The University of Venda (Univen) has welcomed its international students to the first 2017 semester with a function which was jointly organised by the Directorate of International Relations, the SRC Minister for Information, External Affairs and International Relations and Univen’s International Student Union (UNISU). Senate Chambers was on 17 February 2017 decorated with flags of most nations which Univen’s international students are coming from.
The Chief Administrative Officer in the Directorate of International Relations, Dr Segun Obadire, welcomed the students. In his address, he emphasised that international students should feel at home at Univen. He introduced this year’s buddy programme, which will commence in March 2017 and aims to integrate South African and international students.
Dr Segun Obadire and a group of students pose for a photo during their Orientation day function
At the function, the services offered by the International Student Helpdesk for international students were introduced. The International Student Helpdesk ensures that appropriate services are rendered to international students. It is part of Univen’s international student programme, which comprehensively assists all international students through the Directorate of International Relations.
Many of Univen’s artistic groups participated in the welcoming programme and displayed the University’s cultural diversity. All artists who performed on the day were Univen students and they practice under the supervision of Dr Elelwani Ramaite, coordinated by Humbulani Kwinda.
Above: A group of students performing Malende dance
“The cost of freedom is bitter but the fruits are sweet,” said Onipe Tobiloba, UNISU Chairperson who is a Masters in Hydrology and Water Resources student. Tobiloba advised the international students to engage in other student structures, “find something to do and talk to people. Learn how to speak local languages when you join these structures, you will never regret why you came to this University,” said Tobiloba.
Issued by:
Department of Communications and Marketing
University of Venda
Tel: 015 962 8525
[lastupdated]
