by Kgaugelo Jessica Selane
With physical inactivity rising as a major threat to South Africa’s long-term health goals, the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), in partnership with the South Africa–Sweden University Forum (SASUF) Student Network, recently hosted a thought-provoking Coffee Break Seminar to address the issue head-on.
The session spotlighted the urgent need for active lifestyles and explored how student voices, academic collaboration, and community engagement can drive innovative, grassroots solutions to reshape the nation’s health narrative. The seminar not only unpacked the risks of sedentary living but also celebrated the power of youth-led initiatives in building a healthier, more proactive South Africa.
SASUF is a strategic partnership between South African and Swedish universities aimed at connecting students and researchers to tackle real world challenges through international collaboration and inclusive dialogue. The Coffee Break Seminar formed part of SASUF’s ongoing efforts to support student driven research and promote cross border knowledge sharing. At the centre of the seminar was a critical question: how is physical inactivity contributing to South Africa’s rising burden of disease, and what can be done to change this trajectory? With increasing numbers of South Africans facing lifestyle related illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity and hypertension, the urgency to act has never been greater.
The Health Promotion Framework 2030 which is a national policy aimed at encouraging wellness and reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases, served as the backdrop for the discussions. The seminar explored how inactivity threatens these national health goals and how multi-sector collaboration can help turn the tide.
In her opening address, Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement, highlighted the power of student participation in global platforms. It is not enough for our students to merely be present they must lead global conversations,” she said. Drawing on her own academic journey in Sweden, Dr Papu-Zamxaka praised the SASUF Student Network for creating spaces where students are not only heard but are empowered to make a difference. “As South Africa faces a rise in non-communicable diseases, conversations like this show that TUT is using research and innovation to respond meaningfully,” she added.
Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement, delivered the opening address, encouraging students to lead global conversations on health.
Prof Yvonne Paul, Assistant Dean for Research and Postgraduate Studies from the Faculty of Science and Dr Brink Ntjana from the Department of Sport, Rehabilitation and Dental Sciences delivered the keynote address, which offered a sobering reflection on the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle. According to them, physical inactivity is now one of the top contributors to premature death in South Africa and that it’s not just a health issue but an economic one. “Physical inactivity is not just about individual choices, it is a public health crisis that affects families, communities and the broader economy,” they explained.
Prof Yvonne Paul, Assistant Dean for Research and Postgraduate Studies (bottom) from the Faculty of Science and Dr Brink Ntjana from the Department of Sport, Rehabilitation and Dental Sciences who delivered the keynote address
They emphasised the urgent need for cross-sector collaboration, involving healthcare providers, schools, communities, businesses and policymakers to promote regular movement and healthier living. They also encouraged the use of mobile apps, wearable fitness technology and social media campaigns to raise awareness and drive behaviour change. “Healthy living begins with everyday decisions like walking, stretching, eating well and encouraging those around us to do the same. We must hold each other accountable. Whether it is your neighbour, your friend, your child, or your colleague, promoting wellness is everyone’s responsibility.”
SASUF representative, Tshepo Aphane, from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, echoed the sentiment, adding that student led platforms like SASUF play a key role in helping young people see their value beyond academic pressure. “Academic life can be overwhelming but initiatives like SASUF help students reconnect and build momentum for change,” he said.
SASUF representative, Tshepo Aphane, from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Far from being just another academic event, the TUT SASUF Coffee Break Seminar served as a reminder that improving South Africa’s health outcomes requires a united front. It requires research, innovation and above all, people who are committed to making wellness part of their daily lives.