University of the Free State: Office for International Affairs celebrates Heritage Day and recognises global uniqueness

Globally and in South Africa, internationalisation has become accepted as one of the critical processes that advance the core business of universities. The Office for International Affairs (OIA) aims to encourage stakeholders to integrate the international and intercultural dimensions into the formal and informal curriculum for all students within the domestic environment. It is, therefore, the responsibility of the OIA to ensure that the University of the Free State is exposed to an intercultural environment as part of everyday learning. This includes the celebration of Africa Month, Intercultural Diversity, and Heritage Day. The latter is commemorated annually on 24 September, acknowledging and celebrating the cultural wealth of our nation. At the UFS, students and staff celebrate the day by remembering the cultural heritage of the many cultures, including international cultures, that make up the population of South Africa.

OIA staff members celebrated the day by dressing up in cultural or traditional attire from all over the world, recognising the importance of each culture. The day was meant to reflect on the culture and meaning of who we are by educating ourselves on what it means to be global. We need to instil a sense of social cohesion among the UFS community by appreciating and overcoming racial and social barriers to unity. The day was filled with lots of activities, such as learning about different countries, taking part in indigenous games, and indulging in traditional music. The day ended with the realisation of the importance of heritage, and how we as the OIA continue to educate and instil intercultural dimensions at the UFS.