Latest News Archive
Please select Category, Year, and then Month to display items
24 July 2024
|
Story Lacea Loader
![]()
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.
TV star calls for dialogue on gender empowerment
2014-04-01
Jo-Anne Reyneke giving students and staff a talk from the heart.
TV star Jo-Anne Reyneke – previously known as 'Pearl' in Muvhango (SABC 2) and now 'Prudence' in Rhythm City (etv) – warned Qwaqwa Campus students to be careful of the things they say. She was speaking during the recent launch of the Qwaqwa Campus Gender Forum.
“As young people, you must learn to always truly listen and understand what your friends say. You must also be careful of the things you say, as you might prevent or be the cause of your friend's suicide, if you are not careful. What might seem like a small thing might have far-reaching results for you and your friend.
“Respect those who are different from you, as all of us would like to be accepted as we are. Carry yourself in a manner that shows you love yourself – and this starts with you respecting yourself and those who are different from you,” said Reyneke.
Reyneke also acknowledged that growing up was not easy for her, since she was labelled 'a Zulu-speaking white' due to her light complexion.
“I am glad that this campus has this kind of forum which will enable all – victims and perpetrators – to come together and share their experiences. This will further promote healing, reconciliation and unity.”
The Gender Forum is tasked with encouraging dialogue on matters that concern gender sensitivity and equality. It encourages both staff and students to break their silence and to create an environment of tolerance based on respect for human dignity and inclusiveness. The forum is constituted by various stakeholders with special skills in counselling, facilitation and empowerment in general.