By Tumelo Mokgonyana
The University of Limpopo’s Student Health and Wellness Centre recently hosted its Annual Peer Educators’ Award Ceremony, a vibrant celebration honouring students who go the extra mile in promoting youth-friendly healthcare and mental wellness on campus.
More than just an awards event, the ceremony recognised compassion, service, and commitment to creating a healthier, more supportive student community. Acting Director of the Student Health and Wellness Centre, Seponono Mampa, explained that the centre continuously evolves to meet students’ needs through biannual satisfaction surveys assessing relevance, efficiency, and accessibility.
“Our aim is to make the centre a second home away from home,” she said, adding that staff receive regular training in hospitality, emotional intelligence, and student-focused service delivery.
Acting Director of the Student Health and Wellness Centre, Seponono Mampa, shares insights on the centre’s commitment to student wellness and youth-friendly healthcare. Photo by: Survice Mokwena and Unarine Mudau
One of the centre’s flagship programmes, the First Things First Campaign, introduces first-year students to campus health services while addressing pressing psychosocial issues. Collaborating with units such as the Gender Desk and the Centre for Student Counselling and Development (CSCD), the initiative empowers students to take charge of their wellbeing from the start of their academic journey.
Mampa emphasised that staff are trained to handle cases of sexual harassment, rape, bullying, and cyberbullying with confidentiality and empathy. “We attend to students without secondary victimisation and with respect,” she said. The centre also provides essential services including HIV testing, PrEP, pregnancy testing, and emergency contraception ensuring every student has access to safe and supportive care.
Guests were welcomed by Senior Nurse Mmapula Maunatlala, who applauded the dedication of peer educators and partners such as Higher Health. Representative Thandi Ntuli commended the University for its collaborative efforts, reminding students that “it’s okay not to be okay” and encouraging open conversations about mental health.
Students, staff, and guests gathered at Park-Inn Hotel to celebrate excellence and recognize outstanding contributions to student health and wellness. Photo by: Survice Mokwena and Unarine Mudau
Among the standout honourees was Tokollo Mashitisho, a Bachelor of Commerce student, who reflected on his growth through the programme. “Being part of the peer educators’ team has truly sharpened my public-speaking and leadership skills,” he said. “It taught me how to engage with different people and create awareness that actually impacts lives.”
Performing Arts student Mogau Lekoloane beams with pride after receiving multiple awards, including Best Achiever, for her dedication to the Peer Education Programme. Photo by: Survice Mokwena and Unarine Mudau
Performing Arts student Mogau Lekoloane, who received multiple awards including Best Achiever, also shared how the experience transformed her personally. “This programme helped me manage my anxiety and grow in confidence,” she said. “It showed me that wellness isn’t just physical, it’s emotional, social, and mental too.”
The event concluded on a lively note, featuring colourful performances by the Bapedi Cultural Group and Tinyungubyiseni Cultural Society, a fitting reminder that student wellness extends beyond academics to culture, connection, and community.
Photos by : Survice Mokwena and Unarine Mudau
