Bongumusa Zwane
Qwaqwa
Summary
Assistant Officer with expertise in academic advising and student support. Proven track record in enhancing student retention through targeted interventions and data-driven strategies. Committed to continuous professional development to improve advising practices and student outcomes. Strong problem-solving skills and dedication to fostering positive relationships in educational environments.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant officer
University of the Free State
03.2024 - Current
Academic Advisor
University of the Free State
Qwaqwa
03.2023 - Current
- Academic Advisor | Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL), UFS
Provided student-centred academic advising to support retention, progression, and success. Guided students on curriculum requirements, academic planning, and progression rules; identified and supported at-risk students through early intervention and recovery plans; facilitated referrals to institutional support services; and collaborated with faculties and student support units using data-informed advising practices. - Counselled students working through educational, personal and behavioural problems.
- Counselled students in career planning, job placement and academic goals.
- Conducted regular follow-up with students to assess satisfaction with advising services and identify areas for improvement.
- Monitored curriculum changes and implemented updates promptly.
- Provided counselling and support to students struggling with academic or personal problems.
- Advised students on course selection, degree requirements, and academic scheduling to optimise their educational paths.
- Monitored student progress, identifying those at risk and implementing targeted interventions for improved academic outcomes.
- Reviewed student grade reports each semester to determine probation or suspension based on academic regulations of university.
- Engaged in continuous professional development to stay abreast of best practices in academic advising and student support services.
- Utilised technology and digital platforms to enhance advising processes and communication with students.
- Maintained confidential student records, ensuring accurate documentation of advising sessions and interventions.
Assist officer
University of the Free State
Qwaqwa
03.2023 - 02.2024
- A-STEP Officer | University of the Free State (UFS)
Supported student access, transition, and success through academic support programmes. Coordinated student advising and monitoring, facilitated early-alert interventions, provided academic skills support, maintained student records and reports, and collaborated with faculties and support units to improve retention and progression. - Responded to emergency calls for service, providing timely assistance and support to individuals in distress.
- Conducted employee evaluations and reviews to identify and recommend areas for improvement.
- Facilitated workshops on conflict resolution, enhancing team cohesion and problem-solving capabilities.
Education
GCSEs -
Toastmasters International
Bloemfontein, FS2025
A-Levels -
University of The Free State
Qwaqwa2024
Bachelor of Arts - Humanities
University of The Free State
Qwaqwa2017
Skills
- Academic advising
- Student counselling
- Curriculum monitoring
- Data-informed decision making
- Early intervention strategies
- Student retention strategies
- Team collaboration
- Workshop facilitation
- Professional development
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving
- Leadership
- Analytical and critical thinking
- Strategic planning
- MS Office Suite
- Data analysis
- Writing reports and proposals
- Administrative support
Languages
English
Proficient
C2
IsiZulu
Proficient
C2
Sesotho
Intermediate
B1
References
Dr Eleanor Bernard
Deputy Director Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL), University of the Free State
Email: BernardEJ@ufs.ac.za | Phone: 058 718 5485
Motshedisi Sitole
Teaching and Learning Coordinator, Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL), University of the Free State
Email: SitoleMG@ufs.ac.za | Phone: 0815238771
Timeline
Assistant officer
University of the Free State
03.2024 - Current
Academic Advisor
University of the Free State
03.2023 - Current
Assist officer
University of the Free State
03.2023 - 02.2024
GCSEs -
Toastmasters International
A-Levels -
University of The Free State
Bachelor of Arts - Humanities
University of The Free State