UPDATE: Students at Notre Dame University are in an uproar as they face severe enrollment issues and inaccuracies in their academic results, over six months after a devastating ransomware attack. The ongoing chaos has left approximately 12,000 students unable to enroll in classes, jeopardizing their future job prospects.
The situation escalated last week when incorrect and incomplete grades were released, pushing students to express their frustrations online. Many are now at risk of losing job opportunities because they cannot obtain essential documents. The university, with campuses in Sydney, Perth, and Broome, is grappling with the fallout from the cyberattack that occurred in January 2023, which compromised sensitive student information including tax file numbers.
Shaya Hayworth, a second-year communications student, shared her distress, stating, “I am still without a class timetable just days out from the commencement of the second semester.” The ongoing IT problems have resulted in students being unable to switch courses or access vital learning platforms, leaving many feeling confused and overwhelmed.
The university’s response has been criticized for its lack of communication and support. As the National Student Ombudsman investigates multiple complaints regarding the university’s handling of the cyber incident, students are voicing their concerns. One teaching graduate reported being rejected by potential employers due to an inability to provide a transcript required for accreditation, stating, “It was very stressful. I had to put my career and future to the side.”
Another frustrated student explained how they were forced to repeat two units at a new university, incurring thousands of dollars in additional HECS debt. “It feels as though I’ve been unfairly held back,” they lamented, underscoring the emotional toll of the university’s IT failures.
The disruption has affected more than just grades. Students have been unable to access campus Wi-Fi, printing services, and even their university IDs, which are essential for discounts on public transport. In a recent communication, the university announced that access to the services platform, Student Centre, has been restored, but only for on-campus use.
In an official statement, a university spokesperson acknowledged the frustrations caused by the cyber incident, stating, “We apologize for the inconvenience.” The spokesperson emphasized that they have communicated regularly with students and provided additional support during this challenging time.
Despite the university’s assurances, students feel that the impact of the cyberattack has not been adequately addressed. The National Tertiary Education Union previously stated that many members believe the situation has been mismanaged, with reports of staff pay disruptions and a lack of transparency.
As the semester approaches, students are left wondering how these unresolved issues will affect their academic futures. The university’s administration must act swiftly to restore normalcy and regain the trust of its student body, which is increasingly concerned about their education and career trajectories.
The situation at Notre Dame University remains fluid, with ongoing investigations by the National Student Ombudsman and heightened tensions among students. As they navigate this crisis, the university community hopes for a resolution that will allow them to focus on their studies and future careers without further interruptions.
