The Department of Biomedical Sciences recently partnered with the South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR) to host the annual Stem Cell Donor Drive.

The primary objective of the event, which was held at the Bellville Campus, was to recruit new donors who can potentially provide life-saving stem cell transplants to patients in need.

This collaboration saw second- and third-year Haematology students and their lecturer, Rizqa Siebritz-Williams, work together to assist the SABMR in creating awareness about the significance of stem cell donation and its role in treating various life-threatening blood disorders and cancers.

“By engaging the student community, the drive aims to foster a culture of social responsibility and highlight the impact individuals can make through donor participation. Furthermore, the event serves to promote the mission of the SABMR and its partners, including Childhood Cancer Foundation (CHOC), the Organ Donor Foundation, Save Seven, Vitanova, and the Western Cape Blood Service, by strengthening collaboration in the field of donor recruitment and public health,” said Siebritz-Williams.

“In addition, CPUT’s HIV/AIDS and Student Counselling units engaged students around initiatives CPUT offers to support students holistically. A further objective is to recognise and express gratitude to current donors, thereby encouraging others to contribute to this vital cause.”

She thanked the student volunteers for 2025: Njabulo Dhlangamandla, Mfundo Dube, Beyonce Esau, Xiluvelo Hlungwani, Elizabeth Jacobs, Azande Maqhwara, Noliso Nesi, Emihle Ngala, Dimpho Sishiqa, Sinawo Sizani, Danielle Wentzel, Aakifah Ely and Hope Nkomo.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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In a vital initiative demonstrating its commitment to community engagement and strengthening national health systems, the Department of Emergency Medical Sciences (DEMS) successfully delivered critical training to frontline paramedics in the Eastern Cape.

The project, titled "Breathing Life into Care: Eastern Cape EMS Airway & Ventilation Project," addressed an urgent need to upskill emergency medical personnel.

The project was initiated in response to the unique challenges faced by the Eastern Cape, a province with vast rural areas where critically ill patients often require long-distance transport to tertiary hospitals. These extended transfers can lead to preventable morbidity and mortality if advanced airway and mechanical ventilation are not managed expertly. The collaboration was spearheaded by Abongile Xeketwana, the project lead from the Eastern Cape Department of Health.

A dedicated CPUT team travelled to Gqeberha to conduct the two-day workshop. The team was led by facilitators Elroy Cameron, Athenkosi Sobada, and Kwanda Gogotyi, with John Meyer providing crucial coordination and administrative support.

The workshop was attended by 24 Paramedics and Emergency Care Practitioners, the majority of whom work in the public sector in rural, low-resource environments. For two-thirds of the attendees, this was their first formal training in this specialised area.

The educational impact of the simulation-based workshop was profound and measurable. A pre- and post-course knowledge assessment demonstrated a remarkable improvement.

The training successfully closed significant knowledge gaps previously identified in complex areas like paediatric ventilation and lung-protective strategies. The analysis showed the workshop was especially effective for early-career professionals while also serving as a valuable refresher for highly experienced clinicians.

This project aligns with national and global development goals, including the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals for Good Health (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), as well as South Africa’s National Development Plan goal of ensuring a long and healthy life for all citizens.

Through this collaborative effort, CPUT DEMS has not only enhanced the clinical skills of Eastern Cape paramedics but has also reinforced its role as an engaged university dedicated to using its expertise to build a capable state and address the real-world health challenges facing South Africa’s communities.

Written by CPUT News
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This small group of Emergency Medical Care students made a big impact on Mandela Day. They raised over R20 000 in cash and donations for the Rape Crisis Centre and assisted in packing thousands of care packs.

The care packs consisted of essentials like underwear, toothpaste and toothbrushes, a facecloth, soap and deodorant. Packs for children also included a book or toy. The packs will be given to victims of sexual assault who very often have fled their homes with little or no possessions.

Students Nina Vogt, Kaitlyn Rusch, Daniella Wolfsohn, Albertus De Man and Monique Du Toit ran a successful Back-A-Buddy fundraising campaign and also reached out to their network and managed to collect thousands of rands worth of health and beauty items.

The Mandela Day Drive formed part of a Service-Learning project which was administered by their lecturer Raina Gihwala, who also volunteers at the Rape Crisis centre.

Gihwala says that the project allowed the students, and participants who arrived to assemble care packs, to put themselves in the shoes of a rape survivor.

“As these people pack these items, they are choosing things and considering what that person may be going through. These packs are a small consolation for these victims, who very often have been waiting for hours to take a shower and clean themselves,” she says.

The students said they were aware that once qualified, they will be first responders and will likely be attending to victims who have experienced violent sexual assaults. The project allowed them to empathise with the victims and do something tangible to ease their pain.

Written by Lauren Kansley
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Liaises with the media and writes press releases about interesting developments at CPUT.

The Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences recently hosted its first online Service-Learning Showcase, offering an insightful glimpse into the faculty’s impactful projects in various communities.

The event brought together faculty members, students and community partners and featured presentations of 20 of the 30 Service-Learning (SL) projects in the faculty.

The projects range from an initiative that assists matric learners with Life Science revision to a project that helps to look after the well-being of the cats on campus.

“This year was the first time that the SL projects were officially or formally showcased to the rest of the faculty, community partners and students. When capturing these amazing initiatives, often led by students, I realised the need to inform faculty members about them - to create awareness and also identify possible collaborations between departments/projects,” said Dr Lizel Hudson, Faculty Coordinator: Work-Integrated Learning and Language.

Jacqui Searle, Manager: Service Learning and Community Engagement unit, was the guest speaker and gave an insightful overview of the origins of Service-Learning and Community Engagement, and included the current framework used at CPUT.

Hudson continued: “The event, initially unknowingly, coincided with Reach for a Dream's Slipper Day, and the aptly themed 'do it for the dreamers' set the scene for what Service-Learning is and is not. Each Service-Learning convener has a full lecturing load, but with their students and trusted community partners, still make time for intentional engagement with communities. I am proud of my colleagues - from conceptualising a project, to building a relationship with internal support units and external community partners”.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Students in the Department of Emergency Medical Sciences (DEMS) recently participated in a successful workshop designed to equip them with essential Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills.

The session reflected the university's commitment to preparing students for a technologically evolving healthcare landscape and was facilitated by Lecturer John Meyer. The highly focused practical session allowed students to quickly extract actionable knowledge on navigating the opportunities and challenges presented by AI in academic and future professional contexts.

According to Meyer the workshop provided a comprehensive overview of key AI concepts relevant to students today. This streamlined approach allowed for a significant focus on AI academic prompting, teaching students how to interact effectively with AI tools to support their learning. This included practical techniques for brainstorming AI ideas and simplifying complex medical information for better understanding—skills particularly valuable in the demanding field of paramedic science. Students learned that crafting effective prompts was crucial for harnessing AI's potential as a learning aid, with the direct delivery cutting through unnecessary complexity to highlight core techniques.

Recognising the critical importance of ethical considerations, especially in healthcare, the workshop delved into the nuances of privacy versus confidentiality when using AI tools. This distinction was vital for paramedic students handling sensitive patient data, and the practical structure ensured this crucial ethical component was addressed directly and memorably. Students gained a clear understanding of the risks associated with inputting confidential information into various platforms and the necessity of adhering to data protection principles, ensuring they understood these risks.

“Furthermore, the session provided an essential overview of the university's AI Practice guidelines. The concise format ensured these institutional policies regarding responsible use, academic integrity, and proper attribution were communicated clearly and quickly, allowing students to grasp the fundamental rules for ethically leveraging AI tools and avoiding issues such as plagiarism. The discussion underscored the university's stance on AI as a tool to augment, not replace, human critical thinking and decision-making,” said Meyer.

The workshop explored how AI could be applied to academic tasks, demonstrating its potential to enhance efficiency and learning when used appropriately. This aligned with the growing integration of AI in healthcare for functions ranging from improving diagnostic accuracy to personalising patient education. The focused nature of the workshop highlighted practical applications that students could immediately consider for their studies.

Feedback from the paramedic students was overwhelmingly positive. They specifically appreciated the practical skills learned and the clarity on navigating AI tools responsibly within the university's framework, noting how the efficient and direct facilitation made the complex topic accessible and immediately applicable. Crucially, students indicated their intention to integrate these AI skills and knowledge into their regular study workflows, demonstrating the workshop's immediate impact and value, a direct outcome of the purposeful delivery.

Written by CPUT News
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The Somatology Department’s Wellness Spa will once again open its doors to staff, students and the public this term and clients can look forward to an exciting range of rejuvenating treatments.

The spa is situated in the Sciences Building on the District Six Campus and provides a unique opportunity for students in the Department to gain hands-on experience.

The range of treatments include:

• Pamper Package (2 hours): Includes back massage, an advanced facial and manicure or pedicure
• Full-body Swedish massage (1 hour)
• Aromatherapy massage (1 hour)
• Back Massage (30 min)
• Basic facials (1 hour)
• Advanced facials (1 hour 30 min)
• Eyebrows and/or lashes tinting (35 min)
• Full leg waxing (1 hour)
• Underarm waxing (45 min)
• Full Manicure (1 hour)
• Full Pedicure (1 hour)

Please note: Gel polish removal and application are not currently offered.

Bookings will be available for the following days:

Female clients only:

• 7 May 2025
• 9 May 2025
• 14 May 2025
• 21 May 2025
• 23 May 2025

Male clients only

• 16 May
• 30 May

Clients are asked to arrive at least 15 minutes before their scheduled treatment to complete the necessary documentation. Bookings are essential and can me made via: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Staff and students are also welcome to contact Marnel Germishuys or Mandy Thomas should they wish to participate in case studies for fourth-year (advanced diploma) advanced treatments, for example, laser, Lamprobe, chemical peels, light therapy and micro blading. 

*During Autumn Graduation 2025 the Somatology Department marked a remarkable achievement when Dean’s Medal Award winner for the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences came from its ranks for the third time in row.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Department of Ophthalmic Sciences proudly hosted its inaugural oath-taking ceremony earlier this month – marking a significant and symbolic milestone for the department and its graduating class of dispensing opticians.

The event brought together graduates, their proud families, academic staff, and distinguished guests in a celebration of ethical commitment and professional integrity.

What made the occasion especially meaningful was the presence of high-profile stakeholders in eye health.

The Dean of the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, A/Prof Nicole Brooks, the President of the Professional Board for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians (PBODO) of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), Yurisa Naidoo, representatives from the South African Optometric Association (SAOA), including its President Nivien Subramany and CEO Harry Rosen, joined the ceremony in support of the Department’s landmark event.

In his welcoming address, Acting Head of Department, Prasidh Ramson reflected on the historical significance of the occasion.

"This moment connects our graduates to a centuries-old tradition shared by healthcare professionals around the world. Taking an oath is a public declaration of their responsibility to deliver eye care with ethics, competency, and compassion."

Brooks highlighted the importance of maintaining strong professional and educational ties beyond graduation, encouraging graduates to continue engaging with CPUT in lifelong learning.

 Naidoo, in her keynote, urged the graduates to let the words of the oath serve as their moral compass throughout their careers, grounding them in integrity and care as they navigate the healthcare landscape.

Subramany reinforced the essential role of dispensing opticians in the broader eye care ecosystem, emphasising their contributions as equal and vital partners in promoting visual health in South Africa.

The ceremonial reading of the oath was led by Rosen, who guided the graduates in reciting the solemn pledge. At the conclusion, each graduate received a printed copy of the oath—a keepsake and reminder of the professional values they vowed to uphold.

The Department of Ophthalmic Sciences celebrates this inaugural oath-taking ceremony, not only as a tribute to its graduates, but also as a reaffirmation of its mission: to train ethical, competent, and compassionate eye care professionals who are ready to serve with clarity of purpose and vision.

Written by CPUT News
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CPUT was among the hosts of the Workshop on Radiation Biology, which was recently held at the NRF iThemba Laboratories in Faure.
The main objective of the event was to bring together multi-disciplinary teams of professionals (scientists and clinicians) from the different radiation oncology and nuclear medicine facilities across the country to discuss the current state of radiation biology, and to pave a way forward to ensure that this very important discipline does not perish.
Neo Seane, lecturer in the Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences (MITS) Department, said the workshop was attended by 55 participants from the various institutions of higher learning and hospitals in Gauteng, Limpopo, North West and KwaZulu-Natal.
“The different challenges that impede the development of the discipline of Radiation Biology in SA were highlighted and suggestions to mitigate these challenges were discussed. The workshop was the first and is anticipated to be a yearly event.”
Seane, who specialises in Radiation Biology, initiated the workshop and played a key role in the organisation thereof.
The event was co-hosted by the MITS Department, SAINTS Division of NRF iThemba Laboratories and the Joint Institute of Nuclear Research from Russia.

The main takeaways of the event included:

• The need to develop a national curriculum for Radiation biology teaching for medical professionals specialising in Radiation oncology, Radiation Therapy and Nuclear Medicine.
• Building Radiation Biology capacity to support clinical departments.
• Increasing the number of HPCSA accredited Radiation Biologists in the country
• Possible areas of collaborations were identified.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The new Dean of the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences began her journey at CPUT more than two decades ago and brings a wealth of experience and insight to her new role.

Assoc Prof Nicole Brooks joined CPUT in 2002 as a Junior Lecturer in the Department of Biomedical Sciences and was later promoted to Lecturer and then to Senior Lecturer.

She took over the role of Head of Department: Wellness Sciences in 2010 and in 2019 was appointed as Assistant Dean in the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences. In September 2022 she took on the role of Acting Dean of the Faculty.

As she starts her term as Dean, Brooks has the following message to staff and students: “The field of health sciences is an ever-evolving field, and we, the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, are dedicated to excellence in education, research, and the well-being of our society. At the heart of our mission is a commitment to academic excellence, education, innovation in health research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and societal well-being.

“In a world increasingly shaped by complex health challenges, from emerging diseases to health inequities, we have a profound responsibility and extraordinary opportunities to make a lasting impact. Together, we can cultivate the next generation of health professionals, researchers, and leaders who will shape the future of healthcare locally and globally.”

Outside of work Brooks is a proud mother to two boys, aged 11 and nine. A dedicated runner, she has participated in numerous half marathons, marathons, and even a few ultra-marathons. When time allows, she enjoys working out at the gym, traveling to new countries, and experiencing diverse cultures.

Written by Ilse Fredericks

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CPUT’s new Point of Care Testing (POCT) short course is the first of its kind on the African continent.

The fully accredited POCT course is unique in that it offers a practical component and is being offered at university level.

The five-day course, offered by the Department of Biomedical Sciences, aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and practical skills on POCT.

POCT refers to testing conducted next to or close to the patient, whether at the bedside, in clinics, GP practices, or pharmacies, and provides results in a short time. This could include blood glucose, TB, CD4 count, and other tests.

The course was developed by Theresa van Jaarsveld from the Department of Biomedical Sciences and Adjunct Professor, Rajiv Erasmus, who is a consultant to the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry on point of care.

It is coordinated by Dr Yvonne Prince, senior lecturer in the Department of Biomedical Sciences.

“Point of care testing is a discipline that is growing by the day, and it complements laboratory testing. POCT reduces the therapeutic turnaround time,” said Van Jaarsveld.

“Because of our health care status in South Africa, which is a little bit lacking, we need to become more patient-centric, where we take healthcare to the patient. And how do we do that? We perform more and more testing at the patient’s bedside, GP surgeries, or in clinics that are in pharmacies so that the patient goes to the doctor, has the test done there, they get the result and they can be treated. So, it’s almost like implementing a one-stop shop.”

Erasmus said POCT could also be used for disaster management.

“You can use this testing in remote locations where labs are not available. So, in primary healthcare, it is very important. In Africa it is used in many primary healthcare centres and in South Africa, point of care testing has been used a lot for TB, for HIV, for doing CD4 counts, for doing viral loads etc. It has multiple uses.”

He said one of the standout features of the course is the inclusion of a practical training component, making it the first of its kind in Africa to offer hands-on experience alongside theoretical learning. This ensures that participants not only understand the principles behind POCT but can also apply them confidently in real-world healthcare settings. The course takes place over five days – with four days of online learning and one day of practical training.

Nine students enrolled for the first intake earlier this month and seven instrument vendors attended the practical training.

Click here for more information on the course.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Returning to the classroom as part of her retirement plan worked out in a big way for a CPUT graduate.

Karla Whiley scored the highest marks in an Occupational Health Nursing degree nationally and was awarded the Ian Webster silver medal by the South African Society of Occupational Health Nurse Practitioners (SASOHN).

Whiley is the Regional Wellness Manager at Eskom and studied part-time, attending classes at night for the first year while nursing a broken left ankle and broken right foot.

While retirement is not an immediate concern for Whiley she says branching out into consultation or freelancing as an Occupational Health specialist later would require a BTech and she finally bit the bullet and enrolled.

“Occupational Health is a misunderstood and very niche area of nursing. I wanted to expand my career opportunities by studying and I’m not sorry that I did,” she says.

“The number of Occupational Health Nurse Practitioners registered with the South African Nursing Council represents approximately 2% of the total registered population so it is a very under-represented niche.”

Whiley credits her lecturers for going the extra mile during the difficult past few years for her success.

“There were times we had classes at our lecturer's home just to get through the curriculum. That shows the amount of dedication from their side,” she says.

Learn more about occupational health here. 

Written by Lauren Kansley
Tel: +27 21 953 8646
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Liaises with the media and writes press releases about interesting developments at CPUT.

A lecturer in the Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences recently received the best PhD paper award at the International Conference of Work Integrated Learning (WIL24).

The conference hosted by University West, Sweden, in collaboration with Central University of Technology, took place earlier this month and Diagnostic Radiography lecturer, Yanda Peter won the award for her paper titled: Professional socialisation of diagnostic radiography students at a higher education institution in South Africa.

Her supervisors are Prof Penelope Engel-Hills and Dr Kathleen Naidoo.

Peter, who joined CPUT eight years ago, said she was very surprised when she was announced as the winner.

“It gives me joy and a sense of fulfilment and encouragement to know that my research made an impact at such a prestigious international conference with attendees and participants from various professions.”

She added: “I’m grateful to my supervisors for their guidance, support and motivation.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Emergency Medical Sciences students have helped to combat human trafficking by raising awareness on how to prevent falling victim to modern day slavery.

A group of students from the second-year Bachelor of Emergency Care class has partnered with anti-human trafficking organisation, A21, and conducted presentations at a number of events during the year.
To increase their reach, they also conducted an interview on Bok Radio.
The students undertook the project as part of the requirements for the subject of Primary Health Care.
The group consisted of Angelique Groenewald, Ed-Ruleen Kondowe, Guy Schiever, Jarred Brown, Ju-waldt Sieberhagen and Michael Watson,
“Presentations were always received well, with many people coming forward afterwards and asking questions or to schedule a follow up presentation. Information booths enabled us to connect more personally with people by engaging in one-on-one conversation. It was incredible to see how little people know about a crime that is so prevalent in their communities and even more so to be afforded the opportunity to educate them about the unseen dangers that face them,” Guy said.

For more information on A21, go to: https://www.a21.org/content/south-africa/gnr2js?permcode=gnr2js

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Walk down the quiet corridor infused with the soothing aroma of essential oils, and you’d never believe you’re on CPUT’s usually bustling Cape Town campus. Nestled on the 4^th floor of the Science building, you’ll find the Somatology Department’s Wellness Clinic, a haven of serenity where members of the public can take advantage of the skills of students, all at a fantastically reduced rate.

Designed to simulate an industry environment where students have a hands-on opportunity to become proficient in health and skin-care therapies, the Wellness Clinic plays host to part of the practical component of CPUT’s exacting 3-year Somatology course.  Offering manicures, pedicures, facial therapies, Swedish massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, manual lymph drainage, hydrotherapy and more, the Wellness Clinic re-opened on March 1^st, and offers its services every Tuesday and Thursday between 11am and 3pm during the academic term.

Junior lecturer and Wellness Clinic facilitator, Michelle Maloy, herself a graduate of CPUT’s National Diploma in Somatology, sums it up best. “It’s a 2-way street. We offer a sterling service to the community, while students get the best experiential training possible. It’s tremendously popular, with at least 100 new clients passing through the clinic’s doors each year. 70% of our clientele are members of the public, with profits from treatments ploughed back to buy learning materials and products for students to practice with.”

While there are many private schools and beauty institutes across the Western Cape, Maloy says CPUT’s programme is incredibly comprehensive and cost-effective. And thanks in no small part to the practical experience gained in the Wellness Clinic, it produces well-rounded graduates who are confident, capable and industry-ready.

Head of Department of Wellness Sciences, Dr Nicole Brooks adds, “We are passionate about meeting rigorous industry standards to produce highly-qualified somatologists. Our students also have the option to complete an internationally recognized examination, CIDESCO (Comité International D'Esthetique et de Cosmetologie) and can choose to enter into the BTech programme, where more specialised therapies are taught. We’re the only institution in the Western Cape to offer a BTech in Somatology, a qualification that allows graduates to work in aesthetics practises alongside dermatologists.”

As this is an ever-evolving field, Maloy points out that Somatology Department staff are committed to keeping in touch with the latest trends– attending conferences, seminars and new training courses. Twice-yearly industry advisory-board meetings also inform departmental strategy, ensuring that, if needs be, the curriculum is tailored and adapted to feed industry with the cutting-edge graduates they require.

The Wellness Clinic runs monthly specials, for example on waxing or eye-lash tinting, and once a month cater exclusively for men. While the 2-hour Pamper Package (incorporating a facial, manicure or pedicure and back, neck and shoulder massage) is hands-down one of the most popular treatments, there’s something for everyone, from flotation experiences to hot stone massage.

Interested parties can call during working hours any day of the week on 021 460 3437, but Tuesdays and Thursdays between 11am and 3pm are best. Alternatively, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information. 

By Jan Weintrob

Written by CPUT News
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The Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences invites Grade 10 to 12 learners and all other interested parties to a Radiotherapy Open Day.

Date: Wednesday, 17 March 2010
Time: From 13:00 to 16:00
Place: L-Block, Radiation Oncology Department, Groote Schuur
Hospital, Observatory

Directions: Main Road in direction of Cape Town, turn left up Anzio Road, to the circle, turn right, through the boom, to C Floor parking area. Enter the building at LC31 – go straight through the double doors to the School of Radiotherapy.

For bookings contact Mrs V Martin:
Ph: 021 4426160
Fax: 021 4472963
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We hope to see you there!

Written by CPUT News
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CPUT has almost completed the construction of the new laboratories and offices that will house the Oxidative Stress Research Centre at the institution’s Bellville Campus.

The construction of the new facilities marks the consolidation of the Centre’s Cape Town and Bellville groups.

The Oxidative Stress Research Centre is a multi-faculty initiative that aims to contribute to existing knowledge regarding the role of oxidative stress in health and disease through high-quality research.

It was founded in 2007 as a means to combine various research thrusts at CPUT including Experimental Biology Research, South African Medicinal Plant Research, Obesity and Chronic Diseases of Lifestyle Research, Bioorganics Research and Inorganics Research.

The idea to establish an Oxidative Stress Research Centre, which is the only one of its kind in the country, came about five years ago when Prof Ernest Truter and Prof Johan Esterhuyse identified the need to promote antioxidant research at CPUT. A proposal was submitted to Executive Management, who approved the formation of the Centre.

Remarking on how far the Centre has come, Prof Esterhuyse said, “This is like a dream come true for me. We are in need of an oxidative stress research centre in South Africa .”

Dr Jeanine Marnewick of the Health and Wellness Sciences Faculty joined CPUT in 2005 and is managing the Centre.

She started Rooibos research about 12 years ago at the Medical Research Council, looking at cancer prevention and chemoprevention through rooibos (a reddish coloured shrub whose dried leaves are used to make tea).

Recently, she completed the first ever human intervention trial at CPUT using this popular traditional South African herbal tea to determine whether Rooibos can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. The results of this study were presented at the second Rooibos Science Café held at the MTN ScieneCentre at Century City in November last year.

Currently, the Oxidative Stress Research Centre accommodates more than 35 postgraduate students at Masters and Doctoral level as well as postdoctoral fellows from the University of Mauritius and West India. These numbers are rapidly growing.

The Centre also offers a wide range of services including chemists, microbiologists, pharmacists, inorganic chemists, nutritionists, dieticians and biochemists.

Ultimately it is envisaged that this multidisciplinary approach to health promotion and disease prevention will become a niche area for oxidative stress research not only in South Africa but also in Africa.

By Andiswa Dantile

Written by CPUT News
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The Cape Town campus of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology was host to the opening ceremony of the annual Wellness Celebrations on 31 March 2008.

The Wellness Celebrations are organised by the Student Affairs Department in collaboration with the Student Health Department and the HIV/ AIDS Unit of the institution. The Celebrations are aimed at promoting wellness and well-being to staff and students of the institution and communicating the importance of holistic living.

According to Ms Elizabet Smith (Associate Director: Student Counseling), “CPUT defines wellness in terms of seven dimensions: Physical, Environmental, Intellectual, Spiritual, Social, Occupational and Emotional. Each dimension is interrelated and development of each dimension can promote well-being and health. By embracing a holistic approach to well-being, education can move beyond just knowledge gained from textbooks. By awakening life we can promote healthier living, happier living and a good life.”

Ms Smith continues, “Wellness Day is a colourful and festive event, a celebration of life. Not just any life, but a promotion of a life well lived and a university committed to well-being. A happy, healthy university lends itself for a happy healthy society awake, fully human, and fully alive. This important concept is promoted on an annual basis in different ways on the different CPUT campuses.”

The opening event, which was hosted by KFM DJ, Sam Roy was packed with fun-filled entertainment including comedians, trapeze artists, hip hop dancers, tap dancers Tai Chi experts, and singers.

The Dean of Students, Ms Cora Njoli-Motale, addressed the students about how they should incorporate the wellness concept in their daily lives. She stated, “It’s students who are well-rounded who will become graduates.” Ms Njoli- Motale also requested to students to take a stand and make a pledge on what they want to do to improve their wellness. Students were provided with several colours of paint (each representing one form of wellness dimensions) and were requested to put their pledge on a ‘Pledge- board’.

The Celebrations also included a Wellness Market Day with a variety of stalls and exhibitions. Stalls were filled with a large selection of food, treats and jewellery.

Wellness Celebrations continued on the Bellville campus on Wednesday, 2 April 2008 in the Student Quad. As with the opening event, the Bellville event included an address by Dean of Students Ms Cora Njoli-Motal and a concert hosted by Sam Roy. In addition, wellness brochures were handed out and holistic treatments such as massages were available to staff and students.

The Bellville activities featured a Shavathon hosted by CANSA. The aim for the Shavathan was to raise cancer awareness and to raise funds for CANSA services. It involved the shaving or colouring of hair for a donation of R20- R25.

The atmosphere of the Wellness Celebrations gave an impression that the institution was in great shape. Head of Department: Student Counselling Dr AB De Villers extends a vote of thanks to all who worked very hard to make the Celebrations a success.

By Tyrone Van Heerden and Ruth Chisesa, Marketing and Communication Department

Photograph: Mbasa Boiketlo (3rd year Consumer Science- Food and Nutrition student) and Conway Maluleke (3rd year Marketing student) make a Wellness pledge.

Written by CPUT News
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With a surge of interest in complementary and alternative medicine, the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences is putting plans in place to roll out the Unani-Tibb Post Graduate diploma in 2011.

The programme, which will be the first qualification in complementary medicine to be introduced at CPUT, will be aimed at nurses with a primary healthcare qualification.

Recently Unani-Tibb experts from universities in India and Pakistan, who will assist with the implementation of the programme, visited CPUT.

Prof Rashid Bhika, from the South African Tibb Association who led the international delegation told CPUT staff members during a meeting on 7 May at the Bellville Campus, said they are looking forward to collaborating with CPUT.

Bhika said Unani-Tibb is based on the humoral and temperamental theory of Greek-Arabic Medicine. Unani-Tibb advocates that each individual should take responsibility for his or her wellbeing.

This they can do very effectively by choosing and regulating the type of food consumed, by correct breathing and sleeping habits, emotional management, exercise and the use of various alternative therapies or medicines.

The post-graduate diploma will provide additional diagnostic and cost effective treatment options that will enable nurses to manage illness conditions, especially chronic conditions more effectively.

Prof Anis Ahmad Ansari from Aligarh Muslim University in India said Unani-Tibb methods have already been implemented in many parts of the world.

Head of Nursing and Radiography Shafick Hassan said more South Africans are now combining complementary and alternative medicine with orthodox ‘western medicine’ for a broad range of conditions.

“Worldwide there is undeniably, a substantial swing away from orthodox medicine to the complementary and alternative medicine systems. Complementary and alternative medicine’s use is at an all-time high in the USA, Australia and the UK,” said Hassan.

Dean of the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Prof Dhiro Ghiwala, who met with the delegation, said they are looking forward to implementing this programme.

Unani-Tibb is the eleventh modality of the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA). The AHPCSA is responsible for regulating the practice and training of Complementary and Alternate Medicine (CAM) healing modalities, which includes amongst others, Homeopathy, Chiropractic, Chinese Medicine, Physiotherapy and Aromatherapy. <p.By Candes Keating</p.

Written by CPUT News
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The Dean of the Faculty and Health and Wellness Sciences, Prof Penelope Engel-Hills, has been appointed as the Deputy Chairperson of the National Health Research Ethics Council (NHREC).

The NHREC’s core responsibilities are to set ethical norms and standards for health research and to advance research ethics in South Africa; to promote, ensure and monitor compliance by health research ethics committees with regulations and ethics guidelines; and to register and audit health research ethics committees.

The responsibilities of the NHREC stem from the need to ensure ethical integrity in research involving human participants and animals and that the research is based on sound scientific principles.

“I am pleased to be serving a second term on the NHREC and to be appointed as the Deputy Chairperson. This comes with responsibilities and I do not underestimate the work ahead of this council,” said Engel-Hills.

“We do build on the solid foundation of three previous councils and I look forward to the next steps to advance research ethics in South Africa.”

She added that she had responded to an advertisement for interested parties to apply to be considered for appointment to the NHREC. The Minister of Health then appointed members from those who applied.

Her duties as Deputy Chairperson will include supporting the Chairperson, Mamello Sekhoacha of the University of Free State, and standing in for her at any time she is not available.

“I will be on the Executive Committee and our responsibility is to maintain the functioning of the NHREC in the periods between meetings. There are a number of standing committees and, in addition, working groups can be established to ensure that all the functions of council are attended to.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Head of the Biomedical Sciences Department, Associate Prof Glenda Davison, has been named as one of the Mail & Guardian’s Powerful Women for 2020.

Every year during August the Mail & Guardian profiles the transformative work done by women.  According to the publication, the 50 women on this year’s list are not only excelling in their chosen fields but have also made it a priority to use their positions to fight for the betterment of our society. 

“I am feeling overwhelmed and grateful for the recognition, but at the same time completely humbled, as I know that there are many powerful women in this country who are doing amazing things without getting the acknowledgment. I certainly don’t feel powerful but am happy that I am able to make a difference,” said Davison, whose focus area is Haematology.

Graduations and working with an amazing team of academics and staff are what she enjoys most about her work.

“I have so many highlights and have enjoyed every moment of my career, which has involved working in a diagnostic laboratory, performing research and of course teaching. I have been given so many opportunities throughout my career which have led to me being able to obtain a PhD, a huge milestone and to achieve an NRF rating which was another personal highlight. My biggest highlights are seeing our students achieve. I then know that I have had made a difference.”

In 2011 she received the BridgeMohan award for her research contribution to Haematology

Davison said she was nominated for the Mail & Guardian’s Powerful Women for 2020 by Quote this Women (https://quotethiswoman.org.za/).

“I was included on their database following my two articles which were published in The Conversation earlier this year. Both articles focussed on the Covid-19 pandemic and so were topical over this period. This led to a number of newspapers and other media outlets asking for my opinion on laboratory testing, Covid-19 and even the Spanish flu which happened in 1918.”

In terms of research Davison is involved in a number of projects with Prof Tandi Matsha and the Cardiometabolic Health research unit.

“I also collaborate with the Division of Haematology at UCT and am involved in a study investigating HIV associated lymphomas. But currently my focus is on assisting in the preparation for the Council on Higher Education doctoral review which will take place in October. This project has again allowed me to work and connect with a fantastic team of professionals and academics.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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