Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) students are making a tangible difference in local education. Four final-year Occupational Therapy students recently led an awareness campaign at Lesolang Primary School in Ga-Rankuwa, focusing on specific learning disorder (SLD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The initiative, part of the students’ paediatric group project, was supervised by lecturer Dr Teresia Dzhugudzha and clinical supervisor Modiegi Temane. It aimed to equip foundation phase teachers and parents with the knowledge to identify early signs of learning and attention difficulties.
“Early recognition of SLD and ADHD is critical,” said Dr Dzhugudzha. “By providing teachers and parents with practical tools, we can ensure children receive timely support, improving their learning outcomes and overall well-being.”
During the session, students Katlego Malebane, Sphelile Mohlala, Ondwela Nndwakhulu, and Naledi Mahlaopane delivered a structured presentation highlighting common indicators such as difficulties with reading, writing, attention, and task completion. Participants were encouraged to observe these traits in both home and school environments to promote early intervention.
Mahlaopane explained, “We wanted to show that recognising these challenges early can make a huge difference. When teachers and parents understand what to look for, children can access support that truly helps them thrive academically and socially.”
The students also demonstrated occupational therapy strategies that support inclusive learning. These included play-based and multisensory approaches, integrating visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic activities to enhance engagement and skill development. Such methods help learners overcome barriers related to sensory processing, motor coordination, attention, and executive functioning.
“Occupational therapy is about more than treatment,” said Nndwakhulu. “It’s about empowering children to participate fully in all occupations, including education. Demonstrating these interventions allows educators and caregivers to replicate them in everyday classroom and home activities.”
To reinforce the learning, parents and teachers received informational pamphlets summarising the characteristics of SLD and ADHD, signs to watch for, and practical strategies for support. “These resources ensure that awareness continues beyond the campaign,” added Malebane.
The event also commemorated the 50th anniversary of Occupational Therapy at SMU, with lecturer Lebogang Lefine attending and highlighting the department’s community engagement efforts. Lefine noted, “This project exemplifies how our students translate knowledge into action, strengthening community partnerships and promoting inclusive education.”
Echoing the importance of the initiative, Refilwe Rasetlola, a grade 1 teacher at Lesolang Primary School in Ga-Rankuwa, said, “This awareness campaign equips our teachers and parents to support every child effectively. We are grateful to SMU for empowering our community and promoting inclusive learning.”
SMU’s commitment to academic excellence and community impact underpinned the initiative. By combining rigorous training with practical application, the university fosters graduates who are prepared to meet diverse societal needs.
“Campaigns like this reflect the university’s vision of transforming health services through innovation and excellence,” said Dr Dzhugudzha. “It demonstrates how students, faculty, and the wider community collaborate to enhance health and educational outcomes.”
The awareness campaign not only strengthened collaboration between students, teachers, and parents but also reinforced SMU’s role as a leader in health sciences education. By promoting early detection, intervention, and inclusive practices, the university continues to contribute meaningfully to the local and national community.
As SMU looks to the future, initiatives like this exemplify its mission: to provide professional training and education that improve lives. Through innovation, advocacy, and active engagement, SMU remains at the forefront of health sciences education and community impact.
By Tumelo Moila
