Welcome message from the Manager

Mr Lekau Rachidi

Manager: Student Retention Unit

I am thrilled to welcome you to the University of South Africa, as you embark on the journey that promises to provide an exciting experience for you. Ours is to be there for you every step of the way, through the rolling out of the First Year Experience (FYE) programme. One of the first steps as aspiring/prospective and/or a registered student, is to participate in the student orientation events, i.e. pre-registration and post-registration. Student orientation events are designed to assist first year students to transition smoothly into the distance education environment. They provide you with the requisite resources that a first-year student needs to navigate this new space.

Your participation in the student orientation events is one of the most important initial steps towards having a great student experience at the university. The orientation programmes address the common challenges that students face in distance education, the various support programmes offered by the university which in turn, lay a solid foundation for your academic journey. Participation in the orientation ensures that you are ready from the onset.

Our orientations take place on various platforms, and these provides you opportunities to network and connect with fellow students. Orientation sessions take place online, and you can connect on Microsoft Teams or YouTube. If you do not have reliable connectivity, you can also make use of the regional campuses near you. You will be provided with a venue, fitted with a Smartboard, and watch proceedings. Alternatively, you can also take your device along with you, and use free campus Wi-Fi to connect.

As a university that predominantly provide teaching, learning and student support using technology, the orientation programme will provide you with a comprehensive guidance on how to navigate the university’s online platforms. As you start this journey, you may find it overwhelming, and that is why you will benefit the most, by attending all the orientation sessions. You will feel more prepared for the journey, and have increased confidence in your ability to succeed – this is what we wish for you!

Welcome to the 2025 academic year, and I wish you a successful first year!