Students share fond highlights to commemorate #Unisa150

Africa's largest open and distance e-learning university, Unisa, will celebrate its 150^th birthday on 26 June. In this #Unisa150Stories edition, students share their fond highlights and share suggestions on how the university can celebrate the milestone for the remainder of the year.

Caryn Miles, Bachelor of Laws: College of Law

My journey as a proud Unisa student has not been easy, but it has been worth it. Perseverance has always been the key to success. The words of Dr Nelson Mandela, "It always seems impossible until it is done", encourage me to pursue my dream as a future lawyer.

To commemorate Unisa's 150^th-anniversary, I commend university staff members for their hard work in keeping the institution remarkable, and I wish the institution many more exceptional years.

Caryn Miles

Solly Makgolane

Solly Makgolane, BA in Politics, Philosophy and Economics: College of Human Sciences

I appreciate Unisa's fellowship with other students and scholars. I recall when Prof Callum Scott went the extra mile to ensure I wrote my examinations after experiencing some difficulties. I also appreciate the sense of community among Unisans.

As Unisa celebrates its 150^th anniversary, I suggest that it showcases its historical achievements and milestones. I propose that it invites its alumni to share their experiences about life after graduation and speak about their contribution to society. It can further create memorabilia such as branding mugs, clothing and stationery.

To enhance access to education and engaged scholarship, the university can offer scholarships to deserving students and engage in social campaigns and initiatives with non-profit organisations for community development programmes.

Shinalia Dhannay, Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching: College of Education

Other than meeting and engaging with amazing people at Unisa, I appreciate the knowledge and confidence I gained through the institution. I also cherish that the university recognises and rewards excellence. Knowing that my hard work is acknowledged and rewarded with significant opportunities is gratifying. I am grateful for receiving the Unisa Merit Bursary, and I encourage students to excel in their studies and apply for funding opportunities offered by the university.                                              

I suggest that Unisa celebrates its 150^th anniversary by engaging with students and learning what inspires them. The university can also arrange a time capsule comprised of Unisa success stories across qualifications. The memory items can be revealed in the next big Unisa celebration.

Shinalia Dhannay

Relekgong Kgothatso Sehlabane

Relekgong Kgothatso Sehlabane, Advanced Diploma in Mining Engineering: College of Science, Engineering and Technology

My academic journey at Unisa has been extraordinary. One of my highlights was attending the Intelligent Blasting Expo at the African Explosives Limited Mining in Modderfontein, an opportunity I got through the university. I am also privileged to be a tutor and help students with challenging topics in my field of study.

To celebrate its 150 years milestone, I suggest that Unisa invites stakeholders to celebrate with the university. It can also host memorable physical and virtual events such as anniversary celebrations and a concert. Gala dinners can also be hosted to attract potential sponsors. Finally, it would also be great if the university could honour faculty founders and successors in reflection of Unisa's achievements and milestones.

Navika Lutchminarain, BA in International Relations: College of Human Science

My fond Unisa academic highlights include getting assistance through distance learning. Although studying through distance learning takes hard work and discipline, Unisa lecturers are helpful.

As an institution that promotes access to higher education, Unisa could celebrate its 150^th milestone by giving 150 deserving students bursaries.

Navika Lutchminarain

Shanaaz Lamara

Shanaaz Lamara, Graduate: Advanced Diploma in Information Resource Management: College of Science, Engineering and Technology

Unisa provided me access to education when other tertiary institutions were unprepared to do so. I completed my qualification even though it took longer than expected. Unisa's classes at the Science (Florida) Campus assisted me greatly, so I encourage the institution to continue with them. It was also good to meet other students doing the same course.

I urge the university to enhance its accessibility, primarily through its lecturers and the call centre. Unisa must have committed people to assist students.

#Unisa150

* Compiled by Simphiwe Mthimunye, Unisa Student