On behalf of the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Council and the Executive Management Committee, I am pleased to announce that the university has taken a significant step in enhancing the well-being and health of its staff and students by actively participating in the FISU (International University Sports Federation) Healthy Campus Initiative and we have brought home the Healthy Campus Bronze Certification.
Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the Tshwane University of Technology.
The bronze status is a testament that the university has effectively met the core aspects of the FISU Healthy Campus standards and implemented the key programs for a healthier campus lifestyle.
Furthermore, this achievement echoes the university's dedication to improving students' and employees' health through targeted interventions, including more sport and recreation programs, mental health counselling services, green campus initiatives, and more access to nutritional counselling.
This global initiative, led by the International University Sports Federation (FISU), seeks to develop an integrated approach to well-being in higher education institutions, so that universities are not only knowledge hubs but also institutions where health, physical activity, and well-being are promoted.
Structured in its approach, the FISU Healthy Campus Initiative encourages universities to incorporate health and well-being into their policies, programs and operations. The initiative covers several areas of priority, which include physical activity and sport, nutrition, disease prevention, mental health, social responsibility, sustainability, and healthy campus management. The program has a tiered certification system, which allows institutions to measure their progress and further enhance their health and wellness approaches.
Although the bronze certification is a success for the university, TUT is not sitting back on its laurels, we are working tirelessly towards achieving the Platinum Certification. This will entail further enhancement of existing programs, improved integration of health and wellness strategies across all departments, and continued emphasis on wellness within the TUT community.
We also recognise and appreciate the tremendous work done by the TUT FISU Management Committee led by Dr. Hajira Mashego (Chairperson) and Dr Anna Sefolosha (Deputy Chairperson) to ensure that the university meets and exceeds the FISU standards.
On our way towards reaching our ultimate goal of a Platinum Certification, the university will further develop new best practices for health promotion and well-being where students and staff can thrive academically and personally as well. This achievement is only the beginning, and with the continued dedication of the TUT community, the university is well on its way to becoming a global campus health and wellness leader.