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Addressing Race and Ethnic Challenges in the Merger Between the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville

University of KwaZulu-Natal

www.ukzn.ac.za

  • Program Civil Society
  • Program Area Special Initiatives
  • Grant Amount $180,000
  • Grant Period May 1, 2004–April 30, 2007
  • Location Westville, South Africa
  • Geographic Focus KwaZulu-Natal, Province of

About this grant

In early 2004, the formerly white University of Natal and the formerly black University of Durban-Westville merged to form the University of KwaZulu-Natal, an integrated and nonracial institution. Due to the long history of racial and ethnic tension, however, there is a vital need to assist the new institution to resolve its challenges in the most constructive way. A special Office of Organizational Culture has been established to promote the transformation process and ensure a smooth transition.Multiyear funding will support activities of the new office, including taking the lead in developing a vision for the new institution; promoting understanding and support for the vision; conducting seminars for all stakeholders on issues of race, ethnicity and cultural identity; and advising the academic departments and other structures within the new institution to prepare the staff and students for the merger.