Collaborative food safety training enhances skills of Siyaphakama school food preparers
News from the KaziBantu study in collaboration with the Kolisi Foundation.
In a joint initiative between KaziBantu and the Dietetics Department at Nelson Mandela University, which recognises that, in addition to an active lifestyle, nutrition also makes a significant contribution to health, the first round of biannual training workshops for school meal preparers was successfully completed in May 2025. Hosted at Ubuntu Pathways in Zwide and facilitated by registered dietitian Ms. Jayde Frost, the workshops focused on equipping food preparers from participating Siyaphakama schools with essential knowledge and skills in hygiene, food safety, and kitchen practices. These project activities were implemented in collaboration with the Kolisi Foundation.
Over the course of three sessions, the training covered a range of topics including personal hygiene, safe food handling and storage, cleaning procedures, pest control, waste management, and kitchen safety. A first aid component was also included, introducing participants to basic emergency responses from a bystander perspective.
The sessions were designed to be practical and accessible, using demonstrations, visual materials, and group activities to encourage participation and retention. The workshops aimed not only to improve daily food preparation practices but also to ensure that learners are receiving meals prepared in safe, hygienic conditions. Food preparers found the workshop content engaging and applicable to their daily work, and demonstrated significant improvements in knowledge across all training areas.
This training marks a meaningful step in enhancing food safety standards within the Siyaphakama schools and highlights the importance of continued investment in those who play a vital role in supporting the health and well-being of learners.
For further information, please contact Ms. Jayde Frost (jayde.frost@cluttermandela.ac.za) or MSc Mooveshni Dumalingam (mooveshni.dumalingam@mandela.ac.za) from the Nelson Mandela University.