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Six out of twelve MBChB-3 COBES research groups presented their findings before supervisors, evaluators, and fellow students. The presentations formed part of the programme’s ongoing assessments and drew questions that encouraged deeper reflection on each study. Evaluators also shared recommendations aimed at strengthening the research.
What Happened
Throughout the session, six student groups showcased research conducted in various clinics across the Eastern Cape. Their topics covered major public health challenges, ranging from adolescent reproductive health to chronic illness management.
Below are the groups and their project titles:
- Group 1 – Mhlakulo Clinic: Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Contraceptive Use Among Adolescent Girls in Mhlakulo Village, Eastern Cape.
- Group 2 – Baziya Clinic: Factors Contributing to Malnutrition Among Children Aged 0–5 Years at Baziya Community.
- Group 3 – Mbekweni Clinic: Prevalence of Depression and Anxiety Symptoms Among Chronic Illness Patients Attending Mbekweni Health Centre, Eastern Cape.
- Group 4 – Gengqe Clinic: Exploring Factors Contributing to Poor Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy Among People Living with HIV in Gengqe Clinic.
- Group 5 – Gateway Clinic: The Effect of Traditional Healing Methods on Non-adherence to Chronic Medication Among Patients in Mthatha Gateway Clinic.
- Group 6 – Tsolo Gateway Clinic: Exploring the Impact of Medical Equipment Shortage on Service Delivery in Tsolo Gateway Clinic, Eastern Cape.
Each group received feedback that outlined strengths and pointed out areas for further improvement.
Official Response
Supervisors and evaluators commended the students for addressing real health issues affecting Eastern Cape communities. They noted that the presentations demonstrated commitment to understanding patient experiences and service delivery challenges.
Evaluators said the session “sparked thoughtful questions” and encouraged the teams to refine their work as they prepare for the next stage of assessment.
Community Impact
The research presented has the potential to support improved clinic-level interventions. By focusing on topics such as contraception use, malnutrition, adherence to treatment, and mental health, the projects offer insights that can guide future community health strategies.
Students said the experience helped them understand how evidence-based research can influence patient outcomes.
