September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Around 80% of all child cancer cases globally occur in low and middle income countries yet fewer than a third of children are diagnosed in these countries and of those that are treated less than 20% survive.
Childhood cancer, though relatively uncommon, experts say it presents a significant and increasing challenge across the globe affecting approximately one in 408 children under the age of 15 years.
According to World Child Cancer, at least 50% of child cancers can be cured even in resource-poor environments with relatively simple and inexpensive drugs and procedures which have been known to doctors for decades.
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) in collaboration with CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA, iSchool Africa and Core Group has unveiled what they called a sustainable initiative in the fight against childhood cancer.
The department said that the unveiling of the iSchool Africa iPad Learning Programme aims to bridge the gap between healthcare and education for young patients battling cancer to transform their treatment experience and improve their quality of life.
This initiative will afford children undergoing cancer treatment at the Zakithi Nkosi Paediatric Haematology Oncology Clinic at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) an opportunity to continue with their education without interruption.
Speaking at the launch on Tuesday, the department’s Acting Head of Hospital Services, Dr Steve Mankupane emphasised that no child should have to choose between their health and their education.
“We are not just launching an educational tool; we are igniting hope in the hearts of our brave young warriors. Children have a right to education and through this programme, we will bring the classroom to the bedside to ensure that learning continues in a nurturing environment that offers emotional support to help children maintain a sense of normalcy”, said Mankupane.
The CEO of CHBAH, Dr Nthabiseng Makgana thanked the partners and welcomed the initiative saying it goes a long way in making the journey of those who are affected by childhood cancer, less burdensome through the comprehensive support programmes.
Sibongile Tshabalala, a mother to a daughter aged 12 said, “this learning programme will help my daughter to continue with her schooling while undergoing her cancer treatment. The iPad has educational material that will help in empowering her learning process.”
The iSchool Africa iPad Learning Programme has been introduced in all four academic hospitals which have been supported with iPads loaded with learning material. CHBAH currently has approximately 25 learners,
Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital has 20 learners, Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital has approximately 10 learners while Steve Biko Academic Hospital currently has 15 learners.
The number of learners vary depending on the patients admitted. Each school has four qualified educators who have been trained to support every child with their educational needs.
The Star