A session with NAS (Natural and Agricultural Sciences) postgraduate students

On 14 April 2023, three library staff members: Samuel Mudau, Gerda Ehlers and Katlego Aphane met NAS postgraduate, MSc and PhD students in the Plant Science Complex Auditorium for a Department of Library Services (DLS) orientation. Seventy-one students attended the session. 

The session was opened by Prof. VJ Maharaj, who welcomed everyone present and, amongst other things, gave a short introduction to the postgraduate journey. Our purpose as the DLS team was to introduce and explain the different support structures that we provide to postgraduate students. Gerda explained the support offered by the Learning Centre to both undergraduate and postgraduate students. She explained the different types of training available, both physical and online, and the availability of a venue-booking system. Katlego explained the role that Information Specialists play in support of the research process. In addition to the different pieces of training that we offer, he also emphasized the importance of the Subject Guides, the Research Guide and knowledge of the different steps in the Research Cycle. Samuel highlighted the importance and benefits of Open Access publishing, especially the recent developments in Transformational (Read and Publish) Agreements that UP has with several publishers. 

The students were delighted to know how much support the Department of Library Services offers and we are looking forward to seeing them in the library, for our services and facilities.