University of Venda

Bachelor of Science in Nutrition

Health Sciences and Social Services - Rehabilitative Health/Services

Purpose and Rationale

The professional functions through a multi-sectoral, interdisciplinary, collaborative, and participatory approach in solving problems of health, food, and nutrition in the community and/or public.

Outcomes

  1. A comprehensive understanding of principles of nutrition particularly as applied to community based integrated nutrition programmes.
  2. A comprehensive understanding of methodologies used in nutrition assessment.
  3. A demonstrable ability to design, implement and evaluate intersectoral programmes aimed at addressing nutritional problems at all levels.
  4. A demonstrable ability to conduct appropriate training according to the identified needs of groups in communities and/or public.
  5. A demonstrable ability to disseminate health and nutrition information for purposes of nutrition awareness and health promotion.
  6. A demonstrable ability to integrate the food system as part of the business and health focus.
  7. A demonstrable ability to apply appropriate approaches and techniques to effectively manage human resources, finances, operational procedures in food service delivery or implementation of nutrition intervention strategies.
  8. A demonstrable ability to comprehend and implement internal and external policy management.
  9. A demonstrable ability to participate in research project development and implementation.

Assessment Criteria

Critical Analysis of Demography and Socio-economic Features and their Impact on the Nutritional Status of the Community:

Demography and socio-economic features play a crucial role in determining the nutritional status of a community. Factors such as income levels, education, access to healthcare, sanitation, and food availability directly impact the nutritional intake of individuals within a community.

Low-income communities often struggle to afford nutritious foods, leading to a higher prevalence of malnutrition and diet-related diseases. Lack of education about proper nutrition and limited access to healthcare further exacerbate these issues. In addition, demographic factors such as age, gender, and household size can also influence nutritional status.

To address these challenges, nutrition intervention strategies need to be tailored to the specific demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the community. For example, programs that provide access to affordable, nutritious foods, nutrition education, and healthcare services can help improve the nutritional status of vulnerable populations.

Critical Analysis of the Impact of Nutrition Intervention Strategies on the Community's Health Status:

Nutrition intervention strategies have a significant impact on the health status of a community. Effective interventions can help prevent malnutrition, reduce the prevalence of diet-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, and improve overall health outcomes.

By implementing nutrition education programs, promoting healthy eating habits, and increasing access to nutritious foods, communities can see improvements in their health status. Additionally, targeted interventions for specific populations, such as pregnant women, children, and the elderly, can help address their unique nutritional needs and improve health outcomes.

Evaluation of nutrition intervention strategies is essential to assess their effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. Monitoring key health indicators, such as body mass index, micronutrient levels, and disease prevalence, can help measure the impact of interventions on the community's health status.

Critical Analysis of Food Security and the Implications on the Nutritional Status of the Community and/or Public:

Food security is a critical determinant of nutritional status within a community. Lack of access to an adequate and nutritious food supply can lead to malnutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and other health problems. Food insecurity is often linked to poverty, unemployment, and limited access to food resources.

Efforts to improve food security, such as increasing food production, promoting sustainable agriculture practices, and implementing social safety nets, can help ensure that communities have access to a reliable food supply. Additionally, nutrition-sensitive interventions that address underlying causes of food insecurity, such as poverty and lack of education, can have a positive impact on the nutritional status of the population.

It is important to consider the systemic issues that contribute to food insecurity, such as climate change, conflict, and economic instability, when designing interventions to address nutritional needs. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community stakeholders are essential to address food security challenges and improve the nutritional status of the community.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
480
SAQA Source
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University of Venda
Description
The University of Venda (UNIVEN) is a comprehensive university located in Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Established in 1982, it is one of the newer universities in the country. UNIVEN offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, education, health sciences, agriculture, and management sciences. The university is committed to providing quality education, research, and community engagement, with a focus on addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by the region. UNIVEN also promotes inclusivity and diversity, striving to create an environment that fosters personal and intellectual growth for its students.

This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.