Science Is Fun: Grade 12 learners explore concepts of decent work, future careers in health sciences and workplace health and safety

The UCT School of Public Health (Occupational Medicine Division), in collaboration with the Department of Human Biology (Division of Clinical Anatomy and Biological Anthropology), recently hosted a dynamic “Science is Fun” session as part of its ongoing outreach to high school learners. The outreach was attended by 57 learners from Silikamva High School (Imizamo Yethu) and 12 learners from Walmer Estate High School. The learners were accompanied by their two Life Sciences teachers.

The initiative aims to improve the learner’s understanding of human anatomy by linking it to their grade 12 curriculum. As the learners prepare to enter the field of work and/or tertiary education after Grade 12, the outreach further exposed them to various health science careers, and helped improve their understanding of the world of work by introducing key occupational health concepts. This forms part of the broader Qaphela! WorkSafe and StayHealthy Initiative, led by Dr Itumeleng Ntatamala (Occupational Medicine Specialist), which focuses on empowering young people especially teens and future workers with tools to recognise workplace hazards, understand their health and safety rights, and advocate for decent, healthy work. One learner shared:

“I was not aware about the importance of injuries and diseases at work… I now have realised that your health at any work is important and should be taken seriously.”

Learners participated in engaging career mapping exercises, reflecting on their top career choices and the steps needed to reach them. They completed the Holland Career Quiz, gaining personal insights into how their interests align with different work environments. These tools supported learners in linking their talents to meaningful, real-world professions.

In addition to career guidance, learners were given a unique opportunity to explore UCT’s health sciences degrees, including health and rehabilitation sciences courses and medicine. For many, it was their first time on a university campus. One learner reflected:

“I am very grateful for the opportunity to come to UCT and be exposed to the 'university environment' which has motivated me to work harder at school and ensure that I get enrolled in one of the universities.”, while another learner noted “It was wonderful because I got to gain knowledge on the variety of careers I have to choose from”.

The “Science is Fun” outreach programme continues to grow as a vital pathway for learners to connect life science education to real-world health issues, and career aspirations, all while reinforcing that public health and workplace wellness begin long before the first job. It is led by Dr Itumeleng Ntatamala, Dr Kentse Mpolokeng and Ms Jeshika Luckrajh.