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UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE

University of the Western Cape

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is an esteemed public research institution located in Bellville, in close proximity to Cape Town, South Africa. The establishment of the university occurred in 1959 under the auspices of the South African government, with the explicit intention of serving as an institution only catering to individuals classified as Coloured. In addition to the aforementioned institution, Cape Town is home to several more institutions, namely the University of Cape Town, the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, and Stellenbosch University. UWC has maintained its status as an integrated and multiracial institution since even prior to the conclusion of apartheid in South Africa in 1994.

School of Public Health

The Public Health Programme was established in 1993 with the explicit mandate to support the establishment of a new health system in a new, democratic South Africa.  Since its inception, under the leadership of founding director, Prof David Sanders, it has strengthened public health and primary health care education and research. Our mission has always been to empower the health services by nurturing their capacity and expertise. 

Since its inception, the SOPH evolved into a pioneering force in the field of public health, exerting significant national influence and extending its impact throughout the continent. Our vision is to improve the general health and wellbeing of people living in developing nations, particularly in Africa. We strive to create sustainable and health-promoting environments that provide equal access to essential services that are grounded on social justice and human rights.

At the core of our existence lies the objective of equipping policy makers and implementers with the essential knowledge and skills in the principles and practice of public health.

Among our noteworthy accomplishments are:

• pioneering a multi-level postgraduate programme that culminates in Masters in Public Health and Doctorates in Public Health.
• providing health and social care professionals with chances for continuous learning opportunities through our annual Summer and Winter Schools.
• establishing a robust programme of integrated research and service that is enhanced by student contributions.
• Developing impactful training guides and resources for service providers based on our service work and research.
• obtaining accreditation as a Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Human Resources for Health Development by the World Health Organisation.

Situated at the heart of the University of the Western Cape’s main campus in Bellville, the SOPH resides within the Faculty of Community and Health Sciences. This faculty encompasses various departments, including Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Social Work, Natural Medicine, Human Ecology, Dietetics, Sport, Recreation, and Exercise Science.

Please visit our website to find out more about our programmes and contributions to the field of public health. Join us as we advocate for universal access to sustainable health and well-being and help shape healthier futures. 

Check out our website for additional details. 

Transport to UWC

There are many flexible and sustainable options for travelling to, from, or around UWC. UWC is only 11 minutes by car to Cape Town International Airport. Getting to and from campus is easy with Uber and Bolt. If delegates wish to travel by car, there is safe and free parking options available on-campus.