UKZN Open Day Draws 10 000 Prospective Students and Parents

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) successfully hosted its annual Open Day across the Pietermaritzburg and Westville campuses, welcoming approximately 10 000 prospective students along with their parents and teachers.

As a key initiative in the University’s student recruitment strategy, the event provided a platform to engage with prospective students, reinforcing UKZN’s position as a premier academic institution and a first-choice university for top-performing learners.

Catering to learners in Grades 10 to 12, the event offered a valuable opportunity for attendees to explore UKZN’s diverse and globally recognised undergraduate study options, equipping them with the essential knowledge to make informed career choices. Through direct engagement with academic staff, university representatives, and current students, prospective applicants gained first-hand insights into academic pathways, admission requirements, and student life at UKZN.

Executive Director of Corporate Relations, Ms Normah Zondo, described Open Day as a powerful platform to showcase the University’s prestigious academic programmes and career prospects. ‘UKZN is a global leader and an internationally ranked institution committed to academic and research excellence. As the Premier University of African Scholarship, we offer world-class professional and academic programmes that are highly regarded globally,’ she said. ‘Through Open Day, we actively engage with future students, ensuring they are well-informed about the opportunities available at UKZN and the impact of studying at an institution of this calibre.’

Prospective students interacted with representatives from UKZN’s four Colleges: the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, College of Health Sciences, College of Humanities, and the College of Law and Management Studies. In addition to academic insights, key university departments – including the Central Applications Office (CAO), Student Funding, Student Administration, Applications and Information Office, Student Support Services, and the Sports Division – were available to provide guidance on academic programmes, scholarship opportunities, application procedures, and the holistic student experience at UKZN.

The event also showcased the dynamic and vibrant student life at UKZN, featuring interactive sessions, live music, dance performances, and exciting prize giveaways. Beyond career guidance, Open Day provided a glimpse into the University’s unique campus culture, ensuring that students not only select UKZN for its academic excellence but also for the enriching experience it offers.

Ms Gabby Murray, a Grade 12 learner from Eden College aspiring to become a psychologist or social worker, described Open Day as “highly informative”, adding that the career advice she received helped her refine her study choices.

Mr Siyadumisa Mofokeng, an educator from Dlulumuzi Secondary School in Cato Ridge, highlighted the importance of such events in guiding learners towards the right career paths. ‘Interacting with UKZN’s academic staff and students gave me clarity on the differences between academic and professional degrees, which will help me provide better guidance to my learners,’ he said. He also suggested hosting Open Day twice a year to reach a broader audience.

Ms Yvonne Gengiah, an administrative staff member in the School of Chemistry and Physics, attended the event with her Grade 12 son. ‘The wealth of knowledge available allowed him to reconsider his career choices,’ she said, commending UKZN for organising an “exceptional and insightful” event.

UKZN’s Open Day continues to play a pivotal role in the University’s student recruitment efforts, strengthening its connection with prospective students and ensuring a robust pipeline of future scholars. By providing direct engagement with key stakeholders, the event not only informs but also inspires the next generation of UKZN students.

To view the highlights from the Open Day events, click here.

Words: Hlengiwe Khwela

Photographs: Sethu Dlamini