An examination of students’ experiences following the Rationalisation and Consolidation of University Campuses at Walter Sisulu University: A case of Butterworth Campus

Abstract

This study aimed to explore how the rationalization and consolidation of campuses at Walter Sisulu University affected students’ campus experiences. The rationalization and consolidation project at Walter Sisulu University, the most extensive initiative since its merger nearly 20 years ago, has seen limited research on its effectiveness as a reform strategy and its impact on the student experience. Universities offer diverse expectations and experiences, influencing students' adaptability to the new world. Universities worldwide are adapting to market forces and global competition, focusing on the student experience, providing flexible learning spaces, and equipping students with necessary skills while integrating education, learning, and facilities. WSU's rationalization and campus consolidation strategy has impacted students financially, academically, and socially, with the relocation of programs significantly altering student university experiences. The study aims to take a quantitative descriptive design approach with a 100-student sample in the Faculty of Management and Public Administration Sciences. Survey data significantly impacted how rationalization and consolidation projects was implemented and the current perceptions and experiences of the students on campus.  The findings suggest understanding the effects of university management and tracking the effectiveness of rationalization strategies through annual surveys and discussions with student representatives. However, this study indicated that the rationalization and consolidation process did not significantly impact students' university experiences and the university has maintained an equal standard on its campuses in terms of delivery methods, teaching and learning, facilities and other factors that contribute to satisfactory student university experience.