​The Gauteng Department of Health has strengthened its school health services by giving seven new vehicles to Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP) teams across the province, enabling them to reach more learners with crucial health screenings, vaccinations, and health education.
The vehicles were officially handed over by Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, at a ceremony held at Inxiweni Primary School at Tembisa in Ekurhuleni district on Friday, 20 June. The MEC said this signalled the department's continued investment in learner health and well-being.
"This is more than a handover, it is a message to our young people that their health matters. We are taking services directly to schools, especially in underserved areas, to ensure every learner receives the care they need," said Nkomo-Ralehoko.
The new fleet comprising of seven branded Isuzu vans has been distributed to all five districts in the province: Ekurhuleni (2), Johannesburg (1), Tshwane (2), Sedibeng (1), and West Rand (1). These join seven vehicles delivered in 2024, expanding the ISHP fleet to 14.
The ISHP offers health screenings for hearing, vision, oral health, and mental well-being, as well as immunisations and health education. The programme plays a vital role in identifying and addressing health issues that may affect learning outcomes.
David Manganyi, educator and Departmental Head at Inxiweni Primary School, said the programme has become an essential support system for schools:
"As educators, we are trained to deliver curriculum content, but when it comes to health-related challenges like speech or vision impairments, we need support, and that's where the Integrated School Health Programme makes a real difference," he said.
"It takes a village to raise a child, and this programme reminds us that education and health must go hand in hand to support the holistic development of every learner."
The handover comes at a critical time as the province responds to a growing measles outbreak. The MEC noted that the vehicles will assist ISHP teams in expanding vaccination campaigns and closing immunity gaps in schools and communities.
"These vehicles will help us reach more learners with life-saving vaccines. We must close the immunity gap and stop the spread of measles and rubella," added Nkomo-Ralehoko.
The Department reaffirmed its commitment to improving access to primary health care, particularly in Townships, Hostels, and Informal Settlements, where the need is greatest.