
UKZN Welcomes New Employees On Board
A two day on-boarding workshop hosted by the Human Resources Division was held for new employees of UKZN.
The employees were welcomed by Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Nana Poku, who focused on the important role played by staff members in the transformation of the University. He outlined UKZN’s Strategic Plan 2017-2021 and challenged employees to develop a culture of service by giving students the support they need; thus enabling them to thrive. ‘The University must enable you to achieve your best. So do your best for the Institution and the Institution will do its best for you,’ he said.
Executive Director: Human Resources, Dr Siphelele Zulu, discussed the University’s human resources strategy, including the Employee Value Proposition which aims to recruit and retain the best talent. He encouraged those present to always uphold UKZN’s REACHT values of Respect, Excellence, Accountability, Client Orientation, Honesty and Trust.
Student Academic Administration Director, Mr Bruce Banda’s presentation focused on the Institution’s organisational structure and legal regulations; while Dr Tilly Moodley, Director for Teaching and Learning, educated employees on UKZN’ teaching policies including the importance of quality review programmes for courses and Schools.
Dean of Research, Professor Urmilla Bob, highlighted the importance of research at UKZN as a research-led and research-intensive institution. She compared research to a guide on how to do things better and explained how research funds are managed, as well as the research ethics and productivity required. ‘Our job collectively is to make sure our goals are achieved,’ she said. ‘Thank you for joining our family; know that we will do everything in our power to help you succeed.’
Director: Human Resource Development, Mrs Busisiwe Ramabodu, outlined the various programmes that promote career growth and employee satisfaction at UKZN. These range from talent mapping, to career progression, training and development, team development, change management, employee wellness, diversity and inclusion and women in leadership and engagement. Employees also received training on the Integrated Talent Management process and were pampered with a free massage.
Other topics included employee relations, medical aid, legal services, Gender-Based Violence, and employee development reward services.
Words: Hlengiwe Precious Khwela
Photograph: Itumeleng Masa