Unisa students embark on an academic journey in Romania

Two distinguished students from Unisa have embarked on an exciting academic adventure at the Romanian-American University (RAU) in Bucharest, Romania.

The journey, which began on 28 February 2025, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between Unisa and RAU, which was established to promote academic collaborations and enhance global learning opportunities.

(Standing, from left) Dr Angie Magabane (Director: Internationalisation and Partnerships), Nkosinathi Mabilane (NSRC President), and Siza Magubane (Deputy Director Internationalisation and Partnerships)
(Seated, from left) Nokuthula Mathonsi (Treasurer-General, NSRC ), Prof Boitumelo Senokoane (Acting Executive Director: DIA), and Mpho Chauke (Secretary: EMSSA )

Since the formal partnership was signed, both institutions have facilitated numerous staff and student exchanges, significantly enriching the academic experiences of participants from both universities.

This year, Nokuthula Mathonsi, Treasurer-General of the Unisa National Student Representative Council (NSRC), and Mpho Chauke, Secretary of the Economic Management Sciences Students Association (EMSSA), were awarded full Erasmus+ scholarships to pursue their studies at RAU. Erasmus+ is a programme combining all the European Union's current schemes for education, training, youth and sport.

Mathonsi will be working towards her postgraduate programme in International Business and Entrepreneurship, while Chauke will pursue an undergraduate programme in International Business.

The semester-long programme, which commenced in February 2025 and will conclude in June 2025, presents a unique opportunity for both students to expand their horizons, gain international exposure, and engage meaningfully with their peers in Romania.

During their farewell ceremony, Professor Boitumelo Senokoane, Acting Executive Director of the Department of Institutional Advancement, encouraged them to "fly the Unisa flag high and to make the most of this exceptional opportunity to learn and grow”.

Senokoane also highlighted the commitment of Unisa's Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Puleng LenkaBula, to foster a global learning environment. He emphasised the importance of active participation in international educational opportunities, “which are vital for personal and academic development”.

As the students embark on this new chapter in their academic careers, the Unisa community eagerly anticipates updates on their experiences and success abroad. “The partnership with RAU continues to be a testament to Unisa's dedication to empowering its students and expanding their global networks,” said Senokoane.

* By Godfrey Mahloko, Collaborations Officer, Unisa Internalisation and Partnerships