UKZN Academics on Outreach Programme in KwaXimba

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UKZN academics partnered with Urban Herd Boys - a non-profit organisation facilitating access to tertiary institutions for rural learners from previously disadvantaged backgrounds - to visit Grade 12 learners from four schools in rural KwaXimba as part of an accelerated programme of academic and professional mentorship.

The four cluster schools - Luphaphe High, Mdepha High, Nogunjwa and Zizamele High – participate in the programme aimed at increasing the pool of learners from rural communities in tertiary institutions.

The programme is part of the drive to create skilled graduates from rural communities who are able to uplift rural economies and also to facilitate the development of a new breed of African leadership.

Dr Koyi Mchunu and Mr Sandile Mbatha introduced learners to disciplines in the School of Built Environment and Development Studies (BEDS) and encouraged them to apply for registration. Mchunu also gave a motivational talk to enthusiastic learners focusing on goal setting, the importance of vocation and developing a personal vision.

The academics distributed Central Application Office application forms, and School of BEDS brochures. Other professionals from different disciplines shared their experiences with the youngsters.

The visit was a resounding success and created a great deal of excitement around tertiary education.  Teachers at the schools expressed appreciation for the programme and applauded UKZN academics for using their weekend to visit learners.

It became very obvious there is a demand for interaction between academics and schools in order to give perspective to young learners - the future academics and leaders in South African society.

Zizamele High School Principal, Mr Skhakhane emphasised the importance of the relationship between tertiary institutions and rural schools. ‘We are grateful for this opportunity as we are usually not included on the list of schools visited. We are extremely under-resourced and face tremendous challenges in our teaching and learning processes but we keep going.

‘Such visits remind us that we are also important.’

-          Koyi Mchunu