Building Bridges, One Partnership at a Time
The University of Venda (UNIVEN) recently became a hub of global connection and inspiration as it hosted its annual Internationalisation Week. With the theme ‘Building Global Partnerships for Sustainable Development’, this gathering brought together bright minds and passionate voices from universities and organisations across Africa and beyond. From 9 to 13 September 2024, the event sparked meaningful conversations about how collaboration can address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Walking into the conference, one could feel the energy—an almost tangible buzz of ideas meeting action. Delegates from the University of the Free State (UFS) Office for International Affairs (OIA), the University of Eswatini, Lupane State University, and others gathered to share their expertise and experiences. What stood out wasn’t just the calibre of attendees but also the shared commitment to finding solutions through partnership.
One of the most thought-provoking moments came during a presentation by the OIA’s Mr Kananelo Radimakatso and Mr Bongani Vilakazi who work in the Partnerships, Collaborative Degrees, and Outgoing Mobility portfolio. They explored how data and modelling science could optimise international collaborations, turning theory into impactful strategies. Their work underscored a simple yet powerful truth: when we harness technology and data effectively, we amplify our ability to make meaningful change.
Another highlight came from Ms Seithati Ramonaheng, of the International Students Admin, Immigration and Medical Aid portfolio at the UFS, who delved into the layers of inclusive education systems. Her insights were a heartfelt reminder that inclusivity is not just about access—it’s about creating environments where everyone, regardless of background, feels seen and supported. For Ms Ramonaheng, the focus wasn’t just on what institutions could achieve for international students and staff but on how these efforts could ripple outward, shaping a more equitable world.
Equally captivating was the discussion led by Ms Keabetswe Moeketsi who shed light on South Africa’s influence in shaping global human rights dialogues of international relations between students, staff and higher learning institutions in order to shape a more constitutional world.
To conclude the UFS presentations, Mr Lekiti Rantsane emphasised the importance of friendship through cultural exchanges pioneered in his Internationalisation at Home portfolio. Through the UFS’s Umoja Buddy Programme (UBP), local and international students have found opportunities to connect and grow. Mr Rantsane’s stories of friendships forming across cultures were a testament to the idea that when we open ourselves to others, we unlock incredible potential—not just in our academic journeys but in our shared humanity.
| Representatives from the UFS Office for International Affairs (from left to right): Kananelo Radimakatso, Bongani Vilakazi, Seithati Ramonaheng, Keabetswe Moeketsi, Lekiti Rantsane |
As the week drew close, it was clear that UNIVEN’s Internationalisation Week wasn’t just an event but a call to action. The awards presented to the UFS’s delegation further highlighted the importance of this work. Mr Vilakazi and Mr Radimakatso were honoured for their compelling presentation, while Ms Ramonaheng received recognition for her standout abstract. These accolades weren’t just a celebration of individual achievement—they reflected the power of collaboration.
A sense of gratitude and purpose lingered long after the conference ended. It’s one thing to talk about global partnerships, but it’s another to see them in action, shaping conversations and inspiring change. As we move forward, events like this remind us that the path to a sustainable future isn’t a solitary one—it’s a journey we must take together with open minds and a shared commitment to making a difference.
Date: 04 October 2024
Author: UFS Office for International Affairs
Photo: Supplied
