“Health is not only the absence of disease or illness. It also means being in a good state of mind.”
The campus launched a five-day health awareness week for students on Monday 12 October 2026, themed ‘Connect. Care. Thrive.’ The initiative is aimed at promoting holistic health and well-being among students by providing access to health information, wellness services, support resources, and opportunities for meaningful engagement.
Health and wellness as pillars of student success
“The wellness week calls upon us to recognise that academic achievement, physical health, mental well-being, social relationships, and economic circumstances are all interconnected,” MEC Mahlatsi said. “You have to face all of them collectively and individually.” He said students should not allow their circumstances to determine their future as they navigate their different life journeys.
UFS Qwaqwa Campus Principal
Prof Prince Ngobeni echoed the MEC’s sentiments. He emphasised the importance of creating a campus environment that prioritises students’ holistic well-being. His remarks highlighted the University’s role in ensuring that students have access to the resources and care they need to navigate the challenges of university life and thrive both personally and academically.
“Health and wellness remain central to our commitment to student success,” Prof Ngobeni said. “A healthy student is better equipped to learn, participate, overcome challenges, and reach their full potential.”
He added that university life can be exciting, but it can also create significant pressures. “You may face academic demands, financial difficulties, personal challenges, uncertainty about the future, and the responsibility of balancing multiple commitments. These pressures can affect your physical and mental health if you do not recognise them and take appropriate steps to manage them.”
Prof Ngobeni urged students to be intentional about their well-being. “Make time for physical activity, eat healthily, get enough rest, and seek medical attention when necessary. Pay attention to your mental and emotional well-being, build positive relationships, and surround yourselves with people who encourage and support you.”
As Health and Wellness Week continues, students are encouraged to make use of the available activities and support services, recognising the importance of physical and mental well-being in achieving academic success.
Students highlight importance of care
Lethokuhle Ntsibande, a student in the
Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences studying towards a Bachelor of Business Management degree, attended Health and Wellness Week. He believes that even though he has a tight schedule as he prepares for the end-of-year examinations, it is important – especially for male students – to make use of the services.
“Some guys usually think seeking help is a form of weakness,” Ntsibande said. “It is important to know that there are people who care about their well-being.”
Lethokuhle Mnyandu, who is studying towards a Bachelor of Community Development degree and was donating blood during Health and Wellness Week, said: “It is important to attend and donate, as there could be someone out there needing [blood], and I may need donations too for my well-being one day.”
Prof Ngobeni said it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure that students have access to the information, resources, and support they need to make informed decisions about their well-being. “Let us remember that wellness is both a shared responsibility and a personal commitment. While we work collectively to create a supportive environment, each student must take an active role in safeguarding their health.”