Proud Eastern Cape graduates receive certificates

The Unisa Graduation Division visited the Eastern Cape Regional Centres in East London, Gqeberha and Mthatha on Friday 18 November 2022. The purpose of this visit was to issue certificates to students who did not make it to the autumn graduation ceremonies. 

Students came in their numbers, expressing excitement as they collected their certificates.  

We spoke to a number of the graduates regarding their views and experiences of studying through Unisa as a comprehensive open, distance and eLearning (CODeL) university. 

Megan Sutherland (BA Health Sciences and Social Services) 

it took Megan four years to complete her studies. ‘’I had a few challenges, some ups, and few downs, but managed to work around it,” she said. “I made use of internal support through online classes and lectures, and received external support from my family. I recommend enrolling at Unisa as it is convenient – one can work and study at the same time, and it teaches one to be disciplined.” 

Christie Wathen (BEd Education) 

It took Christie seven years to complete her qualification. “My experience studying through Unisa has been good,” she said “It has been a long journey with distance learning and it became significantly easier over the years, I have seen quite a few improvements from Unisa. Challenges were experienced when it comes to communication as I was abroad, which was a struggle. With the improvements that I have seen, I will recommend a studying at Unisa.” 

Onela Nongubo (Postgraduate qualification in Education) 

“My experience studying through Unisa was not that difficult,” said Onela. “Studying online was at first not that easy because I attended classes for my undergraduate studies. Now I was attending classes fully online classes for postgraduate; but as soon as I got familiar with that it was fine.” He is excited about receiving his qualification, he concluded. 

Baxolile Nzimande (Higher Certificate in Education) 

“My experience studying through Unisa was good,” said Baxolile. “I had a few challenges with some of my modules, but I did overcome those challenges by getting a tutor to assist me with my studies.“ 

Nokuthula Nojaholo (Postgraduate qualification in Accounting Sciences) 

Nokuthula studied for three years. “’My journey with Unisa was not easy at all,” she said. “It requires self-discipline, but Unisa did offer me support such as online tutors. Lecturers gave us insight into what we will be doing and what to expect in examinations.” 

The turnout of students was a success as communications was sent out to students by SMS, e-mail, the Unisa social media website, and calls to students as a reminder to collect their certificates.  

* By Aphiwe Magayiyane, Communication and Marketing Administrative Assistant, Unisa Eastern Cape Region