UFS Student’s Exchange Programme in Freiburg: A Transformative Experience

In a groundbreaking move, the University of the Free State (UFS) Qwaqwa Campus has solidified its commitment to internationalisation through a successful exchange programme with the Freiburg University of Education in Germany. This partnership, formalised by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), has opened doors for students, staff, and faculty members to engage in enriching academic and cultural exchanges.

One of the early beneficiaries of this collaboration is Sanelisiwe Khumalo, a master’s student from the Department of Sociology in the Faculty of the Humanities. For four months, Khumalo embarked on a life-changing journey to Freiburg, Germany, where she immersed herself in the vibrant academic and cultural landscape.

During her time in Germany, Khumalo not only excelled academically, but also embraced the opportunity to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage. She participated in various activities, including hiking in the Black Forest, visiting historical cities such as Frankfurt and Stuttgart, and attending cultural events.

Group photo of Sanelisiwe Khumalo making connections across continents, with her partners in education. A global classroom at Freiburg

One particularly memorable experience was her encounter with other Africans during an artistic intervention by Thabo Thindi. This event provided a powerful platform for reflection and cultural exchange, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.