Scores of Learners Earn Scholarship Vouchers from UKZN

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UKZN awarded scholarship vouchers worth more than R4.9 million to 246 learners at an awards ceremony on the Westville campus.

The scholarship vouchers which acknowledge academic prowess can be redeemed by qualifying learners after the Grade 12 exams.

The vouchers are honoured when a student has been accepted into a College at UKZN and satisfies all the criteria. The recipients were selected by their schools and the University Colleges.

Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, Professor Renuka Vithal, gave parents and learners an overview of the University rankings, student numbers and research productivity.

Giving background to the scholarship vouchers process, Vithal said the entrant merit awards could be retained into the following year of undergraduate study at R20 000 in tuition, if the recipient scored at least 80% on a weighted average basis on a normal full-year subject load (dependent on degree and College requirements).

Former recipient of the UKZN Distinguished Students award, Miss Kelly Sloley, who graduated summa cum laude in her undergraduate and post graduate degrees in Sport Science, delivered the keynote address, sharing her experiences with scholarship recipients.

Sloley said practical experience, a support structure, time management and the yearly scholarships from UKZN allowed her to fit in lectures, studying and community service.

She advised the learners to ask questions in class and not just before an exam; attend all classes and learn to fully apply concepts.

Sloley, who has represented South Africa internationally in synchronized swimming, encouraged students to be well-rounded by getting practical experience while studying, to get involved with clubs and societies and to give back to the community.

‘I thank UKZN for the yearly scholarships I received for my academic results. These scholarships covered my yearly fees which allowed me to spend the extra time I had doing volunteer work. This was exceptionally important as I had already moved out of home and was supporting myself throughout my years at UKZN.’

Executive Director of Student Services Dr Sibusiso Chalufu acknowledged Sloley for being an ambassador for the University.

He congratulated the ‘over-achievers’ and told them to ‘watch this space’ as they would one day receive their degrees in the same venue (UKZN Sports Centre on the Westville campus).

The vote of thanks was delivered by the Dean of Teaching and Learning in the College of Humanities, Professor Nobuhle Hlongwa, who congratulated the students and acknowledged everyone who had helped make the evening a success.

Entertainment for the evening was provided by Ms Zoe Masuku and Mr Sibusiso Mashiloane on keyboard.

 Raylene Captain-Hasthibeer