Fostering Cultural Exchange and Support for International Students Through the Sisonke Buddy Programme

The International Office recently hosted its annual Sisonke Buddy Programme induction, a cornerstone event aimed at fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for international students at the University of Zululand (UNIZULU).

Held at the Old VC’s House, the event brought together student buddies and International Office staff to emphasise the importance of cultural exchange, mentorship, and support for incoming international students. Also highlighted was the vital role buddies play in helping international students navigate their new academic and social environments.

The Sisonke Buddy Programme Induction serves as a platform to prepare selected buddies for their roles as guides and mentors to international students. The event aims to equip buddies with the tools and mindset needed to provide meaningful support, ensuring that international students feel welcomed, informed, and integrated into both the University and the broader community. The programme also emphasises the importance of mutual learning, encouraging buddies to engage in cultural exchange and build lasting connections with their assigned international students.

The Sisonke Buddy Programme is designed to bridge the gap between international students and the local university community. Its primary goal is to create a supportive network that helps international students adjust to their new surroundings, both academically and socially. By pairing international students with local buddies, the programme fosters cross cultural understanding, promotes inclusivity, and ensures that international students have a reliable point of contact for guidance and assistance.

Zenzele Mdletshe, International Office Manager, emphasised the importance of approaching the buddy role with love and a genuine desire to learn. He urged buddies to go beyond simply showing their assigned students around campus, saying they should engage in meaningful cultural exchange.

“Being a buddy is not just about guiding someone; it’s about learning from them as much as they learn from you. Take the time to understand their culture, their lifestyle, and their country. This is not just a mentorship programme; it’s a cultural exchange. When you teach them about your world, be open to learning about theirs,” said Mdletshe.

For Dr Yolanda Nkomo, a lecturer in the Department of Economics who has intensive experience as a buddy, providing holistic support to buddies is key. She stressed that international students need guidance not only within the University but also in the wider community.

“Your role as a buddy doesn’t end at the University gates. These students will need to buy groceries, find transportation, and explore the township. If you only show them the University, you’re only doing half the job. Be there for them every step of the way. Teach them about the University, but also about life beyond it. They will rely on you not just for academic advice, but for practical life skills too,” she said.

Aletha Cela, newly selected buddy and BCom Accounting Science student, shared how she was going to balance this new responsibility with her academic life. “The programme serves as an [extracurricular activity], while the academics are the priority. Setting specific slots for me to study as well as other times to interact with my buddies will assist me in my new responsibility without affecting my academic life. Time management is the key to it all,” she said.

Through the induction, buddies were motivated and equipped with knowledge to make a positive impact on the lives of international students.

As the Sisonke Buddy Programme continues to grow, it remains a testament to the University’s commitment to one of it values, Community of belonging. The latter entails embracing all forms of diversity, social inclusion and elimination of social injustices.

– Nomvelo Xulu

Pictures: Samkele Sokhela