By Mohau Seleka
Final-year students in the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Limpopo (UL) are leading the charge in promoting healthy eating habits on campus. Driven by a passion for well-being, they are on a mission to transform the way students and community members approach food and mental health. Understanding that good nutrition is the cornerstone of a healthy life, they are raising awareness about its importance through education and advocacy.
To address this, the students launched an awareness campaign, “Fuelling Minds and Bodies with Good Nutrition”, stationed at all campus gates. The campaign provided a platform for education, counselling, and health assessments, helping students make informed choices about their diets.
“Many students don’t realise that skipping meals due to stress makes them feel even worse,” said Tinyiko Machebele, a final-year Human Nutrition and Dietetics student. “We want to show them that proper nutrition isn’t just about weight, it’s about energy, focus, and overall well-being.”
Human Nutrition and Dietetics student on a mission to educate and encourage students to make better decisions health wise.
University life can be overwhelming, and stress often leads to poor eating habits. Some students stop eating altogether, unaware that this can worsen their anxiety and fatigue. Recognising this, the dietetics students developed “Ntsako”, an oral hydration solution named after the Sepedi word for “happiness.” This simple yet effective solution provides essential nutrients for those who struggle to eat during stressful times.
Pheladi Mashile, first-year accounting student was among those who got assisted during the campaign. She admitted that when exams approach, she often skips meals without realizing the impact on her energy levels. “I never thought food could affect my mood so much. After talking to them, I will start eating small, balanced meals,” she said.
As part of the initiative, students were also offered one-on-one counselling and BMI (Body Mass Index) assessments to help them understand their nutritional needs. Third-year Mathematical Sciences student, Phuti Seanego, said he had always struggled with maintaining a healthy weight but didn’t know where to start. “I used to rely on quick snacks, but I’ve learned how to eat properly without needing expensive supplements. This campaign gave me practical advice that I can actually follow,” he shared.
Tinyiko Machebele, Lebogang Mokhomola, Winston Morwangoato, Final-year students in the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics students, who hope to inspire lasting change on campus
Through their efforts, the Human Nutrition and Dietetics students hope to inspire lasting change on campus. “Where we come from, many people aren’t aware of the importance of nutrition. Our goal is to educate and empower students to make informed choices about their health,“ said Winston Morwangoato, one of the final-year Human Nutrition and Dietetics student campaign runner.
By spreading awareness and offering practical solutions, these students are trying to make a real difference in the lives of their peers. Their message is simple, food is not just fuel for the body, it is fuel for the mind, too.
