adminMehluli Sibanda
TSHOLOTSHO High School now has its own clinic and dispensary, a development that will see pupils no longer leave school whenever they need treatment.
Built by the school with assistance from the School Development Committee, the clinic was officially opened on Friday by Dr Annie Makoni, a medical doctor based at Tsholotsho District Hospital.
Dr Makoni was representing Tsholotsho Medical Officer Dr Ntombiyakogasa Sithole.
It becomes the 22nd clinic in Tsholotsho district and it is not only going to cater for pupils but the surrounding community.
Speaking at the launch, the school headmaster Mr Sicelo Dube said the facility was developed from an old toilet block to what it is now. He expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed in the building of the clinic. Mr Dube took the opportunity to request for assistance from the Ministry of Health and Child Care with relevant medication as well as other required equipment and a nurse for the clinic.
Dr Makoni congratulated the school for building the clinic which should take care of minor sicknesses. She also encouraged the pupils to adhere to good hygiene so as to avoid falling sick as well as set up health clubs where they could discuss health issues.
“I applaud you for setting up this facility for treatment of minor ailments. Students should practise good hygiene to eliminate certain diseases. There is also a need to set up a health club where students can share ideas on health issues,’’ said Dr Makoni.
She highlighted the shortage of specialised nurses in the field of paediatrics (those who look after children) as well as nephrology (those who look after patients with kidney problems).
The official launch was attended by the Member of Parliament for Tsholotsho South Cde Zenzo Sibanda, chairman of the Tsholotsho Rural District Council Mr Alois Ndebele, Tsholotsho District Administrator Ms Nosizi Dube, Chief Magama as well as headmasters from other schools in Matabeleland North.
Cde Sibanda said construction of clinics was one of the priorities in his constituency with a number of health facilities built in the last few years.
Online Reporter