To support student success, Unisa’s College of Accounting Sciences (CAS) held a successful online examination preparation session for all CAS students before the October/November examinations. The session was held in the evening to accommodate all students, including those who are employed. It provided guidance and resources to help students excel and was well-attended, showing the strong commitment of both the University and its students to academic achievement.

Mochekoane Molise, Programme Director, alongside Jaco Moolman, Chair of the Department of Financial Governance, leading the session and offering valuable insights

The session began with a welcome address by Dr Edward Hlakudi, Acting Director of the School of Accountancy, who represented the Executive Dean, Dr Moses Hlongoane. Hlakudi reiterated the university’s mission of shaping futures in the service of humanity, saying, "Our students are at the heart of the academic project, and your voice must be heard". He emphasised the importance of the session: "We value your participation today, as it allows us to better understand and address any challenges you may face." This preparation session is vital, not only for addressing student concerns, but also for providing essential guidance on examination readiness. Hlakudi concluded with a motivational African proverb: "He who looks for honey must have the courage to face the bees," reminding students that success requires effort and resilience as they gear up for their examinations.

Key examination preparation guidelines

During the session, Vusumuzi Msiza, Head: Tuition and Learner Support, provided important details about the upcoming assessments. He explained that only CTA1 and CTA2 students would have venue-based examinations, while all other students would take online examinations, using either the Invigilator app or Moodle proctoring. IRIS proctoring is reserved for CTA students. He stressed that failing to use the required proctoring tools would result in unmarked scripts.

Msiza urged students to follow these protocols to maintain Unisa’s academic accreditation and ensure the integrity of the examination process. He also emphasised the importance of having reliable devices and stable internet access, since unstable connectivity could affect students’ ability to write their examinations.

Warning against academic dishonesty

The Head of Quality Assurance and Enhancement at CAS, Mlungisi Hlongwane, delivered a strong message on academic integrity., He warned students about the risks and long-term consequences of academic dishonesty, noting that remote examinations might tempt some to misuse resources. He reminded students that dishonesty could severely damage their professional reputations. "Academic dishonesty is a predictor of future ethical behaviour." He emphasised that acting with integrity during examinations is essential for future career success. The college has a zero-tolerance policy for dishonesty, with penalties including suspension for at least one academic year.

Student support and examination protocols

Joseph Sithole, a member of the examination support committee, gave practical advice to students. He urged them to ensure that their devices are fully functional and ready before their examinations. He also reminded students to use their myLife e-mail accounts for any queries and to submit their examination scripts within the allocated time. "Use the last 30 minutes of your exam time to upload your script," he emphasised, warning that submissions will not be accepted after the portal closes.

"As a college, we are here to support you throughout your exams," Sithole reassured. "A dedicated committee has been established to deal with address any challenges you may encounter while writing. If you experience difficulties uploading or downloading your script, reach out to us immediately, and we will assist. We want you to have a seamless experience during your exams."

Second intake student orientation

Besides examination preparation, the session included a special orientation for students who enrolled during the second semester intake (June/July). Dr Jaco Moolman, Chair of the Department of Financial Governance, and Nontatu Dumalisile, Chair of the Department of Management, led a virtual orientation to familiarise these new students with the College’s structure and resources.

Moolman offered valuable examination tips, recognising that many students might be taking online examinations for the first time.  His advice was intended to help them navigate the online examination environment with confidence. Meanwhile, Dumalisile emphasised the importance of maintaining both physical and emotional well-being during examination periods, highlighting the need for self-care as students prepare for assessments.

The event, organised by the College’s Marketing Unit and supported by the Student Retention Unit, concluded with a message of gratitude from the College for the unwavering support. This successful session demonstrated the College’s dedication to helping students achieve academic success and prepare effectively for their upcoming examinations.

* By Ntsako Mohlaba, CAS Communication and Marketing Specialist, with input from ChatGPT and Pi