Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) reaffirmed its commitment to community engagement and preventative healthcare when Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in Occupational Health Nursing students commemorated World Hypertension Day 2026 through a health promotion and awareness programme at the Itireleng Residential Facility for the Disabled. Aligned with this year’s global theme, “Controlling Hypertension Together,” the initiative equipped employees with practical knowledge to prevent, detect, and manage high blood pressure, while giving students valuable hands-on experience in occupational health practice.
Led by PGDip Occupational Health Nursing students Elizabeth Baloyi-Shibure and Sisanda Tivana, the outreach programme demonstrated the University’s commitment to producing healthcare professionals who combine academic excellence with meaningful community service. Through health education, advocacy and engagement, the students translated classroom learning into practical interventions that promote healthier workplaces and communities.
Hypertension remains one of the leading risk factors for cardiovascular disease globally and is often described as the “silent killer” because it frequently develops without noticeable symptoms. If left undiagnosed or poorly managed, it can lead to serious health complications, including stroke, heart disease and kidney failure.
Delivering the keynote address, Phuthutshedzo Lungisani, a Dietician at Mediclinic Legae, highlighted the vital role of nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices in preventing and controlling hypertension. He encouraged participants to adopt balanced diets, reduce salt intake, remain physically active and make sustainable lifestyle changes to improve their long-term health.
“The theme ‘Controlling Hypertension Together’ reminds us that the fight against hypertension extends beyond healthcare facilities. It requires collaboration between healthcare professionals, employers, families and individuals. Through education, healthier lifestyle choices and regular screening, we can significantly reduce the burden of hypertension within our communities,” he said.
The programme was organised under the guidance of Lorato Manyeneng, Lecturer in the PGDip Occupational Health Nursing programme at SMU, who emphasised the importance of preventative healthcare in reducing the impact of non-communicable diseases. She encouraged employees to prioritise routine health assessments and make informed decisions that support lifelong wellbeing.
“Prevention remains one of the most effective strategies in addressing non-communicable diseases such as hypertension. By empowering individuals with knowledge and encouraging early detection, we can improve health outcomes and enhance quality of life,” said Manyeneng.
She also commended the students for demonstrating professionalism and leadership while serving the community.
“As future occupational health practitioners, our students have a responsibility to promote health and wellbeing in workplaces and communities. Today’s initiative demonstrates the important role nurses play in educating, empowering and supporting individuals to take charge of their health,” she added.
Adding a multidisciplinary perspective to the programme, physiotherapist Kabelo Nyalungu, from Kabelo Nyalungu Physiotherapy, highlighted the importance of regular physical activity in maintaining cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of chronic illnesses.
“Physical activity is one of the most accessible and effective interventions for controlling hypertension. Even moderate exercise performed consistently can contribute significantly to better cardiovascular health, reduced stress levels and improved quality of life,” he said.
Employees participated in blood pressure screenings, health education sessions and interactive discussions with students and healthcare professionals. The programme encouraged participants to take greater responsibility for their health while reinforcing the importance of regular screening and healthy lifestyle choices in preventing hypertension.
The outreach initiative was undertaken under the leadership of Dr Andile Mokoena de-Beer, Acting Head of the Nursing Science Department at SMU, and reflects the Department’s commitment to developing competent, compassionate healthcare professionals who respond to pressing public health challenges through education, advocacy and service. By combining academic learning with community engagement, SMU continues to advance its vision of transforming health services through excellence and innovation while preparing graduates to improve the health and wellbeing of communities across South Africa.
By Dimakatso Modise
