College Dean: Teaching and Learning
Welcome to the College of Health Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) a vibrant, caring, and intellectually rich community committed to shaping the future of health in South Africa and beyond.
At the heart of our College is a deeply rooted ethos of caring. We believe that every student, staff member, patient, and community partner deserves to experience compassion, respect, and dignity. This guiding philosophy shapes not only how we teach, but how we learn, serve, innovate, and lead. All our teaching and learning activities and services are informed by the University’s R.E.A.C.H.T principles.
Our approach to teaching and learning is innovative, transformative, and future-focused. Through cutting-edge curricula, interprofessional education, and the integration of emerging technologies, we prepare our students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels to excel in an ever-evolving public health landscape. We challenge our students and graduates to think critically, engage meaningfully, and contribute boldly to improving health outcomes.
The College is proud to offer extensive decentralized clinical training platforms, using a primary health care approach, placing students at a wide range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and community sites across the province of KwaZulu-Natal. These clinical teaching and learning settings immerse our students in real-world health challenges and cultivate a deep understanding of the communities we serve. This model strengthens clinical competence, cultural awareness, and a commitment to equity and social justice in health care.
We are equally passionate about student success, hence we are intentional in our student support services. Our campuses are home to dynamic academic support programmes, mentorship opportunities, wellness services, and student-led initiatives that ensure every learner is empowered to thrive. We understand that academic success is linked to holistic well-being, and we strive to create an environment where students feel seen, valued, and supported. This is evidenced in our Student Wellness and Academic Transformation, and First Year Experience programmes.
Guiding our work is a strong foundation in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) operations of the Health Professions Education Unit. We believe that excellent teaching arises from curiosity, research, and reflective practice. Our staff are leaders in health sciences education, continually advancing knowledge and sharing innovations that elevate the student experience.
As you explore our College, we invite you to discover a community that is passionate, inclusive, and committed to making a meaningful difference. Whether you are a
prospective undergraduate or postgraduate student, partner, researcher, or visitor, we are delighted to welcome you to a place where knowledge meets compassion and where future health professionals and scientists are shaped with excellence and care.
Welcome to the College of Health Sciences where we care, we innovate, and we transform health together.
