UFS Alumni

The University of the Free State Alumni Relations Office successfully hosted the third Alumni Career Connect event, in its 2026 series, at the Equitas Auditorium.

The event featured distinguished speaker Nothando Hlophe, a proud Kovsie alumna, author, global thought leader, and advocate for student wellbeing and leadership who led an insightful discussion on the theme:

Rethinking Student Well-Being in African Higher Education

The session provided a valuable platform for critical reflection on the evolving wellbeing needs of students across African higher education institutions. Participants explored innovative, inclusive, and sustainable approaches to creating supportive academic environments that foster both personal and professional growth.

Through initiatives such as Alumni Career Connect, the Alumni Relations Office continues to strengthen meaningful engagement between alumni, students, and the broader university community while addressing contemporary issues that influence student success and the future of higher education.

Memorial service for Prof François Retief

The University of the Free State (UFS) continues to mourn the passing of Prof François Retief, the tenth Rector of the UFS, whose leadership and contribution to higher education, medicine, and institutional transformation left a lasting legacy at the university and beyond.

Prof Retief served as Rector of the UFS from 1989 to 1997 and played a pivotal role in guiding the university through a significant period of transformation in South Africa’s history.

Please note that the memorial services will take place as follows:

Date: 21 May 2026
Time: 11:00
Venue: Hugenote Dutch Reformed Church Normandie Avenue, Bayswater

Click https://m.youtube.com/live/5Esb8nqtpjc to watch the memorial service of Prof François Retief.

Don’t miss this important conversation shaping the future of higher education in Africa.

Join us for “Rethinking Student Well-Being in African Higher Education” with renowned thought leader, author, advocate, and proud Kovsie alumna, Nothando Hlophe.

📅 26 May 2026
⏰ 12:00 – 13:30
📍 Equitas Auditorium, UFS Bloemfontein campus

Be part of a powerful discussion on student wellbeing, leadership, and creating thriving learning environments across Africa. This is the ACC event you’ll want to experience firsthand.

Light snacks will be served after the event.
Seats are limited - RSVP now to reserve yours!

Click here: https://forms.office.com/r/pGihuH8mgz

The University of the Free State mourns the passing of Prof François Retief, its tenth Rector.

Prof Retief served as Rector from 1989 until the end of March 1997, leaving behind a legacy marked by academic vision, decisive leadership, and a commitment to transformation. Before his appointment as Rector, Prof Retief served as the first Dean of the university’s Faculty of Medicine (now Faculty of Health Sciences) and Professor of Internal Medicine, guiding the faculty through its formative years with remarkable determination and foresight.

“Prof Retief leaves behind a legacy of academic excellence, visionary leadership, and transformation. His contribution to medicine, higher education, and the University of the Free State will be remembered for generations to come,” says Prof Hester C. Klopper, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the UFS.

Read more: https://ufsweb.co/3RnZ3EZ

Rethinking Student Wellbeing in African Higher Education.

What does student wellbeing really look like in African higher education today?

Join us for an important conversation with Nothando Hlophe — global thought leader, proud Kovsie alumna, author, and advocate for student wellbeing and leadership.

📅 26 May 2026
⏰ 12:00 – 13:30
📍 Equitas Auditorium (Bloemfontein Campus)

This third ACC event in the 2026 series will explore the significance of student wellbeing and how students and institutions can co-create intentional support structures in ways that are relevant, compassionate, and sustainable within African contexts.

Light snacks will be served after the event.

Seats are limited — register now to reserve your place: https://forms.office.com/r/pGihuH8mgz

For more information: Ndumiso Mlangeni
📧 [email protected]
📞 +27 81 332 26 12

The University of the Free State Alumni Relations Office recently hosted a successful Alumni Career Connect at the QwaQwa Campus under the inspiring theme, “Breaking Barriers and Building Leaders: A Journey Through Academia and Impact.”

The engaging session was led by Nkopane Miya, an EMS Faculty Business Lecturer, proud Kovsie alumnus, PhD candidate, and passionate advocate for entrepreneurship, SMEs, and leadership development.

The event brought together pre-alumni, alumni, staff members, and friends of the university for a meaningful conversation focused on personal growth, academic excellence, and leadership in today’s evolving professional landscape.

Attendees gained valuable insights into the importance of resilience, continuous learning, and using education as a tool to break barriers and create lasting impact within communities and industries.

Mr Miya shared practical lessons on entrepreneurship and the role of small and medium enterprises in driving economic development, while also encouraging students and graduates to embrace innovation, adaptability, and ethical leadership.

Participants were inspired by his journey as a Kovsie graduate who continues to contribute meaningfully to academia and society through research, mentorship, and advocacy.

The Alumni Career Connect session further highlighted the importance of building networks, nurturing future leaders, and strengthening the relationship between the university and its alumni community. Through initiatives such as these, the University of the Free State continues to empower graduates and students to become impactful leaders who contribute positively to society.

Calling all University of the Free State alumni in Cape Town!

Reconnect with fellow Kovsies at the UFS Cape Town Alumni Connect 2026 - an evening dedicated to meaningful connections, engaging conversations, and exciting opportunities for lifelong learning.

Join us as we welcome alumni and friends on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Hester C. Klopper, and the Executive Director of Advancement, Prof Ylva Rodny-Gumede.

Discover more about UFS postgraduate opportunities in collaboration with Student Recruitment Services while networking with fellow graduates in a relaxed and elegant setting.

📍Venue: Protea Hotel Fire & Ice, 64 Nee Church street, Tamboerskloof, Cape Town
📅 Date: Friday, 22 May 2026
🕕 Time: 18:00 – 21:00
👔 Dress code: Smart casual

Spaces are limited and registration closes on 18 May 2026 — secure your spot early to avoid missing out!

RSVP here: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=uRv8jg-5SEq_bLoGhhk7gBN45zWgEGVNiVlksaotPMlUMElZTExNM040TDNWNDBLUFAzUUVaQllSUy4u&route=shorturl

For enquiries contact Ndumiso Mlangeni:
📧 [email protected]
📞 081 332 2612

Breaking Barriers. Building Leaders. Shaping the Future.

Join us for an inspiring Alumni Career Connect session featuring Nkopane Miya — a dynamic business lecturer, PhD candidate, and passionate advocate for entrepreneurship and leadership.

Proud Kovsie graduate
EMS Faculty Business Lecturer | Qwaqwa Campus
Advocate for SMEs & impactful leadership

Event Details:
📅 7 May 2026
⏰ 12:00 – 13:30
📍 Kutlwano Gazelle

Stay for light snacks and networking after the session.

Register now to reserve your seat: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=uRv8jg-5SEq_bLoGhhk7gBN45zWgEGVNiVlksaotPMlURU8xNlJUNEwwM0dVQUFYNThLRkNEODdNUi4u&route=shorturl

UFS strengthens global partnerships through strategic engagement in Singapore.

The University of the Free State is strengthening its global partnerships through strategic engagement in Singapore, connecting with leading institutions to expand research, teaching, and postgraduate training collaborations.

Led by Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Hester C. Klopper, the delegation engaged partners across higher education, industry and diplomacy, building relationships that will shape future collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Read more: https://www.ufs.ac.za/templates/news-archive/campus-news/2026/april/ufs-strengthens-global-partnerships-through-strategic-engagement-in-singapore