By Gugulethu Jali
The Durban University of Technology (DUT), City Campus clinic stands as a vital resource for student health and well-being. Yet, when it comes to sexual health education and support, the numbers tell a concerning story.
Credible Source has learnt that students only use the clinic for illnesses like flu, headaches, stomach-ache among other illnesses and not for sexual health education and support.
Sentiments from students revealed that while they are aware the clinic exists, they’d rather use the internet to search for sexual health related issues.
“I know the clinic is there, but I’d rather Google things than go in and talk about it,” said Okuhle Mhlangala.
On the other hand, some students were shocked to find out that the clinic on campus provides a bouquet of services and not just mental health support.
“I didn’t even know they offer sexual health services. The only time I saw something about sexual health was when I was at Steve Biko campus. I didn’t know that we have sexual health programs here at City Campus.” said Elihle Mloko
These highlights a gap in communication between the institution and its students, where essential services are underutilised simply because they’re not well-promoted across the campus. The consequences of this disconnect are serious and without proper education and access to resources, students are at greater risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), unplanned pregnancies, and mental health challenges related to sexual well-being.
Gugulethu Lembethe from DUT Health Services said that on a scale of 1 to 10, only about 4 to 5 students actively visit the clinic for information, guidance, or services related to sexual health.
”These statistics reflect a broader issue: the persistent stigma around sexual health conversations, especially among young adults navigating new freedoms and responsibilities. The city campus students do not participate in awareness campaigns, peer-led workshops, and confidential online booking systems that are created to encourage learning and engage with sexual education and support, it is like they avoid the campus clinic,”explained Lembethe.
Sexual health is a fundamental part of overall well-being. For DUT students to thrive, the campus must foster a culture where seeking help is seen as a strength, learning and support not a source of embarrassment. The city campus clinic is ready, it’s time to bridge the gap between students and their access to free, reliable holistic health services.
