Academic Development Symposium

Academic Development Symposium

Unisa Western Cape - Cape Town

Theme: "Unpacking the intersection between academic support, co-curricular activities, and graduateness"

Dates:

• 11 September 2024 (08:30 - 15:00)
• 12 September 2024 (08:30 - 15:00)

Venue: Hybrid MS Teams Live Event & Cape Town Campus

Preamble:

In higher education, the discussion surrounding effective forms of academic support, the role of co-curricular activities, and the elusive concept of "graduateness" holds a central place in decision-making spaces related to effective forms of academic support. The dynamic and ever-changing environments of the 21st century, characterised by rapid technological advancements, increased accessibility, diverse student demographics, and evolving ideas of employability, require a deeper exploration of these intersecting domains. As Maxwell and Armellini (2019) point out, the concept of "graduateness" remains fluid, lacking a universally accepted definition or standardised framework for recognition. Instead, it encompasses a range of competencies that are perceived to align with the demands of today's workforce, with variations across institutions and global contexts (Warwick, 2016).

Amidst this complexity, co-curricular activities emerge as a significant catalyst for fostering the attributes essential for graduateness. These activities, which go beyond the formal academic curriculum, provide invaluable opportunities for students to develop vital skills, perspectives, and attitudes that promote both personal and professional growth. Whether through community engagement, leadership roles, cultural immersion, or entrepreneurial ventures, co-curricular experiences play a crucial role in shaping well-rounded individuals equipped for the challenges of the contemporary world.

Against this backdrop, this year's symposium aims to serve as a platform for the exchange of insights, best practices, and transformative experiences aimed at enriching graduateness across diverse student cohorts.

Join us as we navigate the intersections of academic support, co-curricular engagement, and graduateness with purpose and passion.

For more information contact ctntut@unisa.ac.za