WSU MAKES IMPACTFUL CONTRIBUTION AT A PHASA CONFERENCE

WSU recently made a powerful impression at the 2025 Public Health Association of South Africa (PHASA) Conference, showcasing pioneering research and strengthening its role as a leader in community-centred health innovation.

WSU’s Department of Public Health delivered four oral and one poster presentation at the conference, highlighting key issues such as learning practices during health crises, clinical governance, maternal health, and the role of nurses in evidence-based decision-making.

Xolelwa Ntlongweni explored the learning habits of health professionals in the Eastern Cape during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on how they adapted in resource-constrained conditions.

“Healthcare professionals that can learn and empower themselves even in such settings is quite extraordinary. This research intersects with the broader responsibilities of healthcare workers, especially as they are also expected to uphold clinical governance principles in their facilities,” said Ntlongweni.

Nomfuneko Sithole presented on the critical knowledge gaps regarding clinical governance protocols among frontline health workers.

“Despite the existence of such protocols, many professionals were unaware of their content or application. We showcased insights that strengthen clinical governance, health workforce development and service delivery. This contributes to the long-term goal of building healthier, more empowered communities,” she said.

Kedibone Maake’s comparative study shed light on how health professionals perceive their hospitals as learning organisations across five sub-districts. Ruth Tshabalala’s research delved into the sources nurses rely on at the point of care, revealing a strong preference for peer consultation over digital or formal sources. These findings collectively point to a need for better access to reliable, evidence-based resources in clinical environments.

The researchers described their participation as both liberating and empowering. “We felt a sense of pride and responsibility. We were standing on a national platform showcasing the impactful work being done at WSU work that addresses public health challenges within South Africa. It was a rewarding experience,” said Tshabalala.

Adding a regional and international dimension, Ziyanda Ngcobo presented a longitudinal study analysing health trends among Rwandan women over a span of 29 years. Her findings tracked progress in maternal and reproductive health indicators, offering valuable insights into the effectiveness of long-term health interventions that could inform South Africa’s own strategies.

The conference also offered opportunities for collaboration and growth. “We had conversations with NGOs operating in the rural Eastern Cape and are exploring partnerships with a Medical Research Council-led project. We want to do more research that showcases the resilience of our rural communities, publish our findings and engage stakeholders with policy recommendations,” said Ngcobo.

The presenters were proud to note that their participation aligned with WSU’s broader mission and values.

“Our participation at PHASA embodies WSU’s vision because we contributed impactful research while upholding the university’s core values in pursuit of a healthier society. We exchanged knowledge and innovative approaches aimed at improving health outcomes, which aligns with WSU’s commitment to societal impact and research excellence,” said Ntlongweni.

Their work also contributes directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. “If we look at climate change, clinical governance, and learning habits of healthcare professionals, our participation advances education, equity, and health system resilience. The work contributes to a more sustainable, inclusive and health-secure society,” said Maake.

WSU’s presence at PHASA 2025 reinforced its standing as an emerging thought leader in public health and a vital force for transformation, especially in addressing the challenges faced by rural and underserved populations.

By Anita Roji