Higher Health plays a crucial role in supporting student health and wellbeing across South Africa. Formerly known as the Higher Education and Training HIV/Aids Programme, it has evolved into an impactful agency that implements a wide range of health services at over 420 campus sites nationwide.
A network of partnerships to support student health
Founded in 2000, Higher Health operates from a national office in Gauteng, supported by 70 district-based offices and three regional hubs in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. The organisation’s strength lies in its partnerships with government agencies, the private sector, United Nations bodies and civil society, all of whom are fundamental to its operations and outreach.
Collaboration is at the heart of Higher Health’s initiatives and its success. It works closely with the Department of Higher Education and Training, and numerous allied partners, including the Global Fund, European Union (EU) and Universities South Africa. These partnerships are not just beneficial; they are essential for mobilising resources, sharing expertise and fostering innovation to better support students.
Funding, human resources and essential services come from this extensive network of collaborators who share a commitment to the wellbeing of South Africa’s youth and student health. By establishing strong ties with all 26 public universities and 50 TVET colleges, Higher Health successfully implements health campaigns and clinical services tailored to the needs of students.
One of the standout achievements of Higher Health is the establishment of primary healthcare clinics at TVET campuses, significantly improving access to health services. The collaboration with the national Department of Health and provincial health departments has been instrumental in providing critical healthcare resources, ensuring that students receive comprehensive support.
The EU’s contributions have also been pivotal, funding the development of vital policies and tools, such as the Covid-19 screening digital tool that supported over 1 million students and staff during the pandemic. This kind of partnership exemplifies how shared resources and knowledge can lead to innovative solutions in times of crisis.
Moreover, collaborations with organisations such as the South African Depression and Anxiety Group enhance mental health support, while ongoing guidance from gender-based violence task teams strengthens interventions in this critical area.
As Higher Health continues to expand its services, the emphasis on collaboration remains paramount. Through strategic partnerships, the organisation not only enhances the health and wellbeing of students but also builds a more resilient and healthier future for all South Africans.
Read more about health:
- Read the Overview of CSI spend on health in 2024.
Source: The original version of this article was published in the Trialogue Business in Society Handbook 2024 (27th edition).