Abstract: Submission #195

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic brought in its wake unforeseen challenges in higher education. Many institutions of higher learning prohibited contact learning and introduced the concept of online learning in institutions of higher learning. Distance learning which is generally known as online learning plays a vital role in the country's education system. It is undeniable that online learning provides ample of benefits to students. Nevertheless, there are also many negative implications from online education. The University of KwaZulu-Natal faced challenges with online learning for undergraduate students. This paper intends to review challenges faced by students who used online learning as a core medium of learning during COVID-19 pandemic. The study was underpinned by the theory of teaching and learning. The study adopted the literature review approach using various sources to interrogate challenges of online learning on undergraduate students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Several challenges have been identified and these issues have to be resolved in order to sustain the quality of education for future generations. The study suggested that the institutions of higher learning must invest in devising and improving the existing online learning platforms, as well as expanding provision of internet access and provide training for the students.