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25 September 2024 | Story Teboho Mositi | Photo Ian van Straaten
Qwaqwa Mokete 2024
The University of the Free State Qwaqwa Campus celebrated diversity as the Academy of Multilingualism recently hosted the Kovsies Multilingual Mokete, themed: ‘Our Diversity is Our Strength.

The University of the Free State (UFS) Qwaqwa Campus pulsed with vibrant energy on 13 September 2024 as the Academy of Multilingualism hosted its annual Kovsies Multilingual Mokete. This year's theme, ‘Our Diversity is Our Strength’, resonated throughout the day, celebrating the richness of languages and cultures within the UFS community.

The event served as a platform for students and staff to showcase their diverse heritages through traditional attire, poetry, storytelling, drama, music, and dance. A delectable spread of cultural cuisine further enriched the experience, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.

Promoting inclusivity and multilingualism

The Mokete aligns with the UFS' multilingual language policy, implemented in 2016. This policy emphasises the importance of fostering inclusivity and social cohesion through language. It aims to create a dynamic learning environment that celebrates the diverse languages spoken within the UFS community.

In her welcome address, the Director of the Academy for Multilingualism, Dr Nomalungelo Ngubane, said the University of the Free State took a significant step in 2016 towards fostering a more inclusive and diverse campus by adopting a multilingual language policy. This policy recognised the importance of embracing multilingualism as a social asset and aimed to promote social cohesion, diversity, and inclusivity. “The Mokete Multilingual Festival serves as a tangible manifestation of this commitment. It provides a platform for all members of our UFS community to celebrate and appreciate the rich tapestry of languages, cultures, and traditions that we bring to our university. By showcasing our diverse languages, indigenous food, traditional outfits, and more, we not only honour our individual heritage but also strengthen our sense of belonging and unity,” explained Dr Ngubane.

The Mokete is more than just a cultural event; it is a purposeful act of embracing our diversity and educating one another about the value of multilingualism. Through this celebration, we strive to create a more inclusive and cohesive campus where everyone feels valued and respected.

"We want everyone to feel welcome on our campuses," stated Teboho Manchu, Campus Vice-Principal: Support Services, during his opening address. "The Mokete allows each culture and language group to learn from one another, preparing our students for a multilingual and multicultural world, while staying connected to their own heritage."

A celebration of talent and cultural expression

The day unfolded with heart-warming moments of appreciation. Manchu extended his gratitude to distinguished guests, colleagues, and students. The highlight of the event was Ntate Stunna, a captivating Sesotho musician who energised the audience with his music. Local artists Bomme ba Ipopeng and Tears of Joy also contributed to the electrifying atmosphere. Their performances, alongside the diverse cultural presentations, fostered a sense of pride and identity within the UFS community.

A commitment to a language-rich environment

The Kovsies Multilingual Mokete exemplifies the UFS' commitment to multilingualism. By celebrating diverse languages and cultures, the university fosters a sense of belonging and prepares its students for success in a globalised world.

News Archive

Mafikizolo and Francois van Coke to perform at Kovsie Extravaganza
2015-09-09


What better way is there to welcome spring than to invite beautiful voices into our backyard? The Arts and Culture office at the University of the Free State (UFS) presents the annual Kovsie Extravaganza, a major highlight on our entertainment calendar.

This year, the musical festival features Mafikizolo and Fracois van Coke as the main acts.

Mafikizolo is an award-winning South African Kwaito duo consisting of Theo Kgosinkwe and Nhlanhla Nciza. The group has accumulated statuettes at the South African Music Awards for Duo of the Year in 2004, 2007 and 2014. Moreover, they have recently released Best Of 2015 - their latest album.

Francois van Coke is also scheduled to indulge Alternate Rock fans with tracks from his newly-released solo debut album. Francois is the lead vocalist, songwriter and founding member of the South African rock bands Fokofpolisiekar and Van Coke Kartel.

The Extravaganza stage will also be shared by our very own UFS Choir, and various students showcasing their musical, dance, poetry and other talents.

Event details:

Date: Saturday 12 September 2015

Time: 19:00

Place: Kovsie Kerk, Bloemfontein Campus

Tickets are available at R120 for the general public and R80 for students. For more information, contact Tonderai Chiyindiko on 051 401 9349 or Chiyindikot@ufs.ac.za.

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