On 11 September, The University of Pretoria (UP) reaffirmed its commitment to fostering student awareness and resilience by hosting a well-attended “Stop-Think-Ask” session. The event titled “Oh No! I’m in Trouble, What Now?” was held in the Merensky 2 Auditorium and aimed to clarify the often-intimidating process that students face when dealing with potential misconduct or disciplinary action. This initiative was a testament to UP’s unwavering support for its large and diverse student body, which is greater than 53 000 students, by providing them with the knowledge and skills that are necessary to navigate university life.
The session was organised by UP’s Legal Services, which sought to shed light on the procedural aspects of university disciplinary action. With a clear and approachable style, the presenters broke down the steps that students might encounter if they were summoned to a meeting regarding alleged misconduct. This included an overview of what typically prompts such meetings, students’ rights during these proceedings, and the potential outcomes they might face.
One of the key takeaways from the session was the importance of preparation and calmness. The legal team emphasised that understanding the process and being well-prepared can significantly reduce the anxiety that often accompanies these situations. By addressing common misconceptions and answering questions from the attendees, the session aimed to equip students with the confidence to handle these encounters effectively.
The session also underscored a vital message: making mistakes is a natural part of the typical university experience. UP Legal Services highlighted that while it is important to adhere to university regulations, it is equally crucial to view mistakes as learning opportunities. The session not only encouraged but also celebrated students’ willingness to learn from these challenges, thus promoting a growth mindset that can contribute to both personal and academic success.
As part of the university’s broader educational mission, the session reinforced that understanding the consequences of one’s actions and learning to make informed decisions are critical components of student development. This aligns with UP’s ongoing efforts to support students academically and holistically, ensuring they are prepared for the complexities of university life and the world beyond.
To round off the event, the session included a motivational talk to empower students to view challenges as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. This talk resonated with many of the people in attendance, reinforcing that resilience and adaptability are crucial for success. Students were encouraged to seek support and view their university journey as a series of growth opportunities.
The feedback from the attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Many students expressed relief at having a clearer understanding of the disciplinary process and appreciated the university’s efforts to make this information accessible. The event was informative and reassuring, with several students noting that they felt more prepared to handle future challenges.
This event is part of UP’s larger strategy to enhance student welfare and success. The university has been consistently ranked among the top in South Africa for its comprehensive student support services, which include legal advice, counselling, and academic assistance. The “Stop-Think-Ask” session is just one example of how UP is actively working to ensure its students are academically equipped, as well as emotionally and mentally prepared to face the rigours of university life.
UP Legal Services offers additional resources and support for those that were unable to attend the session. Students can email adele.lo@up.ac.za or genevieve.fourie@up.ac.za for information. Alternatively, students can also visit the university’s website for more information on student support services. UP remains dedicated to fostering an environment where students can learn, grow, and succeed both inside and outside of lecture halls.