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IEASA PRESIDENT INITIATIVES
The International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA) President, Dr Lavern Samuels has represented IEASA at a number of forums while also achieving significant exposure through his achievements. Following the receipt of the BMI Global/THE Lifetime Achievement Award for outstanding contribution to internationalisation, Dr Samuels was appointed onto the Times Higher Education (THE) International Education Advisory Board.
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Dr Samuels was also hosted by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology in September while delivering a keynote at the 8th U6 Plus International Conference. The keynote was entitled: Enabling engaged universities for development: a multi-regional policy perspective.
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In August of 2024, Dr Samuels also shared a platform with leaders from sister international education associations at the OBREAL Leadership under Fire session. The discussion revolved around how national associations can advance more equitable internationalisation practices.
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Furthermore, Dr Samuels represented DUT and IEASA at the annual EAIE Conference presenting the following sessions:
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- Leadership, Strategy and Policy
- Intersecting themes: Connections between Internationalisation at Home, EDI, Sustainability and Decolonisation
- Finding solutions to administrative challenges to international collaboration through COIL Collaboration
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Following the annual EAIE conference, Dr Samuels together with the African Partnerships University Alliance (APUA), represented their university and APUA, while also highlighting the work of IEASA at the annual African Network for International Education (ANIE) Conference. The annual conference was held in Accra, Ghana. The APUA engagements, aimed at fostering Africa-centered internationalisation, was a collaborative effort between DUT as the lead university together with the University of Johannesburg, the University of the Western Cape, University of Limpopo, the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, the University of KwaZulu Natal, Mangosuthu University of Technology, Walter Sisulu University, Rhodes University and University of Zululand.
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Also at the ANIE Conference, Dr Samuels and his team form DUT launched the regional network of AFRICOIL. With DUT identifying the gap in terms of regional networks of Africa, AFRICOIL aims to create awareness and build professional academic skills in internationalisation of the curriculum, using the digital space for developing adaptive graduates who are tolerant, value mutuality, diversity and inclusivity and who are resilient and adaptable in our increasingly globally interrelated society.
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AFRICOIL will aim to enhance COIL and International Virtual Exchange (IVE) between countries with and within the continent, build capacity to Lead COIL for the continent and leverage other regional and global networks to enhance IVE and internationalisation through the promotion of the interconnection between networks.
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In addition, and allowing for the sustainability of the leadership of Dr Samuels for the fostering of inclusive and comprehensive internationalisation, he has also been reelected for another term as the Network for International Education (NIEA), allowing for further traction globally for IEASA to promote inclusive and comprehensive internationalisation while fostering fair and equitable partnerships.
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Also further contributing to the sustainable leadership of international higher education, IEASA is delighted to announce that Dr Lavern Samuels, IEASA President 2023-2024, has been appointed to the International Education Advisory Board of Times Higher Education. Congratulations to Dr Samuels on this prestigious achievement.
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2024 IEASA CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS
The 26th Annual IEASA Conference (https://ieasa-conference.studysa.org/) was held in Johannesburg from 20 to 23 August 2024. Themed “Navigating Internationalisation in Challenging Times”, it provided participants with an opportunity to engage deeply with relevant topics including the following:
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- Internationalisation in the contemporary national, regional and global geo-political environment;
- Internationalisation’s role in principled and ethical engagement in work, scholarship and social action;
- Internationalisation and transformative, visionary and decolonial education;
- Speaking truth to power – in universities, at the national level and in the global arena – to further ethical internationalisation of higher education; and
- Challenges and possibilities of international partnerships.
The Conference was attended by 246 delegates from 21 countries: Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Finland, Germany, Ghana, Ireland, Japan, Kenya, Netherlands, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, United States, Zimbabwe.
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PICTURE PERFECT: CELEBRATING THE CONFERENCE THROUGH IMAGES
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WE THANK OUR CONFERENCE SPONSORS
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IEASA would like to thank everyone who participated in the Conference for playing their part in making it such a memorable event. The 26th Conference would not have been possible without the generous support of the following sponsors:
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COUNCIL ACTIVITIES
After Governing Online since 2020, IEASA Council members meet and greet each other in person!
Orla Quinlan
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The IEASA Council, responsible for strategic leadership, policy approval, and accountability, has been the guiding force behind the association's work for years. Composed of up to twelve members elected from individual and institutional members, USAf, and ex officio representatives, the Council ensures the smooth continuity of IEASA’s mission. Council members, serving three-year terms, work on a voluntary basis alongside their full-time jobs. Currently, eight members sit on the Council. The Council also elects an Executive Committee (ExCo) from its members, including the President, Deputy President, and Treasurer. At times, co-opted members, such as IEASA’s immediate Past President or individuals with specialized skills, are included as needed.
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Since 2020, under the leadership of three consecutive Presidents—Orla Quinlan, Wiseman Jack, and current President Lavern Samuels—the Council has largely convened via virtual meetings, due to the demands of balancing busy schedules, playing multiple roles and working with reduced budgets for travel. Even when face-to-face meetings were possible, such as in Potchefstroom in late 2022, hybrid meetings remained the norm.
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While some Council members engage with one another face to face, via other networks like the South Africa-Swedish Universities Forum (SASUF) and the Southern Africa-Nordic Centre (SANORD), I think we were all surprising to discover that several members were meeting face-to-face for the first time since 2019 at the annual IEASA conference. For others, this was their first in-person meeting ever!
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All Council members attended portions of the 26th annual IEASA conference, though six was the most that were able to meet together, at the one time, for a photo opportunity. This moment is captured in the following photos:
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Orla Quinlan and Janette Van Ryn, the longest-serving members on the current Council, meeting for the first time in person since 2019, with the current President Lavern Samuels.
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Savo experiments with a Council selfie!
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Six of the eight Council members together in person for the first time ever.
Some said it was impossible, but we managed to squeeze into the photo booth for a fun shot!
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Council member Mr Umesh Bawa, who is also Director of SANORD, managed to co-ordinate a SANORD group photo of the IEASA members, who are also SANORD members. Within the group, four members of the IEASA Council were present including Umesh: Dr Lavern Samuels, President of IEASA, who is also the Chair of SANORD; Deputy President IEASA, Normah Zondo and Orla Quinlan, former President IEASA (2019-2020).
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Sadly, on this occasion, we missed capturing Prof Judy Peter, who is the eight Council member.
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STUDYSA GUIDE: 21st EDITION
The 21st edition of Study SA: Navigating Internationalisation in Challenging Times was launched at the 26th IEASA conference.
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The delivery of Study SA is adeptly project-managed by the IEASA Manager, Ms Tohiera Bagus on an annual basis. Council members contributed items to Study SA as follows:
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- Editor’s letter: Professor Judy Peters
- President’s message: Dr Lavern Samuels.
- Funding for research in South Africa: Recent trends: Dr Savo Helata.
- Immigration developments affecting Higher Education: Ms Orla Quinlan
- Navigating challenges in the internationalisation of Higher Education: Ms Normah Zondo (Deputy President)
Other contributors include:
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- Dr Phethiwe Matutu, CEO of USAf, who wrote about Navigating Internationalisation in Challenging Times – A Universities South Africa Perspective
- Dr Carlien Jooste, Director Internationalisation, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, who wrote about The Role of Universities in Times of Global Conflict.
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The link to the publication may be found here:
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IEASA would like to thank Dr Matutu, CEO of USAf for her contribution and support of the publication.
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In addition we would like to give a shout out to Heather Dugmore for copy editing as well as Gideon Oelofse, the graphic Designer and Remata Print and Communication.
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CONGRATULATIONS TO IEASA ACHIEVERS
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Congratulations to Mr Wiseman Jack, the former IEASA President ( 2021-2022), who was appointed as an Ambassador of BRICS University Association, earlier this year. We further congratulate him on his more recent appointment to serve on the Tshwane University of Technology Council as a Ministerial appointee, in terms of Section 27(4)c of the Higher Education Act no 101 of 1997 (As amended).
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IEASA ACTIVITIES
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IEASA-British Council Internationalisation Research Project – Report Launch
In 2021 IEASA partnered with the British Council to jointly commission the first-ever national research study on internationalisation of higher education in South Africa, and the report on this study, titled “Exploring Internationalisation of Higher Education at Public Universities in South Africa: Intentions, Practices, Opportunities and Constraints”, was recently launched as part of programme of the 2024 IEASA Conference.
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During a plenary session on 22 August 2024, Prof Felix Maringe, the research team lead, shared insights into the report, which explored the internationalisation endeavours of the 19 South African universities that participated in the research project. Representatives of two key stakeholders – Dr Idah Makukule on behalf of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and Dr Phetiwe Matutu on behalf of Universities South Africa (USAf) – offered their responses on the report before Dr Lavern Samuels, IEASA President, and George Barrett, British Council South Africa Country Director, shared their reflections on the research project as representatives of its commissioning parties. For more information on the plenary contributions, please see this article published in the UWN: https://www.universityworldnews.com/post.php?story=20240821205829761.
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GLOSOUTH: Colombia - South Africa Initiative
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IEASA has partnered with the Colombian Network for Internationalisation (RCI) to develop and implement an exciting new South African – Colombian internationalisation initiative, the GLOSOUTH project.
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GLOSOUTH flyer
Photo credit: IEASA and RCI
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UniCollaboration Webinar by IEASA and DUT
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On 11 July 2024, Dr Samia Chasi, IEASA, co-presented a webinar titled “Coloniality in Virtual Exchange – Voices from South Africa” with Dr Divinia Jithoo, Durban University of Technology (DUT). Following previous editions presenting voices from Palestine & Lebanon and Brazil, this webinar was the final episode in a three-part research webinar series hosted by UNICollaboration with a focus on identifying and interrogating coloniality in virtual exchange (VE). The speakers addressed coloniality in the South African higher education context and reflected on its implications for VE practices. They also discussed the relevance and importance of decolonial approaches for critical VE research and practice.
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UNICollaboration webinar screenshot
Photo credit: Samia Chasi
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VLIR-UOS assessment commission
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Dr Samia Chasi continues to serve as a member of the VLIR-UOS Educational Programmes Commission, which forms part of a Framework Agreement between IEASA and the Flemish Interuniversity Council (VLIR-UOS). In May and June 2024, her assignment related to the assessment of applications received in response to the Call for ICP Connect 2025 proposals (Phase 2), and she attended selection commission meetings at the VLIR-UOS head office in Brussels on 19 and 20 June 2024.
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VLIR-UOS staff and selection commission members
Photo credit: VLIR-UOS
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COIL CONNECT Live Session
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On 19 September 2024, Dr Samia Chasi participated in the inaugural COIL Connect Live session, which focussed on exploring the connections between internationalisation and collaborative online international learning (COIL), specifically in the context of internationalisation conferences hosted by IEASA, the EAIE and the International Virtual Exchange Conference (IVEC).
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The session was an opportunity to introduce IEASA to the COIL Connect network and to share reflections on the COIL-related content of the 26th Annual IEASA Conference, specifically highlighting the following sessions:
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- “COIL systems effectiveness and efficiency in ensuring sustainable engagements in Global South institutions”, presented by the University of the Free State (UFS);
- “Humanising and decolonising pedagogy through virtual exchange”, presented by DUT, Debate Education and the National University (Palestine); and
- “Monitoring and humanising climate change: student experiences in a COIL project exploring engineering and media roles between the University of Johannesburg (South Africa) and University of West Indies (Jamaica)”, presented by the University of Johannesburg (UJ).
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COIL Connect is an organisation that supports the international growth of COIL at the institutional level. For more information, go to: https://coilconnect.org.
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COIL Connect Live webinar screenshots
Photo credit: Samia Chasi
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Celebrating women in International Education
Orla Quinlan
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Inspired by the impressive progress of several women in international education, I collaborated with HERS-SA, in the spirit of their motto of “Leading- Learning- Lifting” to celebrate 26 women in international education for Women’s month, August 2024. These twenty-six are not, be any means, the only women involved in international education, nor were all of the women I initially approached able to participate in the project this year, leaving open the possibility of featuring more women, at a later date.
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"Higher Education Under Siege: Resilience, Rights and the Gaza Conflict’s Human Cost” (as discussed during the IEASA conference 2024)
by Orla Quinlan and Anisa Khan
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The idea that Vice Chancellor could be personally targeted for assassination was unimaginable in South Africa, prior to the attack on the University of Fort Hare’s Vice-Chancellor in 2023, which sent shock waves across the South Africa higher education community. In Gaza, over the past year, all universities have been systematically bombed and since 2023, three university presidents were targeted and killed, along with 17 full professors and 59 PhD holders (as of June 2024).
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NEWS FROM THE INSTITUTIONAL MEMBERS
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News from University of KwaZulu-Natal
Annual UKZN Scholarship Awards Celebrate Student Excellence
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The idea that Vice Chancellor could be personally targeted for assassination was unimaginable in South Africa, prior to the attack on the University of Fort Hare’s Vice-Chancellor in 2023, which sent shock waves across the South Africa higher education community. In Gaza, over the past year, all universities have been systematically bombed and since 2023, three university presidents were targeted and killed, along with 17 full professors and 59 PhD holders (as of June 2024).
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Engineering Alumnus Named a “Young Mandela” for Humanitarian Work
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Ms Michaela Geytenbeek is among the 30 exceptional South Africans honoured as News24’s Young Mandelas in recognition of their contributions to building a better South Africa. The Young Mandelas made their mark in six categories: climate literacy and sustainability, social justice, innovation, mental health, humanitarianism, and deepening democracy. Aged 28, UKZN Mechanical Engineering graduate Geytenbeek was one of eight to be honoured in the humanitarianism category. She founded the Durban-based non-profit, the Kinship Programme, which promotes environmental stewardship and nature-based education for young children. Geytenbeek described the recognition as overwhelming but views her work as a privilege, believing that recognition can amplify positive impacts.
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Eskom Delegation Visits UKZN to Solidify Partnership on Power Line Inspection Robot
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UKZN’s Discipline of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering (EECE) hosted a delegation of Eskom representatives at the Science and Technology Innovation Park (STIP) on the Westville campus to further solidify an ongoing partnership between the two institutions. The collaboration, driven by the development of the Power Line Inspection Robot, seeks to improve current inspection methods of power lines. Established by Mr Trevor Lorimer and former UKZN Professor, Edward Boje, the inspection robot ‘started off as a master’s project to make powerline inspections a lot more efficient,’ said Lorimer who now heads the Power Line Robotics company as the Managing Director.
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Lifetime Achievement Award for Renowned Chemistry Researcher
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UKZN’s Professor Fernando Albericio received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the European Peptide Synthesis Conference (EPSC) 2024 in the Czech Republic for his outstanding contributions to the peptide synthesis community. Albericio has published more than 900 papers, co-authored four books, filed over 60 patents, and supervised or co-supervised more than 80 PhD students and more than 100 master’s students over his almost 50-year career.
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UKZN Launches Aerospace Systems Research Institute
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UKZN made history recently when it officially launched the Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI) - one of the largest aerospace research groups in South Africa during an event held on the Howard College campus in Durban. ASRI, situated in the Discipline of Mechanical Engineering, was established by the University Council in 2022 following its predecessor, the Aerospace Systems Research Group (ASReG), established in 2009.
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News from University of University of the Free State
Incoming and outgoing staff and student mobility
Internationalisation officer selected for global celebration of collaboration in higher education
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Matome Mokoena of the University of the Free State’s (UFS’s) Office for International Affairs (OIA) was selected as part of the top 30 participants from across three continents where he will do a presentation at an upcoming global celebration of international collaboration in higher education. The event, themed ‘Celebrating a Decade of Internationalisation Excellence: DIES Management of Internationalisation Training Course 10-Year Jubilee’, is set to take place in Hannover, Germany from 23-24 September 2024, and is organised by the German Academic Exchange Service (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) (DAAD). The jubilee celebration commemorates ten years since the launch of the Dialogue on Innovative Higher Education Strategies (DIES) Management of Internationalisation (MOI) Training Course, a collaborative initiative by the DAAD and the German Rectors’ Conference (HRK). The course has been instrumental in equipping higher education professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary for effective management of internationalisation.
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Matome Mokoena of the UFS’s Office for International Affairs was selected to present at a ten-year celebration of internationalisation in higher education.
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COIL Projects & Virtual Engagements
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UFS hosted a virtual panel discussion on Gaza crisis on the 24th of July 2024. The UFS facilitated the panel discussion addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, organised by the Free State Centre for Human Rights (FSCHR). The event brought together a diverse group of scholars to explore the ethical and political dimensions of universities’ engagement with pressing injustices such as the current crisis in Gaza. Prof Danie Brand, Director of the FSCHR, opened the discussion by emphasising its significance. “UFS opens the space and takes this very important question forward,” he noted. The panel highlighted the necessity of academic institutions acting as platforms for critical debate, particularly on issues like the Gaza conflict.
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Members of the Virtual panel discussion
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Internationalisation At Home
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Prof Van der Westhuizen to present world premieres of contemporary solo violoncello works in Vienna and Salzburg.
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In May 2024, Prof Anmari van der Westhuizen – a renowned contemporary solo cellist and academic at the University of the Free State (UFS) – represented South Africa on an international stage at Bard College, New York. This prestigious engagement marks a significant milestone in her career as she prepares to deliver two contemporary solo cello concerts featuring world premiere performances of works by both Austrian and South African composers .
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The concerts, scheduled to take place during October 2024 in Vienna and Salzburg – celebrated for their rich musical heritage and vibrant contemporary music scenes – promise to be a unique cultural exchange. Prof Van der Westhuizen’s performances will showcase her expertise in contemporary solo violoncello music, bringing together the innovative compositions of Austrian and South African artists in a programme that highlights the dynamic interplay between these distinct musical traditions.
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Prof Anmari van der Westhuizen – a renowned cellist and academic at the UFS
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Celebrating diversity: UFS hosts vibrant Multilingual Mokete
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The University of the Free State (UFS) Qwaqwa Campus pulsed with vibrant energy on 13 September 2024 as the Academy of Multilingualism hosted its annual Kovsies Multilingual Mokete. This year's theme, ‘Our Diversity is Our Strength’, resonated throughout the day, celebrating the richness of languages and cultures within the UFS community.
The event served as a platform for students and staff to showcase their diverse heritages through traditional attire, poetry, storytelling, drama, music, and dance. A delectable spread of cultural cuisine further enriched the experience, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.
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The University of the Free State Qwaqwa Campus celebrated diversity as the Academy of Multilingualism as they recently hosted the Kovsies Multilingual Mokete, themed: ‘Our Diversity is Our Strength.
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Innovative partnerships, joint degrees and strategic projects
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UFS hosts IASIA 2024 Conference on Public Administration.
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The University of the Free State (UFS) recently hosted the esteemed International Association of Schools and Institutes of Administration (IASIA) 2024 Conference. This notable event was organised by the UFS Department of Public Administration and Management, bringing together 280 academics, researchers, students, and practitioners to delve into the theme, Alternative Service Delivery and Sustainable Societal Responsiveness.
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The International Association of Schools and Institutes of Administration (IASIA) 2024 Conference fostered critical discussions and insights into the future of public administration and service delivery.
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UFS hosts Model UN Summit 2024: Youth leadership in focus
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The University of the Free State (UFS) recently hosted the third annual Kovsies Model United Nations (KMUN) Summit, attracting delegates from universities and TVET colleges across South Africa. This year's event, themed 'Building Sustainable Bridges for the World We Want', took place from 12 to 14 July 2024 and offered students the chance to engage in United Nations (UN) simulations to develop a deeper understanding of international affairs and innovative problem-solving. These UN simulations included the General Assembly, the Economic and Social Council, the Security Council, the UN Human Rights Council, and UNESCO. Unique African solutions The summit's keynote address was delivered by Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Buti Manamela. He stressed the importance of addressing global challenges in an African context, highlighting the role of youth in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and why education lies at the heart of making this possible. Manamela noted that the African Union (AU) had declared 2024 ‘The Year of Education’, emphasising the need for resilient and education systems that equip African youth with skills and knowledge for the modern world. "Our problems in Africa are not different from the rest of the world; however, the solutions that are required must respond to the material conditions and the historical realities of our continent," he said.
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Delegates at the 2024 Kovsies Model United Nations summit engaging in UN simulations, fostering international understandings, and innovative problem-solving at the UFS, Bloemfontein Campus.
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UFS and Germany’s HSWT forge partnership to foster innovation and development
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The University of the Free State (UFS) recently welcomed a delegation from the Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences (HSWT) in Germany. The visit marked a significant milestone in the growing collaboration between the two institutions, aimed at driving innovation and development in agricultural research and education. The visit formed part of the first meeting of the European Union funded Intra-Africa Mobility Programme, CaReFoAfrica that is co-ordinated by Prof Linus Franke from the Department of Soil, Crop and Climate Sciences at the UFS. The CaReFoAfrica project is focused on human capacity development in climate change and risk mitigation in Africa. The other five partners within the consortium of seven universities include Makerere University in Uganda, Université d’Abomey-Calavi in Benin, Maseno University and University of Eldoret in Kenya, and the Université Evangelique en Afrique in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
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The UFS staff as they hosted a delegation from the Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences (HSWT) in Germany – a significant milestone in the growing collaboration between the two institutions
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UFS and University of Virginia (UVA) collaboration enhances global health education
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The University of the Free State (UFS) and the University of Virginia (UVA) have been collaborating for more than a decade now, focusing on the critical area of global health. During this period, the universities have successfully developed global health researchers, some of whom have also worked internationally. From the 6th of July until the 9th of August, hosted four students from the University of Virginia in the United States as part of a new global health programme between the two institutions. Simone Minor (third-year Global Public Health and Sociology), Eliza Piché (third-year Public Policy), Nykera Wallop (fourth-year Sociology), and Anand Colaco (fifth-year Psychology) – all passionate about public health – are visited the university through the InterSciComm initiative. This collaboration, currently in its pilot phase, involves the UFS School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (SoHRS) and the UVA Centre for Global Health Equity. According to John-Paul Khumalo, Research Assistant for Research, Reporting and Strategic Projects in the Office for International Affairs, the programme was inspired by a shared commitment to fostering interprofessional collaboration and addressing global health challenges
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Students from the UFS and the UVA recently engaged in cross-cultural learning activities in the area of global health. Pictured – from the UVA – are from the left: Eliza Piché, Simone Minor, Nykera Wallop, and Anand Colaco.
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UFS members form part of change at the 2024 FISU World Forum.
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Jerry Laka, President of University Sport South Africa (USSA) and Director of KovsieSport at the University of the Free State (UFS), and Tumisang Motsoane, a member of the USSA National Executive Committee (NEC), travelled to Zagreb, Croatia, to participate in the 2024 International University Sports Federation (FISU) World Forum. This significant event brought together students, university sports officials, and industry professionals from around the globe to engage in discussions aimed at promoting the development of university sports and physical activity. During their time in Croatia, Laka and Motsoane proudly represented South Africa by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Croatian Academic Sports Federation. This agreement signifies a commitment to collaborate on various initiatives to advance student sports development
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Jerry Laka (right), Director: KovsieSport, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Croatian Academic Sports Federation at the 2024 FISU World Forum in Zagreb, Croatia, to advance student sports development.
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International Education, Research Collaborations and publications
Office for International Affairs attends the 26th annual IEASA Conference.
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The International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA) recently hosted its 26th Annual Conference at the Radisson Hotel and Convention Centre, OR Tambo Airport, Johannesburg from 20 to 23 August 2024. The theme of the conference was centred around ‘Navigating Internationalisation in Challenging Times.
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From the left: Atlehang Bokaba, Boitshoko Monnamorwe, and Thembani Nosipho Hoho
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Southern African Mountain Conference 2025 returns to UFS
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The Afromontane Research Unit (ARU) at the University of the Free State is thrilled to announce the second iteration of the Southern African Mountain Conference (SAMC2025). This prestigious event will be held at Champagne Sports Resort in the Drakensberg from 17 to 20 March 2025. The conference, headed by Prof Ralph Clark, Director of the ARU will feature three renowned keynote speakers: Sissie Matela, Prof Steven Goodman, and Dr Steve Boyes.
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The university is ecstatic and eagerly anticipates the opportunity to once again welcome delegates from around the world to this important gathering of mountain researchers.
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The Second Southern African Mountain Conference (SAMC2025), themed Southern African Mountains – Overcoming Boundaries and Barriers, will build on the highly successful first conference (SAMC2022) held in March 2022. This, the first of its kind in Southern Africa, attracted 259 participants from 21 countries, with 168 papers delivered and 4 sponsored special sessions.
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The Second Southern African Mountain Conference (SAMC2025), themed Southern African Mountains – Overcoming Boundaries and Barriers, will build on the highly successful first conference (SAMC2022) held in March 2022.
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Community of Practise and internationalisation in society.
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UFS students bring joy to the Bloemfontein Turflaagte community through Ubuntu Street Store initiative in celebration of Women's Month, the student-led South Africa-Sweden University Forum (SASUF) structure at the University of the Free State (UFS) – in collaboration with Kovsie Act (Active Civic Teaching) – reached out to the Turflaagte community in Chris Hani, Bloemfontein, bringing much-needed support in the form of soup, clothing, and skills building., on the 10th of August 2024.
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Simba Matema, Assistant Researcher in the Office for International Affairs at the university, UFS student representative, and National Coordinator for the SASUF student network, emphasised the importance of the event. "One of our key goals at SASUF is to implement a number of initiatives that address and offer solutions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our main objective was to make a positive impact by giving back to the local community, in line with the UN SDGs of Zero Hunger and No Poverty. This outreach programme also aligns with the UFS values of care and social justice, striving to uphold the dignity of all people."
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UFS students provide essential supplies and support to Turflaagte community members during a recent outreach event.
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General Internationalisation Activities
Louzanne Coetzee wins bronze in record-breaking Paralympic 1 500 m T11 race
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Louzanne Coetzee made South Africa and the University of the Free State (UFS) proud by winning a bronze medal in the women's 1 500 m T11 event at the 2024 Paralympics held in the iconic Stade de France on 2 September 2024. Coetzee, alongside her guide Estean Badenhorst, finished the race in a remarkable personal best time of 4:35.49, slicing five seconds off her previous record from the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games. This achievement not only marks her second medal at the Paralympics, but also highlights her exceptional talent as a para-athlete competing in the fastest race ever recorded for T11 athletes.
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Louzanne Coetzee (centre), with guide Estean Badenhorst (right) and Claus Kempen (left), clinched bronze in the women’s 1 500 m T11 at the 2024 Paralympics on 2 September 2024, with a personal best time of 4:35.49.
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Head of International Scholarships selected for prestigious US International Visitor Leadership Programme
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Mbali Moiketsi, Head of International Scholarships, Marketing, and Web Content in the University of the Free State’s (UFS’s) Office for International Affairs, has been selected to participate in the prestigious US International Visitor Leadership Programme (IVLP). The programme, which runs from 13 September to 7 October 2024, is a significant professional exchange initiative, with participants nominated by US embassies globally rather than applying directly. “Being selected for the IVLP represents a remarkable milestone that fills me with pride and a sense of accomplishment,” Moiketsi said in reaction to her selection.
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Mbali Moiketsi, Head of International Scholarships at the UFS, was selected for the prestigious US International Visitor Leadership Programme.
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MEDICAL AID MATTERS
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As the academic year reaches its final stretch, international students across South Africa find themselves deep in exam preparation. But amidst the flurry of study sessions, another critical task emerges on the horizon: securing medical aid benefits for the following year. At CompCare, we recognise the unique challenges you face and are dedicated to ensuring your health and academic success flourish together.
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Visa Compliance: Beyond a Formality
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Valid medical aid coverage isn’t just a formality for international students; it’s the cornerstone of your legal residency in South Africa. We understand its importance and CompCare proactively contacts international student members, offering personalised guidance through the renewal process, for those students who will continue their studies in 2025. Our aim? To remove this burden from your plate, allowing you to focus on your studies.
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Uninterrupted Healthcare: A Safety Net for Your Academic Journey
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While academic achievement takes center stage, your health and well-being form the foundation for a successful study experience. Far from home and familiar support systems, comprehensive medical coverage is paramount. CompCare’s tailor-made Umbono plan for Students serves as a vital safety net, granting you peace of mind and access to quality healthcare whenever necessary. We go beyond simple coverage, striving to be a constant companion as you navigate health concerns in an unfamiliar environment.
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Student-Friendly Healthcare Made Easy
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“Designed specifically for students, the Umbono option blends essential cover with exceptional affordability. It’s the hassle-free healthcare you need,” explains Josua Joubert, CEO and Principal Officer of CompCare Medical Scheme. “Need to visit a GP or fill a prescription? We’ve got you covered. “We understand the demands of student life. That’s why we’ve made healthcare more accessible through partnerships with nearby GPs and virtual consultations, making healthcare access a breeze.”
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Taking Control of Your Health: Simpler Than Ever
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“CompCare’s Umbono option fosters a healthier, happier, and less stressful student life,” continues Josua. “Our member app, website, and dedicated helpline ensure support is always at your fingertips. So, as you ace your exams, choose the Umbono plan and let go of one more worry. It’s an affordable, uncomplicated, and healthy way to navigate your student healthcare in South Africa. Simple as that!”
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Focus on Compliance and Immigration Matters for international students on Study VISA.
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As the leading provider of healthcare cover to students studying in South Africa, Momentum Medical Scheme offers comprehensive cover for in- and out of hospital expenses from as little as R541 per month.
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Momentum Medical Scheme informs international students to renew their membership 2 months prior to the end date of their cover, followed by another reminder one month before the end date of their membership, a second reminder on the date that their cover ends and a final reminder in the month following the end date of their membership.
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The implications of non-compliance with study visa requirements have to date posed a significant challenge for both students and academic institutions. We are confident that the renewed commitment from the Department of Home Affairs to eliminate their backlog by 31 December 2024 will improve measures to better ensure study visa compliance. We urge you to support us in ensuring that foreign students maintain credible healthcare cover for the duration of their studies in South Africa.
We have seen an increase in the prevalence of students who applied for just 6 months’ medical scheme membership in 2024, which resulted in them not having cover for the second part of the academic year. You can verify the membership status of a student in less than 10 seconds on our secure verification portal at https://studenthealthcare.co.za/third-party-zone/. If you do not have access to the portal, please email rikki.erasmus@momentum.co.za.
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Momentum Healthcare Solutions also recently partnered with IBN Immigration Solutions to assist students and stakeholders with Immigration matters. IBN provides visa and permit services and immigration consultations for people who want to live or study in South Africa.
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All students and stakeholders may contact IBN Immigration Solutions, as their dedicated team specialises in assisting with South African study visas, ensuring a smooth and stress-free application process and to provide tailored support to meet our students’ and stakeholders’ needs.
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We care about the wellbeing of your students
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Did you know that students on the Ingwe Option have access to Student Care+ - a FREE support line?
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Students may call 0861 127 332 or reach out on USSD *130*3272*66# and a counsellor will phone them back in a few minutes.
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Momentum offers our student members dedicated benefits to support their wellbeing. We know that life's obstacles can sometimes lead to traumatic experiences, significantly impacting our emotional, social and physical wellbeing. When faced with intense stress, our natural responses like fight, flight or freeze can leave lasting effects, such as intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviours and altered self-perception.
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Trauma is a response to an intensely stressful event or situation that can affect a students’ physical and mental wellbeing.
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We do not want students to battle with trauma on their own and encourage them to reach out for assistance from Student Care - their free support line. Click here to read more about Student Care in the Student Lifestyle brochure and here to read more about the effects of trauma.
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Need help or have enquiries?
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Healthcare at your fingertips
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Virtual help
Click on the learn more button under Virtual help on the home page at
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Newsletter Deadlines for 2024:
December issue – due Friday 22 November 2024
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Disclaimer: Any views or opinions presented in this newsletter are those of the contributor/s and do not represent the views and opinions of IEASA, unless stated otherwise. Please note that the content remains the intellectual property of the author/s and may only be distributed with written consent of said author/s. IEASA has as far as possible ensured that the contributions submitted are published as received. No liability is accepted for any consequences arising from this newsletter.
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In accordance with the legal requirements set out in The Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) which comes into effect on 1 July 2021, we wish to let you know that your contact information is securely stored and access is strictly controlled and we do not share your information with third parties.
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