Mental-health support and access to basic hygiene resources took centre stage when Khayalethu Residence at the North-West University (NWU) carried out a community outreach project at Molelwane Secondary School, combining a structured mental-health intervention with a sanitary pad-donation drive.

The outreach, held on 1 May, formed part of a three-year partnership between Khayalethu Residence and the school, initiated in 2025. The programme was designed in response to challenges identified during earlier engagements, including limited access to menstrual-hygiene products and a lack of exposure to academic and psychosocial support systems for learners.

Molelwane Secondary was identified as a disadvantaged institution where some learners faced barriers to essential resources and opportunities. In response, Khayalethu Residence, a male residence at the NWU, mobilised students and stakeholders to collect sanitary pads through its “Pad the Way Drive”, aimed at improving access to menstrual-hygiene products and supporting consistent school attendance among girl learners.

Speaking on behalf of the Khayalethu Residence committee, community and stakeholder engagement officer Tony Mhlongo said the outreach was driven by a shared commitment to community impact and student-led change. Through ongoing engagement with Molelwane Secondary School, the committee identified the school as a marginalised institution where some learners struggled to access basic essentials such as sanitary pads. In response, the residence mobilised its members to collect sanitary pads and organise a pad drive in support of the school.

The outreach programme also prioritised learner well-being. A mental-health session for Grade 12 learners was facilitated by NWU psychologist Letlhogonolo Shibambo from Student Counselling and Development, creating a platform for learners to engage on issues of stress, pressure and future uncertainty. The session focused on equipping learners with coping mechanisms and reinforcing that academic results do not define their entire future.

In addition, a menstrual-health talk was facilitated by Thabang Mogorosi from the GOALLOUT organisation, addressing stigma, awareness and education around menstrual hygiene. The session aimed to normalise conversations around menstruation while empowering learners with knowledge and confidence.

Beyond the donation drive, the outreach included academic motivation sessions led by NWU representatives, aimed at encouraging learners to pursue higher education and to understand the opportunities available beyond secondary school.

By integrating health, education and resource support, the Khayalethu outreach demonstrated how student-led initiatives addressed both immediate needs and longer-term development, while strengthening the relationship between the university and surrounding communities.

The Khayalethu Residence at the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus carried out a community outreach project at Molelwane Secondary School.