Unisa sets sights on new educational hub for uMkhanyakude District

In a groundbreaking move set to revolutionise education in rural KwaZulu-Natal, Unisa is making strides in establishing a new service centre in Manguzi.

The second Unisa site visit to Manguzi in the uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality on Friday, 24 May 2024, marked a pivotal step towards enhancing educational services in the uMkhanyakude District. The Unisa delegation, deeply appreciative of the warm welcome extended by the Honourable Mayor, Cllr TS Khumalo, and his team, engaged in comprehensive discussions on the benefits that Unisa could bring to students in the district, including neighbouring municipalities and even Eswatini and Mozambique.

The Umhlabuyalingana Local Municipality and Unisa team

During this significant meeting, the focus was on identifying and refining the specific needs of Unisa students in the region. The dialogue underscored the importance of tailored educational solutions that could bridge gaps and elevate the academic experience for students. The discussions also explored various products and services that could be implemented, reflecting Unisa's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in higher education.

The anticipation is building for the final site visit, after which the project proposal will be presented to Unisa for consideration and approval. This proposal aims to establish a service centre in Manguzi that will serve as a cornerstone of the area's academic support and resource provision. The establishment of the centre is poised to enhance the educational landscape significantly, providing vital support and opportunities to students within the uMkhanyakude District and beyond.

Left to right: Nathi Myeni (Manager: Umhlabuyalingana Municipality), Dan Mokone (Director: Support Services, Facilities Management Unisa), His Honourable Mayor, Cllr TS Khumalo, Peter Bronkhorst (Manager: Unisa ICT) and Themba Mkhize (Manager: Support Services and Operations, Unisa KwaZulu-Natal Region).

Unisa's initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to education, in that it recognises the unique challenges and opportunities in rural and cross-border contexts. By engaging with local leadership and understanding the community's needs, Unisa is poised to make a lasting impact by fostering educational growth and development that transcends regional boundaries.

*By Jo Cossavella, Communications & Marketing Officer, KwaZulu-Natal Region