UKZN’s Virtual Parents’ Day Welcomes New Students and their Guardians

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) hosted more than 2 500 new students and their families at its annual Virtual Parents’ Day, a key event designed to welcome first-year students and provide their parents and guardians with essential information as they embark on this academic journey.

Executive Director of the Corporate Relations Division, Ms Normah Zondo, described the occasion as a significant milestone – not only for the students but also for the parents, guardians, and sponsors who have played a pivotal role in guiding them to this point. Acknowledging the critical role of parents in students’ academic success, Zondo said: ‘Parents’ Day is a celebration of partnership, trust, and shared aspirations. It is an opportunity for us to extend our hand to you as valued partners in shaping the future of these young minds.’

Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Professor Thabo Msibi, highlighted the intense competition for placements at UKZN, with the University receiving over 290 000 applications for just 8 600 first-year spots. ‘Parents should be immensely proud of their children, as we have selected only the best to join our Institution,’ he said. He also expressed gratitude for the confidence that parents and students have placed in UKZN, reaffirming the University’s commitment to academic excellence and research as a premier institution of African scholarship.

Msibi also emphasised UKZN’s dedication to holistic student development, pointing to significant investments in state-of-the-art sports and recreational facilities across all campuses. He noted that university life is about more than academic achievements – it is also about self-discovery and personal growth. He further underscored UKZN’s reputation, saying: ‘Our alumni stand as a testament to the University’s impact, with many holding influential positions in government, the private sector, academia, and research institutions worldwide.’

SRC President, Mr Siyabonga Mlondo, congratulated the students and assured them that they had made the right choice in selecting UKZN. He reaffirmed the SRC’s commitment to advocating for students’ rights and well-being, while also encouraging active participation in extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, and societies. Mlondo also urged parents who have the financial means to contribute to the SRC Trust Fund, which provides support to students in need.

A key segment of the event was an insightful presentation by the College of Agriculture, Engineering, and Science, focusing on mental well-being and the challenges of university life. Presented by Ms Shelley Barnsley (Manager: Student Support Services) and Mr Sanele Zuma (Student Development Office), the session covered a range of topics, including transitioning from high school to university, managing academic pressure, avoiding burnout, addressing mental health challenges, navigating social pressures, ensuring personal well-being, and the importance of parental support. The discussion also highlighted the counselling and student support services available at UKZN, reaffirming the University’s commitment to holistic student success.

The event also included a Q&A session, allowing parents to engage directly with UKZN staff on key matters such as Student Housing, Student Fees and Funding, Risk Management Services, College Academic Services, and Student Support Services.

Closing the event, Dean of Student Services, Professor Percy Sepeng, reflected on UKZN’s motto, Inspiring Greatness, and its embodiment of the University’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and student empowerment. ‘Through embracing innovation and collaboration, UKZN strives to produce not only highly skilled graduates but also compassionate leaders and changemakers who will drive progress and uplift communities,’ he said.

With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, holistic development, and unwavering student support, UKZN’s Parents’ Day reaffirmed the Institution’s dedication to ensuring that students thrive both academically and personally as they embark on their university journey.

He thanked the organising committee for making the event a success and the parents and guests for attending.

To watch the 2025 Virtual Parents Day, click here.

Words: Hlengiwe Khwela

Image: Supplied