The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is entering its last phase of its registration and is well over the halfway mark with almost 70% (of the 52 000) new and returning students who have already registered for the 2019 academic year – reflecting a faster registration rate than in previous years.
Prof Kinta Burger, Registrar, UJ says the numbers confirm that the University’s online-only registration system is working efficiently and that it is embraced by the students.
From today (29 January 2019), thousands of new first-year undergraduate students will be attending the University’s orientation programmes as part of their transition into the University environment.
“We will be introducing them to the rich array of academic services and support systems offered by the University that will enrich their student experience,” says Prof Burger.
She pointed out that almost 5 000 postgraduate students and over 1 300 international students have also already registered. “This is a very clear indication that the vast majority of the University’s students and community want the 2019 academic year to get under way,” says Prof Burger.
Orientation is essential in welcoming students to UJ and engages them with the traditions and values of the Institution’s community. The University’s orientation programme, also known as the First Year Seminar (FYS), will see thousands of new first-year students exploring UJ’s campuses and facilities. The programme, which ends on Friday, 1 February 2019, assists students to transition from high school to tertiary education, while creating opportunities for them to meet lecturers and get to know their fellow students.
During FYS, new students get acquainted with a range of academic development and support services at the University, including the library, writing centres, computer facilities, counselling and career development centres – while also learning about the dedicated team looking after their safety, as well as services available at the health clinics on each campus.
Says Prof Burger: “In their first year, UJ students are assisted by third or fourth-year students who do well academically, are good communicators, are able to identify with students’ needs and act as an interface between students and teaching staff. The student advisors also assist first-year students living in UJ residences. We offer this as part of the UJ First Year Experience programme.
“The aim is to ease the students’ transition from high school and help them adapt to the University environment and to achieve academically. There is a strong focus on tutorials and close monitoring of student performance throughout the semesters to immediately identify students at risk of failure.”
The University’s online registration process will remain open until Friday, 1 February 2019 (subject to space availability). Students that need assistance should contact the call centre 011 559 4555 which will refer them to the appropriate departments.