The National Student Representative Council (NSRC) of the University of South Africa (Unisa) has vehemently rejected the proposal from labour unions to transition staff to work remotely. They emphasise the importance of face-to-face interaction and on-campus resources for students' academic success.
Their rejection of the labour unions' call follows Unisa's significant transition to remote work during the Covid-19 pandemic. They acknowledge that this was necessary to adapt to unprecedented challenges brought upon by the pandemic.
The NSRC argues that remote work has led to a decline in student support services, as evidenced by consistent student frustrations and grievances.
According to the NSRC, students frequently report delayed responses to queries and a lack of engagement from staff, tarnishing the institution's public image, however, they believe it is no longer necessary.
This is reflected in the consistent venting of frustrations raised by our students to the student's leadership on a day-to-day basis and also on various social media platforms outlining how staff neglects their emails of queries and at times responding extremely late which subsequently taints the image of the institution in the public domain.
The NSRC say the value of face-to-face interaction in resolving student queries promptly and effectively and that physical presence in offices and posts enables students to access the necessary support for their academic journeys.
Face-to-face interaction is crucial and necessary for our students to feel supported as most queries get to be speedily resolved
The NSRC highlights the vital role of on-campus facilities in providing a conducive learning environment for students. Many rely on-campus amenities such as libraries, labs and seminar rooms for essential resources and support services, which the NSRC say are jeopardised by the absence of on-campus staff.
They have also labelled the labour unions calls as selfish and inconsiderate.
They argue that the call for remote work lacks scientific rationale and demonstrates a disregard for the university's core mission of teaching, learning, and nurturing future leaders.
In response, the NSRC urges students to utilise on-campus facilities and services to enhance their academic experiences and ensure success in their academic journeys.
As the National SRC, we urge students across all regions to utilise on-campus facilities, including libraries, labs, seminar rooms and support services, to enhance their academic experiences and ensure their success in their academic journeys.
They are further calling on labour unions to prioritise students' needs and refrain from actions that may hinder productivity and support for students.
