The Unisa Alumni Relations Office's activities in 2023 exemplify the power of alumni networks in creating positive change. From local community projects to global outreach, Unisa's alumni are actively contributing to the betterment of society. As the university continues to strengthen its connections, the impact of alumni as advocates and supporters remains a driving force for positive change.

In 2023, the Alumni Relations Office prioritised a shift in its approach to chapter visits, focusing on creating networking opportunities for members. The feedback from these visits was overwhelmingly positive, fostering a range of activities aimed at making a meaningful impact in various African communities.

Stronger connections in Eswatini

The Alumni Relations Office concluded its 2023 chapter visits with a trip to the Eswatini alumni chapter, the third-largest on the African continent. The visit marked the culmination of a series of networking activities aimed at fostering stronger connections among alumni. Nomsa Maseko, the chapter convenor, expressed the desire for increased Unisa presence in Eswatini, highlighting the urgent need for support among alumni and students. This call was echoed by a number of chapters outside South Africa requesting Unisa to offer in-person facilities in their countries.

Nomsa Maseko (centre), convenor of the Unisa Eswatini chapter, joined by previous convenors, Samuel Dlamini (left) and Rev Senzo Hlatshwayo (right) during the Eswatini chapter networking session hosted in Mbabane

The event also served as a platform to announce upcoming chapter activities, including community engagement, networking events and fundraising initiatives for a scholarship programme.

Namibia chapter's library project

The Namibia chapter took on a commendable initiative by assisting the Dr Frans Aupa Indongo Primary School in establishing a library. The chapter's support included donating paint for the venue, sourcing donations for bookshelves and providing books for both research projects and leisure reading. This project exemplifies the commitment of Unisa alumni to educational development.

Khanya Mahlare, Executive Director of the Department of Institutional Advancement, with members of the Unisa team, Dr Colen Tuaundu, convenor of the Namibia chapter, and representatives of the community engagement team of the Windhoek Gymnasium during the visit to the Dr Frans Aupa Indongo School in Windhoek

Gqeberha chapter's outreach to Sinethemba Home

In August, the Gqeberha chapter demonstrated its generosity by visiting the Sinethemba Home, delivering food and gifts. The donations received from chapter members contributed significantly to the home, highlighting the impact alumni can have on community well-being.

Raseela Daya, Regional Office Coordinator of the Gqeberha Regional Office, Yonela Skotoyi, convenor of the Gqeberha alumni chapter, and chapter members during the outreach project at the Sinethemba Home in Gqeberha

Limpopo chapter's environmental Initiative

Collaborating with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, the Limpopo chapter initiated a project to enhance the environmental landscape of local schools. This involved planting 10 indigenous trees on school premises, providing valuable shade and fostering overall student well-being. The chapter also engaged with learners on environmental issues, with plans for the project's continuation into 2024.

Regional Director of Unisa’s Northeastern Region, Dr Lesiba Molepo, representatives of the regional office, Lethabo Matlala, convenor of the Limpopo chapter, and children from the Nirvana Primary School during the tree-planting ceremony

The season of giving

A number of the alumni chapters will embark on community engagement projects in December. Many will focus on providing food, children’s gifts and hygiene products to children’s homes within their regions and countries. Others will provide seeds and seedlings to community gardens in their regions.

Unisa's alumni, serving as ambassadors of the University, play a pivotal role in its global presence. With a database surpassing the one million mark, Unisa boasts one of the world's largest alumni networks, spanning 154 countries. Alumni are making significant contributions in diverse locations showcasing the widespread impact of Unisa graduates worldwide.

* By Cilla Boucher, Alumni Relations Officer, Unisa Foundation and Alumni Relations