21/07/2026
Health is often the first investment we make in education. And education is one of the greatest investments we make in a young person's future.
That thought stayed with me following an inspiring Social Transformation Engagement at Blair Atholl Primary School, on the 15th July, where Bayer South Africa, in partnership with the Mobile Health Clinics Foundation and its Social Impact Partners—the Dis-Chem Foundation and the Penreach STEAM Programme—brought together government, the private sector, education, civil society and youth to discuss some of the most pressing healthcare challenges facing our communities.
Our conversations reinforced that improving health outcomes requires us to think beyond the traditional definition of access and explore improving access to quality healthcare, empowering young people through trusted health information and youth-friendly services, strengthening the link between health and education, and building sustainable public-private partnerships that deliver long-term impact.
One of the highlights was the multi-stakeholder panel discussion, where representatives from the Gauteng Departments of Health and Education, Higher Health, Bayer, the Mobile Health Clinics Foundation and youth leaders shared valuable perspectives on delivering healthcare at the last mile.
One of my key reflections is that there are two last miles.
The first is Access—bringing healthcare closer to communities through schools, mobile services and strategic partnerships.
The second is Agency—empowering people to choose health through trusted information, informed choice and healthcare delivered with dignity. That second last mile is where sustainable impact is created.
A special thank you to Ms Lucky Maithufi, Principal of Blair Atholl Primary School, for so warmly welcoming us into your school community.
It was a privilege to welcome Heike Prinz, Chief Talent Officer and Labour Director, Bayer AG, and Mildred Nadah Pita, Vice President and Head of Public Affairs, Safety & Sustainability for Africa, whose presence reflected Bayer's global commitment to advancing equitable healthcare and social impact.
Thank you also to Parusha Pillay and the Bayer South Africa team for your leadership and partnership, and to my fellow panellists, Mary Mmapela Rapoo, Mrs Marousi Mzondi, Acacia Sinuku, moderator Zintle Oyiya, guest speaker Dr Ntlotleng Mabena, the learners, and everyone who contributed to such a meaningful day.
Creating healthier communities is a shared responsibility.
Together, government, civil society and the private sector can strengthen systems, expand opportunity and ensure that every child and young person has the opportunity not only to access healthcare—but to realise their full potential.
