The Durban University of Technology is a firm believer of the notion “a healthy body means a healthy mind” and it endeavours to manifest this concept through its annual staff Wellness Day.
Now holding for the fifth time, the staff Wellness Day took place on Thursday (July 26, 2013) at the Fred Crookes Sports Centre, Steve Biko Campus.
The event was organised by the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) within Human Resource Management at DUT in partnership with PSG, a healthcare consultant to the institution.
PSG Principal, Sylvester Appasamy, explained that the event was organised from a holistic point of view. This means that as opposed to focusing only on physical health, EAP and PSG also took cognisance of the concept of “complete wellness”.
Among the many service providers invited to the event were banks, medical aid companies, the DUT Somatology Department, the South African National Blood Service as well as the Emergency Medical Care and Rescue (EMR) Department at DUT.
While some staff sought financial advice, some opted to test for glucose, high blood pressure and cholesterol. EMR’s education on performing CPR also intrigued some staff members. However, the most popular stall was without a doubt that of the Somatology Department where back and neck massages and nail painting were offered.
The event was surely the best health experience for the mind, body and soul.
“The goal is to encourage employees to take responsibility for their health whilst at the same educating and bringing awareness about health-related issues. The wellbeing of employees has a significant impact on their performance and productivity,” said Sam Rajcoomar, EAP Specialist.
Even with a tight schedule, Professor Ahmed Bawa, DUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal, also made a brief appearance during the event because he believes “it is important for staff to focus on their health”.
Cebo Xozwa, an Administrative Assistant and Project Co-ordinator in the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT) who was attending the event for the first time, said she learnt a lot as information was abundant.
Attending the Wellness Day for the past three years has taught Payroll Officer Tracy Singh the importance of having medical aid. “In as much as it is expensive, having medical aid is both essential and helpful. That’s what I like most about coming to this event. It’s also good to see so many faces because I spend a lot of time in my office,” she said.
– Naledi Hlefane
Pictured: A DUT Emergency Medical Care and Rescue student takes a staff member through the process of performing CPR.
