10 FADA ANNUAL REPORT 2023 Student Support In 2023 FADA implemented a range of student support initiatives, encompassing a comprehensive tutor network, regular student and Lecturer/HOD consultation sessions, and dedicated Departmental mentorship programmes. These efforts were further complemented by a broader nine-member FADA mentorship programme, collectively contributing to fostering an enriching and student-friendly learning and living experience. Under the guidance of Tamara Francis, FADA Marketer, the FADA Mentors voluntarily invested their time and effort into mentoring first-year students navigating the transition from High School to University. This cohesive mentorship framework serves as a supportive network, aiding students in acclimating to their new academic environment and fostering a sense of community within the broader university setting. The Faculty also extended a warm welcome to the firstyear Orange Carpet students. This special group had the opportunity to visit the UJ Gallery, where the curator Eugene Hön offered a detailed walkabout, enriching their understanding of the exhibition. The experience was further enhanced with a lunch in the company of Amanda Breytenbach as the Dean’s representative and Ms Francis. It was a memorable occasion, fostering a sense of appreciation both for the arts and academic achievement among the students. Ms Francis also organized the Dean’s Merit List event, a special occasion dedicated to recognizing the topperforming student in each department. Teaching & Learning with 4IR FADA is committed to integrating Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies into Teaching and Learning. In the Department of Multimedia, a focus on emerging digital communication technologies (XR) includes augmented and virtual reality, blended space design, transmedia, and smart environments. This strategic emphasis aims to position the department as a leader in digital design education in South Africa. Throughout 2023, Industrial Design year groups incorporated 4IR themes into various modules, covering topics like 3D Printing, 3D Scanning, Digital Manufacture, Projection Mapping, VR Sketching, and Sustainable Materials. The department actively contributed to FabLab Teaching and Learning coordination, fostering a supportive environment for skills transfer and collaboration. First-year BA Fashion Design students engaged in a human-centred design project aligned with 4IR principles. This initiative integrated theoretical knowledge on human-centred design and basic research, culminating in wearable products with embedded technological safety devices addressing local women’s safety needs. The Department of Industrial Design’s second-year ceramic tile project, showcased in the 2023 Ceramics Invitational Exhibition at the FADA Gallery, explored the theme of ‘Digital Crafting.’ This exhibition fused cutting-edge fabrication with craft traditions through digital design, tooling, and manufacture. In Graphic Design, five Honours students focused on 4IR context design solutions, resulting in innovative projects like augmented reality children’s books, virtual reality applications, language-teaching apps, and community polling and protest apps. The overhaul of the SADC Buna website earned the prestigious 2023 Dean’s Award for its immersive solution, now in the process of implementation and integration into the digital landscape. FADA is always alert to finding new ways to support and enable our students, including an extensive tutor network, mentorship programmes and individual support.
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