Health screenings in Siyaphakama schools highlight early indicators of learner wellbeing
As part of the KaziBantu programme’s commitment to learner wellbeing, comprehensive health screenings were conducted across all participating Siyaphakama schools in South Africa. The initiative was supported by third year Biokinetics students from Nelson Mandela University, who contributed to both data collection and on site engagement with learners.
The screenings took place in May, a month recognised nationally in South Africa as Blood Pressure Awareness Month. This timing provided an important opportunity to strengthen awareness around the value of monitoring key health indicators already during childhood, not only in adulthood.
A total of 377 learners from Grades 1 to 7 were assessed. Measurements included height, weight and blood pressure, offering a broad overview of physical health status across the participating schools. The findings were overall encouraging. A large majority of learners, 87.6%, were within the normal BMI range, and no cases of underweight were identified. In the context of ongoing nutritional challenges in parts of South Africa, these results underline the importance of consistent access to nutritious school meals and opportunities for regular physical activity.
Blood pressure outcomes were also largely positive. Nearly three quarters of learners fell within the normal range. At the same time, around one in four learners showed either elevated blood pressure or Stage 1 hypertension. This highlights that early signs of cardiovascular risk can already be present in school aged children and should be monitored carefully.
The screenings, implemented through KaziBantu in collaboration with Siyaphakama schools, reinforce the importance of early detection and prevention. By identifying potential risk factors at an early stage, schools, families and supporting programmes can work together to promote healthier habits and long term wellbeing.
Within the broader framework of the UNESCO Chair, this initiative contributes to advancing research and practice at the intersection of education, physical activity and health promotion. Early monitoring of indicators such as blood pressure and BMI supports evidence based approaches to fostering healthier learning environments and building stronger foundations for lifelong health.
For further information, please contact MSc Mooveshni Dumalingam (mooveshni.dumalingam@mandela.ac.za) or Dr Danielle Dolley (danielle.dolley@mandela.ac.za).
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