Limpopo Region
Orientation Manual 2013
Contents
1.
Welcome .............................................................................................................................................. 4
2.
Our Service Commitment .................................................................................................................. 4
3.
The Limpopo Region ......................................................................................................................... 5
4.
Applying, Registering and Studying with Unisa: The Student Walk .......................................... 8
4.1.
Choose and Apply .......................................................................................................................... 8
4.2.
Register............................................................................................................................................ 9
4.3.
Teach and Learn .......................................................................................................................... 11
4.3.1. Tutorial Services ........................................................................................................................... 11
4.3.1.1.
Types of Tutorials ................................................................................................................. 11
4.3.1.1.1.
Face – Face Tutorials .............................................................................................. 12
4.3.1.1.2.
Video Conferencing (VC) ........................................................................................ 12
4.3.1.1.3.
Peer Collaborative Learning ................................................................................... 12
4.3.1.1.4.
Study Groups ............................................................................................................ 12
4.3.1.1.5.
Discussion Classes .................................................................................................. 13
4.3.1.1.6.
Signature Modules ................................................................................................... 13
4.3.2. Counseling..................................................................................................................................... 13
4.3.3. Library Services ............................................................................................................................ 14
4.3.4. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Support ................................................. 14
4.3.5. DVD Viewing .................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
4.3.6. Multi-Purpose Community Centres/Tele-Centres ................................................................... 15
4.3.6.1.
Services ......................................................................................................................... 15
4.3.6.2.
Venue Address ............................................................................................................. 16
4.3.7. Assignments Administration ....................................................................................................... 16
4.3.8. Examinations................................................................................................................................. 17
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4.3.9.
4.4.
5.
Mobile Services Units .............................................................................................................. 17
4.3.9.1.
Contact Details ............................................................................................................. 17
4.3.9.2.
Services Provided ........................................................................................................ 18
Graduation and Life Long Learning ........................................................................................... 18
General Information ......................................................................................................................... 18
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1. Welcome
The Regional Director and the staff of Unisa in the Limpopo Region welcome you.
Unisa’s mandate is to develop human capital in South Africa and abroad by providing equitable
access to higher education for all people wherever they may be. Unisa’s regional offices are a
testimony to the university’s commitment to bringing higher education as close to the people as
possible.
2. Our Service Commitment
The Unisa Limpopo Region makes the following commitment to all our students:
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To create equitable learning opportunities by providing accessible and relevant services
To provide accurate information and prompt service every time , all the time
To be approachable, responsive and professional at all times
To be respectful of client confidentiality
The University of South Africa (Unisa) is the only dedicated Open Distance Learning
(ODL)University in South Africa. Through Open Distance Learning Unisa aims to:
 Remove possible barriers (geographical, time constraints, and funding) to access to
higher education
 Offer flexible learning: You study from home or wherever you are, at your own time.
You will receive interactive study material comprising of study guides, CD’s and DVD’s.
You can apply, register, access library facilities and submit assignments online.
 Provide comprehensive support: Unisa supports you through:
 Interactive study material
 MyUnisa, an online student portal
 Tutorial support system: Face – Face or Video conferencing
 Peer collaborative learning, and discussion classes
 Reading, writing, and numeracy support
 Automated sms and email messages
 Extensive library facilities
 Internet access at various Multi-Purpose Community Centres throughout the
country, for free!
 Professional, career, study and personal guidance & counselling
 Unisa offices near you for all your enquiries

The use of technology is increasingly becoming the main driver of Open Distance
Learning. The university communicates with students via email, sms messages, and
through the internet. It is advisable to be familiar with these technologies, especially
the internet, in order to take full advantage of the learning environment at Unisa.
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For any enquiries and questions about Unisa visit: www.unisa.ac.za
3. The Limpopo Region
There are three offices in the region: Polokwane (the hub), Giyani and Makhado
Location
Physical and
Postal Address
Polokwane Learning Centre
23 A Landdros
Mare Street
Polokwane
0699
Registration Centre
29 Landdros Mare
Street
Polokwane
0699
Services Offered
Contact Details
 Face-to-Face Tutorials,
 Video Conference
Tutorial Sessions
 Peer Collaborative
Learning
 Discussion Classes
 Work Integrated
Learning Placement
 Academic Literacy
o Quantitative Literacy
o Reading and Writing
 End User Computing
(EUP) practice sessions
 Access to internet
 Basic Computer Training
Professor MM Sepota
 Library services: issuing,
renewing and returning
 Training on the use of
online information
resources
 Library Material Courier
services
Administration Services
 Applying to study with
Unisa
 Registration for diplomas
and degrees
 Registration for Short
Courses
 Payment of Accounts,
 End User Computing
Testing
 Applying for financial
assistance
 Applying for Student
Cards
 All enquiries including
Ms Mercy Mokgele
Tel: 015 290 3447
email: sepotmm@unisa.ac.za
Mr Petrus Skosana
Tel: 015 290 3419;
email:skosapm@unisa.ac.za
Tel: 015 290 3431;
email: mokgemmm@unisa.ac.za
Ms. S Makwana
Tel: 015 290 3418
email: smakwana@unisa.ac.za
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Location
Physical and
Postal Address
Services Offered
Contact Details
mobile services
Giyani
Office No 11
Masingita
Complex,
P.O. Box 4868,
Giyani, 0826
Counselling Services
 Professional Counselling
Services
 Face to face Career
Counselling
 Face to Face & VC
Academic development
skills workshops (e.g.
study skills, exam prep
skills, time management
skills)
 Job search skills &
entrepreneurship skills
 Networking skills
 Personal counselling
 Website : Access our
website for self-help
resources
 General enquiries
 Applications and
Registrations
 Self help registration
 Tutorial services and
discussion classes
 Counselling services.
 Video conferencing and
satellite broadcasts
Ms. MJ Lephondo
Tel: 015 290 3417
lephomj@unisa.ac.za
Ms Lethabo Mbungi
Tel: 015 812 2005
Fax: 015 812 2405
email: mbungdl@unisa.ac.za
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Physical and
Postal Address
Location
Makhado
87 Krogh Street
Standard Bank
Complex
P.O. Box 4367,
Makhado, 0920
Services Offered
 General enquiries
 Applications and
Registrations
 Self help registration
 Tutorial services and
discussion classes
 Counselling services.
 Video conferencing and
satellite broadcasts
Contact Details
Ms Erika Reynders
Tel: 015 516 3334
Fax: 015 516 3414
email: ereynder@unisa.ac.za
Accessing Polokwane Learning Centre (23 A Landdros Mare Street)
You need a student card to access the Learning Centre in Polokwane. A once off fee of R45 is
payable. Student cards are processed at the Registration Centre 29 Landdros Mare Street.
The card gives you access to:
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Library
Seminar Rooms
End User Computing Laboratory
Video Conferencing Room
Unisa campuses throughout the country
Place card here
Operating Hours
Business hours
7H45 to 16H00 weekdays
Library hours
7H45 to 20H00 weekdays
7H45 to 16H00 Saturdays
Campus opens
7H00 to 22H00 weekdays
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4. Applying, Registering and Studying with Unisa: The Student Walk
The Student Walk is a description of the various stages of your academic journey with Unisa
The stages are as follows:
4.1. First Stage of your journey : Choose and Apply
Each office has an Information Desk for various enquiries including:
•
Study programmes to register for;
•
Exemptions, credit for courses passed
elsewhere;
•
Calendars and Information brochures;
•
Exam enquiries: Exam Time Tables, Exam
Centres, and Supplementary Examinations
•
Study material;
•
Access cards / Student card;
•
Centre for Business Management Short Courses
•
Contacts
Name
Telephone
email
Mr. MJ Malemela
015 290 3430
malemmj@unisa.ac.za
Ms. MJ Lephondo
015 290 3457
lephomj@unisa.ac.za
Once you have decided to study with Unisa the next step is the application process. You must
apply before you can register. There are usually two application periods, one for each semester.
NB: Unisa’s academic year is made up of two semesters - First semester starts in January and
second semester starts in June
Contacts
Service
Contact Person
Telephone
email
Post graduate registrations,
exemptions
Mr. CR Mohale
015 2903425
mohalcr@unisa.ac.za
Undergraduate registrations
and enquiries
Mr. MJ Malemela
015 290 3430
malemmj@unisa.ac.za
Counselling & Guidance
Ms M Lephondo
015 290 3457
lephomj@unisa.ac.za
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Click MyChoice for further information on the application process
4.2. Second Stage of your journey : Register
Students can register
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In person at any Unisa office
Through the Self-Help facility at any Unisa office
Online via the Unisa Website
Through postal registrations.
NB Online registration is the easiest and most convenient
Avoid Queues, Go Online
Access to financial assistance and support
Financial services available at the regional office are:

National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS): Bursary-Loans that are
administered by Unisa.
o
o
o
o

Applications forms for funding are available from all Unisa offices and the
mobile buses. Completed application forms can be dropped off in boxes
specially provided for that purpose at all Unisa offices.
To qualify for NSFAS loans, students should be academically deserving and
financially needy.
The student's financial needs are determined by the NSFAS Means Test.
The test determines what amount the family is expected to contribute and the
amount granted by NSFAS.
Edu-Loan
 Provides affordable loans to students
 If not employed, a family member can stand as surety (father/ brother etc.)
 Different payment terms available (6 months / 10 months)
 Loans charged at current lending interest rates
Students can also approach banks for study loans or their employers for study assistance.
Payment Facilities &Options
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Contacts
A cashier service is available to accept study fees
Payment is by Debit / credit cards only, no cash payments
Electronic payments can be done through the Internet
Direct deposits can be done into Unisa’s bank account at Standard Bank.
Name
Telephone
email
Ms. ETefo
015 2903416
tefoetl@unisa.ac.za
Ms. R. Maleasenya
015 290 3411
malearm@unisa.ac.za
Click myRegistration for further information on registrations
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4.3. Third stage of your journey: Teach and Learn
As soon as you register, your study material becomes
available electronically. You can download the material on to
CD via Toasters at all Unisa Offices, or through MyUnisa(a
special website for Unisa students). Click MyUnisa to visit.
If you so wish, you can wait to receive study material via the
post office. However, please note that this may take time.
NB: From 2013 students are required to pass three
modules (36 credits) in the first year of study and four
modules (48 credits) in the second year of study in order
to continue with their studies.
4.3.1. Tutorial Services
Unisa as an Open Distance Learning institution does not offer daily classes or lectures. There
are however special classes called “tutorial classes” to support students during their studies.
Please note:
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Tutorial classes are available for level 1 and level 2 modules only
A class will start if 15 or more students register for the tutorial class in a given module
except for courses in the College of Science and Engineering where a minimum of 5
students is required.
 Tutorial classes run from Tuesdays to Thursday from 16:00; Saturday from 8:30 to
16:30.
NOTE: Please note that tutorials are not the same as daily lectures that are run by
full-time conventional universities,
Who is your Tutor?
A tutor is a professionally qualified person employed on a part-time basis by UNISA.
How can I participate in tutorials?
In order to participate in tutorials, students need to enroll for tutorials at the regional service
centers. A tutorial registration fee of R100 is payable.
4.3.1.1.
Types of Tutorials
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4.3.1.1.1.
Face – Face Tutorials
In a face –to –face tutorial, students and tutor(s) meet regularly at a common venue and on
scheduled times. These tutorials are conducted for one hour per course per week or two hours
per course fortnightly. A face –to-face tutorial provides you with great opportunities to interact
with your tutor(s) and other students (peers) and get a better understanding of the challenging
areas of your study material.
4.3.1.1.2.
Video Conferencing (VC)
Video conferencing is a two-way audio and video communication system that allows participants
at different remote locations to see and talk to each other in real time.
4.3.1.1.3.
Peer Collaborative Learning
Peer collaborative learning is a concept of learning or discussion groups organized and led by
students themselves to assist in the learning process. Peer tutors undergo training in order to
make the groups effective.
4.3.1.1.4.
Academic Literacies
Academic Literacy (Acalit) services are offered to students in Polokwane, Giyani & Makhado
Centres for free. Acalit services are aimed at assisting students to improve their Reading,
Writing and Quantitative Literacy Skills. Invitations to attend workshops are sent to students
through SMS. Students can also access information about workshops on the regional website,
notice boards and posters.
Services include:
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Weekly Workshops
One-on-One Consultations
Electronic Consultations
Contacts
Name
Telephone
email
Mr. TS Mahule
-
mahults@unisa.ac.za
Mr. BS Mnguni
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mngunbs@unisa.ac.za
4.3.1.1.5.
Study Groups
 This is a system where students organise their own self help groups.

The work consists of a series of assignments carried out on a cooperative basis by the
groups, working as teams.
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
Study groups choose a group leader to ensure that the groups are organised and
disciplined.
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Everyone in the group is asked, sooner or later, to be a group leader. This ensures that
each member develops leadership skills

Study groups are usually followed by report backs, and the tutor is the consulted to
clarify difficult areas identified by each group

Study groups can also be established on MyUnisa where the lecturer can access the
discussion and provide feedback online
4.3.1.1.6.
Discussion Classes
Discussion classes are offered by module lecturers on specific dates indicated in the tutorial
letter 101. Students may also be invited by the lecturer through sms messages. Discussion
class sessions are offered through:
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
Face-to-face
Video conference
Contacts
Name
Telephone
Mr. M Rakoma
015 290 3430
mrakoma@unisa.ac.za
Ms. FM Kunene
015 290 3465
kunenmf@unisa.ac.za
email
4.3.1.1.7.
Signature Modules
These are courses that are offered online and no printed study material will be given to
students. Each college has its own identified module, for example the college of Law has
EUP1501 as its designated signature module.
4.3.2. Counseling
If you are having difficulties in your studies or in other areas of your life that affect your studies,
there is a Counseling Unit to give you professional help and guidance.
The services that are available for students include the following:

Counselling and Guidance
Visit us in person, or contact us by telephone/e-mail

Study skills workshops
Attend workshops to learn more about how to manage your studies at UNISA and how
to prepare for exams

Website
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Access our website for self help resources for career management, employability, study
skills and life skills

Careers Resources centre
Watch DVD’s about life skills and employability skills

Career fairs and career workshops and seminars
Attend career-related workshops and on-campus recruitment days

Peer helper training programme
Train as a volunteer peer helper to develop your interpersonal skills and to enhance your
career development
Contacts
Name
Telephone
email
Ms. T Mulaudzi
015 290 3452
mulautr@unisa.ac.za
Ms. MJ Lephondo
015 290 3457
lephomj@unisa.ac.za
4.3.3. Library Services
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The library provides access to prescribed and recommended books, reference sources,
audio-visual materials, and electronic information databases.
Undergraduate students may borrow a maximum of 8 items, postgraduate a maximum of
16 items. Please note prescribed books are never loaned out
Training is offered in the use of online information resources. Training schedules are
available on the library website. Booking should be done in advance.
Students have access to computers with internet to search for information resources,
typing and sending assignments, etc. These computers can only be utilized for study
related purposes.
Contacts
Name
Telephone
email
Ms. MMM Mokgele
015 290 3431
mokgemmm@unisa.ac.za
Ms. C Lekganyane
015 290 3432
lekganc@unisa.ac.za
4.3.4. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Support
The region offers Video Conferencing facilities at the following venues:
 Polokwane: Unisa Learning Centre
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 Limpopo Economic Development Agency: Lwamonde Campus
 Giyani Unisa office
4.3.5. Multi-Purpose Community Centres/Tele-Centres
UNISA has agreements with Multi-Purpose Community Centers (MPCC’s) throughout
the Region. The purpose of these agreements is to provide UNISA students with
access to internet/computer facilities, for academic purpose, free of charge.
Contacts
Name
Telephone
Mr. P Skosana
015 290 3419
4.3.5.1.
 Access to MyUnisa
 Retrieve and print Exam timetable
 Retrieve and print student Academic
Record
 Retrieve and print exam results
 Retrieve and view student financial


skosamp@unisa.ac.za
Services
Administrative services


email
record
Change exam venues
Change student biographical
information
Tracking student study material
Creating study fees quotation
Academic services


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Submit assignment online
Receive assignment feedback
Retrieve, download and print study material
Online Discussion forums
Retrieve Lecturer and Tutor contact
information
Access online library
Access UNISA Face Book and Twitter
Access Mylife student email account
Internet research for academic material
Check prescribed books
Access and download previous exam
papers.
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4.3.5.2.
Venue Address
Telecentre
Physical Address
I-Community centre
805, Ruphus Seakamela str, Mahwelereng
Mapela Tele-centre
Mapela Cross Road, Next To Taxi Rank,
Mapela Village (Ga-Matlala)
Mohodi Tele-centre
Stand No.646 Mohodi Ga-Manthata, Next to
Mohodi Community Radio Station
(Senwabarwana)
Stand No.1 Multipurpose community Centre
Ramokgopa(Matoks)
Lwamondo, Makambe Village, Shumani
Makhani Resturant
Stand No.30 Makhubidung Village, Next to
Doctor CN Phatudi Hospital, Shiluvane
Stand no. 1154,Mphakane,Botlokwa
Ramokgopa Tele-centre
Thondoni Tele-centre
Bulamahlo Tele-centre
Botlokwa Youth Telecentre
Kgautswane Community development centre
Kgautswane Matshiretsane
Ohrigstad 1122
WomTech-African Housewives
1635 Unit A Monsterlus 1057
Makuya Telecentre
Ha-Makuya village
Fetakgomo-Atok Thusong Service Centre
Mashung Stand No. 1 Ga-Nkoana 0740
4.3.6. Assignments Administration
The process of studying involves periodic submission of assignments to your lecturers for
assessment and feedback. Assignments are a key part of the learning process and it has been
established that students who submit their assignments tend to do well in the examinations.
Make sure to read and understand Tutorial Letter 101 where information on assignments, such
as due dates, can be found
•
The region provides assignment collection boxes at all Unisa offices
•
Assignments can also be submitted on the mobile buses
•
Please submit assignments on time, using the prescribed stationery
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•
Stick to assignment time-lines as stipulated in your tutorial letter
4.3.7. Examinations
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•
•
•
There are 28 examination centres in the region
You choose your examination venue during registration; please ensure that you have
chosen a venue nearest to you.
Exam venue changes should be made a full month before examinations start
Check your time-table and ensure you come to the exam venue at least fifteen minutes
before the starting time
Contacts
Name
Telephone
Ms. S Makwana
015 290 3418
email
smakwana@unisa.ac.za
Click myStudies for further information on studying at Unisa
4.3.8. Mobile Services Units
In order to reach out to students outside the main offices, Unisa introduced two Mobile Services
Units: The Mobile Library and the General services unit. The mobile units have scheduled stops
at Examination Centres and Multi-Purpose Centres nearest to you. The schedules for the dates
and times that the mobile services will be in your area can be found at the following places:

Notice Boards at Unisa Offices

On the internet click this link: UnisaOnline - MobileServices

MyLife emails SignIn
4.3.8.1.
Location
Contact Details
Contact
Phone
email
Mr. F Baloyi
015 290 3413
baloyfs@unisa.ac.za
Ms MMM Mokgele
015 290 3431/33/36
mokgemmm@unisa.ac.za
Giyani
Ms L Mbungi
015 812 2005
mbungdl@unisa.ac.za
Makhado
Ms E Reynders
015 516 3334
ereynder@unisa.ac.za
Polokwane
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4.3.8.2.
Services Provided
General Services Mobile Unit
 Pre-registration Information
 Applications and Registrations
 Payments to Unisa
 Assignment Submission (MyUnisa and
by hand)
 MyUnisa and MyLife Training
 Access to the internet
 ICT based counselling
Mobile Library
 Training
o Library catalogue
o Database
 Inter-Library Loans
 Access to data base and online searches
 Issuing, renewing and returning of Library
material (e.g. books)
 Requesting library materials electronically
4.4. Fourth stage of your Journey: Graduation and Life Long
Learning
Once you graduate, you join the group of Unisa alumni. We
encourage our alumni to remain in contact with Unisa for
networking and academic opportunities, as well as the mentoring
of new students.
The concept of lifelong learning relates to the fact that learning
never stops. Your first graduation is only the beginning. There is
much more to learn through post graduate studies, masters and doctoral studies and other short
courses and diplomas available through Unisa
5. General Information
For enquiries:
Service
Name
Telephone
email
Applications,
Registrations,
Assignments and
Examinations
Ms. S Makwana
015 290 3418
smakwana@unisa.ac.za
Tutorial Classes,
Discussion Classes,
PCL
Ms. F Kunene
015 2903465
kunenmf@unisa.ac.za
VC, DVD, ICT Services
Mr. P Skosana
015 290 3419
skosamp@unisa.ac.za
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and MPCC
Library
Ms. C
Lekganyane
015 290 3433
lekganc@unisa.ac.za
Counseling
Ms. MJ Lephondo
015 290 3457
lephonmj@unisa.ac.za
You can find us at Unisa Online - Limpopo
Help us to help you toward your success
To give feedback contact Mrs. R Makoele Tel 015 2903438; email: makoer@unisa.ac.za
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