Joe Gqabi District<\/p>\n
The Eastern Cape Health MEC, Ntandokazi Capa, is set to lead the 2026 Back-to-School outreach programme in the Joe Gqabi District from January 14 to 16, 2026. This annual programme aims to ensure learners return to school supported, motivated, and protected, while strengthening collaboration among government, schools, and communities.<\/p>\n
According to the department, the programme prioritises learner wellbeing, school readiness, and the creation of safe learning environments. The MEC will address critical social and behavioural challenges that continue to impact learner performance and wellbeing, including teenage pregnancy, substance and alcohol abuse, early-age drinking, gender-based violence and femicide, toxic masculinity, and harmful social practices.<\/p>\n
The outreach programme will also focus on mental health and psychosocial well-being, offering messages of validation, support, and hope. Learners will receive guidance on responsible subject choices, post-school pathways, access to higher education and training opportunities, and available financial aid, within the context of the Eastern Cape Matric Pass Rate Targets.<\/p>\n
To complement these engagements, the Department of Health will deploy mobile services, including health and dental clinics, to provide on-site health promotion and preventive services to learners and their surrounding communities. The Department will further support schools through the donation of health and hygiene items aimed at promoting dignity, oral health, and personal care among learners.<\/p>\n
As part of the departmental contribution, the MEC will oversee the donation of sanitary towels, hygiene essentials, and educational dental-care stickers, further strengthening oral health education efforts at schools.<\/p>\n
The outreach programme will visit the following schools:<\/p>\n
– January 14, 2026: ET Thabane FSS (Elundini Local Municipality)
\n– January 15, 2026: Mt Fletcher Special School (Elundini Local Municipality)
\n– January 16, 2026: Mzimkhulu SSS (Walter Sisulu Local Municipality)<\/p>\n
The programme is expected to make a significant impact on the lives of learners in the Joe Gqabi District, promoting a safe and supportive learning environment that fosters academic excellence and overall wellbeing.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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