The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s 2018 Orientation events, recently held on all five campuses, saw large crowds of excited students attend, eager to learn about what the University had to offer.

Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Humanities Professor Stephen Mutulaaddressed first year students at the Student Union Building at the Howard College campus. ‘By being here today, you, the students, have taken that important first step.  Your presence here marks the first stride in the journey towards securing a better future for yourselves and your families,’ Mutula told the students.

First year student, Ms Shanice Chinsamy of Phoenix said pursuing her Bachelor of Arts degree ‘is a dream come true.’ Through staying focused, Chinsamy is confident she will maximize her potential, graduate and contribute meaningfully to society.

Welcoming students to the College of Health Sciences, Dr Saloschini Pillay, Manager at Student Support Services emphasised the critical role played by the Student Support Services unit and why it is important for students to utilise support services availed to them.

‘University students frequently experience anxiety and stress due to academic, psychosocial, emotional or financial issues. Most students cope adequately with these pressures and demands, but some become overwhelmed and without constructive help, their emotional wellbeing and academic performance may be threatened,’ Pillay said.

At the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, an exciting Orientation programme took place on three campuses. Students were introduced to various departments and services such as libraries, the Disability Unit, Sports, health support services, campus security, LANs, Financial Aid, Residences and more before proceeding to registration.

In Pietermaritzburg, Orientation included singer and dancer Derzy Kay, an interactive Science Show with prizes for students, and a safety on campus demonstration complete with tactics from UKZN’s karate club.

In Westville, College Dean of Teaching and Learning Professor Naven Chetty welcomed new students to a programme that included a demonstration from Dr Tanja Reinhardt from the Science and Technology Education Centre (STEC). Dr Mzamo Shozi shared a story of student success, followed by a Curriculum Planning Workshop, a presentation on essential University work habits for success, a presentation from InQubate and much more.

At the UNITE building, Howard College saw approximately 580 first year students enlightened as to what is expected from them in terms of the Engineering curriculum. They went on tours of the different facilities and labs, followed by an interactive Physics magic show by Professor Megan Govender.

The College of Law and Management Studies Law orientation at Howard College saw lecturer Mr Vishal Suburn directing proceedings as he gave a brief description of the activities of the day and introduced the students to the different dynamics associated with the LLB degree.

At the Pietermaritzburg campus Law academic Professor Michael Kidd welcomed undergraduates and emphasised how lucky they are to be in the position of being university students as only a few applicants are admitted each year. He further explained that both BCom and LLB degrees are first-rate degree programmes and require the University to teach specific content as they are “serving professions”.

Taxation lecturer Dr Suren Pillay from the Westville campus treated students to an unorthodox presentation in which he not only gave them details on what the BCom Accounting degree entailed but also provided vital tips on how to “study smart” in order to succeed in university. UKZN alumnus Mr Sakhile Dlamini, Financial Director of Dolsden Oracle, a business consulting company, gave a motivational presentation in which he reminded the students that entrepreneurship is an avenue that they can pursue once they have completed their degrees.

Words: Melissa Mungroo,  Lihle Sosibo, Christine Cuénod, Sibonelo Shinga