College of Education

CEDU and Unisa Durban Regional Hub celebrate unparalleled contributions to teaching profession

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In collaboration with the Unisa Durban Regional Hub, the College of Education (CEDU) recently celebrated the momentous occasion of marking the institution's 150th  anniversary.

Xolani Dubazane, Deputy Director at the KwaZulu-Natal Regional Office, in his opening address, said approximately 88 000 of Unisa's registered students currently reside in the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) region, and 50% of the 88 000 are registered with the Unisa College of Education. Highlighting educators' influential roles in society, he said the vibrant KZN is home to John Langalibalele Dube, a South African educator, politician, publisher, editor, novelist, essayist, philosopher and poet. He was the founding president of the South African Native National Congress, which later became the African National Congress.  

CEDU and Unisa Durban Regional Hub collaborate to celebrate Unisa's 150th anniversary

The significance of Unisa

Established in 1873, Unisa is Africa's oldest and largest Comprehensive Open Distance and eLearning institution. It has played an invaluable role in South Africa's academic landscape by offering accessible, high-quality education to a diverse student population. Unisa's reputation for flexibility, innovation and inclusivity has made it a popular institution among students seeking to further their education.

"The professionalisation of teaching is central to CEDU," said Prof Ramodungoane Tabane, Director: Educational Studies. CEDU fully supports the South African Council for Educators (SACE) and collaborates with the organisation regarding the professionalisation of education. CEDU and SACE grapple with issues concerning the teaching profession, such as protecting vulnerable learners.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, the college visited 26 regional schools. The visits aimed to create awareness about the university's 150th  anniversary and to foster collaboration. The college also sought to inspire and encourage learners to pursue higher education, regardless of their socioeconomic backgrounds.

The anniversary event featured two parallel sessions: a Teaching Practice workshop and a Master's and Doctoral workshop. These sessions allowed participants to gain valuable insights into teaching methodologies and explore avenues for further academic advancement by focusing on teaching and research.


The brunch celebration

The highlight of the anniversary event was undoubtedly the celebratory brunch, where all stakeholders gathered to rejoice in Unisa's achievements over the past 150 years. Esteemed guests included staff members, alumni, partners and local dignitaries. This provided a networking opportunity, sharing success stories and reminiscing about Unisa's significant impact on countless lives.

The brunch also served as a platform to acknowledge individuals who have contributed exceptionally to the university's success, including Ella Mokgalane, the Chief Executive Officer of the South Africa Council for Educators. Special awards were presented to outstanding stakeholders, educators and community leaders who have played pivotal roles in advancing CEDU's mission.

#Unisa150

* By Dineo Horner, Acting Marketing and Communications Specialist, College of Education

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Publish date: 2023/08/10

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