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27 January 2025 | Story Precious Shamase | Photo Thabang Mokoena
Assistant Deans Qwaqwa
Dr Calvin Mudzingiri, Prof Cias Tsotetsi & Prof Jared McDonald.

In a remarkable feat of academic excellence, the Qwaqwa Campus of the University of the Free State (UFS) celebrates a series of significant achievements by its esteemed academics. These accomplishments highlight the exceptional talent and dedication within the campus community.

Dr Calvin Mudzingiri, Assistant Dean: Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, has achieved a significant milestone with the attainment of a C2 NRF rating. This prestigious recognition acknowledges his outstanding research contributions and solidifies his position as a leading scholar in his field. Dr Mudzingiri is also highly regarded for his teaching and mentoring skills. He is known for his engaging lectures, his ability to connect with students, and his dedication to their academic success.

 

Prof Aliza le Roux's groundbreaking achievement

Prof Le Roux, Assistant Dean: Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, made history by becoming the first woman to be appointed as a full professor on the Qwaqwa Campus. Prof Le Roux is also a respected leader and mentor, known for her guidance and support of students and colleagues. This groundbreaking achievement serves as an inspiration to aspiring female academics and further strengthens the university's commitment to gender equality. Prof Le Roux is a highly accomplished researcher with a strong track record of publications in her field.

 

From Assistant Dean: Faculty of Education to Vice-Principal

Prof Cias Tsotetsi's promotion from Assistant Dean: Faculty of Education to Vice-Principal is a testament to his exceptional leadership qualities and dedication to the university's mission. His expertise and guidance will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Qwaqwa Campus. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role, having served as Assistant Dean: Faculty of Education.

 

Double success for Prof McDonald

Prof Jared McDonald, Assistant Dean: The Humanities, has also achieved a remarkable double success. He was promoted to a higher academic rank – from doctor to associate professor – while simultaneously securing a C2 NRF rating. This accomplishment highlights his commitment to both teaching and research excellence.

These achievements by the assistant deans on the Qwaqwa Campus exemplify the high calibre of academics within the institution. Their dedication to research, teaching, and leadership serves as an inspiration to students and colleagues alike. The Qwaqwa Campus is proud to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of these exceptional individuals.

In acknowledgment of exceptional academic prowess, the Campus Principal, Prof Prince Ngobeni, remarked, “In academia, it is not every day that we witness a blend of exceptional leadership, unyielding commitment, and a deep-rooted passion for education. I extend my sincere gratitude to our esteemed assistant deans for their unwavering commitment. The calibre of our faculties with their inquisitive minds, relentless pursuit of knowledge, and dedication to nurturing future researchers, truly defines the excellence of our university. Your contributions to both the university and the advancement of knowledge are deeply valued. Thank you for your invaluable effort,” concluded Prof Ngobeni.

News Archive

Qwaqwa Campus honours academic excellence
2014-05-21


Photo: Sonia Small (Kaleidoscope Studios)

  • Photo Gallery

      Our Qwaqwa Campus was this past weekend a hive of activity when graduates, their parents and well-wishers descended on the campus to honour outstanding academic excellence during the Winter Graduation ceremonies.

      On Friday graduates from the Faculty of Humanities, as well as the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, were addressed by Tommy Makhatho, Managing Director of the Qwaqwa-based Bibi Cash and Carry.

      Makhatho urged graduates to continue working hard way beyond their graduation day and to dream big.

      “Dream big and don’t let your poor background hold you back,” Makhatho said.

      “Don’t let people say you can’t or that you will fail. Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life, think of it, dream of it, live on that idea, let your brain, muscle, nerves and every part of your body be full of that idea and leave every other idea alone. This is the way to success. If you don’t build your dream, someone else will hire you to help them build theirs,” said Makhatho, the winner of the 2013 Sanlam/Business Partners Entrepreneur of the Year and Job Creator of the Year awards.

      On Saturday, graduates were treated to yet another moving message by eNCA’s news anchor, Mabale Moloi, herself a graduate in Biological sciences.

      “If there is one ability that we should all practice on a daily basis, it is work ethics. This is a value based on hard work and diligence,” Moloi said.

      Moloi further shared her views on what makes excellent work ethics.

      “There are five very important factors of work ethics that we all need to be aware of. One of them is reliability. This means how committed you are to completing a task that is given to you within a particular period of time,” said Moloi.

      “The second one is dedication. This means how prepared you are to go the extra mile in completing a job or your studies. Thirdly, one’s level of productivity is very important in having an excellent work ethic. This refers to giving the best of yourself, even to the extent of surpassing what is expected of you.”

      “Fourthly, there is co-operation. We all must understand the value of team work and how it leads to success. And this, when paired with character, self-discipline and strong personality, will distinguish you from anyone else,” Moloi added.

      Among the more than 800 degrees, diplomas and certificates conferred, were three PhDs in Physics, Polymer Science and Zoology, respectively. Four Masters of Science degrees were conferred cum laude.

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