ICT delegation visits Gauteng Region

From 8 to 10 January 2025, Dr Erid Naude, Acting Regional Director for the Gauteng Region, led a high-level delegation from the ICT Department that visited Unisa regional centres in Gauteng. The delegation aimed to identify and resolve technical challenges faced by students during registration, and to ensure that all systems and processes were running seamlessly. This proactive initiative reflects the university’s unwavering commitment to delivering an efficient and student-centred experience.

The ICT delegation met Dr Mkuzangwe Sefora, Director of Student Administration and System Integration, and officials from the Gauteng region at the Sunnyside Hub on Wednesday, 8 January 2025. They inspected the registration process and assisted where necessary.

On Thursday, 9 January 2025, the ICT delegation first visited the Florida Campus, where they were welcomed by Penny Senwana and Brigette Malebo, managers in the office of the Registrar. The delegation, accompanied by Kgalabi Maseko, then proceeded to the Vereeniging Centre, where they met with centre manager Arthur Xorile and ICT support technician Jappie Sono.

On Friday, 10 January 2025, the delegation visited the Johannesburg Regional Office, where they were given a guided tour by Johannesburg Regional Manager Peter Modiselle. The team observed a bustling registration area, showcasing the high demand for student services.

During the tour, the ICT team demonstrated the university's commitment to swift problem-solving by addressing system glitches on the spot. This hands-on approach reassured students, with one remarking, “My challenges have been resolved. I am relieved and ready to start my Unisa journey.”

Insights from leadership

Reflecting on the visit, Naude expressed gratitude for the ICT team’s support: “ICT assisted us in addressing some of the technical challenges with the student system and provided insights into on-the-ground issues with certain system functions. The region has also gained valuable knowledge about Power BI reports, including daily self-help registration statistics per centre.”

Tshitego Segaetsho, Executive Director of ICT Governance, Risk and Compliance, reiterated the importance of creating a seamless registration experience: “Our primary role as IT representatives is to enable and support regional hub staff to deliver an efficient and satisfying experience. The ultimate goal is that every student must leave with their concerns resolved and feeling supported.”

He also congratulated the team for resolving critical issues such as system slowness during payment processing. The team also improved system performance and promoted efforts to minimise printing, aligning with the University's sustainability goals.

The ICT delegation lastly visited the Ekurhuleni Regional Service Centre. The delegation praised Pat Lethole, manager of the Ekurhuleni Centre, Stanely Dubazane, team supervisor, and staff members for the well-managed queues and effective registration workflows at the Centre.

Collaboration between staff and ICT technicians proved invaluable in identifying recurring challenges and implementing sustainable solutions. The above visits underscore the university’s dedication to providing a high-quality registration experience. By addressing technical challenges, empowering staff and ensuring system reliability, the ICT Department and regional teams have laid the foundation for a successful academic year.

* By Thembeka Mpapama, Manager: Communication and Marketing, Unisa Gauteng Region