“VUT’s Student Motivational Seminar brought together about 400 students for examination guidance, financial literacy and the launch of AutoScholar.”
28 October 2026 | Story by: Tayron Mhlongo | Picture: Keitumetse Mokgope
As final examinations draw closer, the pressure to perform can easily outweigh the dream that brought a student to university in the first place. Yet, inside the Desmond Tutu Great Hall at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) on 23 October 2026, about 400 students were reminded that pressure does not have to break them; it can become the very force that shapes their potential.
Hosted by the Centre for Academic Development (CAD), the Student Motivational Seminar, themed “Unlock Your Potential: Thriving Under Pressure”, combined motivational talks with practical guidance on examination preparation, financial management and academic support. The programme also marked the launch of AutoScholar, a digital platform designed to support student success.
Opening the seminar, Mr Mothusi Samosamo, a Learning Development Coordinator at CAD, encouraged students to reflect on why they had chosen to pursue higher education and how their qualifications connected to their future goals.
He urged them to make purposeful decisions about their studies, rather than following friends or enrolling without a clear direction. His message emphasised discipline, personal responsibility and the importance of aligning academic choices with a long-term vision.
Motivational speakers encouraged students to view setbacks as opportunities to learn and improve. They stressed that difficult circumstances and disappointing results should not determine the limits of their ambitions.
The programme also addressed financial pressure, which can affect students’ ability to concentrate on their studies. Financial literacy advisors encouraged students receiving National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) allowances and other funding to budget carefully and live within their means.
Students were introduced to the 50-30-20 budgeting approach, which allocates 50% of income to needs, 30% to wants and 20% to savings. The session highlighted financial discipline as an important part of managing university life.
The launch of AutoScholar introduced students to an educational technology platform aimed at improving academic success and pass rates.
At VUT, the platform supports academic development and advising through data science, artificial intelligence and mathematical modelling. It analyses academic performance, monitors progress and helps identify students who may require additional support.
Its use is intended to help students make informed academic decisions and access relevant assistance, while enabling earlier intervention when difficulties arise.
Representatives from the university’s four faculties explained examination requirements, year marks and predicate rules, including the conditions students must meet to qualify to write examinations. They encouraged students to prepare consistently, understand programme requirements and seek assistance when needed.
Ms Khumo Seleke, a first-year Legal Assistance student, said the seminar had helped her reconsider how she responded to academic setbacks.
“What I took for myself is: a dream delayed is not a dream denied. Regardless of how much you’re failing, do not let that discourage you, but rather take it as motivation that you can do better for yourself.”
She said the session also reminded her that her educational journey mattered to people in her community who hoped to follow a similar path.
Ms Kagiso Motswane, a second-year Sports Management student, said her main lesson was the importance of remaining focused and using available support.
“What I learned in this seminar is that you must take your education very seriously in terms of what you’re doing, stay focused at this time and keep your head up.”
She also encouraged students to seek advice from lecturers, academic counsellors and other university support structures.
Student Representative Council (SRC) Academic Officer Mr Xichocho Kubayi reassured students that the SRC remained available to assist with subject queries, examination support and referrals for academic advising.
The seminar’s emphasis on academic guidance and access to support aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education. By helping students understand academic requirements, respond to setbacks and access assistance, the initiative supports their participation and progress in higher education.