With six qualifications under her belt and a forthcoming doctorate, UPOnline lecturer Kavitha Naicker stands as a testament to the value of lifelong learning. This dedication to continuous learning drives her passion to offer support and share knowledge with working individuals enrolled in the fully online Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health (PGDip Public Health) provided by Comprehensive Online Education Services.

Growth and development of students

As the coordinator for the PGDip Public Health Research Protocol module, hosted in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Pretoria, she's equipping students with vital skills and ethical principles for effective research.

"Through the research protocol module, I aim to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical principles necessary to design, conduct, and communicate research effectively in their respective health fields."

Naicker, who boasts qualifications from the University of Pretoria, the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, the University of the Witwatersrand, and Unisa, expresses a sense of fulfillment knowing that she contributes positively to the world through education.

"Having to witness the growth and development of students, seeing students grasp a concept/s they once struggled with, achieving academic success, and gaining confidence in themselves is incredibly fulfilling for me – it is a tangible reminder of my impact on students."

Embracing online learning

With qualifications including a Bachelor's degree in Nursing, a master's degree in Occupational Health, a master's degree in Public Health, and two postgraduate diplomas in Risk Management and Health Professions Education and Leadership, Naicker says she aims to continuously improve her teaching skills, pedagogical techniques, and knowledge of research and public health.  

Naicker says the world of teaching fully online UPOnline modules brings multifaceted challenges and opportunities. On the one hand, face-to-face interaction is absent. However, she also appreciates the opportunities it affords her: the freedom to experiment with new online teaching methods while effectively balancing her workload with personal obligations.