein Campus of the University of the Free State (UFS). Golden Key International Honour Society recognises academic excellence and uses knowledge to transform lives. It has 400 chapters in eight countries. Of South Africa’s 12 chapters, 11 were present at the summit.

Prof. Driekie Hay, Vice-Rector: Academic at the UFS, welcomed delegates from the respective chapters. She commended them for their perseverance and dedication to excel. “Your academic aspirations and commitment contribute to cultivating a culture of excellence. It will provide a better future for every South African citizen,” she said. Prof. Hay challenged delegates also to “act” by turning their knowledge into actions to advance not only themselves but also society. She also urged them to “discover” everything about themselves, their chosen disciplines, allies and oppositions. “Mostly, you must internalise the spirit of lifelong learning,” she said.

Mr Ryk Neethling, Olympic gold medallist and businessman, was the first keynote speaker. He took everyone through the steps that ultimately led to the moment of victory for him and his team. “We found a way to compete with heart and determination in the 2004 Olympic Games. We were prepared and we took everyone by surprise. “To achieve what one has set one’s mind to, we must dream big,” he said. “Play your part in the team and be confident. Remember that you are victors and not victims,” he urged. He further emphasised the importance of making one’s own luck and, most of all, never to give up.

Another speaker for the summit includes Ms Peggy-Sue Khumalo, former Miss South Africa. Dr Derek Swemmer, Registrar (UFS) will present a workshop on Strategic Action Planning.

This event is the first external lecture that is presented in the Metro’s found in the new Health Sciences Building on the Bloemfontein Campus of the UFS.

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