BM
Bongokuhle M

1 reviews | Active since Sept 2024

30 Jan 2025, 09:33

Lack of academic recognition for DL students

My experience as a distance learning student has been extremely disappointing. During recruitment in January 2024, I was promised awards each semester for each module and course, a laptop upon enrollment, and one-on-one classes with lecturers—none of which materialized. When I suggested, in a review, that the institution could motivate students by issuing electronic awards certificates by email for academic excellence, I was met with a dismissive response and my review was taken down. The institution claims distance learners are aware of not receiving awards, but when I enrolled they said they do offer them, leaving me feeling misled. Constructive criticism seems to be ignored here, and instead of addressing issues, they seem more focused on suppressing negative feedback. The lack of recognition and support for distance learners is frustrating, especially when other private colleges offer a much better experience. I truly wish they would take the feedback seriously and make improvements that would help students feel valued. I suggested electronic certificates as awards for distance learning students because they would provide much-needed recognition for academic excellence, motivate students to perform better, and help them in securing funding or job opportunities by showcasing their achievements. Additionally, these certificates could foster a sense of accomplishment and competition, encouraging higher engagement and improving overall academic performance.

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Replies (3)
Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology
Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology's reply30 Jan 2025, 09:58
Official
Dear Bongokuhle,
Thank you for sharing your concerns. We regret that your experience as a distance learning student has not met your expectations. We aim always to provide a supportive and enriching learning environment, and we take all feedback seriously.
To clarify, while we do not issue certificates for individual semesters or modules, we do formally recognise academic excellence through cum laude and summa cum laude awards upon completion of a qualification. We acknowledge the importance of student motivation and will consider how we can further enhance recognition for outstanding performance.
We appreciate your suggestions and value constructive feedback as we continuously strive to improve the student experience. This matter has been referred to our Director Distance Learning.  Her email address will be provided to you shortly.
Sharen
#RIchfield
Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology
Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology's reply07 Feb 2025, 20:10
Official
Good evening, Bongokuhle,

I trust that you are well.  I do believe that you have had an excellent discussion with our MD of Distance Learning.

I trust that your concerns have been addressed.  I will appreciate your kindly revising your one star rating. 

All the best on your learning journey at #Richfield.

Have a great weekend.

Sharen
#Richfield 
#LearnLeadSucceed 
BM
Bongokuhle M's update08 Feb 2025, 17:08
Reviewer Update
Unfortunately my rating still stands as it is. That doesn’t change the fact that the recruiter **** and gave me false information. I am a victim of false or misleading recruitment practices and I had high expectations about the institution. Also, the MD of distance learning only rep**** telling me about the available opportunities for students and mentioned that they will discuss this with the academic team, however I got no update till now.

I am still frustrated by the lack of recognition for academic excellence in year the foundation years. This still demotivates me and as a result my rating will not change. Nothing changed about what I wrote on the review.

Thank you for understanding.