Enicca Phillipine Mkhondo introducing herself during the opening ceremony, marking the start of the exchange programme
The intensive programme, hosted by Hunan Children’s Hospital under the auspices of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), ran from 5 to 25 September 2025. Participants travelled from their respective countries at the beginning of September and returned on 26 September 2025.
The training had 32 health practitioners from six countries: South Africa, South Sudan, Tanzania, The Gambia, Lesotho, and Timor-Leste. Ms Mkhondo was one of only two delegates from South Africa, alongside Ms Phumzile Nkosiyane from Soweto. Together, they presented on the current state of health in South Africa, highlighting challenges and progress in reducing maternal and child mortality rates.
The programme featured lectures, practical demonstrations, interactive discussions, field visits, and country health presentations. Sessions covered a wide range of topics, including clinical, social, psychological, and public health approaches to improving maternal and child health outcomes. Participants also engaged in knowledge-sharing on innovative practices to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.
Left Photo: Learning session on China’s approaches to preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B, led by experts from Hunan Children’s Hospital
Right Photo: Ms Enicca Mkhondo receiving a gift
Reflecting on her experience, Ms Mkhondo said the training was “highly enriching, offering valuable insights into global best practices and fostering collaboration among health professionals across continents.”
She added that the course directly complemented her Masters research, titled “The Complexities of Maternal Non-Adherence to ART and Its Impact on Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV.” The programme not only broadened my understanding of maternal and child health interventions but also inspired new ideas for my ongoing research and professional growth.
The training concluded with a certificate-awarding ceremony, recognising the active participation and commitment of all delegates. Ms Mkhondo expressed her gratitude to the University of Venda and the organisers for the opportunity, noting that the experience strengthened her dedication to improving maternal and child health outcomes in South Africa and beyond.
Left Photo: Group photo taken during the opening ceremony, featuring representatives from Hunan Children’s Hospital, MOFCOM, and participants from six African countries
Right Photo: Closing ceremony marking the successful completion of the training, with certificate presentations by representatives from MOFCOM and Hunan Children’s Hospital
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Department of Marketing, Branding & Communication University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
