The Faculty of Education (FEDU) at the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) recently hosted its annual Dean’s Student Excellence Awards Ceremony at the esteemed King Bhekuzulu Hall. The event was a distinguished occasion dedicated to honouring students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance and unwavering commitment to their studies. Presided over by Professor Sithabile Ntombela, Dean of the Faculty of Education, the ceremony brought together faculty staff, heads of departments and a vibrant cohort of students. The gathering served as a powerful reminder of the University’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, in alignment with UNIZULU’s broader vision of academic distinction and societal impact.
In her opening remarks, Professor Ntombela extended a warm welcome to all attendees and established a tone of appreciation and reflection for the ceremony. She began by acknowledging the integral role played by faculty staff in enabling student success, emphasising that the accomplishments being celebrated were made possible through their collective efforts and commitment to the University’s academic mission.
She paid tribute to the Executive Committee, academic staff, and support personnel, commending their dedication to ensuring that the University’s core academic mission is fulfilled. Prof Ntombela emphasised that excellence is not an isolated achievement but a shared responsibility that reflects the strength of the institution as a whole.
“Excellence is not a once-off event; it is a habit. I want to encourage you, especially those who are here for the first time, to make a conscious decision to pursue excellence. We want to see your faces here again next year, because this is a tradition we uphold annually,” she asserted.
The dean further underscored the global significance of the teaching profession, describing educators as the cornerstone of all other professions.
“No country can be better than the quality of its teachers. That is why the work we do in this Faculty is so critical, we are shaping the future of education, and by extension, the future of our nation,” the dean expressed.
Augmenting Prof Ntombela’s words, FEDU lecturer Dr Nokuthula Ndaba reminded the recipients that it was their dedication, resilience and excellence that earned them the dean’s excellence awards.
“This recognition is not just a celebration of your achievement, it is a powerful affirmation of your readiness to lead, to teach and transform lives,” Dr Ndaba said.
Certificates of Appreciation were awarded to the following individuals for their academic achievements:
· Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Education: BS Mhlongo, AN Ndlovu, NT Dlamini, SS Gumede, FN Manzini, AB Maseko, A Ngcobo, BV Dlamini, Z Zikhali, SS Hlongwane, AN Ntuli, NN Nkosi, AB Ngcwaba, N Mtshali, KW Simelane, N Makhoba, B Maseko, S Mncwabe, G Nyawo, S Langa, S Ngqangayi, NH Mathe, S Mathenjwa, MA Majiya, S Mbongo, S Mkhize, LM Mbeje, B Ngema, SP Khwela.
· Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Education: N Thela, N Maphumulo, MT Msane, MS Khoza, ZP Zikhali, N Mncube, N Cebekhulu, A Nkosi, Khumalo, S Yalo, A Maaii, SS Ndlangamandla, N Dladla, S Mavundla.
· Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (EMS): N Mthembu.
· Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and HSEE: LNN Nxumalo, S Mabaso.
· Honours in Curriculum Studies: SN Mkhwanazi, ZP Mncwango.
· Bachelor of Education Honours: NF Khumalo.
– Sbahle Dumakude
Pictures by Xolani Ncube
