University of the Free State Equips Academics with NRF Rating Workshop
The Faculty of The Humanities at the University of the Free State (UFS) recently hosted a transformative three-day NRF rating workshop aimed at bolstering the research capabilities of its academic staff. The workshop, held from 13 to 15 June 2024, was a resounding success, equipping participants with invaluable knowledge and practical tools to enhance their NRF rating prospects.
Workshop fosters collaboration and growth
Under the guidance of the Vice-Dean: Research and Postgraduate Studies, Prof Mpume Zondi, and with the generous support of the Dean’s office, the workshop attracted a diverse group of academics from both the Bloemfontein and Qwaqwa campuses. Departments including African Languages, South African Sign Language and Deaf Studies, Hebrew, History, Linguistics and Language Practice, the Centre for Gender and Africa Studies, Social Work, Sociology, and Psychology were represented.
In her welcome address, Prof Zondi said she was very pleased with the enthusiasm shown by the researchers. “You made such a good choice in coming here. This is in line with the vision of the university, whereby we want to be research-led, emphasising the parity between research, teaching, and learning for impact, with the expressed intention to significantly increase the UFS’ research capacity and capability.”
Prof Diana Breshears, Assistant Dean: The Humanities, said, “I am very excited for you to take part in this workshop. We are extremely honoured that Prof Houliston is convening this workshop for us.”
Empowering academics with application skills
The workshop was expertly facilitated by Prof Victor Houliston, a distinguished A-rated NRF scholar based in the UK, who also holds a research fellowship in the UFS Department of English. Prof Houliston’s practical approach demystified the complex world of NRF ratings, empowering participants to navigate the application process with confidence. He presented on the NRF application process and how to complete the relevant sections for the application. Participants practised navigating the system by practically completing some sections of the application.
The presentation included career profile, best publications, and words to use and not to use in the personal statement. Prof Houliston has reviewed many NRF rating applications in the past, in addition to being part of the internal rating committee. He has also been a convener of the NRF panels.
Academics benefit from the workshop
A highlight of the workshop was the dedicated time allocated for individual writing, allowing participants to make tangible progress on their NRF profiles. By providing clear explanations of NRF rating categories and the evaluation process, Prof Houliston dispelled the notion that achieving a high NRF rating is unattainable.
Crucially, the workshop broadened participants’ understanding of what constitutes research for the purposes of NRF evaluation. This newfound knowledge equipped academics with a clearer focus as they build their research portfolios.
The positive feedback from participants is a testament to the workshop’s success. They lauded Prof Houliston’s engaging facilitation style and expressed gratitude for the support provided by the Dean, Prof Masoga, the Assistant Dean, Prof Breshears, and HoDs who were key in identifying suitable candidates for the workshop. Prof Zondi extended her gratitude to academics who attended the workshop and made meaningful contributions to the discussions.
The workshop aligns with the UFS’ commitment to research excellence and capacity building. By investing in its academic staff, the university is fostering a vibrant research culture that contributes to knowledge creation and societal impact.
The UFS envisions a future where research is at the heart of its academic enterprise, driving innovation, societal impact, and global recognition. Workshops such as these are crucial to realising this vision by empowering researchers to excel in their fields and contribute to the university’s research agenda.