We also offer extracurricular learning and development in the form of the Peer Education Programme. The Peer Education Programme is a student volunteer-based programme that is aimed at promoting healthy living in the TUT community. It is regarded as a useful strategy in health promotion, as peers can form partnerships in strengthening strategies that are aimed towards behavioural change. It has evolved into numerous health and wellness programmes that offer experiential opportunities to enhance leadership, interpersonal, communication and advocacy skills.
The Peer Educators at TUT play the following roles:Educators - provide basic information about healthy living and HIV awareness in a youth-friendly way.Role models - act as positive role models for students and reinforce positive values and attitudes.Supporters - build trusting relationships with peers and provide support regarding psychosocial problems that place students at risk of contracting HIV and other health-related conditions.Referral agents - identify learners with psychosocial problems, support them and, if necessary, refer them to the Directorate of Health and Wellness or community agencies such as clinics and social workers.Advocates - raise awareness of issues and services available and inform the Directorate of Health and Wellness about the health needs of students.Peer Educators also develop and participate in campus and community partnerships that advance health promotion initiatives.