The Dr In My Classroom programme at Pholosong Hospital has restarted to help learners in Tsakane, Kwa-Thema, and Duduza deal with social problems. It first began in 2019 but stopped because of COVID-19. Now, it’s back to tackle issues like suicide, teenage pregnancy, bullying, and substance abuse, while also teaching about mental and sexual health.
Doctors and health workers from Pholosong visit schools every Friday to talk to students, aiming to empower them to make good choices in life and studies.
Joy Mthethwa, a teacher at Tholulwazi Secondary School, praised the programme for reducing pregnancy rates since it started visiting schools.
Dr Lerato Makoro, a young doctor at Pholosong Hospital, joined the programme during her first year of training and has seen its impact on the community.
The hospital has seen many young people attempt suicide, with over 118 teenagers admitted between June and August 2023. The programme doesn’t just provide medical help; it also educates and raises awareness to promote healthy living.
By Puseletso Tshetlo
