UKZN’s Nursing Discipline hosted its highly anticipated annual research seminar with third-year students from various affiliated hospitals presenting innovative research projects to showcase their dedication and commitment to advancing the field of nursing.
After a day of presentations, the Prince Mshiyeni Hospital Group were judged to be the top performers, followed closely by King Dinuzulu Hospital and Addington Hospital.
The research seminar on the Howard College campus was attended by students, faculty members, healthcare professionals, and distinguished guests from the nursing community. It served as a testament to the University’s commitment to nurturing talent and promoting excellence in the healthcare field and research.
The Prince Mshiyeni Group’s presentation captivated the audience and demonstrated its impressive research successes involving nursing practices that improve efficiency.
The Dinuzulu Hospital team’s project showcased the importance of patient-centred care and emphasised the need to enhance the communication and empathy of healthcare providers to improve patient satisfaction and overall quality of care.
Addington Hospital’s project focused on the role of technology in modern healthcare, exploring how technological advancements can be harnessed to streamline patient care and reduce healthcare costs.
Nursing Discipline academic leader Dr Mbali Mhlongo said she was proud of the students’ hard work and dedication to nursing research. ‘These seminars are not only a showcase of the students’ innovative thinking and hard work but also an opportunity to celebrate the next generation of healthcare professionals. It’s encouraging to see their passion for nursing and their commitment to improving patient care,’ said Mhlongo.
The research seminar also featured insightful keynote speeches from Nursing professionals and experts in the field – including Professor Petra Brysiewicz – providing students with valuable insights and inspiration for their future careers. Brysiewicz emphasised the primary objectives of research, which include the discovery of essential facts and its role in assisting nurses in dispelling misconceptions while contributing to their comprehension of reality.
The research seminar not only showcased the students’ dedication but also highlighted the critical role nursing plays in the healthcare system. It’s an event that encourages students to explore innovative approaches to healthcare delivery and provides a platform for the exchange of knowledge and ideas.
‘As the Prince Mshiyeni Group, King Dinuzulu, and Addington continue to advance in their nursing, their achievements at this seminar will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for their future contributions to the field,’ said research lecturer in the Discipline Dr Hloli Chiya. ‘The event reinforces UKZN’s commitment to nurturing and empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals in South Africa and beyond,’ added Chiya.
