Vice Chancellor’s Awards Celebrates the best of UNIZULU

The University of Zululand’s Vice Chancellor – Professor Xoliswa Mtose recently conveyed her deep appreciation for the dedication and hard work of the university’s administrative staff. In a heartwarming gesture of appreciation, Prof Mtose hosted an appreciation award ceremony for the university’s dedicated administration staff. The event, held at the Council Chambers, was a resounding success, with staff members expressing their gratitude for the recognition and camaraderie.

Prof Mtose highlighted the contributions that administrative staff make to the university, including, Supporting the university’s academic and research missions as well as Managing the university’s finances and resources.

“I am incredibly grateful for the hard work and dedication of our administrative staff,” said the vice chancellor “They are an essential part of our university community, and I am proud to have them on our team.”

The Executive Director Human Resources – Raynolds Ngcobo, warmly welcomed the attendees and said, “Your outstanding performance is an inspiration to all, Continue the fantastic work,” Ngcobo remarked.

Amongst the 37 staff members honored was the Disability Unit coordinator, Phiwayinkosi Mjadu, “When I received the email saying I was among the list to receive the VC’s appreciation award, I was already honored because receiving this kind of email is an award in itself,” he said.

Nhlakanipho Khumalo, Data Capturer in the OD & Client Services Department in Human Resources Division started as an intern at the university in 2021 and was fortunate enough to grow and became a Data Capturer in 2023.The 25 year old  was amongst the recipients who took to the stage with humility and gratitude, acknowledging not only his own hard work but also the invaluable support of mentors and  colleagues who stood by him through it all.

“I give glory to my Lord Jesus Christ, I still remember the shock and excitement at the same time when I received the invitation from the VC’s office, it was a very humbling and  I will cherish this  forever. I think what set me apart is firstly the strength and favour I have been given by God; I would never be here without God. Secondly it is hard work, smart work and dedication to departmental and institutional goals, there is nothing I wouldn’t do to make sure that departmental goals that contribute to the institutional goals are always met. This means that I always must be willing to give my best and more, if necessary, fortunately I am still young, so I still have the energy to do so. Also, the support I have received from my Executive Director Mr. Ngcobo, My Director Mrs Sithole and the rest of the HR team is what has really pushes me. The HR team believes so much in me and my abilities and they give me a room to shine, I really dedicate this recognition to them. A huge thank you to the Vice Chancellor for this recognition, no words can be enough to express my gratitude to her. It is truly amazing how much insight she must recognise someone at my level, the University of Zululand is well led. “Said Khumalo.

Nolwazi Mdletshe  HR Business Partner that she was humbled t’s good to be acknowledged for the work you are doing whilst you give your best, receiving an accolade from the vice chancellor of an institution is such a rewarding feeling.

• Precious Shamase and Nomvelo Xulu