University Social Responsibility
Faculty of Health Sciences
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The Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Pretoria is recognised nationally and internationally for its outstanding education of health professionals, research and clinical service. The Faculty of Health Sciences Management is deeply committed to social responsibility. This has been translated into an action agenda which recognises the need for constant innovation which meets the health sciences challenges that South African society faces. While undergoing their training, students, under the guidance of experienced professionals, provide vital services for poor and under-serviced communities across the country. |
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I am Lee-Ann. “I have learnt that South Africa is a diverse country. I have learnt to see people differently. I have opened my eyes and seen the challenges that the people face. I am ready to make a difference in the community.” Thank you UP. Being socially responsible matters. |
Serving the community is part of UP’s DNA. The Daspoort Clinic stands as a proud testament to this. Established as a University of Pretoria Student Initiative in 1964, it continues to serve the medical needs of the local community. While a lot has changed over the last fifty years, the ethos that first drove students to volunteer their time to do community service in this working class suburb of Pretoria remains the same.
The clinic is staffed by students drawn from the different disciplines in the Department of Medicine. Students are provided with invaluable real world experience, and have an opportunity to do real, meaningful work, that can shape the direction they take once they graduate.
“The students are basically learning what is actually happening in a medical practice outside in the community,” said Dr Gerhard Botha, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Family Medicine. “We have established a platform for all the disciplines in the Department of Medicine to be able to do community service. This is very important to the UP community.”
The clinic is an important part of the University’s Social Responsibility Programme, which provides a vital link between students and their community. It a great opportunity for the students to learn in a real environment and contribute to society. Read more