A library without walls

Midlands Regional Director, Mathews Kokong recently visited the Rustenburg library as part of staff engagement. Kokong said the library is a vital resource centre for students to access information during their study journey at the university. Since Unisa is an ODeL institution, Kokong urged library staff to think of ways to make library resources available online to enhance accessibility and flexibility for students. Kokong said: “The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) necessitates that we think of a library without walls−where students can access unlimited library material wherever they are.”

Back row right: Mathews Kokong, Midlands Regional Director, with Library staff and students

Kokong also encouraged students to properly package information as they prepared for their examinations and cautioned them not to plagiarise. He said: “Preparing for tests may create stress and panic; however, you should remain calm and use this time well.” He added: “You will reap the rewards of your hard work.”

From left-right: Phendani Mongameli, Library Assistant; Mathews Kokong, Midlands Regional Director; Letitia Lekay, Manager: Library Services; and Sinah Molokisi, Branch Librarian

Frederick Kgagane, a second-year student, studying for a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Statistics, said: “Distance studying is challenging but enjoyable as you get to manage your time.” Kgagane expressed gratitude for the student support services available and the assistance of the library staff at the region.

Nancy Stemmer, a first-year student in Public Relations Management, also attested to the challenges of studying through an ODeL institution. “At first, distance learning was challenging, but I quickly transitioned and adjusted to the environment, especially writing online examinations,” said Stemmer. She also expressed gratitude for the support she received from fellow students, family, and student support services available at Unisa Midlands Region.

*By Thotogelo Masenya, Communication and Marketing Officer, Midlands Region