The youth of Grabouw had an insightful experience last week when they got the opportunity to learn more about careers in the medical field during an interactive careers day hosted by the Grabouw Community Health Centre (CHC).
The event, which was held on Wednesday 12 June at the Grabouw CHC, aimed to inspire young minds by showcasing various medical professions and career pathways. Those attending had the opportunity to engage with health-care professionals, learn about different roles, and gain insights into the health-care industry.
Six information stations gave the learners the opportunity to see and experience basic demonstrations of various health-related careers, while having the opportunity the engage with staff and learn about the different professions in the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness directly from nurses, dieticians, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, radiographers, sonographers, dentists, optometrists, social workers, paramedics and pharmacists.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) also attended the day to give learners who showed an interest in these fields more information about the relevant courses they offer, requirements and application processes.
In alignment with Youth Month, the event emphasised the importance of empowering young individuals. “By exposing them to health-care careers we encourage them to make informed choices that positively impact their lives and the community,” Samantha Cupido, social worker at Grabouw CHC and organiser of the careers day, explained.
The event, held in partnership with the Western Cape Education Department, Glen Elgin Community Organisation, Right to Care and Grabouw Library, was a huge success. During a feedback session the learners indicated they had a better understanding of the different careers in the medical field.
“I love babies and children, so I have always thought of becoming a midwife,” said Ananda Fourie, one of the learners who attended. “Today I know for sure that I want to become a nurse and specialise in midwifery. I also learnt what a sonographer does, and this profession will be my second choice.”
Ronisha Isaacs said, having had some dental issues in the past, she thought dentistry would be an interesting field to enter. “I can become a dentist and help others who have had the same problems I have had with my teeth,” she pointed out.
Roché Laws, spokesperson for the Department of Health and Wellness in the Overberg, reported that the staff of Grabouw CHC were happy with the outcome of the careers day and plan to host another careers day for younger learners who still need to make subject choices.
“The aim is to make a difference in the community the facility serves and showcase what possibilities the youth have in the health-care sector,” she added.
