09 October 2025
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Story Jacky Tshokwe
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Photo Kaleidoscope Studios
UFS students embody the spirit of engagement and success highlighted in the 2025 SASSE National Report launched at the Siyaphumelela Conference.
“Student engagement remains one of the strongest predictors of student success,” says
Prof Francois Strydom, Senior Director of the Centre for Teaching and Learning. “This report provides evidence that can help universities enhance student engagement in a post-COVID world by strengthening teaching practices, support services, and employability outcomes.”
The report highlights several key insights into student engagement. Blended learning has become the new normal, with students demonstrating deeper involvement in higher-order and reflective learning; however, timely feedback and assessment practices still require improvement. While collaboration among peers has strengthened, relational engagement remains a challenge as student-staff interaction has declined, underscoring the importance of renewed mentorship and academic support.
The use of support services has increased, with more students accessing academic advising and well-being programmes, although gaps persist in non-academic support such as financial aid and administrative processes. In addition, employability skills remain an area of concern: despite notable growth in critical thinking and writing, less than 30% of students participate in work-integrated learning, internships, or leadership opportunities.
The findings of the report include practical recommendations for universities to enhance student success, strengthen graduate employability, and improve institutional responsiveness.