The Department of Consumer Sciences Food and Nutrition at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), in collaboration with the National Department of Health and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund(UNICEF) will commemorate World Obesity Day (WOD), at the DUT Ritson campus exam hall in Durban on Monday, 10 March 2025 from 12h00 to 14h00. The keynote speaker will be the Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Mathume Phaahla.

This year’s WOD theme, “Changing Systems, Healthier Lives,” emphasises the need for systemic changes to address the rising obesity epidemic. The campaign seeks to shift the focus from individual responsibility to the broader systems that shape health, including government policies, food environments, media, workplaces and environmental systems.

Through this initiative, DUT aims to:

•  Raise awareness about obesity as a systemic issue requiring multi-level interventions.
•  Encourage students to engage in healthy nutrition, physical activity, and obesity prevention efforts.
•  Advocate for systemic changes to support healthier lifestyles.

By joining forces with global efforts to address obesity, DUT demonstrates its commitment to fostering a supportive environment that promotes the well-being and health of its students and staff.

Siphosethu Nase from the Department of Consumer Sciences Food and Nutrition at DUT explained that obesity is a chronic disease and a significant contributor to other non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as type-2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension and certain types of cancer. He believes that by addressing the obesity crisis, we can reduce the overall burden of these diseases and ease the strain on global healthcare systems.

“Our students will have the opportunity to be introduced to the Fix My Food, a movement representing the youth and their voices to secure healthier futures. This is how youth can act, have greater power and agency, in their own health and future,” added Nase.

Sharing recommendations on how DUT can contribute to addressing obesity, Nase said the university can promote healthier eating habits on campus by regulating food options and making nutritious alternatives more accessible.

Furthermore, Nase believes offering affordable and healthy meal options, along with awareness campaigns highlighting the risks of ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks, can encourage better eating habits and promote healthier lifestyle choices.

He urged the students to join them on WOD to uncover the truth behind obesity. Nase stressed it was time to shift the focus from blaming individuals to changing systems that shape one’s health.

“Let the whole DUT community join us to create healthier environments for all and be part of change. Students will enjoy participating in exciting physical activities, including aerobics, designed to promote fitness and fun,” he added.

He stated that DUT’s commitment to community engagement and societal transformation is reflected in the WOD’s goal of changing systems to improve public health.

According to Nase, this year’s event advocates for policy reforms, healthier food environments and increased physical activity, aligning with DUT’s vision of being an engaged university. He added that the WOD also supports DUT’s mission to develop adaptive graduates who understand the importance of health in societal development through health literacy and nutrition awareness.

Pictured: The World Obesity Poster.

Phiwayinkosi Sibiya/Thubelihle Dumakude