Masters Students Lead Adult-Gerontology Oncology and Palliative Care Community Outreach Programme
As part of community engagement and health promotion, Master’s students in Adult-Gerontology Oncology and Palliative Care from the University of Botswana (UB) visited Matebeleng Village on the 4th of June 2026 to educate residents on the importance of palliative care. Guided by the theme, “Promoting Quality of Life Through Compassionate Palliative Care,” the students shared valuable information on symptom management, emotional and psychosocial support, the role of families and communities in caring for individuals with chronic and life-limiting illnesses. The outreach programme also provided an opportunity for meaningful interaction between healthcare professionals in training and community members.
In his welcome remarks, Kgosi Tuelo Ntlhoiwa of Matebeleng Village expressed appreciation for the initiative, emphasising the importance of bringing healthcare services and education closer to the community. Kgosi Ntlhoiwa encouraged residents to make full use of the opportunity to learn about palliative care and support those living with chronic and life-limiting illnesses.
Dr Babe Gaolebale from Princess Marina Hospital provided an informative overview of palliative care, highlighting its importance in improving the quality of life for individuals living with serious and life-limiting illnesses. She explained that palliative care focused on relieving pain and managing symptoms while addressing the emotional, psychological, social and spiritual needs of patients and their families. ‘Palliative care is not limited to end-of-life care but can be integrated alongside curative treatment to ensure comprehensive and compassionate support throughout a patient’s healthcare journey’, she emphasised.
Mr Modise Ncube, who generously sponsored the construction of a built range and donated a wheelchair to Dipuo Mokwena during the outreach programme, shared a few words of encouragement with the community. He emphasised the importance of compassion, generosity, and collective responsibility in supporting vulnerable members of society. Mr Ncube encouraged attendees to continue uplifting one another and expressed hope that the wheelchair donation would improve Ms Mokwena’s mobility and quality of life. He also commended the University of Botswana students for their commitment to community service and promoting compassionate care.