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UFS celebrates rise of student to African Union Student Parliament

12 March 2025 | Story Precious Shamase | Photo Supplied

The University of the Free State (UFS) Qwaqwa Campus is radiating with pride as Sociology master's student, Sanelisiwe Khumalo, has been elected to the prestigious African Union Student Parliament (AUSP). This achievement highlights the exceptional calibre of students nurtured within the institution, demonstrating their potential to effect significant change on a continental scale.

African Union Student Parliament welcomes UFS representative

Khumalo's election is testament to her academic excellence, unwavering leadership, and profound dedication to student representation. As a student in the Department of Sociology, she has consistently displayed a keen understanding of complex social issues and a fervent passion for driving positive change.

The AUSP serves as a vital platform for student voices across Africa, providing a space for young leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue, advocate for student rights, and contribute to shaping higher education policies. Khumalo's presence in this esteemed body will undoubtedly bring invaluable perspectives, representing the interests of UFS students with distinction.

"Congratulations, Sanelisiwe Khumalo, on your remarkable achievement," remarked Divane Nzima, Senior Lecturer and Subject Head of the Department of Sociology in the Faculty of The Humanities. "Being elected to the African Union Student Parliament is an indication of your dedication to contributing towards positive social change. As a Sociology master’s student at the University of the Free State, you have made us immensely proud. We wish you strength and wisdom to inspire change across the continent."

UFS sociology student inspires change on continental stage

Khumalo’s journey is a shining example of the transformative power of education and the boundless opportunities available to students on the UFS Qwaqwa Campus. Her success story embodies the university’s commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering environment where students can thrive and reach their full potential, aligning with the UFS’ Vision 130 as a student-centred institution focused on excellence and impact.

Adding to her impressive journey, Khumalo participated in an enriching exchange programme at the University of Education Freiburg in Germany last year. This collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), has opened doors for students, staff, and faculty members to engage in valuable academic and cultural exchanges.

Khumalo was an early beneficiary of this partnership and spent four months in Freiburg, immersing herself in the vibrant academic and cultural landscape. "The opportunity to study at the University of Education Freiburg was a dream come true," Khumalo shared. "The university's reputation for innovative teaching methods and its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment were incredibly appealing."

This experience, coupled with her dedication and leadership, has prepared her for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the AUSP. Her journey serves as an inspiration to fellow students, demonstrating that with dedication, passion, and a commitment to excellence, they can achieve their dreams and contribute to shaping a better future.

News Archive

New Academic Head at South Campus to expand distance learning programmes into the global arena

2016-02-10

“Critical area of focus: Diversify provision, based on open learning principles, to improve learning opportunities across the post-school education and training sector” - SA Department of Higher Education and Training Strategic Plan 2015/16-2019/20

Open and distance learning (ODL) programmes will play a critical role in shaping the landscape of higher education. Not only does the South African Department of Higher Education and Training emphasise the importance of ODL, it is also contained within the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. And now the University of the Free State (UFS) is becoming a major role player in the field through the cutting-edge ODL programmes offered by the South Campus.

Jean Grundling has recently been appointed as the Academic Head of the South Campus.

At the helm of these programmes is the recently-appointed Academic Head of the South Campus: Jean Grundling. According to the new organisational structure of the South Campus, the Academic Head reports directly to the Campus Principal: Dr Daniella Coetzee.

“My role,” says Grundling, “focuses on developing and monitoring processes that will enable effective and efficient implementation of the three pillars of ODL.” These three pillars consist of:

• the design and development of quality learner-centred learning materials and tools during their ODL journeys;
• the selection, appointment, and development of competent facilitators to guide, coach, tutor, and support students; and
• the integration of administrative processes that will enable and support students to study at their own pace, place, and in their own time.

“Goal 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education, and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.”
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

As part of her personal vision, Grundling would like to see the South Campus grow and develop into an institution that offers quality ODL programmes not only nationally, but globally. “I would like the South Campus to become an agent of social transformation in South Africa.”

Ultimately, Grundling’s wish is for the South Campus to contribute to the development and empowerment of people so that they can play a positive role in society.

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