The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) School of Commerce is hosting German students Ms Merveille Ngnabeyeu Mbiada and Mr Justus Wiegand from Hochschule Koblenz – University of Applied Sciences (HS Koblenz) for a semester, an exchange facilitated by Professor Evelyn Derera.
“The internationalisation initiative is part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between UKZN and the Hochschule Koblenz – University of Applied Sciences to promote collaboration and research between the two institutions,” said Derera, who co-ordinated the two students’ visit during a three-month staff exchange visit at HS Koblenz in 2025.
The exchange programme advances UKZN’s strategic commitment by strengthening international partnerships that facilitate the exchange of knowledge, people, and ideas. Through reciprocal student and staff mobility, the collaboration with Hochschule Koblenz enriches the academic experience, promotes intercultural understanding and reinforces UKZN’s commitment to building meaningful global partnerships that contribute to societal development and enhance the University’s international standing.
Mbiada is studying Mathematics and Economics and is on an accelerated graduation track, aiming to complete her bachelor’s degree in two years instead of the standard three. She has also been working as an intern in the Macroeconomics Research Unit (MRU) during her time at UKZN.
“I sought out the exchange programme because I wanted to broaden my academic horizons and experience student life in a completely different environment,” said Mbiada.
Despite a hectic workload and being scheduled to begin a new professional role at Sparkasse Düsseldorf, Germany, in July, Mbiada said she thoroughly enjoyed her UKZN experience.
“Back at my home university, I am very active in ‘Buddy’ and language tandem programmes designed to help incoming international students integrate. Getting the chance to step into the shoes of an international student myself in South Africa has been eye-opening and deeply rewarding. The academic environment at UKZN is highly engaging, and the cultural exchange has been fantastic. It also really helps that the food here is incredible,” she said.
Wiegand, who is studying towards a bachelor’s degree in Management and Leadership, was required to either study abroad or complete an international internship for one semester.
“For various reasons, I did not want to spend my semester abroad in Europe, America, or Asia. I found UKZN on the list of partner universities at my home institution and thought it would be an excellent choice,” said Wiegand.
“I also heard that the partnership agreement between our universities is expected to be renewed. In addition, I had the opportunity to meet Professor Evelyn Derera during International Week at my university. She was very helpful in answering my questions and assisting me with my course selection, among many other things,” he added.
Wiegand described his time in South Africa and at UKZN as a rewarding experience characterised by friendly people, cultural diversity and beautiful surroundings. He also had the opportunity to visit the Kruger National Park.
“I really enjoy South Africa and my time at UKZN. It is quite different from Germany, and I have noticed different approaches to learning and teaching, which I believe are influenced by cultural factors and different living conditions. I quickly adapted to the life of a South African student,” he said.
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photographs: Supplied