"The COVID-19 pandemic brought with it many new challenges and risks that the University had to mitigate. When on-campus activities were suspended towards the end of March 2020, we rapidly switched to online learning. Classes resumed online on 20 April, thanks to the tireless efforts of teaching and support staff," SU Rector and Vice-Chancellor Prof Wim de Villiers said.

"We remained acutely aware of the challenges that our students had to face in adapting to the new and largely unfamiliar mode of learning during the lockdown period. So, we did everything we could to ensure that all of our students – and especially those who are vulnerable – could successfully complete the academic year."

Laptops were made available on a loan basis to socio-economically disadvantaged students and data bundles were procured for all students to access the internet.

Staff training to provide engaging content was also a key priority. Furthermore, the capacity of SUNLearn, the University's study management system, was boosted to handle the increased demand when most activities were taking place online. Systems were streamlined to make it easier for students to access the necessary resources and information.

In addition, the University's Centre for Student Counselling and Development provided online and telephonic services to those who needed academic, emotional or emergency assistance.

A grant provided by the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, a US-based philanthropic non-profit organisation, went towards tailored academic and psychosocial support for students who were vulnerable and at risk of not graduating or moving on to their next year of study. The grant bolstered academic support to ensure that every student stays on course, despite the challenges that they may experience. “We are grateful to the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, whose support strengthens our interventions to help our students succeed," De Villiers said.

Dr Thashlin Govender, Programme Director at the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, said: "There is a need for organisations to come together, collaborate and invest in programmes that help university students succeed. The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation is committed to working with like-minded partners, such as SU, to provide students with the continuous support they need to overcome the challenges they may face along their journey."