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28 October 2024
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Story Zingaphi Mdletshe
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Photo Supplied
Kovsie ACT volunteers undergo leadership and skills training, preparing them to engage in community service and develop sustainable solutions to societal challenges beyond university life.
The University of the Free State’s (UFS) Kovsie ACT office continues to foster a spirit of humanity among students through a leadership and skills development training initiative that is aimed at not only developing them as volunteers but also as conscientious individuals who understand the value of helping others.
“The leadership and skills development training is a platform that the ACT office utilises to ensure that volunteers are equipped with the necessary skills needed to fulfil their duties as Central ACT Committee members, thereby facilitating a smooth term,” said Teddy Sibiya, Senior Assistant Officer at Kovsie Support Services. “We aim to impart knowledge that will be beneficial during their term and beyond their involvement with the ACT office.”
Touching on how the training aligns with the broader goals of the Kovsie ACT Volunteer Programme for the term 2024/2025, Sibiya emphasised that sustainability has always been at the heart of Kovsie ACT and that their activities provide opportunities for students to engage in community service and participate in environmental initiatives to assist civil society organisations. The programme also encourages students to become active global citizens by addressing transnational issues such as food insecurity and socio-economic challenges.
“I am excited about the opportunity to be part of a movement that influences not just the lives of students but also reaches beyond the university, promoting innovative and sustainable solutions on a larger scale,” said Raylene Bussack, a Central ACT Committee volunteer. “My goal is to inspire and empower others to join us in this vital work to make a lasting difference together.”
In addition to leadership training, Kovsie ACT offers various programmes designed to enhance students' skills in areas such as communication, teamwork and project management. These skills are essential for their roles within Kovsie ACT and for their future careers. By participating in community service projects, students build valuable relationships and gain practical experience that will benefit them upon graduation. The initiative ultimately aims to create a culture of giving back among students while enriching their university experience.
Prof. Jonathan to take up office on 1 July 2009
2009-03-24
Our new Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Jonathan Jansen, has indicated that he will take up office on 1 July 2009.
Speaking here at the Main Campus in Bloemfontein today after discussions with members of Council, Prof. Jonathan said he was deeply humbled by the overwhelmingly positive reception he has received from all quarters on and off campus following the announcement of his appointment.
“I have received telephone calls, e-mails, SMSs and messages from people who have nothing but support and seemingly lots of advice for me, which has humbled me tremendously. I am truly grateful for the trust shown in me by so many people I have not even met.
“This generosity and warmth is something that has reinforced my view that the University of the Free State is indeed a very special place for so many people and a place that I am honoured to serve as Rector and Vice-Chancellor.”
Prof. Jonathan said he would dedicate his first few months in office to a listening campaign to learn about the issues and concerns that are on people’s minds as well as the initiatives and developments at our university that make them proud of our institution.
“This is an important step because I don’t want to come across as some know-it-all who can come here and tell people this is what they should do. It is also an important step to get people talking and united about a common vision for the academic institution that the UFS is. It will have to be about the twin imperatives of racial reconciliation and academic excellence.
“In this process of listening and learning no-one will be excluded. I will talk to people on campus and off campus, including academic staff, support staff, the Qwaqwa Campus, students, parents, alumni, local business, the religious community, and our sport persons.
“I must also add that I have now bought my Cheetah and Bloemfontein Celtic jerseys, difficult as it was for me.”
Media Release
Issued by: Anton Fisher
Director: Strategic Communication
Tel: 051 401 2749
Cell: 072 207 8334
E-mail: fishera.stg@ufs.ac.za