UFS formalises community partnerships

By Emily Setona

QWAQWA – The University of the Free State (UFS) Qwaqwa Campus has taken a major step towards strengthening its ties with local organisations by officially handing over signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) to key community stakeholders. The partnerships aim to foster collaboration in education, community upliftment, and regional development.

The handover ceremony, held at the UFS Qwaqwa Campus Senate Hall on 7 May, marked the formalization of agreements with Maluti TVET College, the Hamagriza Organisation, and the Agape Foundation. According to Professor Cias Tsotetsi, Vice-Principal for Academics at UFS Qwaqwa, the event was designed as a personal and symbolic gesture of commitment.

“We chose not to simply email the signed MOUs,” said Prof Tsotetsi.

“We wanted to meet face-to-face and hand them over in person because this is about building genuine, lasting relationships. These stakeholders align with the university’s vision of becoming a hub for research, a student-centred environment, and a regionally engaged institution.”

Each organisation expressed optimism about the opportunities that lie ahead through the newly formalised partnerships.

Motlalepula Tsotetsi, Principal of Maluti TVET College, described the MOU as a significant milestone.

“Although we have collaborated with various stakeholders in the past, this marks the first formal partnership with the University of the Free State. Given our proximity, it’s long overdue, and we welcome this development.”

Hamagriza Director Sabata Lepele echoed the sentiment, emphasising the importance of recognition and cooperation.

“Tom Ford once said, ‘Collaboration is the key to success.’ This partnership creates a shared space that benefits both the university and the broader community. We’re honoured to be part of it.”

On the right UFS Qwaqwa campus principal Professor Prince Ngobeni and on the left Maluti TVET college principal Motlalepula Tsotetsi.

Daniel Moloi, Director of the Agape Foundation, also welcomed the formal partnership, expressing eagerness to work with UFS on initiatives that address community challenges.

In her closing remarks, Zoleka Dotwana, UFS Director of Student Affairs, highlighted the importance of unity in driving meaningful change.

“In today’s world, it’s not about being number one. What matters is a shared vision that allows us to work together for the greater good of our communities.”

Dotwana also praised Qwaqwa Campus Principal, Professor Prince Ngobeni, for his leadership in championing the institutionalization of these partnerships.

“Since joining the campus, Prof Ngobeni has played a critical role in turning partnership ideas into impactful, formal agreements.”

The ceremony marked a pivotal moment in the university’s community engagement journey, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive development through strategic, local partnerships.