Demonstrating its commitment to student well-being and healthcare excellence Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) hosted a high-impact Sexual Reproductive Awareness Campaign. Over three days, students engaged in vital conversations on sexual health, mental well-being, and disease prevention—reinforcing SMU’s position as a leader in health sciences education and holistic student support.

 

Led by Campus Health and Counselling, the campaign was a bold initiative designed to equip students with essential knowledge about sexual and reproductive health, ensuring they make informed decisions about their well-being. More than just an educational exercise, the event provided free, on-site healthcare services, offering students tangible support beyond the classroom.

 

SMU’s impact was amplified through strategic collaborations with internal and external health organisations, including Ga-Rankuwa Young Adults Against HIV/AIDS, Syked, MIET Africa, Phedisong 4 Clinic, Phedisong 6 Clinic, and COSUP. These partnerships not only strengthened service delivery but also ensured that students received professional guidance from healthcare specialists.

 

• HIV testing and PrEP access – Students were encouraged to know their status and take preventive measures, an essential step in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
• Contraceptive services – Long-term options such as Implanon, injectable contraceptives, and oral contraceptives were made available, ensuring that students had control over their reproductive health.
• Pap smear screenings – Early detection of cervical cancer was prioritised, highlighting SMU’s proactive approach to women’s health.
• Comprehensive health checks – Blood pressure, glucose levels, height, and weight assessments provided a broader view of student wellness, reinforcing the link between reproductive and overall health.
• Substance abuse awareness – Educational sessions on alcohol and drug misuse tackled the impact of substance abuse on both mental and physical well-being.

 

The campaign’s interactive format ensured maximum student participation, with many embracing the opportunity to engage with healthcare professionals in a safe and stigma-free environment.

 

Breaking stigmas and empowering students

 

Beyond medical screenings, the initiative fostered open and candid conversations on topics often considered taboo, breaking long-standing stigmas surrounding sexual and reproductive health. Students not only accessed healthcare but also received evidence-based guidance on safe sexual practices, STI prevention, and family planning.

 

Student testimonials reflected the campaign’s profound impact. One student remarked, “I attended to learn more about sexual health and safe practices. The information was easy to understand, and I even got tested for HIV because I wanted to know my status.” Another student called for broader awareness, stating: “I feel more informed about sexual and reproductive health after attending. There were no challenges in accessing services, but more promotion a week in advance would help reach even more students.”

 

Recognising the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, Syked, an online wellness company, participated in the campaign to bridge the gap between mental wellness and reproductive health. Their counselling services reinforced the message that mental health is just as important as physical well-being. Bongiwe Gambu, a Therapist at Syked, emphasised the critical role of mental stability in academic success: “Mental wellness and being able to achieve your goals means you are able to accomplish better things, like improving your academic performance.”

 

By integrating mental health support into the broader health campaign, SMU is setting a national standard for holistic student healthcare—a reflection of its commitment to nurturing well-rounded health professionals and leaders.

 

The Sexual Reproductive Awareness Campaign was more than just a three-day event—it was a resounding statement of SMU’s proactive role in shaping student health and well-being. Looking ahead, SMU is committed to expanding its health education efforts, with plans for more frequent discussions, peer education programmes, and increased collaborations with healthcare organisations.

 

Health Promoter Kelebogile Nonkwelo encouraged students to utilise the university’s resources: “Students are urged to take advantage of the ongoing health services available at the Campus Health and Counselling Centre to ensure they make informed decisions about their health and well-being.”

 

SMU continues to lead the way in student-focused healthcare initiatives, ensuring that its graduates not only excel academically but also understand the critical importance of health advocacy, public awareness, and personal responsibility. By embedding health education, accessibility, and innovation into student life, SMU is not just educating future medical professionals—it is empowering them to be catalysts for change in their communities.

By Musa Msibi

Photography by Khanyi Nkosi