Saturday, 4 February 2023 saw the virtual hosting of this year’s UKZN annual Parents’ Day, an event that aims to provide parents and guardians of first-year students with the correct University procedures, resources and information.

The event was streamed live with more than 3 000 views.

In her welcome address, Ms Xoliswa Zulu, Director: University Relations within the Corporate Relations Division, said the event would provide insight on what the academic year has in store for first-year students and give parents an opportunity to engage with UKZN staff members.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Professor Sandile Songca, noted the University’s availability and willingness to support what will become the Class of 2023 as well as their parents and guardians.

Acknowledging the achievements of UKZN’s first-year students, Songca said, ‘For the 2023 academic year, we received 250 000 applications all competing for the 8 500 undergraduate places available. This high demand for enrolment at UKZN is testament to the quality of our programmes and you should be extremely proud of your sons and daughters for their hard work, determination and achievement. Your presence here today is proof of your commitment to your children’s education and wellbeing. I encourage you to stay informed about your children’s academic progress and to reach out to us with any concerns or questions.’

The event included video presentations on the UKZN Fee Structure and Student Services Division, as well as a live question and answer session where parents were able to engage UKZN staff members on issues concerning student funding; registration and orientation; student residences; Risk Management Services; Student Academic Services; and Campus Health Clinics.

Students were also implored to access the UKZN website as well as the Msizi Chatbot (available on the website and via WhatsApp on 060 578 3215) for further assistance.

Closing the event, Student Services Division Interim Senior Director, Professor Ntombifikile Mazibuko, thanked parents and guardians for attending and UKZN staff members for availing themselves. She also urged students to utilise the various Student Support Services on offer during their time at UKZN.

Click here to watch the virtual Parents’ Day 2023 event.

Words: Hlengiwe Khwela

Image: Supplied