International Office Engages with Students at Mangroves Nature Reserve

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In an effort to connect with international students, UKZN’s International Office hosted students on a tour of the scenic Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve.

As the last in-person meeting for the academic year, the tour provided international students a chance to explore the nature reserve and engage with the International Office.

Thirty-six international students were taken on a guided board-walk tour of the estuary, by Mr Terry Goulding accompanied by three other guides, where they got to learn more about its ecosystem. As an endangered habitat (due to harbour and urban development as well as degradation caused by unsustainable agricultural practises), the Mangrove Nature Reserve is known for its three species of Red, White and Black Mangroves, and fascinating wildlife such as the popular male Fiddler Crab which can be identified by its enlarged single orange claw used to attract females.

Head of the Student International Office, Ms Nombuso Mtshali, said the plan was to host a fun educational activity for all international students and actively engage with them regarding their well-being at the University.

Said Mtshali, ‘The tour provided insightful feedback, with students sharing their thoughts on how their journey at UKZN could be further enriched. The feedback collected will play a crucial role in shaping future initiatives aimed at improving the overall experience for international students at UKZN.’

Mr John Lake and Ms Blessing Wisdom Ike, PhD students in Pharmaceutical Sciences, said that the tour had been a great experience and opportunity to connect with other international students and destress.

‘Anytime we get to step out and have some fun outside of the University is always appreciated. We are grateful to the International Office and look forward to more events like these in the future,’ Lake said.

Words: Hlengiwe Khwela

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini