Welcome to Rhodes University, an institution where leaders learn, and congratulations on joining our vibrant, diverse community! Without any doubt, joining the RU community marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, one filled with discovery, personal growth, and endless opportunities to learn, connect, and make a difference.

As the Division of Student Services and Development (DSSD), we are here to support you in every step of your journey. Whether it is through residence life, student leadership and governance, wellness and counselling, or co-curricular activities, we are committed to ensuring that your university experience is empowering, inclusive, and fulfilling. The Division operates through three key sections responsible for implementing its mandate - to create an engaging and transformative experience that promotes holistic development, growth and academic success: the Student Wellness Section, Rhodes University (RU) Sport Section, and Residence Life, Student Support and Development Section. Their respective functions are outlined below:

• Student Wellness Section – This section comprises the Health Care Centre (HCC), Counselling Centre, Higher Health Programme Unit, and Careers Centre. It focuses on promoting holistic student well-being by encouraging each student to take responsibility for their physical, intellectual, social, emotional, and spiritual wellness.
• Sport Section – This section oversees both recreational and competitive student sporting activities and also manages the Rhodes University Health Suite. It aims to foster a culture of physical fitness, teamwork, and healthy lifestyle habits among students.
• Residence Life, Student Support and Development Section – This section includes the Student Representative Council (SRC), which governs all student societies; the Residence System (comprising the residence management and leadership structures); Disability Support Services; and the First-Year Extended Orientation Programme. Through the Residence Life System and related programmes, this section promotes personal growth and transformative experience that extends well beyond university life.

“THE ABILITY TO READ, WRITE, AND ANALYSE; THE CONFIDENCE TO STAND
UP AND DEMAND JUSTICE AND EQUALITY; THE QUALIFICATIONS AND
CONNECTIONS TO GET YOUR FOOT IN THE DOOR AND TAKE YOUR SEAT AT
THE TABLE — ALL OF THAT STARTS WITH EDUCATION.” MICHELLE OBAMA

The Rhodes University First-Year Extended Orientation Programme (RUFYE) is an extended support programme for all first-year students, aimed at empowering them to make the transition from high school to university. It is a programme aimed at promoting a positive first-year student experience through various academic and social initiatives and programmes run beyond the Orientation Week programme. The programme is compulsory and will resume immediately after Orientation Week. All first-year students will receive the Extended Orientation booklet.

The living and learning spaces within the University, inside and outside the class, include spaces to learn about collaborative leadership. This inclusive environment embraces human rights and diversity, community engagement and social justice. In these spaces, students are encouraged to engage with one another and their SRC, and to effectively participate in on- and off-campus residence activities for their own self-reflection and holistic personal growth.

The Division is committed to developing and implementing policies, procedures, programmes, and services that enhance and enrich the overall educational experience of students at Rhodes University. It affirms that delivering quality services
and sustaining a commitment to continuous improvement are essential to realising the University’s vision and mission, guided by a deep understanding of the needs, aspirations, and expectations of Rhodes University students.

Dr Pakiso Tondi
Director of Student Services and Development

Last Modified: Thu, 15 Jan 2026 19:52:06 SAST