Thotogelo Masenya
The Unisa Ethics Management Division, in collaboration with the Student Governance Department, conducted a two-day ethics training workshop at the Unisa Rustenburg Hub for the Regional Student Representative Council (SRC).
The purpose of the workshop was twofold: to induct SRC members into ethical leadership and to consult on the newly drafted SRC Code of Conduct and Ethics Policy.
Day one focused on ethics induction, emphasising the principles of integrity, accountability and leadership. Day two featured a consultation workshop on the new SRC Code of Conduct and Ethics Policy, aimed at gathering feedback from student leaders and encouraging engagement with the policy framework.
Unisa Ethics Practitioner, Zodidi Pinde, emphasised the importance of SRC leaders serving as ethical role models by adhering to the Code of Conduct and promoting transparency and inclusivity. She called on student leaders to lead ethically by facilitating workshops, raising awareness of ethical practices, and addressing conflicts responsibly, while always acting in the best interests of the student body.
Pinde underscored the importance of SRC members fully understanding their ethical responsibilities as student leaders, along with the policies that govern their roles. She further indicated that this knowledge is essential for providing informed and constructive guidance to both students and stakeholders. Emphasising the principle of accountability, Pinde urged leaders to take ownership of their actions and to remain receptive to feedback and correction.
In conclusion, the training sought to equip SRC members with the tools for ethical leadership and to cultivate a culture of integrity within Unisa. The finalised SRC Code of Conduct is anticipated to strengthen credibility, foster mutual respect and promote ethical excellence throughout the academic community.