This co-curricular initiative is a collaborative endeavour involving Higher Health, the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), and the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority, which seeks to tackle youth-related issues such as teenage pregnancy and Gender-Based Violence.
Two UMP students, Mamelodi Mphasha and Silindokuhle Xulu, emerged victorious in the competition to participate in the National Higher Health Civic Education and Health Skills Programme, and were trained and have received certificates, affirming their preparedness to contribute to community development, alongside their academic qualifications certifying their readiness for the workforce.
Ms Xulu, pursuing a BA Honours in Psychology and serving as the chairperson of the UMP Peer Educators, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, "I am grateful to be part of the Civic Education and Health Skills course. The course is interesting, and I have gained a lot."
Reflecting on her personal growth, Xulu mentioned benefiting from improved problem-solving and time-management skills. "The civic education course became a very useful tool for me to gain knowledge on health matters," she added.
The two students trained in the co-curriculur programme are ready for the workforce.
Mphasha, a third-year Bachelor of Administration student and Peer Educator, described her experience in the programme as incredibly rewarding, offering valuable insights into civic engagement, education, and public health.
"I gained knowledge of the socioeconomic determinants of health and the function of advocacy in addressing those issues."
The programme fosters collaboration and teamwork among participants, creating a positive learning environment. Xulu highlighted the opportunity to interact with students from various universities across the country, enriching her perspective.
About the Civic Health Skills Programme
The co-curriculum is accessible to all students and staff registered in the Post School Education and Training sector, irrespective of their NQF Level. It encompasses modules such as Civic Education, Gender-based Violence, Gender Equality and Diversity, and Transforming Mentalities.
It was launched by Dr Blade Nzimande, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology. The co-curriculum is available in all 12 official languages, including sign language, and also offers 10 soft skills required by employers, such as active listening, conflict resolution, decision-making, and digital literacy.
The co-curriculum aims to address pertinent issues facing youth today, including health, mental health, and social challenges, as well as Gender-Based Violence, while instilling values of respect, compassion, community building, and commitment to social causes.
Ultimately, initiatives like the Civic Education and Health Skills Programme contribute to fostering good citizenship and voter education among the youth, driving social transformation in our country.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.