Healthy Employees: An important factor in the workplace

Studies have indicated that employees who adopt healthy habits demonstrate higher productivity, lower absenteeism, and improved job satisfaction. Advancing human capacity development, promoting well-being, and acting as stewards of the environment are some of the University of Venda (UNIVEN)’s goals as indicated in the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan. UNIVEN’s commitment to health and environmental sustainability is supported by goals such as SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).

It is for these reasons that UNIVEN came alive with excitement, unity, and positive energy as employees gathered at the UNIVEN Stadium for the 2026 Employee Wellness Day Programme that was held on 13 May 2026. The event highlighted the University’s continued commitment to promoting employee health, wellness, teamwork, and recreation in the workplace. The programme commenced with an energetic, fun walk to Maungani Gate, proceeded to the traffic circle outside Muledani Gate, then to UNIVEN Stadium where employees enthusiastically participated in the morning exercise activities. UNIVEN Staff members exercised together in high spirits, demonstrating keen interest in physical fitness and healthy living. The atmosphere was filled with motivation and a strong sense of unity as colleagues encouraged one another throughout the walk and aerobics sessions.

Group of participants exercising

The importance of the Employee Wellness Day was strongly emphasised throughout the programme, as the initiative was aimed at ensuring that employees are supported holisti-cally, physically, emotionally, mentally, and socially. The event also served as a reminder that a healthy workforce contributes positively to productivity, morale, and institutional growth. Through activities designed to promote wellness and reduce stress, the University reaffirmed its dedication to fostering a supportive, healthy work environment for all employees.
The day brought together different departments in a spirit of unity and institutional pride. From wellness screenings and educational sessions to sporting activities and recreational games, the programme reflected the University’s vision of fostering a healthy and motivated work-force. Employees were encouraged to step away from the pressures of daily work routines and engage freely with colleagues in a relaxed and enjoyable environment.

Mrs Beauty Mutheiwana, Director Supply Chain Management and Expenditure at UNIVEN

Delivering the welcome and purpose of this Employee Wellness Day, Mrs Mutheiwana explained that this day forms part of the University’s commitment to employee wellbeing under Strategic Thrust Number Three of the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, which focuses on people, health, and wellness. She stated that the initiative was a deliberate effort by University Management and the Council to ensure that employees are cared for holistically, so they remain healthy, produc-tive, and motivated both at work and at home. Mrs Mutheiwana encouraged employees to use the day as an opportunity to de-stress, interact freely, and build stronger relationships across departments. She urged staff members to put aside workplace titles and positions during the activities and engage with one another as equals. She further thanked employees for attend-ing in large numbers and encouraged them to make full use of the wellness support services available throughout the day.

Staff members doing sporting activities

One of the highlights of the programme was the lively team-building games held at the stadium where employees participated in various fun-filled activities aimed at strengthening teamwork, communication, and collaboration among staff members. Colleagues enthusiastically took part in relay games, group challenges, and recreational sporting activities, creating an atmosphere of excitement and camaraderie. The games not only promoted physical fitness but also rein-forced the importance of cooperation, trust, and unity within the University community.

Mrs Maggie Hlungwane, HIV Coordinator, Campus Health Clinic, UNIVEN

The programme also featured wellness awareness services presented by healthcare profes-sionals and service providers. Addressing employees, Mrs Hlungwane encouraged staff to take advantage of the health screenings available, including blood pressure, blood sugar, choles-terol, body mass index, eye testing, and dental examinations. She highlighted the importance of knowing one’s health status and noted that the month’s campaign particularly focused on men’s health awareness. Employees were encouraged to visit all wellness stations and priori-tise healthy living.

Mrs Uanda Ndou, Director Human Resources, UNIVEN

Delivering the vote of thanks, Mrs Uanda Ndou expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancel-lor and Principal, including the Executive Management for supporting employee wellness ini-tiatives and making the programme possible. She also thanked Campus Health, Sports and Recreation, the Department of Health, medical aid providers, and other stakeholders for their contributions towards the success of the event.

Mrs Ndou encouraged employees to participate fully in the wellness screenings and educa-tional sessions, noting that staff members often struggle to find time for medical check-ups during normal working schedules. She further applauded the Human Resources team and all employees for their enthusiasm and participation, urging staff to continue embracing the spirit of Wellness Wednesday activities.
The 2026 Employee Wellness Day concluded on a high note, leaving employees refreshed, mo-tivated, and inspired to prioritise their health and wellbeing while strengthening relationships within the university community.

UNIVEN staff members participating in the fun walk and the first group to arrive at the stadium during the walk

UNIVEN staff members participating in physical activities

Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811