Prof. Hester Klopper was formally inaugurated as the institution’s 15th vice-chancellor and principal during a ceremony at the Bloemfontein Campus on Monday (9/6). 

Her appointment marks the first female vice-chancellor in the university’s 121-year history. She was appointed to her role in February. 

Klopper’s inauguration was attended by deputy ministers of the Higher Education and Training, as well as Science, Technology, and Innovation, the Free State premier and MECs, former vice-chancellors and principals of the UFS, and members of the Western Cape parliament.

“Artificial intelligence capabilities are advancing exponentially, doubling in power every few months,” said Klopper. “However, our educational systems remain fundamentally unchanged from their industrial-era origins.”

“We are preparing students for a world that is transforming faster than we can imagine, using methods designed for a world that no longer exists.”

‘Importance of the UFS leading transformation’

In her inaugural address, titled “Walking Together with Purpose: Unlocking Excellence to Lead Change”, she emphasised the importance of the UFS leading transformation rather than following trends.

She envisions the university as an entrepreneurial knowledge ecosystem fuelled by the innovative collaboration of top academic talent across its three campuses, enabling the institution to reach its highest potential.

Prof Hester Klopper with Prof Bonang Mohale, Chancellor of the UFS. Photo supplied/UFS

Klopper announced two major funding initiatives: the VC-ISRC Imbewu Legacy Fund, which is dedicated to supporting financially needy students, and the VC Talent Magnet Fund, designed to recruit top global academic talent.

The Motsepe Foundation contributed R1.3 million, which the UFS matched, to launch the Imbewu Fund with a R2.6 million boost.

“The UFS is committed to preserving African identity while pursuing global excellence. This is in line with the launch of the Free State Futures Forum in 2026, a biennial think tank which will bring together leading thinkers from across the continent and the globe.”

Prof Klopper with other academics at he inauguration ceremony. Photo supplied/UFS

“The biennial think tank will be a platform to shape the future from the heart of South Africa, for the good of our planet."

Klopper holds eight postgraduate qualifications, including an honorary doctorate from Oxford Brookes University in the UK. She is also internationally recognised, having served on over 30 national and global boards.

OFM News mvh