Welcome message

Welcome to the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).  I am confident that your visit will be an exciting and rewarding experience.

UKZN is a multi-campus, residential, teaching and research-led university located in the picturesque province of KwaZulu-Natal. The University has a proud and rich heritage of academic excellence.  The year 2010 marked the centenary of Higher Education in the province of KwaZulu-Natal – a centenary of scholarship, innovation and community engagement.  This vast wealth of knowledge production lies at the heart of the university’s success as one of the top institutions on the African continent.

At UKZN we are passionate about teaching and learning.  Our motto: Every Student Matters transcends the social, cultural and academic discourse across the disciplines. The University encourages and embraces diversity in all facets of student experience. UKZN is one of three universities in South Africa and indeed in Africa rated amongst the top 500 universities of the world according to the Academic Rankings of World Universities (ARWU). The university is structured on a College model – each comprising two disciplines that offer a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across five campuses – Westville, Edgewood, Howard College, Medical School and Pietermaritzburg. Innovative curricula, dynamic teaching and learning, state –of-the art laboratories and accredited professional degrees has earned the university the reputation as one of the leading institutions on the continent. Research activities span the natural, biomedical, humanities and social sciences.

The University’s international partnerships in 44 countries provide an opportunity for direct interface and global academic exchange that enhances scholarship and the student experience. 

On behalf of the University’s Executive I once again welcome you most warmly to UKZN.

Professor Malegapuru Makgoba
Vice-Chancellor and Principal
UKZN