The University of Fort Hare is proud to announce the official launch of the South Africa–Sweden University Forum+ (SASUF+), a major multi-year internationalisation and research collaboration initiative running until 2028. SASUF+ builds on the successes of the SASUF 2030 programme and represents an ambitious new phase in strengthening academic partnerships between South African and Swedish universities.
The launch follows the approval of the final SASUF 2030 report by STINT and introduces a renewed platform for joint research, mobility opportunities, student engagement, innovation ecosystems, and expanded African partnerships. A UFH delegation, led by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Dr Taole-Mjimba and the Director of the Teaching and Learning, Prof Ulene Schiller (UFH Academic Lead of the project) attended the formal celebrations, including the reception hosted at the Swedish Ambassador’s Residence in Pretoria and the official launch session at the Science Forum South Africa (SFSA).
Their joint presence symbolised UFH’s strengthened commitment to global partnerships and its leading role in research collaboration across continents.
What SASUF+ Means for UFH
SASUF+ is structured around work packages that will drive research collaboration, broaden African networks, and expand student and staff engagement. According to the project framework presented to all partners, SASUF+ will include:
- Collaborative research grants enabling joint SA–Sweden projects (2026–2027).
- AIMday methodology training, innovation dialogues, and knowledge exchange events.
- Seed funding for intra-African collaborations, expanding UFH’s footprint across the continent.
- Mobility opportunities for postgraduate students and postdoctoral scholars.
- Student leadership training, summits, and hackathons across 2026–2028.
- A comprehensive calendar of virtual and in-person engagements designed to ensure long-term sustainability of partnerships.
SASUF+ also introduces a strengthened Steering Committee involving Vice-Chancellors, Deputy Vice-Chancellors, coordinators, and newly appointed student representatives, reflecting an intentional shift toward co-ownership and participatory governance.
UFH’s Contribution and Strategic Role
UFH plays a pivotal role within SASUF+, aligning the project with the institution’s priorities in global partnerships, research development, innovation, and graduate support. The initiative opens pathways for UFH academics and students to participate in joint calls, international dialogues, and multi-institutional research clusters that aim to create societal impact.
The university community is encouraged to monitor upcoming call dates, participate in information sessions, and explore opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration under the SASUF+ umbrella. A consolidated calendar, including all calls, events, and joint meetings, will be shared in early 2026.