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08 April 2020
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Story Prof Francois Vreÿ, and Prof Hussein Solomon
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The international response to the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a health security threat stimulated an international response that commenced with drastic, but localised actions in China, but responses rapidly manifested in more extreme measures in the rest of the world. Amidst international efforts imposing extraordinary national and international movement restrictions and a rush to find a medical cure, two questions arise. First, how does COVID-19 as a health security threat feature within the global security debate and second, how to explain the harsh responses that one observes.
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First solar charging station launched at UFS
2017-11-13
Students can now charge their phones at the first solar charging station
on the Bloemfontein Campus.
Photo: Moeketsi Mogotsi
On Friday 10 November 2017, the first solar charging station (600watts) was launched on the Bloemfontein Campus. This unit will be used by students to charge their phones and Ipads. It is the first of nine units to be installed on all three campuses; five on the Bloemfontein Campus and two each on the South and Qwaqwa Campuses.
Team effort results in great outcome
The project was a collaborative effort between the UFS and FCE Consulting Engineers. Coenie van der Merwe, Prototype Design Engineer, played a vital role in designing the charging unit. Anton Calitz, Electrical Engineer in University Estates’ Department of Facilities Management, says, “We are hoping that by the first quarter of 2018, we would have rolled out the remaining eight charging units.”
Project to enhance sustainability and address student needs
Prof Nicky Morgan, former Vice-Rector: Operations, says, “This should be a symbol of affordable opportunities that will both save the planet and enhance financial sustainability.” Nico van Rensburg, Senior Director of University Estates, says, “This renewable energy project is an innovative way of addressing student needs.”
However, students are advised not to charge other electrical appliances at the charging stations besides their phones and Ipads, as this may cause the charging unit to trip.
The UFS was recently awarded for its contribution towards sustainability. This was in recognition of its amazing initiative to install and operate photovoltaic (PV) and greywater systems on all three of its campuses.