Cape Peninsula University of Technology

AWARDING EXEMPLARY WORK: The 2011 Peer Educators gather for a photo with HIV/Aids Unit Head, Dr Ashraf Mohammed (front centre, right) and guest speaker at the awards, Dr Ramneek Ahluwalia (front centre, left).

CPUT has been congratulated for being a front runner amongst tertiary institutions in the fight against HIV/Aids. The 7th annual Peer Education Awards Ceremony was hosted by CPUT’s HIV/Aids unit recently.

Caption: ENABLING OTHERS: BeatriceKoopman, Short Course co-ordinator and Business for Good’sHuman Resource Director.

The Disability Unit, headed by Dr Nina Du Toit, is working in partnership with Business for Good, a non-profit training consultancy, to bring the first-of-its-kind short course aimed at addressing issues relating to the disabled.

CPUT’s HIV/AIDS Unit joined thousands across the globe on Monday, 16th May 2011 to remember those who have died of AIDS and support those who are living with the disease.  On the 28th anniversary of the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, Acting Head of the unit, Alex Semba says, “It was an honour to have such a great show of support from the CPUT community and the learners that we invited to be a part of the memorial in showing compassion and concern for people living with HIV/AIDS.”

His early struggles as a university student desperate to source funding for his studies have inspired CPUT Chairperson of Council, Mr Mbulelo Bikwani, to establish a fund for students in need, particularly students with disabilities. He has also pledged his Council stipend for this cause. The fund, which has thus far raised well over R250 000, was launched recently in Gugulethu at a Thanksgiving and Gratitude Ceremony to mark Mr Bikwani’s appointment as Chairman of CPUT ‘s Council.

CPUT Chairperson of Council, Mr Mbulelo Bikwani, (centre) in Gugulethu at a Thanksgiving and Gratitude Ceremony to mark his appointment as Council Chair and celebrate the launch of his bursary fund.

Dean of Students Cora Njoli-Motale (centre) and Dr Nina Du Toit (left, back row) with staff and students supporting last year's Disability Awareness event.

“People with disabilities shouldn't be defined solely by them – once we have knowledge and awareness regarding a particular disability, we don't see the disability anymore, we see the person.” As Disability Awareness Week continues at CPUT this week, Dr Nina Du Toit, Head of the Disability Unit, is calling on staff and students to get involved in the Unit's activities, which include a series of demonstrations, exhibitions and courses about disability.

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.

The Somatology's Wellness Clinic, where "confident, capable and industry-ready" graduates are produced.