2006/2007 - University of Swaziland

DEAN OF STUDENT AFFAIRSSupport students’ active participation and contributionin national debates on the social, economicand political development of Swaziland;Organise students' career developmentprogrammes.Mr. M. KuneneDean - Student AffairsMISSIONThe Department of Student Welfare endeavours toprovide administrative services and counseling toindividuals and/or groups of students. It also seeks topromote the positive academic and physicaldevelopment of students. It further strives to inculcateinto students a sense of responsibility, commitment towork, the promotion of ethical values and the buildingup of good relationships within and outside theUniversity community.OBJECTIVESThe key objectives of the Department are to:Raise students’ awareness and critical understandingof the important documents of the University;Foster the active involvement of students in allactivities organised by the Students’ RepresentativeCouncil, clubs and societies;Operate a counseling programme in order to addressstudents’ academic and social problems;Facilitate students’ effective and harmoniousinteraction with their peers and with all membersof staff at the University;HEALTH SERVICESDuring the year under review the Kwaluseni CampusClinic attended over 5000 cases for different ailments.These include students from the Mbabane Campus andover 400 students were referred to the Raleigh FitkinMemorial Hospital for further treatment.The Luyengo Clinic attended over 2000 cases for variousailments. As in previous years, the number of casesattended for sexually transmitted infections is on therise for both campuses, despite intensive educationalcampaigns for using condoms, as well as making theseavailable to students. Contracting HIV/AIDS thusremains a living reality amongst students and is achallenge to the Health & Counseling Units.CAREER GUIDANCE AND COUNSELINGSERVICESThe Student Counselor continues to provide careerguidance and counseling services to University students.This service is also edtended to school leavers, schoolgoing pupils and prospective students of the University.Service provision is done through community andschool visits, and career fairs and exhibitions held atvarious venues. The Office also coordinates the activitiesof the University peer counselors and educators and isresponsible for general counseling on a range of issuesaffecting students. It also educates students in life skillsand engaging in career development. The table belowshows activities undertaken during the year underreview.17REPORT OF THE VICE-CHANCELLOR 2006-2007