Counselling and Career Development

Student Mentor Programme

The Student Mentor Programme is a volunteer programme aimed at empowering senior students to become the Champions of Graduateness and Success at Unisa. Staff members of the Unisa Directorate: Counselling and Career Development will mentor students who are accepted into the programme regarding their graduate development, who will, in turn, be able to provide mentoring to others regarding their career management and studies.

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DCCD Central Unit Student Mentors (2023-2024)

Why consider the Student Mentor Programme?

Here is what student mentors had to say about their experience of the programme:

Personal and professional growth:
  • "The Student Mentor Programme taught me how to present myself professionally, improved my patience and teamwork, and helped me discover my strengths and abilities."
  • "It has influenced my personal growth by teaching me how to work with different personalities and be more understanding and patient."
  • "I’ve gained skills in communication, time management, and empathy, which I plan to apply in my career and personal life."

Skills development:

  • "I learned how to present effectively, manage time, and navigate life after graduation. These skills are invaluable for my future."
  • "The programme helped me refine my communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and leadership qualities."
  • "I now feel confident to offer advice, share ideas, and apply practical tools like Excel and referencing techniques."

Workshops and ctivities:

  • "The workshops on study skills, time management, and stress management were incredibly impactful for my academic success."
  • "Sessions like mental wellness and career workshops should remain—they prepare students to thrive academically and professionally."

Impact:

  • "This programme helped me plan my studies, organize my time, and try different study methods that improved my exam results."
  • "It’s wonderful to see how it empowers mentors to be ambassadors for Unisa, showcasing their skills and leadership."
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Student Mentor Certificate Ceremony (2023-2024, DCCD Central Unit)

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Mr Vusumuzi Penyane and Ms Noma Didi (Student Mentor Programme coordinators, DCCD Central Unit)

Feedback from students

"I am so grateful for the assistance I received from my student mentor. Their guidance helped me connect with the right people to solve a major issue that had been holding me back for years. Thanks to their support, I finally achieved something I thought was impossible, and I now have access to opportunities I was struggling to reach. The compassion and dedication they showed in helping me truly changed my life, and I can't thank them enough."

More information and how to apply

  • Download the 2025 brochure with detailed information about the programme and how to apply.

Applications for the Gauteng Region centres (Sunnyside Building 14, Vaal, Johannesburg, Florida and Ekurhuleni closed on 30 November 2024.

The closing date for applications for all other regions for 2025 is 31 January 2025.

Last modified: Thu Dec 12 16:55:22 SAST 2024