The University of the Free State (UFS), in partnership with the Vrystaat Arts Festival, will host two thought-provoking panel discussions, as part of the Literature Festival, exploring the role of reading, creativity, and the arts in shaping thoughtful, inclusive, and future-focused societies.
Bringing together experts from academia, literature, and the creative sector, the discussions will reflect on the enduring importance of storytelling, imagination, critical thinking, and artistic expression in contemporary society.
Reading still matters in a digital age
The first discussion, Reading still matters, will take place on Tuesday 7 July 2026, from 15:00 to 16:00 at the Centenary Complex on the UFS Bloemfontein Campus.
Date: Tuesday, 7 July 2026
Time: 15:00–16:00
In an era shaped by artificial intelligence, social media, and increasingly fragmented attention spans, the panel will explore why reading remains essential for developing empathy, imagination, critical thinking, and informed citizenship.
The discussion will be facilitated by Prof Susan Brokensha, Associate Professor in the Department of English, Faculty of The Humanities.
Joining her on the panel are:
- Jeannet Molopyane, Director of Library and Information Services, who brings extensive experience in promoting access to knowledge and lifelong learning; and
- Prof Johann Rossouw, Professor of Philosophy and Classics, recognised for his contributions to public intellectual discourse and philosophical inquiry.
- Dr Hanta Henning, Subject Head in the Department of English, recognised for her contributions to English studies, language education, and literary scholarship.
- Dr Francois Smith, Head of the Department of Afrikaans and Dutch, German and French, recognised for his contributions to literary studies, language development, and cultural discourse.
Reimagining the role of the arts
The second discussion, Reimagining the role of the arts in universities and society, will be held on Wednesday 8 July 2026, from 15:00 to 16:00, also at the Centenary Complex.
Date: Wednesday, 8 July 2026
Time: 15:00–16:00
The panel will explore how the arts contribute to identity formation, social cohesion, creativity, and innovation. It will also examine how artistic expression challenges assumptions, encourages critical engagement, and helps societies navigate an increasingly complex world.
The session will be facilitated by Prof Vasu Reddy, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies at the UFS.
The panel will feature a diverse range of creative voices, including:
- Prof Anthea van Jaarsveld, Associate Professor of Drama and Theatre Arts;
- Carin Bester, performance artist, actress, set designer, and art director;
- Sethembiso Zulu, multidisciplinary artist, educator, filmmaker, and photographer; and
- Tlotlisang David Mhlambiso, author, poet, and educator.
A celebration of ideas, creativity, and dialogue
Join us for two stimulating sessions that promise to inspire, challenge perspectives, and reaffirm the importance of literature and the arts in shaping the world we want to create.