UKZN Hosts Winter School for Grade 11 Learners

BY: .

Click here for isiZulu version

Interactive sessions on mental health, technology, education and career readiness were features of a Winter School held by UKZN at its Westville campus in partnership with the Care Enough Youth Empowerment (CEYE) organisation.

Designed for Grade 11 learners from 10 high schools across eThekwini, the five-day programme empowered young minds through a powerful collaboration of purpose.

The youth-focused initiative was spearheaded by the founder and CEO of Care Enough, Ms Hlengiwe Ngwenya, whose vision continues to open doors for learners from underserved communities. Ngwenya’s dedication to long-term empowerment through education was evident across every aspect of the programme.

The success of the Winter School was largely driven by the dedicated efforts of Mr Msizi Innocent Dimba, a Schools Liaison Officer at UKZN, whose commitment ensured seamless co-ordination and engagement throughout the programme. Dimba’s leadership created a nurturing and professional space for learning and dialogue.

The Council for the Built Environment (CBE) also played a central role, contributing knowledge, resources and recognition of learner achievement, particularly during the prize-giving ceremony on the final day.

Learners attended from a range of schools including Ohlange High School, Inanda Newtown Comprehensive, Nhlakanipho High School, Mzuvele Secondary, and Amandlethu Secondary School. Youngsters from these schools, many in historically disadvantaged areas, were given the opportunity to experience life on a university campus while engaging with academics, professionals, and sector experts.

Each day followed this dedicated learning routine:

Day 1: Mental Health, Self-Awareness and the Impact of Gender-Based Violence
Learners explored emotional intelligence, mental health services, and the impact of gender-based violence, with input from psychiatrists, social workers, and justice officials.

Day 2: Health and Nutrition

The Department of Health facilitated health screenings, while sessions focused on nutrition, substance abuse, and teenage pregnancy. Now Minister of Higher Education, Mr Buti Manamela, delivered a motivational keynote address.

Day 3: Technology and Digitalisation

Learners were introduced to digital literacy, artificial intelligence, coding, and careers in the digital economy. The day included hands-on exposure in UKZN’s computer labs.

Day 4: Education Support and Career Expo

Prominent professionals - including attorneys, engineers, entrepreneurs, and aviation specialists - shared personal journeys. Learners explored career options through exhibitions hosted by the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), and municipal departments.

Day 5: Tertiary Education Guidance

Representatives from UKZN, the Durban University of Technology, University of South Africa, Mangosuthu University of Technology, and various Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges guided learners through application processes and funding opportunities offered by organisations such as the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP). The week concluded with vibrant team-building activities, including a singing and dance competition between KwaMashu and Inanda learners.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Dr Siyabonga Nzimande, Chief Operations Officer of Care Enough and Programme Director, reflected on gains from the week: “This was not just about education - it was about showing learners that they matter, that they belong in these spaces, and that their dreams are valid.”

Ngwenya encouraged learners to carry the momentum forward. “You’ve been exposed to a world of possibilities. Now it’s your turn to take charge of your future.”

The Winter School proved to be a launchpad for transformation, a bridge between aspiration and achievement, and a powerful testament to what collaboration can achieve for South Africa’s youth.

Words: Nduduzo Duma

Photograph: Andile Ndlovu