All systems operational at the Ormonde Regional Centre

On Friday, 22 January 2026, Unisa’s Gauteng regional management conducted an oversight and support visit to the Ormonde Regional Centre, one of Unisa’s newly established service points in Gauteng. Dr Erin Naudé, Acting Regional Director for the Unisa Gauteng Region, led the visit. It included Dr Smangele Ntuli, Head: Facilitation of Learning, and Thembeka Ntuli-Mpapama, Communication and Marketing Manager.

The purpose of the visit was to assess the new centre's readiness, with a focus on staff wellness, first-hand observation of the student registration process, identification of potential technical challenges, and confirmation that all systems and operational processes were functioning optimally. This initiative aligns with the Gauteng Region’s proactive approach to delivering efficient, responsive and student-centred services.

During the visit, the team observed a busy yet well-coordinated registration environment, reflecting the high demand for student support services. All systems performed as intended, enabling staff to assist students efficiently during peak registration periods.

Reflecting on the visit, Ntuli commended the readiness of the Ormonde Centre and praised the portfolio’s commitment to placing students at the centre of service delivery. She encouraged staff to remain attentive to students' diverse needs, noting that many arrive under pressure and with varying levels of academic preparedness and technological proficiency. Ntuli further highlighted the importance of providing tailored and culturally sensitive support.

Staff members expressed appreciation for the visit, noting the reassurance it provided through leadership engagement. Shumaya Primm, Acting Regional Administrative Coordinator and Tutorial Officer, remarked that the centre was running smoothly and that staff felt supported. She added that the university had proactively addressed initial transport concerns through bus services, benefiting both staff and students.

Monwabisi Mei, an administrative officer in the Gauteng Region, reflected on the relocation to Ormonde:

“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. It allows me to focus fully on supporting students.”

Following the visit, Ramotsoa Modiselle, Regional Centre Manager, emphasised the importance of ongoing monitoring and collaboration to maintain system stability and service efficiency, particularly during peak registration periods.

Commenting on the visit, Naudé noted that as a newly established centre transitioning from a former examination venue into a fully operational service point, close oversight of the Ormonde Centre remains essential. She acknowledged the support of the Registrar’s portfolio in ensuring a smooth transition and stressed the importance of staff wellbeing.

“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,” Naudé said.

In addition, the Gauteng Regional Management team visited the Vaal and Ekurhuleni centres, where systems and operational processes were also functioning optimally. Team members included Dr Enid Bunki Pitsoane, Head: Counselling, Gauteng Region, Daniel Kekane, Manager: Finance and Operations, and Ronald Mulaudzi, a digital learning advisor.

The successful oversight visit to Ormonde underscores Unisa’s commitment to student-centred service delivery and operational excellence. By combining efficient systems, staff wellbeing and tailored support, the Gauteng Region continues to strengthen its regional centres, ensuring students receive the guidance and assistance they need to succeed.

* By Election Hlawulani Mbekwa, Communication and Marketing Intern, Gauteng Region