The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Department of Radiography has taken cancer awareness into the community, using a recent engagement to share knowledge about cancer, radiation therapy and the importance of early detection.
The department participated in the 10 year celebration of the Water Lily’s Cancer Awareness Group, where Radiotherapy lecturer Dr Melisa Pillay was invited as a guest speaker. The engagement provided an opportunity to discuss radiation therapy, breast cancer and cancer treatment with community members, while also creating awareness about the role of radiography in healthcare.
DUT Radiotherapy students also took part in the outreach initiative, giving them an opportunity to engage directly with members of the community and apply knowledge gained through their studies.
For the students, the experience extended learning beyond the classroom and clinical environment. It allowed them to develop their confidence in communicating health information, explain complex concepts in a way that is accessible to the public, and gain a broader understanding of the role of radiographers as healthcare professionals, educators and advocates.
“Community engagement gives our students an opportunity to see how the knowledge and skills they acquire at university can make a difference in people’s lives,” said Dr Pillay.
The initiative also received media attention, with DUT Radiography featured in the Highway Mail, helping to broaden the reach of the cancer awareness message.
As part of Women’s Month, Dr Pillay also participated as a guest speaker at Bloom, a women’s gathering that encouraged women to move from fear to awareness and highlighted the importance of early detection.
The department’s community engagement reflects DUT’s commitment to connecting teaching and learning with societal impact. It is also aligned with the University’s ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework, which seeks to strengthen the University’s contribution to communities through education, innovation and meaningful engagement.
For DUT Radiography, taking learning beyond the University means creating opportunities for students to share knowledge, engage with communities and understand the difference their profession can make beyond the clinical environment.
Pictured: DUT Radiography team at the 10 year celebration of the Water Lily’s Cancer Awareness Group.
Photo: Supplied
Dr Mellisa Pillay
