Critical UNIZULU-Related Information and Nuggets of Wisdom for FTENs During Orientation
The Teaching and Learning Centre (TLC) at the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) is currently hosting its annual First-Time Entering Students (FTENs) Orientation programme both at the KwaDlangezwa and Richards Bay campuses. The event is designed to help FTENs adapt to university life. It typically includes key information about academics, student support services, campus resources, and social integration.
During the commencement of the 2025 weeklong orientation, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Professor Vuyokazi Nomlomo relayed to the new students that an exciting journey lay ahead and encouraged them to embrace every opportunity for personal and academic growth. Professor Nomlomo also reassured them that the University community is here to support them throughout their studies, fostering an environment that encourages excellence, collaboration, and wellbeing. She further expressed that she was confident that each student would contribute positively to the diverse and vibrant UNIZULU community.
Various representatives of the support units of the University attended this programme to brief students on the responsibilities of their respective departments. Among the units were the Campus Clinic, Protective Services Department, Student Services Department, Library, and Financial Aid. Ester Mbangata, Senior Financial Aid Officer, advised students to perform well in their studies to avoid being affected by the NSFAS N+1 rule which requires beneficiaries to attain a 60% annual aggregate to continue receiving funding. Additionally, she emphasised the importance of staying informed about any changes in funding policies to ensure ongoing support throughout their academic journey.
Mlethwa Khomo, Head of Student Housing, shared the rules for those residing in the residences and urged the students to follow these. Phiwayinkosi Mjadu, the Disability Unit coordinator, invited students with disabilities to visit the Disability Unit for assistance with any challenges they may encounter. He also encouraged students to participate in any disability-related events to learn and raise awareness about the diverse experiences of individuals with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive and supportive campus environment.
Speaking to all the attendees, Mjadu urged the students to take pride in their University and keep raising its flag high. “It’s up to you whether the University of Zululand is known as a great university or not,” shared Mjadu
Thenjiwe Manana from Student Guidance and Counselling, a unit responsible for dealing with and raising awareness of mental health issues, told FTENs that her team is always available to assist students throughout their academic journey, offering support not only in their studies but also for their personal and emotional wellbeing.
– Pamela Mlaba
Pictures: Xolani Ncube