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To improve the quality of WSU academic programmes, the Directorate of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation conducted a workshop to introduce all Mthatha Campus’ faculty departments to the process of writing a Self-Evaluation Report (SER).
This initiative specifically targeted departments with programmes scheduled for review in the 2024 academic year. The selection criteria included various factors such as programme performance and viability, ensuring a focused approach towards enhancing educational standards.
Quality Management Director, Chris Khoza, said: “The primary goal of the workshop was to equip departments with the necessary skills and knowledge to complete their SERs and compile robust portfolios of evidence. This effort is critical for the continuous improvement and accountability of academic programmes, aligning with the university's strategic objectives.
Khoza added that the ability to self-reflect, improve programmes and module provision, in addition to producing quality graduates that are future-ready will be the best medium- and long-term indicators. However, at surface value, the completion of the entire review process, including production of quality improvement plans and progress reports will be a focus of measurement for a short term.
Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Executive Director, Olivia Mokgatle presented detailed information about the key pillars of academic success, namely: Management and administration, Resource utilisation, Teaching & Learning, Research and Community Engagement.
“We must not wait for external parties to confirm our value; we must perform a purposeful and honest self-reflection, so that we can get the support we need. The process is not about identification of failures for punishment. It is about building a WSU community with different components,” said Mokgatle.
According to the Council of Higher Education, all academic programmes must be reviewed every five years to ensure that they maintain high standards of quality and maintain accreditation status which often requires adherence to specific standards and periodic reviews.
“The process of reviewing programmes at WSU was initially inconsistent. Recognising this shortcoming, the Vice-Chancellor, through the office of the Executive Director of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, initiated a comprehensive review process that includes not only programmes but also modules and departments. Consequently, the Executive Deans selected the programmes and departments for review based on their performance,” said Khoza.
All programmes, modules, departments at WSU will be subjected to these reviews to improve their quality. Students will also be workshopped continuously through a project called Student Quality Literacy (SQL).
By Anita Roji
