Over 5 000 health services have been rendered across schools in the Madibeng area, by a fully equipped mobile clinic as part of a healthcare initiative, aimed at providing health services and operational capacity to the surrounding communities. Funded by De Wildt Solar, this initiative supports the Integrated School Health Programme and provides relief to the strained department on resources.

“This initiative is part of our socio-economic development strategy to ensure school-going children have access to quality healthcare, for free. Additionally, this will help them develop a greater awareness and understanding of health issues, develop an interest in their own health as well as help improve their general wellbeing,” explained Julius Nong, Community Projects Officer for De Wildt Solar.

Directed at school-going learners, the programme conducted comprehensive primary healthcare, dental and optometry screenings at each of the 14 beneficiary schools. Furthermore, health education talks were conducted with a child safety campaign directed at learners and community members, to help promote preventative healthcare recommendations.

“The services were very helpful for both learners and staff. Learners received free spectacles and dental exams, which help them perform better in class. This is a valuable service, and I hope we can continue to provide it,” said Ms Tlhapane, Principal at IB Damonsville Combined School.

The services were rendered in the communities of Mmakau, Damonsville, Mothotlung, Oukasie, Letlhabile, Maboloka, Rabokala and Letlhabile.

Moreover, this programme was extended to the Mothotlung Mmakau Taxi Association where local taxi drivers benefited from the services.

Written by: simamkele@tmcommunications.co.za