Registrations by new and returning students for the 2016 academic year at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) have proceeded smoothly in just more than 36 hours since the process went live, with numbers in line with those achieved in previous years.
“By lunchtime today, Tuesday, January 12th, we had registered over 2 000 students, and are seeing the numbers grow every hour,” said UJ Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Strategic Services, Ms Mpho Letlape. “This tracks almost exactly the numbers seen in previous years, indicating that new and returning students are comfortable with the online registration process, and that we can again expect numbers to grow day by day.”
The online registration system has again assisted the University in ensuring that campuses can gear up smoothly for the almost 50 000 students who will be studying at UJ in 2016. Students, staff, and visitors continue to support the security staff in ensuring that the University remains free of disruptions and a place conducive to learning, teaching, and research.
“Contrary to some uninformed messaging on social media yesterday, the online system is working well,” said Prof Burger, Registrar, UJ. “We appeal to students who may find access a little slow at peak times to try again during off peak periods,” she emphasised.
Registration remains open until February 3rd . It can be accessed 24/7 online. Anyone needing assistance is also welcome to call the UJ Call Centre on 011 559 4555.
By 9am on Tuesday, 12 January the UJ call centre had handled 54 000 calls, and the UJ mobi-site had dealt with 42 000 queries. Together, they were instrumental in resolving issues relating to 4 959 late applications or changes in course of study.
“As of midnight tonight we will close late applications due to the high number of applications received that need to now be processed,” said Ms Letlape. “Once registrations have been completed, we will be able to allocate study places to these late applicants.”
As part of ensuring a smooth and conducive beginning to the academic year, registration fees must be paid by all students starting or resuming their studies. UJ recognises that not everybody can afford university fees and will continue with the support it provides for the neediest students. Up to 15 000 out of 42 000 undergraduates will no longer have to pay registration fees.
This group includes up to 10 000 students who were in the past expected to pay registration fees and who will now be able to access a combination of NSFAS grants, UJ top up loan funding, and externally sourced funds. A second group of up to 5 000 financially needy students will receive support exclusively through the SRC Trust Fund to pay their registration fees.
UJ continues to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety, security, and freedom of movement and debate of all its people.
