By Charmaine Ndlela
A moment of pride and achievement was cut short at the University of the Free State (UFS) main campus after a student passed away while making her way to her graduation ceremony on Friday afternoon.
The student, from the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, was on her way to the Callie Human Centre to receive her qualification when she suddenly collapsed, according to reports.
Emergency services were called to the scene, but despite efforts to assist, paramedics declared her dead on site.
The cause of death has not yet been confirmed, and the woman’s name has not been released.
In a statement, the university extended its condolences to the student’s loved ones.
“The university extends its heartfelt condolences to the student’s family, friends, and fellow students. Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time, and we wish them strength as they come to terms with this loss,” the institution said.
The incident has left many on campus shaken, particularly given the significance of the moment.
Graduation is widely regarded as a major milestone, marking years of hard work and achievement. For fellow students and family members who had gathered at the Callie Human Centre, the sudden loss brought shock and deep sadness.
Despite the incident, the graduation ceremony proceeded as planned, a decision often taken by large institutions to avoid disrupting proceedings for thousands of attendees. The death was handled separately on campus.
The university has made counselling services available to students and staff affected by the incident.
The circumstances surrounding the student’s death remain under investigation.
INSIDE EDUCATION
