Unisa peer education programme a first for South Africa

Unisa’s Office of the Dean of Students, in collaboration with Higher Health, presented a peer education programme from 15 to 19 July 2024. The following topics were covered: understanding HIV/TB/STIs prevention and treatment, sexual reproductive health rights, dealing with gender-based violence on campus, mental health, substance abuse prevention and resources, gender diversity, and disability inclusion.

Click here to watch a presentation on the programme.

Of the 2 854 students who enrolled to participate, 1 085 were active participants. Through outreach efforts in 40 locations across South Africa, 16 000 community members were reached.

The Higher Health peer education programme is a volunteer training initiative that aims to empower Unisa students to be proactive in health and wellness awareness and peer-to-peer support, contributing to the student community.

The core team that implemented the training programme for peer educators was led by Lizette le Roux (Unisa Project Leader for Higher Health), Tebogo Mangope (Project Coordinator), and Siphiwe Ndlovu (Project Administrator). The Academic Development Open Virtual Hub (ADHOV) assisted with the creation of the training platform under the leadership of Dr Denzil Chetty, Richard Wright, and David Harpestad. Training support was provided by Higher Health, guided by Stephanie Hendry and Oziel Mdletshe.

Relevance of the peer educators within Unisa and learning outcomes

Students are allowed to acquire specialised skills and demonstrate professional and educational expertise.

Relevance

• Holistic approach – Students learnt vital skills such as critical thinking, emotional intelligence, creativity and leadership skills.
• Diversity – Inclusivity was fostered by working with students and community members from diverse backgrounds.
• Presentation skills – The real-world experience prepared students for their workplace or business environment.

Learning outcomes

• Critical thinking and creativity
• Effective communication
• Teamwork
• Collaboration
• Confidentiality
• Community-based support
• Time management
• Technology skills
• Empathy

Participant success stories

Fungiswa Cekwana: During the peer education training programme, I initially felt nervous about engaging with people, especially when tasked with spreading awareness in the community. The uncertainty of gaining and holding the attention of participants was challenging. However, with the support of Ms Mangope and Ms Ndlovu, I was able to plan effectively and move forward with confidence.

Macbeth Valley Mathebula:  On the day of my in-contact session at IETI Roodepoort, I started off a bit anxious, especially when the group seemed disinterested at first. But as the conversation progressed, they gradually became more engaged. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and adapting to the audience's needs. The positive feedback from both students and management, along with the lessons learnt about gender-based violence and the impact of alcohol, reinforced the value of the training.

The experience was rewarding, and I am now more encouraged and inspired to collaborate with other peer educators to continue spreading awareness.

Lefentse Mohlaka: I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunity extended to students to engage in the peer education programme. It has been a highly enriching and insightful initiative.

The programme had a positive impact on students' personal and professional lives, community health and peer-to-peer engagement.

* By Tebogo Mangope, Acting Manager: Student Social Development