FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

URGENT DEMANDS FROM UNISA LAW STUDENTS ASSOCIATION (ULSA), TSHWANE

REGION

DATE: 31 AUGUST 2023

Introduction

The UNISA Law Students Association (ULSA) in Tshwane, urgently draws attention to several

critical issues affecting students at the University of South Africa (UNISA). We address these

concerns in the hope that immediate action will be taken to rectify the injustices faced by

countless students in UNISA.

Insufficient Time for Registration

ULSA is deeply dismayed by UNISA's failure to announce the extension of registrations for

the current academic period. The registration period, spanning from July 4th to July 28th,

2023, faced substantial obstacles due to the untimely release of results for prerequisite

modules, notably CIV3701 and LME3701. These essential modules, required for several

fourth year LLB courses, were only made available on the 27th and 28th of July, respectively,
during late hours. As a consequence, students were left with insufficient time to complete

their registrations. Moreover, this problem extended beyond the law faculty, impacting

students from various colleges. Despite promises from the University to call and assist

students with unresolved registrations, little progress has been made in addressing these

concerns.

NSFAS Payment Communication Failure

Another pressing matter is UNISA's transition to using Coinvest for NSFAS payment

processing. The lack of official communication from the institution to students funded by

NSFAS is unacceptable. Students are now faced with exorbitant withdrawal fees, without any

prior notice or explanation. This communication failure has placed undue financial burden on

vulnerable students, causing them further distress.

Inconsistencies in Module Results

ULSA has received numerous complaints regarding inconsistencies in module results,

particularly in modules such as LJU4801, CIV3701, PVL3701, PVL3702, LML4802, and

others. These issues have been persistently raised with the University, yet no investigation

or formal report has been provided. Students seeking resolution are met with a lack of

responsiveness, being redirected from one office to another, leaving them feeling neglected

and unsupported.

Disadvantages Faced by Students

The ramifications of these issues are far-reaching and significantly disadvantage students.

Firstly, the delayed release of results hindered their ability to register within the given

timeframe, jeopardizing their academic progress. Secondly, the lack of communication

regarding NSFAS payments led to unexpected financial burdens, impacting students' ability
to focus on their studies. Lastly, the inconsistencies in module results have cast doubt on the

credibility of UNISA's assessment processes, causing undue stress and anxiety among

students.

for the University to Act

In light of the prevailing circumstances, ULSA firmly demands the following actions from the

University of South Africa:

1. Reopening of Registrations: UNISA must promptly reopen the registration period to

allow affected students to finalize their academic enrolment without any penalties.

2. Investigation into Result Inconsistencies: We urge the University to conduct a

thorough investigation into the inconsistencies in module results and provide an official

report outlining the findings and corrective measures to be implemented.

Conclusion

It is imperative for UNISA to acknowledge the genuine concerns of its students and take swift

measures to rectify these issues. As members of the academic community, we seek

collaboration, transparency, and accountability from the institution entrusted with our

education.

We trust that UNISA will address these matters with the utmost seriousness they deserve,

demonstrating its commitment to fostering a conducive and supportive learning environment

for all its students. Failure to respond adequately to our demands will undoubtedly heighten

dissatisfaction and disrupt the academic journey of countless students.

We kindly request an urgent meeting with UNISA management to discuss these issues in

person and work together to find viable solutions that serve the best interests of students.

ULSA is ready to engage constructively to ensure the fair treatment of all UNISA law students.

For further inquiries, kindly refer to the details below:

Michelle Zororo

Secretary

UNISA Law Students Association, Tshwane Region

Email: ulsatshwane@gmail.com

Phone: 065 913 5210

Kgothatso Mosimege

Deputy Chairperson

071 007 3319