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Third Annual World Food Safety Day
The University of the Witwatersrand Services Department held its third annual World Food Safety Day commemoration on June 13, 2024 under the theme, prepare for the unexpected. The event gathered all internal and external stakeholders in the food industry. Mr. Israel Mogomotsi, Director of the Services Department, welcomed all attendees and highlighted the importance of preparedness, vigilance, and proactive measures in maintaining food safety. “Whether faced with a sudden outbreak of a foodborne illness, disruptions in the supply chain, or unexpected changes in consumer behavior, our swift and effective response can greatly impact the health and safety of our students and staff.” The guest speakers included representatives from the National Department of Health: Food Control, the Department of Economic Development: Consumer Education, The City of Johannesburg - Environmental Health, the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD), and Wits School of Public Health. Additionally, Ms. Masana Munengwani, a Wits student, shared her firsthand experiences with food safety alongside our internal dining hall and retail operations staff.
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Services Department Providing invaluable support to students | Gateway To Success (GTS)
During the period from Monday, January 29th to Friday, February 8th, 2024, the Services Department participated in the Gateway To Success (GTS), providing invaluable support to students as they embarked on their academic journeys. Exhibition stalls were set up at the Old Mutual Sports Hall, offering students insight into our array of services aimed at facilitating their success in academics. The theme of the event focused on highlighting our diverse service offerings and promoting holistic health and wellness, including all sustainability initiatives within our department.
Food Safety Awareness Week Campaign
Food Safety Awareness Week Campaign
The University of the Witwatersrand Services Department hosted food safety awareness week as part of the World Food Safety Day commemoration. This was undertaken for a period of five days, from 05 June 2023 to 09 June 2023.
Activities included food safety information stalls stationed around campus, where food safety quizzes and information sessions were held with students and staff. On 09 June 2023, the University hosted World Food Safety Day Conference targeting University retailers, Staff and Students. Speakers for the day included include National Department of Health- Food Control Directorate, South African Institute of Environmental Health and the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS). The objective of the campaign was to raise awareness on food safety, the importance of food standards and enhancing collaboration towards ensuring food safety compliance. 
Department Mandela Day Initiative
Every year, Services Department has committed to dedicate time to contribute towards Nelson Mandela Day initiatives. Nelson Mandela International Day is an international observance in honor of Nelson Mandela, and an important time to reflect and give back to the community. Nelson Mandela has always advocated for rightful dignity and equality of every living person.
The Department spent Mandela Day at Sunshine Association Home-Craighall Early Intervention Centre, which is a non-profit organisation that supports children with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities, their families, and communities.
We took our skills to the community by helping the centre with reviving their food garden, cleaning windows and outdoor spaces. This initiative was in collaboration with our service providers, who contributed significantly by donated items on the centre’s wish list.
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Arbor Day Celebration by the Services Department
On September 7, 2023, the Services Department organized a dynamic Arbor Day event as a part of Arbor Month commemorations. The event centered around the planting of fruit trees and included an informative sustainability workshop. Attendees gained valuable insights into the crucial roles that trees play in addressing climate change and enhancing air quality. This Arbor Day event underscored the University's unwavering commitment to environmental preservation and the promotion of a more sustainable future.
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Staff Fun Day
The University organized a delightful staff fun day, offering our staff a chance to relax, foster connections, and rejuvenate. We had our vibrant stalls where reusable water bottles were distributed to all our employees, showcasing our dedication to eliminating single-use plastic bottles while promoting environmental responsibility.
