UFS Alumni

Happy Youth Day from the University of the Free State Alumni Relations Office. Together, we celebrate the spirit, determination, and potential of South Africa’s youth as we build a brighter future for all.

The University of the Free State alumni community mourns the passing of Mrs Ilze Posthumus.

It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved alumna, Mrs Ilze Posthumus, who sadly lost her life in an accident on Saturday, 13 June 2026.

Mrs Posthumus was more than an educator and a proud UFS alumna. She was a dedicated, passionate, and deeply valued member of the educational community who served her learners with love, patience, and unwavering commitment. Through her kindness, professionalism, and devotion to teaching, she touched countless lives and left a lasting impact on both her learners and colleagues.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to her husband, Wihan, her daughter, Clara, her parents, Leon and Lettie Botha, and to her extended family, friends, colleagues, learners, and the entire Kathu and UFS communities during this incredibly difficult time.

Her legacy of service, compassion, and dedication will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

May her soul rest in eternal peace.

She will forever remain in our hearts.

𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝗚𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝘆𝗻!

The University of the Free State proudly congratulates 𝗨𝗙𝗦 𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗺𝗻𝗮 𝗚𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝘆𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗶𝗳𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗻 crown after another remarkable victory in the women’s race at the 2026 Comrades Marathon.

Your determination, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence continue to inspire South Africans and the entire Kovsie community. This historic fifth title once again demonstrates what is possible through discipline, courage, and unwavering commitment on one of the world’s most demanding endurance stages.

We celebrate this exceptional achievement and are proud to call you one of our own.

Congratulations on another historic milestone, Gerda!



Image: Tobias Ginsberg / Comrades Marathon Association

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