BLOEMFONTEIN – Entries are streaming in for the University of the Free State (UFS) and Novus Media’s Matriculant of the Year competition as the closing date draws near.

Matric learners from across South Africa who excel in academics, culture, sport and leadership, and who plan to study at the UFS next year, are invited to enter.

Former finalists say one of the greatest benefits of taking part in the competition was the boost it gave their self-confidence.

“I truly realised what a privilege it was to be selected as a finalist during the competition, and it gave me so much confidence,” says Jenni Muller, now a first-year medical student.

Christiaan Kotzé, also a medical student, says participating in the competition made him realise how much he had grown and gave him the confidence to make new friends.

“I always considered myself an introvert,” he says.

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Both students encourage this year’s entrants to make the most of every moment. They agree that the friendships formed during the final round are among the most valuable rewards of the experience.

Bursaries and prize money worth approximately R500 000 are up for grabs for the top 25 participants, thanks to the support of UFS Student Recruitment Services, the Kovsie Alumni Trust, Forvis Mazars, Absa and Pick n Pay Preller Walk.

How to enter

Learners may enter themselves or be nominated by their schools. Entry forms must be signed by the school principal and stamped with the school’s official stamp.

A total of 25 semifinalists will be selected, from whom 14 finalists will advance to the final round, taking place in Bloemfontein from 5 to 7 October.

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The winner and the other 13 finalists will receive prize money, bursaries and gifts, while the semifinalists will also qualify for prizes and bursaries.

Entry closes on 31 July.

Scan the QR code or click here to download the entry form, complete it and email it to Linda Greyling at greylinl@ufs.ac.za. She can also be contacted for more information.