The recent Live Well and Wise health and wellness expo, an initiative hosted by the Health and the Student Counselling and Development centres on the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mafikeng Campus, aimed to remind students that their health is their responsibility.
To support them in this endeavour, the centres brought together various stakeholders from the local community to provide essential health information.
The expo featured a diverse range of stands and activities. Various health professionals, including dietitians and physiotherapists from the Mahikeng Provincial Hospital, offered advice on nutrition and physical therapy. Senior nursing staff manned a women’s health stand, engaging students with discussions and demonstrations on various topics, including the termination of pregnancies. The Health Centre’s sexual and reproductive health stand provided crucial information on sexual health, including medical male circumcision.
Lerato Wana from Student Counselling and Development says the aim was to ensure that students were aware of available health services.
“Various national and provincial departments also provided educational pamphlets, and the campus social worker – who is part of the provincial substance abuse forum – shared educational materials on drug rehabilitation on behalf of the SANPARK Drug and Rehabilitation Centre,” says Lerato.
During the expo nursing student volunteers conducted basic health screenings for hypertension and diabetes under the supervision of the acting head of the Health Centre. Peer helpers at the Student Counselling and Development Centre also manned a mental health stand, offering resources and support for mental well-being.
UNICEF and Amnesty International were also present, sharing information about their global work and engaging with students on important social issues.
“Jumping castles and slides added a fun twist to the event, letting students discover their inner child again. Red Bull also handed out free energy drinks to students who mastered the Siya Kolisi dance,” says Lerato.
She adds that the expo – directly after the semester tests – provided a much-needed break for students to relax and regroup before the mid-year assessments.
“By combining health education with playful activities, the event successfully underscored the importance of health in a fun and engaging manner. I believe the initiative not only educated but also rejuvenated students, equipping them with the knowledge and energy to take charge of their health.”
Lerato Wana from Student Counselling and Development.
Students are having fun on the jumping castles and slides.
