University of the Free State (UFS) (Qwaqwa Campus) in Phuthaditjhaba, Free State

The beautiful Eastern Free State town of Phuthaditjhaba situated at the foot of the Drakenstein Mountains accommodates the Qwaqwa campus of the University of the Free State (UFS) in Bloemfontein.

Incorporated in 2003 into the UFS and formerly a branch of the University of the North, the Qwaqwa campus is now affording the underprivileged rural community the opportunity to access higher levels of education. Several factors had to be taken into consideration when deciding the academic programme of the campus. Location, the socio-economic realities of potential students, the natural resources of the region and the overall educational requirements of the community. 

Faculties

The following faculties with postgraduate teaching are offered:

• Humanities
• Education
• Economic & Management Sciences
• Natural & Agricultural Sciences

As with the South Campus, UFS wanted to meet certain criteria. The Qwaqwa Campus specifically looked at having an impact on the socio-economic development of its rural surroundings with the objective of stimulating growth, entrepeneurship and job creation by offering academic skills and community development programmes at the campus. 

Currently there are approximately 3 800 students on campus with 230 dedicated staff members who tutor and support students in a drive to achieve excellence.