To guarantee optimal student support during the peak registration period, Unisa’s Gauteng Regional Management conducted a comprehensive oversight visit to the newly established Ormonde Regional Centre on 22 January 2026.
Led by Dr. Erin Naudé, Acting Regional Director for the Gauteng Region, the delegation focused on assessing staff wellness, monitoring the registration process, and ensuring that all technological and operational systems were functioning efficiently.
Prioritizing the Student Experience
The visit highlighted the region’s proactive commitment to student-centered service delivery. Despite a high volume of traffic, the registration environment was observed to be well-coordinated, with staff efficiently assisting students navigating the complexities of enrolment.
Dr. Smangele Ntuli, Head of Facilitation of Learning, commended the team’s readiness and emphasized the need for tailored support.
“We encourage staff to remain attentive to students’ diverse needs, noting that many arrive under pressure and with varying levels of technological proficiency. It is crucial to provide tailored and culturally sensitive support,” said Ntuli.
Staff Wellness and Operational Support
A key focus of the oversight visit was ensuring staff felt supported during the transition of the Ormonde location from an examination venue to a fully operational service point.
Shumaya Primm, Acting Regional Administrative Coordinator and Tutorial Officer, praised the leadership engagement.
“The centre is running smoothly, and staff feel supported. Furthermore, the proactive introduction of bus services has significantly alleviated transport concerns for both staff and students,” Primm noted.
For some, the relocation has had a profoundly positive impact on work-life balance. Monwabisi Mei, an Administrative Officer, shared:
“The move has truly been an answered prayer for me. Being closer to home and having my children attend nearby schools has brought much-needed balance, allowing me to focus fully on supporting students.”
Looking Ahead: Consistency and Growth
Dr. Naudé emphasized that continued close oversight of the Ormonde Centre is essential to maintain high operational standards.
“By ensuring that our systems function optimally and that our staff are supported, we create an environment where students receive efficient, consistent, and compassionate support,” Dr. Naudé concluded.
The successful visit to Ormonde was part of a broader initiative, with the management team also confirming optimal operations at the Vaal and Ekurhuleni regional centres.
