Health Sciences

Grade 10 SETH learners explore occupational hygiene hands-on at the NWU

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 13:45:59 +0000

Grade 10 SETH learners explore occupational hygiene hands-on at the NWU BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 04/24/2025 - 15:45

On 10 April 2025, a group of Grade 10 learners from the SETH Academy at Hoërskool Ferdinand Postma visited the Faculty of Health Sciences at the North-West University (NWU) for an exciting hands-on experience in occupational hygiene. The session, hosted by the Occupational Hygiene and Health Research Initiative (OHHRI), gave the learners the chance to see first-hand how occupational hygienists play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy work environment.

The learners were guided through a series of experiments in which they used specialised instruments to test everyday items for lead and nickel content. The hands-on activities sparked their curiosity and provided a unique opportunity to see the science they have been learning about in action. The experience gave them an in-depth understanding of how the environment in workplaces – from offices to factories – can directly impact health. The session was educational, but fun and engaging. It is a fantastic example of how experiential learning can inspire young minds to pursue careers that make a real difference in the world.

“The learners really enjoyed the session and found it very insightful,” said a representative from the SETH programme. “We appreciate the continuous collaboration with the NWU, and the efforts by Ms Ansulé Engelbrecht and Mr Clyde Uren were invaluable in making this session such a success.”

The NWU Faculty of Health Sciences and OHHRI value these kinds of engagements with schools and communities. There is a need for real-world learning experiences that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. By offering such opportunities, the NWU hopes to raise a next generation of professionals who will be more than equipped to tackle harsh realities and real challenges in the health and safety sectors.

North-West University medical school named the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 13:06:25 +0000

North-West University medical school named the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 04/22/2025 - 15:06

The North-West University (NWU) is proud to announce that its soon-to-be-established medical school will be honorifically named the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine.

This decision was taken in consultation with – and received the approval of – the Archbishop Desmond Tutu IP Trust.

The official naming ceremony took place on Tuesday, 22 April, at the Capital on the Park Hotel in Sandton. The name was unveiled by Dr Anna Mokgokong, Chancellor of the NWU, Bert Sorgdrager, Chairperson of the NWU Council, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the NWU and Dr Mamphela Ramphele, Chairperson of the Archbishop Desmond Tutu IP Trust.

The illustrious ceremony was further graced by the presence of the Honourable Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, Premier of the North West Province, Lazarus Mokgosi, as well as various bishops of the Anglican Church.

Dr Ramphele reminded those in attendance of Archbishop Tutu’s early wish to become a doctor before receiving a higher calling, stating that it is fitting that “Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s name will now live on in every graduate of the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine.”

She also spoke of his unwavering commitment to the spirit of ubuntu.

“It is the obligation of the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine to live up to the values of ubuntu, and it is the responsibility of its students to meet the high standards that Desmond Tutu would have approved of.”

Premier Mokgosi reflected on Archbishop Tutu’s role as a moral compass during the liberation struggle. “His teachings must continue to galvanise and guide us to be solution-driven citizens.”

The NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine will be the 11th medical school in South Africa. The project is a collaborative effort between the NWU, the North West Department of Health, and private sector stakeholders. One of its main aims is to address the severe shortage of healthcare practitioners in the province, while providing a base for the growth of the country’s medical expertise.

NWU Chairperson of Council, Bert Sorgdrager, said the decision to name the medical school in honour of the Nobel Peace Prize laureate was made not only to recognise Archbishop Tutu’s lifelong contributions to the country, but also to create an enduring connection between his legacy and the values, character, and graduate attributes the university seeks to instil in future graduates of the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine.

“Desmond Tutu espoused core values that guided his life and work. Central to his philosophy was the belief in every individual's intrinsic worth and dignity, irrespective of race, creed, or background. His commitment to human rights and equality was deeply rooted in the principle of ubuntu, which emphasises interconnectedness, compassion, and the idea that ‘I am because we are’. Desmond Tutu championed non-violence as a means of achieving social and political change, drawing inspiration from his faith. His approach to conflict resolution and reconciliation was grounded in the belief that forgiveness and understanding could overcome deep-seated divisions.”

Dr Mokgokong highlighted South Africa’s current doctor-to-patient ratio, which stands at approximately 0.31 doctors per 1,000 people, and a nurse-to-patient ratio of about 4.59 nurses per 1,000. She noted that these, among other urgent healthcare challenges, are what the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine aims to address.

“We are not merely building a school of bricks and mortar, we are laying the foundation for something much greater and more enduring. Today we open doors that will never close. Doors of opportunity, healing, compassion, and transformation. That is also why we have chosen the name of Archbishop Desmond Tutu. He was not only a man of faith and moral courage, but also a fierce advocate for justice, equality, and human dignity. He understood, better than most, that the essence of humanity lies in our capacity to care, to heal, and to uplift one another. His life’s work taught us that no barrier is too great, no injustice too entrenched, and no dream too distant to be realised through perseverance and unity,” she said.

Prof Tyobeka added that the future of medicine is interconnected, and that the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine will play a vital role in shaping it.

“At the foundation of this medical school stand three unwavering pillars: undergraduate and postgraduate training, research, and engaged scholarship. Through world-class education via the MBChB and MMed degrees, we will nurture the next generation of medical professionals. Through rigorous research, we will push the boundaries of medical science and discovery. Through engaged scholarship, we will ensure that our knowledge does not remain confined within academic walls, but actively uplifts communities and strengthens health systems in the North West province and across South Africa. These pillars are not merely conceptual; they are commitments that will define our impact. Now that the NWU has a medical school, we stand at the threshold of exciting global opportunities. Medical education thrives on collaboration across borders, and we intend to establish international partnerships with leading medical schools and research institutions.”

The first intake of students for the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine is scheduled for 2028.

NWU master's-degree student explores cultural competence and healthcare interactions in Belgium

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 13:53:35 +0000

NWU master's-degree student explores cultural competence and healthcare interactions in Belgium BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 04/16/2025 - 15:53

The Faculty of Health Sciences values global learning experiences that shape well-rounded professionals. One of our master’s-degree nursing students, Zwothe Muthabeni, recently had the opportunity to participate in an international nursing internship in Belgium, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of cultural diversity and healthcare.

Belgium, renowned for its multicultural identity and strong healthcare system, provided an ideal setting for exploring intercultural competence in healthcare. The experience allowed Zwothe to grow both professionally and personally, offering key insights into the challenges and opportunities of working in a diverse healthcare environment.

During the internship, Zwothe gained first-hand experience at Jessa Hospital and White Yellow Cross, organisations committed to patient-centred care. The experience involved navigating language barriers, adapting to cultural practices and learning how to provide care in a system that values inclusivity and holistic treatment.

"Through this experience, I have learned the importance of cultural competence in nursing," said Zwothe. "It is about more than just speaking the language; it is about understanding the nuances of a culture and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. My time in Belgium has shaped my approach to patient care and emphasised the importance of flexibility, adaptability and compassion in the healthcare setting."

The internship highlighted the stark contrast between Belgium’s well-resourced healthcare system and South Africa’s challenges, particularly in rural areas. The experience underscored the importance of flexibility and creative problem-solving in settings with limited resources. It also reinforced the significance of patient-centred care, where the emotional, spiritual and physical needs of patients are prioritised.

Belgium’s healthcare system, underpinned by its social insurance model, offers an excellent example of how cultural sensitivity can enhance patient care. Zwothe’s work in home-based care, in particular, demonstrated how culturally informed care can improve patient outcomes, strengthen relationships and foster trust.

In addition, the opportunity to immerse herself in Belgium’s rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions was invaluable. Zwothe participated in a variety of international events, gaining first-hand experience of the country's commitment to fostering intercultural dialogue and collaboration.

The Faculty of Health Sciences commends students like Zwothe, who take the initiative to learn and grow through real-world experiences. Our goal is to prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals to work effectively in global settings, equipped with the skills and knowledge to provide compassionate care to individuals from all walks of life.

Zwothe Muthabeni

‘Assume that I can’: putting a spotlight on Down Syndrome awareness

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:15:02 +0000

‘Assume that I can’: putting a spotlight on Down Syndrome awareness

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 04/16/2025 - 12:15

Society tends to have low expectations of people with Down Syndrome, a genetic condition that affects the development of the brain. Such perceptions are unfair and uncalled for, according to the international advertising campaign titled “Assume that I can”, which challenges widely held stereotypes of Down Syndrome.

The North-West University (NWU) has added its weight to the global call for greater Down Syndrome awareness. On 21 March 2025, a day that celebrated human rights and World Down Syndrome Day, the NWU turned classrooms and community halls into spaces of learning, sharing and unlearning long-held misconceptions.

In partnership with the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA), the NWU’s Science Centre and the School of Nursing, hosted two public lectures, one in the Tsetse community and another on the Mahikeng Campus, under the theme "Celebrating diversity: We are all unique".

Nursing science lecturers and professional nurses Kgomotso Mathope and Modiegi Motlhokodi addressed the medical and social aspects of Down Syndrome for a diverse audience of community members, students and educators.

“Down Syndrome is not the result of anything a mother did or did not do during pregnancy,” said Kgomotso, at the Tsetse session. “It is a chromosomal condition, and early understanding helps reduce stigma.”

Modiegi explained the available diagnostic tools for expectant mothers and emphasised the importance of inclusive community practices. “Participation in activities such as sports is important. These individuals have abilities that can be developed and supported,”

Attendees raised questions ranging from educational inclusion to reproductive health and support systems for families. Some parents shared personal experiences of raising children with Down Syndrome, which, according to the organisers, added depth to the discussions.

Later in the evening, the lecture was repeated for NWU students and staff on the Mahikeng Campus. The session included a screening of the “Assume that I can” awareness video, prompting reflection and engagement from the audience.

“These conversations are necessary, especially on a day when we reflect on rights, dignity and the value of every individual,” said Kgomotso.

Nursing science lecturers and professional nurses Kgomotso Mathope and Modiegi Motlhokodi addressed the medical and social aspects of Down Syndrome on World Down Syndrome Day.

NWU Extramural Unit for Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease granted a five-year extension

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 09:51:28 +0000

NWU Extramural Unit for Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease granted a five-year extension BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 04/15/2025 - 11:51

The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) has granted a five-year extension to the SAMRC/NWU Extramural Unit (EMU) for Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease, effective from the beginning of April 2025. This decision follows a successful review process and highlights the crucial role of the unit in addressing the burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in South Africa.

The review panel highlighted the valuable contributions of the EMU to research on hypertension and cardiovascular health, recognising its work in advancing clinical, pathophysiological and epidemiological knowledge. The SAMRC/NWU EMU focuses on understanding the development of CVD, from early detection in children to more advanced stages in the elderly, exploring genetic and lifestyle factors unique to South African communities. Its research aims to reduce CVD prevalence through early intervention, improved public health initiatives and evidence-based strategies tailored to the South African context.

In addition to its research contributions, the EMU has been committed to community engagement through initiatives such as May Measurement Month, a global hypertension awareness campaign and educational programmes that promote healthy lifestyles to prevent CVD. The EMU also works closely with schools, clinics and workplaces, sharing information on how individuals can reduce their risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Prof Marlien Pieters, the director of the SAMRC/NWU EMU, expressed her enthusiasm about the extension, sharing that it is a significant recognition of their team’s ongoing dedication to improving the health outcomes of South Africans. It enables them to continue critical work in understanding and preventing CVDs, particularly in the context of our diverse population.

As South Africa faces a growing challenge with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including CVDs, the SAMRC/NWU EMU is well positioned to contribute to the country’s health goals. With support from both the SAMRC and the NWU, the unit continues to play a pivotal role in shaping policies, developing treatment guidelines and delivering public health strategies that aim to reduce CVD prevalence and improve the quality of life of South Africans.

Prof Marlien Pieters

Seminar explores coloniality of academic freedom in South Africa’s higher-education sector

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 08:26:29 +0000

Seminar explores coloniality of academic freedom in South Africa’s higher-education sector

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 04/10/2025 - 10:26

In a noteworthy seminar hosted by the School of Social Sciences at the North-West University (NWU) on Friday, 4 April, Dr Pedro Mzileni, a senior lecturer in the Department of Sociology at the University of Zululand, delivered a captivating case study on the “Coloniality of academic freedom” in South Africa’s higher-education sector.

In the light of his personal experience as a Sociology lecturer at the University of the Free State (UFS) from November 2022 to December 2023, Dr Mzileni offered a blunt critique of the ways in which certain universities still suppress African-centred research. He reflected on the systematic challenges he faced while advocating for decolonial, Afrocentric, Pan-African, feminist, and Black Consciousness-aligned perspectives in his academic work.

Dr Mzileni argued that although section 16 of the South African Constitution promises academic freedom, scholars whose research challenges colonial legacies and racialised systems do not equally enjoy this freedom.

“Universities, influenced by historical practices, sometimes emphasise specific cultural perspectives over others. This can unintentionally marginalise diverse cultural and intellectual heritages, impacting students' sense of belonging and their ability to contribute to their communities,” he stated.

He challenged what he perceives as the restrictive research topics imposed on black academics such as potholes and service delivery, and state capture. Dr Pedro describes these topics as diversions from more profound, unresolved questions about systemic racism, academic violence and land dispossession.

“Once you challenge the legacy of land expropriation or advocate for Pan-Africanist thought, the system resists because you are no longer centring whiteness. You are exposing a historical imbalance that remains largely unaddressed.”

Dr Mzileni’s experience at the UFS, marked by what he described as institutional abuse, harassment and racial discrimination, which led to his official suspension, served as the foundation of his case study. He emphasised the importance of academic communities resisting intellectual silencing. “I would have not made it through without a community of scholars committed to truth and justice. We need collective support to stand against institutional marginalisation.”

Dr Pedro argued that his vison for the role of academics in society should be to go beyond the pursuit of neutral knowledge. “Being an academic means having the courage to name injustices, to clarify uncomfortable truths, and to voice what society is often afraid to confront,” he added.

His concluding remarks were a bold call for action: “Academic freedom must not be reduced to a professional courtesy. It is a human right, and we must safeguard it, particularly for those speaking from margins of power, who represent the voices of historically excluded communities.”

The seminar brought together academics and students from across South Africa to reflect on how the promise of transformation in higher education remains incomplete without addressing the lasting impacts of colonialism and systematic racism. Dr Mzileni’s insights were a reminder that the fight for educational justice is still ongoing, and that academic solidarity is essential to bringing about meaningful change.

Dr Pedro Mzileni

Researchers explore the environmental impact of HIV-ARVs on South Africa’s water systems

MARELIZE SANTANA — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:12:14 +0000

Researchers explore the environmental impact of HIV-ARVs on South Africa’s water systems MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 04/04/2025 - 14:12

By: Gofaone Motsamai

NWU researchers have completed a groundbreaking study that sheds light on the environmental implications of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) in South Africa’s water resources. The report, “Quantification, fate, and hazard assessment of HIV-ARVs in water resources”, was submitted to the Water Research Commission (WRC) and is the most comprehensive study to date on the issue.

The research was conducted by the NWU’s Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management and the Africa Unit for Transdisciplinary Health Research. The team of experts included Prof Suranie Horn, Prof Rialet Pieters, Prof Henk Bouwman and Prof Petra Bester, among others. Their collaborative effort combined expertise from environmental, health and social sciences to address this pressing issue.

The study revealed significant concentrations of ARVs in water sources, particularly downstream of wastewater treatment plants. The drugs most frequently detected were lopinavir and efavirenz, with concentrations at some sites far exceeding global norms. This is attributed to South Africa’s large-scale HIV treatment programme, the most extensive of its kind worldwide.

The research highlighted alarming effects on aquatic ecosystems and wastewater management systems. Freshwater snails exposed to ARVs exhibited altered embryonic development, while bacteriophages – viruses critical to controlling bacteria in wastewater treatment – were significantly impacted.

Such disruptions could lead to bacterial bloom and reduced water quality. The report noted: "The consumption of any type of exogenous drug by any organism in sufficient quantities may intervene with the regulation of metabolic systems and bring about adverse effects. The presence of antiretrovirals in water can be considered a hidden or latent risk."

Further, the study highlighted the potential risks for human health: "Humans are also exposed to these compounds via drinking water, and at concentrations exceeding calculated hazard quotients. Although not found in this study, humans and other organisms may potentially ingest antiretrovirals and their breakdown products via aquatic organisms such as fish."

The team employed state-of-the-art analytical methods, including liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, to quantify ARV levels in water. Their work also involved biological assays to assess the toxicological impacts of ARVs on non-target organisms and hazard assessments to evaluate risks to human health.

The findings

The study found that concentrations of ARVs in some water sources exceeded acceptable thresholds, posing potential long-term health risks to humans. The research team emphasised that current wastewater treatment processes are inadequate for removing these bioactive compounds, highlighting the need for technological advancements.

The report presented to the WRC includes several key recommendations. These include developing regulatory guidelines for ARV concentrations in water, improving wastewater treatment technologies, and conducting further research to understand the long-term ecological and human health impacts of these pharmaceuticals. In addition, the team advocates a multidisciplinary approach to address the intersections of public health and environmental sustainability.

This research marks a pivotal step in addressing the environmental consequences of pharmaceutical pollution. By documenting the unintended impacts of ARV treatments, the team has provided critical insights to policymakers and environmental scientists. Their work underscores the importance of balancing the need for widespread HIV treatment programmes with the necessity of protecting South Africa’s water resources and ecosystems.

This study sets a benchmark for future research, placing the NWU at the forefront of addressing environmental challenges linked to public health initiatives.

Prof Jacques Petzer honoured as Best Examiner by SAPC

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:41:57 +0000

Prof Jacques Petzer honoured as Best Examiner by SAPC

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 04/02/2025 - 09:41

The North-West University (NWU) continues to shine in academic excellence as Prof Jacques Petzer, professor in Pharmaceutical Chemistry in the Faculty of Health Sciences, has been recognised as the Best Examiner in professional exams for 2024 by the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC).

This prestigious honour celebrates Prof Petzer’s dedication, expertise and years of contributing to ensuring high standards in professional pharmacy examinations. Having served as an examiner since 2012, Prof Petzer has played a key role in evaluating foreign-qualified pharmacists, ensuring they meet the standards required to practise in South Africa.

“It has always been the goal to set a high-quality examination that evaluates the candidate’s ability to apply pharmaceutical knowledge rather than reproduce specific knowledge,” Prof Petzer said.

“The main challenge is to set an exam that assesses the core concepts of pharmaceutical and medicinal chemistry – of which a candidate should have a deep understanding, rather than specific textbook knowledge. Many candidates are practising pharmacists and have been exposed to pharmaceutical and medicinal chemistry only during their undergraduate training.”

Prof Petzer shared his surprise and gratitude at receiving the recognition, emphasising that it serves as motivation to continue his commitment to the field. “The accolade gives recognition for the numerous years that I have been involved with the professional examination, while also representing the privilege of being part of the task team,” he stated.

Beyond assessing examinations, Prof Petzer works with a task team that is dedicated to maintaining and upholding professional pharmacy norms and standards. His expertise ensures that future pharmacists are well-prepared to serve communities with excellence.

“The aim of the professional examination is to uphold acceptable norms and standards of pharmacy practice by evaluating the ability of pharmacists with foreign qualifications to apply pharmaceutical knowledge in the practice environment.”

In accepting this honour, Prof Petzer says he is privileged to be a member of the NWU community. “The NWU has provided me with the opportunity to follow an academic career path and has greatly supported my research activities,” he concluded.

As the NWU celebrates this outstanding achievement, the Faculty of Health Sciences continues to produce innovators in the field of pharmacy. With his award-winning contributions, Prof Petzer remains a pillar of academic excellence.

Prof Jacques Petzer is an active researcher in the Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen ™) and his research interest focuses on the design of small molecule therapeutics for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.

Scientific diagnosis takes the guesswork out of disease control

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 06:46:51 +0000

Scientific diagnosis takes the guesswork out of disease control

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 03/19/2025 - 08:46

A disease without a diagnosis is a battle fought in the dark. Without precise diagnostic tools, treatment decisions become guesswork, prevention efforts lack direction and disease control remains ineffective. This was the core message of Prof Oriel Thekisoe’s inaugural lecture at the North-West University (NWU).

“Diagnosis is the foundation of disease control,” said Prof Thekisoe during his lecture on 6 March 2025 at the Potchefstroom Campus. “It determines the effectiveness of treatment and guides prevention strategies.”

Prof Thekisoe, a molecular biologist in the subject group Zoology, outlined how diagnostics play a role at every stage of disease control. Clinical signs and symptoms serve as an initial indicator, but laboratory tests confirm the presence of infectious agents in humans and animals. While traditional methods such as microscopy and serological assays are still widely used, advancements in DNA-based technologies have improved accuracy and sensitivity.

“Microscopy is still the mainstay of diagnostics, but DNA-based assays offer more precision,” he said. “Techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) allow for early detection.”

His research has contributed to developing DNA-based diagnostic assays targeting specific gene fragments of various diseases, including trypanosomosis, theileriosis and Newcastle disease. These technologies have implications for large-scale epidemiological studies, vaccination programmes and quarantine measures.

Prof Thekisoe emphasised that effective disease control requires continuous diagnostic monitoring. After treatment, follow-up diagnostics assess the success of interventions. Prevention strategies, such as vaccination campaigns, also rely on diagnostics to measure impact.

“Without diagnostics, we are blind in our efforts to control disease,” he said. “It is the tool that enables informed decision-making.”

The lecture highlighted collaborations with researchers working on improving diagnostic accuracy for human and animal diseases. These partnerships have advanced the development of diagnostic tools for conditions such as bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis.

As global health threats evolve, the need for robust diagnostic systems is amplified. “Investment in diagnostic innovation is investment in disease control,” said Prof Thekisoe. “It is the first step toward effective health management.”

Prof Oriel Thekisoe.

A reflection on the state of social work in South Africa

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 07:18:05 +0000

A reflection on the state of social work in South Africa

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 03/18/2025 - 09:18

As we consider the urgent issues confronting social work in South Africa, it is evident that the profession is at a crucial turning point. On 18 March we commemorate World Social Work Day, and this year’s theme – “Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Well-being” – serves as a timely reminder of the vital role that social workers play in our communities.

However, the challenges they encounter risk undermining their efforts and compromising the well-being of those they serve.

One of the foremost advocates in this field, Prof Hanelie Malan – an associate professor, promoter, and Social Work subject group leader at the North-West University (NWU), emphasises that investing in social work is not merely a matter of funding.

“It is about recognising the immeasurable value that social workers bring to our society. They are the backbone of our social support systems, yet they are often underappreciated and under-resourced.”

Prof Malan’s words echo the sentiments of many professionals who have witnessed the impact of inadequate support first-hand. Social workers in South Africa are grappling with many challenges, including a rising demand for services alongside severe budget cuts. In a country where more than 9 000 qualified social workers are unemployed, the gap between need and available resources is glaring. Recent statistics highlight this crisis: despite the South African Council for Social Service Professions registering thousands of new social workers every year, the number of active practitioners remains alarmingly low. The emotional toll on social workers cannot be overstated. They often find themselves in emotionally charged environments where they must support individuals facing severe adversities -elderly clients, children in distress and victims of domestic violence, to name a few.

Prof Koketso Matlakala, senior lecturer and acting subject group deputy leader at the NWU points out: “The work we do is not only about providing services; it is about building relationships and fostering resilience. Yet how can we do that when we are overstretched and underfunded?” This strain leads to burnout and high turnover rates, compromising the ability of seasoned professionals to mentor newcomers effectively. In addition, workplace safety remains a pressing concern. Many social workers operate in high-crime areas, facing significant personal risks. The urgent need for systemic changes, including stronger workplace protection, is clear. “If we do not prioritise the safety of our social workers, we risk losing not only experienced practitioners but also the trust of the communities we serve,” says Dr Lucé Pretorius. Investing in social work means investing in society’s future. It requires a concerted effort to improve funding, provide adequate training and ensure workplace safety for these essential professionals. "A well-supported social work sector can create lasting change, fostering resilient communities that thrive together,” advocates Dr Pretorious.

Advocacy for social workers must not be relegated to one day per year; it should be a continuous commitment to recognising their contributions and addressing their needs. Only through substantial investment, emotional and financial support can we hope to strengthen intergenerational solidarity for enduring well-being in South Africa. Senior lecturer in social work Marelize Vergottini’s call to action resonates powerfully today. “Let us stand together to elevate the profession of social work. It is time to extend our support beyond rhetoric and into tangible actions that empower social workers and the communities they serve.”