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29 Oct 2012

Eastern Cape learners’ health is no longer a responsibility of their parents alone as the Departments of Education (DoE) and Departments of Health (DoH) have joined hands to ensure a balanced and an integrated health is inculcated to these learners at a tender age.

Recently, a function held at the Schornvile primary introduced many parents to planning with an aim of creating a solid health foundation for these children. The event marked an end of a week long campaign by these provincial departments united in taking responsibility for the province’s children health.

During this national schools health week closing ceremony, Grades one, four, eight and 10 learners received onsite health screening by medical professional from the health department to ensure they are healthy. Additionally, health tips were provided to learners especially matriculants who were preparing for their final examinations.

Despite the diseases’ screening, some promotional material was circulated amongst these learners to raise awareness about the importance of leading healthy life styles during the function. Notwithstanding the seriousness of the day, learners were entertained by a puppet show before being released at 11 in the morning.

Gracing this function were dignitaries from various organisations like UNICEF, members of the Council of Churches, a local Lovelife team, parents and politicians who spoke in a single voice united for the sake of these children.

Opening remarks by the Programme Officer, Eastern Cape South African Council of Churches Boniswa Gujulwa from the Eastern Cape Council of Churches set the scene as she appealed for collective approach in helping all provincial learners.

Another speaker, Nomkhitha Sodlula from the Health Department spoke about the importance of revitalising school health. “There was once a DoE, the DoH partnership of this kind, lets revive it so that we can improve and reduce all barriers in bringing these services to learners. The success of this program needs support of all parties including parents and learners”, said Sodlula.

Issued by: Eastern Cape Education
29 Oct 2012

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