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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

Open Day attracts thousands

2012-05-02

Campus was abuzz with prospective students and their parents finding out what Kovsies has to offer.
Photo: Kaleidoscope Studios
1 May 2012

“It is easier to pass Grade 12 today because we don’t have a standard. However, at the University of the Free State, standards are important.”

This was Prof. Jonathan Jansen, Vice-Chancellor and Rector of the UFS’ message when he addressed a packed Callie Human Centre on the Bloemfontein Campus during this year’s Open Day.

“This university is the jewel of the country. Here at Kovsies we take academic standards seriously. You must know who you are in a place where academic standards are extremely important. Anyone can obtain a degree, but here you can get more than a degree. You get an education,” he said to the more than 5 000 learners and parents from across the country.

“It is not only important that you study here in South Africa, but also in other countries. That is why our students study all over the world. You must think out of your comfort zone, have a big heart, achieve great heights and show everyone that you are a Kovsie.

But, it is not all about studying – it is also about being human and reaching out to others. When you come to this university, you will also do other things that will make you proud of being a Kovsie.

Quality looks for quality. Therefore, work hard and study hard because you need to be at a good university,” he said.

The programme consisted of, among others, a spectacular laser show, a performance by Bobby van Jaarsveld and special messages from DW Bester and Sannah Mokone, Rhodes Scholars currently studying at Oxford University in the United Kingdom.

In a pre-recorded message DW, a Ph.D. student in Mathematical Statistics, encouraged prospective students to work hard and persevere. Sannah, doing a Master’s degree in African Studies, said she believes in the future of the African continent. “I believe in our future students and know you can make it.”

Prof. Jansen also introduced some of the university’s recent student achievers such as Jurie Swart, regional winner of the Corobrik Architectural Student of the Year Award; Farzana Samuel, named by the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) as the most outstanding student in quantity surveying for 2012; and Sibusiso Tshabalala, one of Google’s Top 10 Young Minds.

Richard Chemaly, President of the Central Student Representative Council (CSRC), said that, by coming to Kovsies, prospective students would become the best person they can be. “We have over 70 student organisations to help you take part in student life activities. So, make use of these opportunities,” he said.

The programme concluded with an introduction to the seven faculties by the respective deans.

The estimated 7 000 prospective students and their parents also had the opportunity to visit faculties and the stalls of residences.

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