Sharing information with students is key

Unisa’s Midlands Region, in collaboration with the Department of Institutional Advancement (DIA), held an open day for students on 30 March 2019 at the Mahikeng Regional Service Centre (RSC). The objective of the event was to give both existing and prospective students the opportunity to interact with staff members from various colleges and departments. The face-to-face interaction also empowered students to make informed decisions regarding Unisa as an Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) institution.

Staff members from the Mahikeng RSC, various colleges and departments, and RSRC members during the open day

Representatives from various colleges and departments shared valuable information on the various programmes, student admission and registration services, and support services available at Unisa.

The Regional Student Representative Council (RSRC) members were on site to attend to student queries and to assist staff to ensure the success of the event.

Students in their own words

‘I like studying through Unisa because it gives me the opportunity to work while studying. It was informative to learn about the support services available to students.’

- Nondlela Dlamini, postgraduate student in Human Resource Management

‘I have learnt that studying through Unisa needs sacrifice and dedication. I am still struggling with managing my time, but I am getting there.’

- Lebogang Sigwamaja, Bachelor of Education student.

‘I always utilise the support services available at the RSC, mostly the computer laboratory.’

- Rantsha Thetane, Bachelor of Social Work student

Staff in their own words

Open days are important, as students have demonstrated a lack of understanding of the university’s processes and procedures as well as the curriculum. Today is also about providing immediate solutions to student issues. We have identified that students struggle with choosing the correct modules that are relevant to their courses, which is one of the important things that we are assisting students with today.’

- Mayeshibe Setlatjile, Department of Institutional Advancement

 ‘Prospective students are not properly guided in high school about the correct subjects to choose, which will inform their career choices. Hence they are often faced with disappointment during the application and registration period.’

 - Lizelle Stemmett, Directorate of Student Admission and Registration

‘I was impressed with the interest and enthusiasm that students displayed. Initiatives such as this open day help bridge the gap between students and the university.

- Poppie Khoza (College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences)

* By Thotogelo Masenya (Unisa Rustenburg Hub), with additional reporting by Dineo Khayemba (Unisa Radio)