Registered students at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, Community Education and Training (CET) colleges and universities across South Africa are being encouraged to apply for the 2026 Peer Education Programme led by Higher Health.
The initiative, which forms part of the organisation’s broader student health and wellness strategy, is aimed at empowering young leaders to drive conversations around critical health and social issues affecting campuses nationwide.
According to promotional material released this week, the programme is seeking passionate and committed students who are eager to assist their peers and facilitate important dialogues on health and wellbeing topics.
Focus on Key Health and Social Issues
The Peer Education Programme places strong emphasis on addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing young people in higher education institutions. Selected peer educators will facilitate discussions and awareness campaigns on issues including:
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Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and gender equality
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Mental health
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Sexual and reproductive health
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HIV, TB and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
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LGBTQI+ awareness and inclusion
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Alcohol and substance abuse
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Self-care and physical wellbeing
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Disability inclusion
The programme aligns with national efforts to create safer and more supportive campus environments, particularly amid ongoing concerns about student mental health, GBV incidents, and substance abuse.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to students currently registered at a TVET college, CET college or university. Ideal candidates are described as individuals who:
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Are passionate about supporting fellow students
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Are willing to facilitate health and wellness dialogues
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Can work with diverse student groups
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Are able to advocate and lobby for student health and wellness programmes
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Are willing to participate in “First Things First” activations and related campaigns
The “First Things First” campaign is a well-known HIV prevention and testing drive targeting students in post-school education and training institutions.
By recruiting peer educators directly from campuses, Higher Health aims to ensure that awareness initiatives are relatable, student-led and culturally responsive.
Roles and Responsibilities
Successful applicants will take on a leadership role within their respective institutions. Their responsibilities will include:
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Facilitating dialogues and group discussions
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Advocating for wellness initiatives
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Conducting information sessions and awareness campaigns
Peer educators often serve as a bridge between students and institutional support services, helping to direct peers to counselling, health screenings and other assistance when needed.
Beyond awareness-raising, the programme also provides participating students with valuable leadership, communication and facilitation skills that can strengthen their academic and professional profiles.
Strengthening Campus Wellness
Higher Health operates as a national organisation working to promote health, wellness and student development within the post-school education sector. Its programmes are implemented in partnership with the Department of Higher Education and Training and various institutions across the country.
With youth unemployment and mental health challenges remaining significant concerns in South Africa, initiatives like the Peer Education Programme are seen as critical in building resilience and fostering supportive campus communities.
Student-led interventions have been widely recognised as effective in increasing awareness and reducing stigma around sensitive topics such as HIV testing, mental health support and gender-based violence reporting.
How to Apply
Students interested in becoming peer educators are required to apply online via the official Microsoft Forms link provided in the promotional material. Applicants can access the form at:
https://forms.office.com/r/zDL3uQsccB?origin=QRCode
Alternatively, students may scan the QR code featured on the official poster to complete their application.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to secure consideration for the 2026 intake.
Empowering Student Voices
As institutions continue to prioritise holistic student support, programmes like this highlight the growing importance of peer-driven solutions. By equipping students to educate, advocate and lead, Higher Health is reinforcing the role of young people as active participants in shaping safer and healthier campuses.
Students who are passionate about making a difference in their communities are encouraged to seize this opportunity and step into leadership through the 2026 Peer Education Programme.
