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24 July 2024
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The University of the Free State (UFS) is co-hosting the Global Social Innovation Indaba together with Social Innovation Exchange (SIX) on its Bloemfontein Campus from 30 September to 2 October 2024. This event brings together people from different sectors all over the world to discuss how to accelerate and support people-powered
change and create a better society for generations to come.
The UFS is excited to collaborate with SIX, as its vision and values overlap. During this three-day indaba, aspects such as – what it takes to build accountable, inclusive, and participatory institutions, specifically the future role of universities in South Africa – will be discussed. Themes to be explored include young people as drivers of change, post-industrial transitions and community resilience, the role of art, social change and bridging divides, and systemic approaches to dealing with unemployment.
Some of the speakers and participants in the programme include Carla Duprat from ICE (Brazil); Cheryl Jacob from ESquared Investments (South Africa); François Bonnici from the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship (Switzerland); Sir Geoff Mulgan from the University College London (UCL) in the United Kingdom; and Dr Narissa Ramdhani from the Ifa Lethu Foundation (South Africa).
The UFS will also use the opportunity to showcase its campus and offerings to attendees, focusing on its transformation story and some of the interdisciplinary forward-thinking programmes. Guests will also be treated to true South African hospitality, laying the foundation for strong relationships and collaboration.
SIX believes in the transformative power of people working together. Exchanges based on mutual value and reciprocity are the missing link in tackling the world’s problems. As a friendly, expert entry point to global social innovation, their work connects organisations, sectors, communities, and nations to build capabilities and create opportunities for collaboration.
UFS-Qwaqwa Campus: Securityguards graduate
2004-04-01
UFS-Qwaqwa staff members move from being securityguards to academic graduates
Mrs S D Lebone and Mr M J Vezi
Photo: Jabulile Dakile
Mrs Lebone and Mr Vezi started working for the University as security guards. The University environment, characterized by different role models served as an inspiration that made them to consider furthering their studies. Unlike Mrs Lebone, Mr Vezi started working for the University without Matric.
The potential of these two employees was identified and supported by their families, friends and colleagues. Their success story bears testimony to the commitment of the University to staff development.
Mrs Lebone and Mr Vezi received their B Com and B Admin degrees respectively on 08 May 2004 during an auspicious graduation ceremony held at the Qwaqwa Campus’ Rolihlahla Mandela Hall. Mrs Lebone is currently working for the Finance Section of the University and Mr Vezi as the Student Development Officer. “I am confident that one day we will have a cleaner who will rise to be a Head/ Dean of one of the Faculties” Mr Vezi said.
Contribution By Jabulile Dakile