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10 October 2024
iCAN Book Cover

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

Double Spring Festival
2007-08-15

 
DOUBLE SPRING FESTIVAL!
1 – 2 September 2007
 
The Department of Music and the Free State Youth Symphony Orchestra is presenting a Double Spring Festival for double pleasure!
 
Saturday, 1 September 2007
Odeion
19:30
Free State Youth Symphony Orchestra
 
The Free State Youth Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Sjoerd Alkema will perform works by Sibelius (Finlandia), Mozart (Double Piano Concerto), Chabrier, Weber and Schubert. Pianists Nicol Viljoen and Sjoerd Alkema will perform the double piano concerto together with the orchestra.
 
Sunday, 2 September 2007
Odeion
16:00
The Three Brahms Piano Trios
 
Three of our country’s leading musicians will give you the opportunity to hear all three of the piano trios by composer Johannes Brahms in one concert! Well known pianist Albie van Schalkwyk (currently Departmental Chairperson at the UFS Department of Music) will perform with cellist Anmarie van der Westhuizen and violinist Pieter Schoeman.
 
ADMISSION (double ticket)
Adults (R80)
Pensioners, Students and learners (R60)
 
BOOKINGS
Tel. 051 – 401 2504
   
  

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