Students from the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) partnered with Islamic Relief South Africa for an outreach project, offering free dental services to the community at the Gugulethu Dental Clinic. The initiative aimed to support those in need of oral health care while providing valuable hands-on experience for the students.
The services provided included general oral health consultations, dental treatments, and cleanings, among others. This collaboration was lauded by both the university and Islamic Relief SA for its positive impact on the community and the students involved.
A Practical Learning Experience for Students
Prof. Jeff Yengopal, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry at UWC, highlighted that the outreach project offered students an invaluable opportunity to practice their skills in real-world settings. He emphasized the importance of community engagement in their training, noting that it helps develop not only their technical abilities but also their capacity for empathy and service. “We want the kind of students who are willing to serve. They must have warmth and ability to make a difference,” said Yengopal, praising the initiative for both its educational value and its positive community impact.
Humanitarian Support and Addressing Inequality
Yusuf Mohamed, CEO of Islamic Relief South Africa, underscored the importance of such projects in addressing the lasting effects of apartheid and the inequality that still persists in many communities. He shared that the organization has been collaborating with UWC for two years and emphasized the broader social mission behind the outreach.
“The project may seem small to some, but its impact on the lives of people is phenomenal. One person can make a difference in this world,” Mohamed stated. He also expressed his commitment to expanding the project to serve more marginalized communities, particularly disabled individuals who often face significant barriers to accessing healthcare. Mohamed added that hygiene and dental health should not be seen as privileges but fundamental rights for all people.
Alleviating Clinic Burden and Community Gratitude
Mirriam Pienaar, the operational manager at Gugulethu Dental Clinic, shared how the project has alleviated pressure on the clinic’s resources. She noted that the students’ involvement, especially on Mondays and Fridays, has helped meet the overwhelming demand for services. “Since this project started last month, we never turned back a patient,” Pienaar said, expressing gratitude for the support from UWC and Islamic Relief SA. The clinic serves not only the Gugulethu area but also neighboring regions, further extending the reach of the initiative.
Positive Feedback from Patients
Patients, like Nwabisa Jwacu from Delft, expressed their appreciation for the services provided. Jwacu, who received a dental cleaning and flossing, praised the students for their care and the quality of their work. “It is important to look after our bodies and teeth as well. I can sense that my mouth is fresh,” she said.
The success of this outreach project reflects the powerful impact of collaborative efforts in addressing community health needs and providing students with meaningful educational experiences. With plans to expand, the initiative continues to foster a culture of service, education, and health care accessibility for all.
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