News

The Department of Critical Care Nursing, through the Master of Nursing Science in Oncology and Palliative Care students from the University of Botswana (UB), conducted a community outreach project in Molepolole (Boribamo UCCSA) on the 7th of November 2026 under the theme, “Healthier Community, Brighter Future”. The initiative was aimed at promoting health awareness, disease prevention and adoption of healthy lifestyles among community members. Through active engagement with residents, the students sought to strengthen community knowledge on key health issues while fostering a culture of wellness and preventive healthcare.

In his welcome remarks, Boribamo UCCSA Mission Convenor, Mr Mopati Kwenamotse, expressed gratitude to the UB's Department of Critical Care Nursing for choosing to engage with the community through a meaningful health initiative. Mr Kwenamotse underscored the importance of partnerships between faith-based organisations, educational institutions and communities in promoting health and wellbeing, noting that a healthy community was essential for social and economic development.

During the outreach programme, community members received health education on topics including glucose, BMI and cancer awareness, healthy lifestyle education as well as the importance of regular health screening. The students also provided basic health assessments and encouraged participants to seek timely medical attention when necessary. The activities created an opportunity for meaningful interaction between healthcare professionals in training and the local community, allowing residents to ask questions and receive evidence-based health information.

Botswana Nurses Union (BONU) Branch Secretary for Molepolole, Mr Kenneth Moabi Matlakele, expressed appreciation to the Department of Critical Care Nursing and the Master of Nursing Science in Oncology and Palliative Care students for organising the community outreach programme. He emphasised the importance of health education and preventive healthcare in improving community welfare and encouraged residents to make informed health decisions. Mr Matlakele further highlighted that collaborative initiatives between academic institutions and communities played a vital role in promoting healthier lifestyles and building a brighter future for all.

The project demonstrated the University of Botswana’s commitment to community service and the preparation of healthcare professionals who are responsive to the health needs of society. By bringing health services and education closer to the people, the outreach contributed to empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their contentment. The initiative also reinforced the importance of collaborative efforts in building healthier communities and supporting a brighter future for all.