Unizulu outlines strategy to complete academic year
Unizulu said while it is making a concerted effort to complete the academic year, there is a possibility it could be extended to 2021
THE University of Zululand (Unizulu) is exploring various alternative methods of teaching and learning as pressure mounts for the education sector to salvage the academic year.
Unizulu said while it is making a concerted effort to complete the academic year, there is a possibility it could be extended to 2021.
‘While our contingency plans follow the sectoral approach as agreed on by all other universities, we have adapted our approach to suit our unique circumstances as an institution,’ said university spokesperson, Gcina Nhleko.
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Part of the university’s approach has been to upgrade its online systems to allow for teaching to continue online.
‘The university is aware that our students’ online participation rate was low at the beginning, but are however encouraged by the fact that we have since noted an increase in the online traffic.
‘We have to acknowledge that the lack of participation was in part owing to the fact that they lacked the necessary equipment and some are located in areas of the country with very poor connectivity.
‘The university is mindful of the disparities among our students’ socio-economic backgrounds.
‘All reasonable steps are being taken to ensure that we cater for the needs of the different categories of students, including students with disabilities,’ Nhleko said.
‘A flexible teaching and learning approach will further be adopted and extended to other platforms.
‘Faculties will provide remedial classes and offer opportunities for students who may have been prejudiced by a lack of resources, to catch up on lost time.
The Department of Higher Education, Science and Technology has decided not to resume campus-based academic activities at all universities and technical and vocational education and training colleges during level four of the Covid-19 lockdown.
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