On July 30, the Bloemfontein Campus of the University of the Free State (UFS) came alive with vibrant energy, laughter, and heartfelt moments as students and staff gathered to celebrate the United Nations
International Friendship Day. The event served as a joyful reminder of the importance of human connection, kindness, and our shared humanity.
What began as a global observance was transformed into a lively campus celebration - a day to embrace and honour the friendships that enrich our lives. It was a colourful testament to the idea that beyond our titles, cultures, and backgrounds, we are all connected through our need for one another.
Hosted by the
Umoja Buddy Programme (UBP) in collaboration with the UFS
South Africa-Sweden University Forum (SASUF) student structure, the celebration embraced the theme of “friendship through jellybeans” – a creative symbol of diversity, empathy, and connection. Jellybeans, each unique in colour and flavour, were used as metaphors for how our differences enrich our relationships and communities.
As Prof Hester C. Klopper, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, reflected in her installation speech: “The irreplaceable heart of the UFS is our people. In an age of artificial intelligence and rapid change, fostering human connection is more vital than ever. Every initiative we undertake must serve the holistic development of our students, not only in technical skills, but in nurturing a sense of belonging, care, and community.”
One of the day’s highlights was the heartfelt reflections from the students who participated in the event.
Lesego Moeleso, a second-year student in BA Governance and Political Transformation and a SASUF member, shared:
“Celebrating International Friendship Day helped me to grow as a person. It made me more comfortable interacting with fellow students on campus and brought joy to those who needed it. Seeing someone smile after our interaction – knowing I helped make their day better – was a great feeling.
More events like this are needed. Many students are going through a lot and need a moment to reset and clear their minds. These initiatives allow us to connect with others and show them they’re not alone – we’re here for each other.
Friendships are important to me because they help me grow. They give me people to fall back on, to relax with when I’m down, without the fear of being judged.”
Orapeleng Lenkoane, a second-year Bachelor of Laws student, echoed these sentiments:
“Friendship means having someone you can trust, lean on, and confide in – someone who’s always there. Trust is the foundation of any lasting friendship.
I loved the idea that students had to share a pack of jellybeans rather than receiving individual ones. It encouraged interaction and created opportunities to reconnect and appreciate our friendships. These moments matter, especially since we rarely take time to celebrate the people who walk beside us.”
A sweet initiative with a deeper purpose
The student’s words reflected the deeper impact of the initiative: small gestures that promote student well-being, resilience, and success - all of which align with Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 4(Quality Education).
The celebration also showcased the university’s commitment to internationalisation through the work of the Office of International Affairs (OIA), which continues to champion intercultural exchange and foster global friendships across borders.
As part of the celebration, students received jellybean packets adorned with uplifting messages, including:
- “A true friend is like a jellybean – colourful in spirit, and always there when you need a little sweetness.”
- “Life is better with friends ... and a bag of jellybeans to laugh over.”
- “Some friends are like red jellybeans – everyone’s favourite, always sweet, and hard to let go.”
- “Your support for internationalisation is a reminder that universities can be places of peace, empathy, and friendship. Happy International Friendship Day from the OIA to the visionary Rectorate of the UFS!”
Through this joyful event, the UBP and SASUF student forum reminded the university community that friendship is not only worth celebrating – it is essential for building an inclusive and compassionate campus where everyone belongs.