​In a powerful celebration of growth, resilience and transformation, the Gauteng Department of Health marked a significant milestone at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital with the graduation of 308 staff members and interns. These individuals successfully completed accredited training programmes through a strategic partnership with Boston City Campus and the Alethea Foundation.
MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, delivered a heartfelt keynote address, applauding the graduates for their dedication and highlighting the broader vision behind the initiative.
"This moment represents our commitment to empowering our workforce, improving service delivery and building a resilient, skilled and people-centred healthcare system," she said.
Since the launch of the skills development initiative, over 1 000 staff members across Gauteng's health facilities have enrolled in programmes such as End User Computing, Cleaning and Hygiene, and Human Resource Practice. Among the latest cohort, 82 graduates earned certificates in Cleaning and Hygiene (NQF Level 1), while 226 completed Business Administration (NQF Level 2).
"These are important and practical skills that contribute to operational excellence and improved patient care, which is the backbone of our public health system," MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko emphasised.
Looking ahead, the Department has signed a five-year Memorandum of Agreement with Boston City Campus, paving the way for new programmes such as Business Administration and Human Resource Management at NQF Level 5. These offerings will further equip staff with leadership and management skills essential for the evolving healthcare landscape.
MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko also praised the role of public-private partnerships in bridging educational gaps and aligning training with the real needs of the public health sector.
"They help us create better outcomes for patients and ensure that no one gets left behind."
She extended gratitude to the families and colleagues who supported the graduates throughout their learning journey, acknowledging that their encouragement was instrumental to this achievement.
The MEC concluded by urging graduates to carry forward the values of professionalism, empathy and excellence, and to let their growth be reflected not only in their qualifications but in the care and leadership they bring to Gauteng's healthcare system.