Page 32 - UniZulu Annual Report 2020

the University to profile its students and to obtain feedback on learning experiences, quality and support.
Sound financial management remained key to enhancing internal financial controls. Council approved a five-year Strategic Financial Plan and the Finance Department developed and implemented system descriptions for all areas in financial services. A fees comparison with other universities was compiled and engagements with relevant parties were conducted to address financial sustainability. Student debt levels were monitored, and a supplier appointed to recover long outstanding debt. Alternatives for retirement funds towards a more sustainable future were explored and additional student bursary funding for laptops was created. The budget policy was approved with an inclusion of a 10% general recovery rate for all external projects.
Effective service delivery to students was ensured through continuous workshops on student governance and administration. An awareness campaign on the revision of the SRC Constitution and the implementation of an electronic voting system was held with SRC representatives and other stakeholders. An interim SRC structure was constituted because of contested SRC elections. Both the SRC Convenor and Coordinator form part of UNIZULU’s COVID-19 task team.
STRATEGIC GOAL 2: Create a quality teaching and learning environment as a comprehensive university
UNIZULU has made significant progress in terms of deepening the achievements of its ever-improving academic project. A comprehensive tutorial programme and faculty- based plans for undergraduate students were developed and 259 tutors were appointed and trained to assist all first-years with high failure rates in 18 identified modules. A concept for a tracking system for postgraduate students was developed by the Research Office for implementation in 2021.
Workshops for new and current staff are conducted regularly to equip them with the most current teaching, research, community engagement and university service skills. These are conducted both at the level of the Institution and the respective faculties, supported by the Human Resources Development Division and the Research and Innovation and the Teaching and Learning directorates. In addition, several workshops were conducted on Moodle System training as well as training on Instructional Design and Assessment Strategies. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, UNIZULU had to meet digital learning needs and access surveys to assist with blended learning preparations.
The 2020 Cohort Analysis will assist with effective Institutional Planning and Monitoring in 2021.
UNIVERSITY OF ZULULAND ANNUAL REPORT 2020
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