With these words, the vice-chancellor and principal of the University of the Free State accepted the academic excellence award at the 2026 Forbes Woman Africa Awards. The ceremony took place during the 11th Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit in the Sandton Convention Centre on Wednesday (18/3).

Prof. Hester Klopper, who stepped into her role as the 15th vice-chancellor in February 2025, holds the distinction of being the first woman to lead the institution in its 122-year history. 

Her career in higher education spans over three decades, marked by the publication of more than 120 peer-reviewed works and the mentorship of countless postgraduate students.

Instead of seeing the award as a win for herself alone, she emphasised academic success is rooted in collective effort, dedicating the recognition to her students, colleagues, and family, reflecting on a journey toward excellence that began in 1982 during her time as a nursing science student.

“Learning excellence has been part of who I’ve been, excellence is not in a title but in the standard of living and how we embrace life,” said Klopper.

It was attended by more than a thousand delegates from across Africa. Photo: University of the Free State 

Klopper highlighted how universities must help change society for the better, describing institutions like UFS as engines of change rather than isolated schools.

Under her leadership, the university has created programmes like the VCP-ISRC Imbewu Legacy Fund, which helps students who are struggling financially.

The summit was attended by more than a thousand delegates from across Africa, featuring a plea from Klopper, who urged collective leadership and collaboration to build capacity on the continent. 

Emphasising that the goal of academic work is to generate evidence and share African stories, the event concluded with a call for continued cooperation to address challenges facing the continent through research and community impact.

“At the University of the Free State, we are not going to follow; we are going to shape,” said Klopper.

OFM News dg

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.