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SUNLOC 2024 ANNUAL REPORT Message

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CONTENTS02Introduction19CTP Software Support Tools06Accommodation20Financial Overview13Information and Communications Technology (ICT)23Closing Remarks14Transport24In Memorium17Clinical Training Platform Safety Guidelines

2SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024INTRODUCTIONThe decentralised clinical training platform is a strategic imperative of the Stellenbosch University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS) on which undergraduate students of programmes in Medicine, Human Nutrition, Speech-Language and Hearing Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Nursing and Midwifery, and Physiotherapy do clinical rotations. The SUNLOC organisational unit is a stand-alone professional support service component of the FHMS, managed by the Clinical Training Platform manager, Mrs G Stam, under the authority of the Vice Dean of Clinical Services and Social Impact, Dr T Fish.The SUNLOC office, which serves the clinical training platform, is located at the Tygerberg campus and from there rolls out a multi-pronged logistics support system to students. This includes transport facilitation with shuttle services and vehicle hire, through close liaison with Vehicle Fleet and Faculty coordinators, as well as distant accommodation arrangements. Information and Communications Technology (ICT) support is provided from a resource bank of laptops, routers and data products. SUNLOC also established mini support hubs at Worcester Campus but also at the Upington site that support all the Northern Cape clinical training sites.SUNLOC: Stellenbosch UNiversity LOgistics for the Clinical Training PlatformVisionUnlocking the clinical training platform’s potential to advance health.MissionContributing to transformative learning through optimal student logistics support.Photo by Inge Kuchar

3SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024SUNLOC is a professional support structure of the FMHS and resides within the portfolio of the Vice Dean of Clinical Services and Social Impact, Dr Therese Fish.Values• Respect — to have mutual respect for ourselves and all others.• Excellence — to be outstanding at what we do, to be relevant, world-class, and internationally competitive.• Integrity — to be honest, open, ethical and professional.• Commitment — to be dedicated to achieving our goals.• Accountability — to accept responsibility for our decisions and actions.• Inclusivity — to embrace and support diversity, to create an environment in which people feel valued, respected and supported.• Innovation — to generate new ideas and strive to develop new products, processes and services that benefit society.• Compassion — to engage all our stakeholders with care, concern, consideration & kindness.Our professional support team structureVice Dean: Clinical Services & Social ImpactDr T FishOffice Coordinator:Colleen ChartersICT Officer:Chad FairburnMLA AdministratorSecretary:XolelwaMagcobaTransport Officer:Craig AfricaTransport Administrator: Patric MxunyelwaPermanent Drivers (6): Graham Wenn; Wesley Veldsman; Dyllan Adams; Fuad Sulliman; Stanford Nero; Ivan DunaiskiAD HOC Drivers (7)Social Impact Coordinator:Stacey BlowsFinance Officer:Claudine RouxFinancial Admin Support:Felinica ZoaCBD Site Coordinator:Lee ThakudiGeneral Worker:PaarlOffice Coordinator:Zelda JoosBoland and Overberg Site Coordinator / Northern Cape Site Coordinator:Regan Van WykGeneral Worker:Magdalena OlivierGeneral Worker:Chrisjan ArendseGeneral Worker:RobertsonSocial Impact Student AssistantManager: Clinical Training PlatformGeorgenia StamSenior Logistics Officer: Nicole CrowOur professional support team structure

4SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024To ensure that, as far as possible, our students are afforded similar learning opportunities and living conditions as they would at the Tygerberg campus while on the clinical training platform, we negotiate suitable terms and agreements with various stakeholders. At SUNLOC, our students are our priority—their safety, needs and concerns and receive immediate attention. The SUNLOC team supports all undergraduate programmes, staff and students. The table below summarises the registered student intake:NUMBER OF REGISTERED STUDENTSDiscipline / Department 2023 2024B Speech-Language and Hearing 123 120B Nursing and Midwifery 193 191B Occupational Therapy 199 198BSc Physiotherapy 223 218BSc Dietetics 111 111MB,ChB 1781 1717Total Registered Students 2630 25552024 Expenditure – R21 504 002

5SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 20245SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024Reections on SUNLOC 2024: Addressing Challenges Through Innovation• Placement Plus is going from strength to strength, as a supportive and primary booking tool to SUNLOC • A newly implemented card scanner system that records all registered students on the vehicles and can be tracked and monitored.• Newly developed SUNLOC Helpdesk Tool to collate all clinical training platform queries. The tool will also assist with the request of resource bank items, laptops, routers, LED lights and keys.Solutions to challenges:• Newly developed Resource Bank Business Process — Cash Free Campus.• Purging of unnecessary ICT on platform — Strong ICT equipment.• Smart transport scheduling to reduce transport costs.2024 was a year of working smarter, not harder.Ideal Rotation 2024 student – the beautiful church at Ladismith

6SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024AccommodationSUNLOC offers students accommodation that will be a home away from home.All SUNLOC accommodation is unique in its own site area, but are handpicked to offer the student comfort, safety and a space to continue their studies after a long day of clinical training. Bearing in mind that many of these training facilities are in rural areas, we strive, as far as possible, to ensure that students have a similar experience as they would on campus in terms of accommodation, transport and ICT. SUNLOC succeeded to successfully network with rural communities to find suitable accommodation at each site. The table below summarises the accommodation types and learning centers managed by SUNLOC:Student accommodation in ClanwilliamAnnually, these accommodation facilities are relooked in terms of need, safety and pricing before entering into new commitments for the following year. Maintenance issues, student complaints, if any, and rental escalation percentage are taken into consideration. SUNLOC coordinators are regularly on the lookout for better opportunities, while not compromising on student safety and security.ACCOMMODATION/LEARNING CENTRE TYPESU owned accommodation 2Hospital owned accommodation 5SUNLOC rental homes 14Guesthouses 23Student Learning Centres 8Service-Learning Centres 2All-accommodation options are fully equipped with assets and inventory items required by students for daily use.

7SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024To ensure that all SUNLOC facilities, accommodation and learning centres are in optimal user condition, regular site visits are conducted by site coordinators. Site visits are essential for various reasons:1. Quality assurance purposes2. SU asset and inventory checks3. Budgeting purposes4. Optimal working conditions of furniture and equipment5. Addressing maintenance concerns6. Networking opportunities (with stakeholders and suppliers) 7. Safety and Security Assessment8. Student face-to-face wellness check-insStudent wellness check-ins are conducted by coordinators, either face-to-face while conducting site visits, or telephonically with each student or group leader. All site visits are scheduled and budgeted for. Should there be an emergency at a specific site, coordinators will rely on existing network structures within the site.Various departmental coordinators provide relevant student information via the Placement Plus tool. From this tool, students are allocated accordingly to various sites on the clinical training platform. All accommodation options are fully equipped with assets & inventory items required by students for daily use. How does SUNLOC ensure the quality assurance of accommodation and alignment to SU Infrastructure?To ensure that SUNLOC DTP facilities at accommodation and learning centres are in optimal user condition, regular site visits are concluded by site coordinators annually.Upington Service-Learning Centre Rental accommodation in Ceres

8SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 20242024 – the year of loadshedding initiativesInfrastructure Development – providing space for the students at health facilitiesWith loadshedding affecting the entire country, SUNLOC is committed to minimising disruptions to students’ learning and comfort by equipping all student accommodations on the clinical training platform with essential loadshedding assistance. This support includes:• Inverters• LED Lights• Gas Stoves• LED Light BulbsThese provisions ensure that during power outages, students can continue to study and live comfortably. The inverters keep the lights and Wi-Fi operational and allow devices to stay charged. Meanwhile, gas stoves provide an alternative cooking solution, ensuring meals can still be prepared without interruption.SUNLOC’s goal is to help maintain a productive and comfortable environment for all students, despite the ongoing power challenges or future power challenges.SUNLOC actively supports the establishment and maintenance of learning centres at clinical training facilities where our students engage in teaching and learning activities on the Clinical Training Platform. These centres are designed to offer an optimal environment for learning and service delivery, ensuring appropriate spatial allocation and access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) resources during clinical training. Currently, these learning centres fall into two categories: Student Learning Centres and Service-Learning Centres.Student Learning Centres• Dedicated, fully furnished, and equipped spaces for Stellenbosch University (SU) students and staff.• Equipped with ICT resources such as desktops, printers, video conferencing facilities, and Wi-Fi.• These centres are non-clinical spaces where students do not engage in direct patient care.Service-Learning Centres• Fully furnished and equipped spaces shared by SU students, SU staff, and staff from the clinical training facilities.• Provide ICT resources including desktops, printers, video conferencing facilities, and Wi-Fi.• These centres support direct patient care, where students, under supervision from clinicians and academic staff, engage in clinical activities.

9SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024CERES STUDENT LEARNING CENTREHELDERBERG STUDENT LEARNING CENTREKAKAMAS STUDENT LEARNING CENTRESUNLOC remains committed to enhancing the quality and accessibility of clinical training on the DTP by investing in infrastructure that supports both academic and practical learning needs.STUDENT LEARNING CENTRES:

10SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024LENTEGEUR STUDENT LEARNING CENTREUPINGTON STUDENT LEARNING CENTRESWARTLAND / MALMESBURY STUDENT LEARNING CENTRESTIKLAND STUDENT LEARNING CENTRE

11SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024HERMANUS, LUKANYO SERVICE-LEARNING CENTREBISHOP LAVIS SERVICE-LEARNING CENTRESUNLOC remains fully responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of all supported learning centres and accommodation facilities. These responsibilities are incorporated into SUNLOC’s annual operational budget, ensuring consistent support and sustainability.• ICT Maintenance: All ICT equipment at SUNLOC-supported facilities is regularly updated and replaced as needed. These upgrades are also planned for and funded through the annual SUNLOC budget.• Cleaning Materials and Hygiene: All SUNLOC-managed Stellenbosch University (SU) properties are supplied with the necessary cleaning materials to maintain hygienic and healthy conditions across all facilities.• Cleaning Services: All secured accommodation and learning centres supported by SUNLOC are cleaned at least once per week, either by SUNLOC staff or contracted external service providers.To support cleanliness and shared responsibility, a cleaning bank has been established. This ensures that both students and cleaning personnel have access to the required equipment and materials to maintain a clean and conducive living and learning environment.SUNLOC Facility Maintenance and Hygiene ManagementSERVICE LEARNING CENTRES:

12SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024Making sure that the students are safe on the DTPThe safety and security of our students is a priority for SUNLOC. To ensure this, as far as possible, SUNLOC has minimum criteria when sourcing and securing accommodation for our students. Standard questions asked, set out in the box below:The student’s safety is of utmost importance to SUNLOC!Risk and safety remain a continuous area of focus and improvement for SUNLOC. We are committed to ensuring that all SUNLOC-supported properties meet essential safety standards and provide secure, well-maintained environments for students and staff. Our standard safety provisions include the following:• Secure Infrastructure: Properties are fully fenced, burglar-proofed, and equipped with alarm systems linked to armed response services.• Compliance Certification: A valid Certificate of Compliance (CoC) is provided for all properties, ensuring adherence to legal safety and electrical standards.• Fire Safety: Each facility is equipped with a serviced and inspected fire extinguisher, along with clearly visible emergency exit signage.• First Aid: A fully stocked first-aid kit is available on site at all times.• Gas Safety: All gas cylinders, where present, are securely locked and stored in designated enclosures to prevent accidents and unauthorised access.• Electrical Safety: Distribution boards (DB boxes) are locked and enclosed to ensure electrical safety and restrict access.• Municipal Compliance: All municipal accounts are current and paid in full to maintain uninterrupted services and legal compliance.SUNLOC continues to review and enhance safety measures across all its managed properties to support a secure and healthy living and learning environment.1. Isthepropertysuitablylocated,inasafearea,incloseproximitytothetrainingfacility?2. Doesthestructurehaveburglarbars,safetygatesandanalarmsystem?3. Isthepropertyfullyfenced?4. Isthepropertysuitablyequippedtohousethenumberofstudentsintendedforthetrainingsite?5. Doesthepropertyhavesufficientbedroomsandbathroomsforthenumberofstudentsintendedforthetrainingsite?6. DoesthepropertyhavesuitableWi-Fi?7. Doesthepropertyhaveaninverter?8. Doesthepropertyhaveagasstove(withreplacementgastanksinanenclosed,lockedspace)?9. Doesthepropertyhaveafireextinguisher?10. DoesthepropertyhaveaCertificateofComplianceinplace?11. AreallDBboxesonthepropertyenclosedandlocked?12. Doesthepropertyhaveafiredetectionsysteminplace?13. Isthereanaccessiblefirst-aidkitonsite?14. Isthelandlordpreparedtohavetheaboveinstalled,shouldthepropertybeidealbutlackingintheabove?

13SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024Information and Communications Technology (ICT)This year, SUNLOC’s ICT infrastructure has proven to be highly effective, providing students with reliable and continuous academic support across all supported sites.SUNLOC is committed to supporting students during their clinical rotations by providing access to essential ICT resources. Students can request laptops, mobile Wi-Fi routers, and LED lights through the SUNLOC Helpdesk Tool.All rural training sites are equipped with Wi-Fi. In locations where Wi-Fi connectivity is limited or inconsistent, students are provided with mobile Wi-Fi routers to ensure uninterrupted access to online academic resources.SUNLOC’s goal is to ensure that all students remain connected and academically supported, regardless of their placement on the Clinical Training Platform.ICT Support for Students on Clinical Rotations

14SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 202414Student Shuttle ServicesScheduled transport is provided for groups of students travelling to and from clinical sites. Self-Drive Using SU VehiclesStudents may make use of university vehicles for travel to clinical placements, subject to approval and availability. Self-Drive and Claim (Using Personal Vehicles)Students using their personal vehicles for clinical travel may submit mileage claims for reimbursement, in line with SUNLOC’s transport policy.OverstrandTheewaterskloofCity of Cape TownBreede ValleyWitzenbergStellenboschDrakensteinThe transport support structure operates under three main portfolios:TransportSUNLOC’s transport services currently operate across the Cape Metropole, Cape Winelands, Overberg, Breede Valley, Overstrand, Hessequa, Kannaland, and the Northern Cape.This transport structure ensures that all FMHS students have the necessary logistical support to complete their training on the Clinical Training Platform effectively and safely.SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024LangebergA key focus of SUNLOC is to provide FMHS undergraduate students with safe, reliable, and accessible transport to clinical training sites across various regions.

15SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024SwellendamCape AghulusKannalandHassequaLangeberg15SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024The SUNLOC transport team is structured to effectively support the operational needs of FMHS undergraduate student transport across various regions. The team is led by the Transport Coordinator, who is responsible for overseeing and managing all shuttle service activities.The current team comprises:• 1 x Logistics Assistant — based at the Tygerberg offices• 1 x Logistics Assistant — based at the Worcester offices• 1 x Administrative Assistant/Driver — based in UpingtonIn addition, SUNLOC employs a team of drivers to ensure smooth and consistent transport operations:Cape Metropole:• 6 x Permanent Drivers• 6 x Ad hoc DriversWorcester and Upington Sites:• 1 x Permanent Driver• 1 x Ad hoc Driver This distributed team allows SUNLOC to provide responsive and region-specific transport services, supporting student mobility across the Clinical Training Platform regions.Shuttle Service SummaryCAPE METROPOLECAPE WINELANDSOVERBERGGARDEN ROUTENORTHERN CAPE

16SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024A new card scanning system has been implemented on all Stellenbosch University (SU) shuttles to improve access control and streamline transport operations.Students are now required to scan their SU student cards on the scanning pad when boarding the shuttle.A green light indicates access grantedA red light indicates access deniedThe shuttle driver will oversee the scanning process. Students must have their student cards on hand to board the shuttle. Failure to present a valid student card will result in denied access to the shuttle service.This system is part of SUNLOC’s continued efforts to ensure secure, efficient, and accountable transport for all users.SUNLOC provides shuttle transport services to 86 clinical training sites within the Cape Metropole region. Shuttle routes are structured according to designated area codes or clusters to ensure efficient and reliable transport coverage.• Collection Point: All shuttles depart from the Tygerberg Student Centre (TSC).• Standard Departure Time: Shuttles leave promptly at 07:00 each morning.• Exception: The Nursing & Midwifery Cohort departs earlier, at 05:30, to accommodate the start times at their respective clinical sites.SUNLOC Shuttle ServiceShuttle Route Classication CANCOM Scanner TechnologyThis structured transport system ensures punctuality, consistency, and adequate coverage for students placed across the distributed training network in the metropole.

17SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024While the majority of the year proceeded smoothly with only minor incidents, one serious event in October tested the effectiveness of our safety measures—a troubling, attempted hijacking involving two of our student shuttles. During this incident, student cellphones were stolen, highlighting the very real risks faced in certain areas.Despite this, it is essential to recognise that our students often enter high-risk environments as part of their clinical training. These placements are not only invaluable for their learning but also remain highly sought after due to the exceptional quality of education and supervision provided. The sites offer unparalleled hands-on learning experiences, contributing significantly to the students’ professional development.To ensure our students’ safety, a robust framework of precautions is already in place:• Trained Drivers All shuttle drivers are trained in defensive driving and hijack prevention. They also possess substantial experience navigating challenging urban environments.• Secured Vehicles Vehicles are equipped with smash-and-grab protection, GPS tracking, IRIS camera systems, and panic buttons connected directly to a tracking service that alerts security instantly. Vehicles are alternated between branded and unbranded to reduce visibility when necessary.• Monitored Routes Routes to high-risk clinical sites are routinely assessed and adjusted based on security intelligence to minimize potential threats.• Real-Time Threat Alerts Tygerberg Campus Security provides immediate alerts about potential security risks. In response, transport services are either modified or suspended to protect students and staff.• Student Security Orientation During orientation, student leaders are thoroughly briefed on safety procedures, emergency protocols, and essential contact points.• Enhanced Security Presence In particularly high-risk zones such as Site B and Michael M in Khayelitsha, SAPS escorts shuttles to ensure safe passage. Additionally, Stellenbosch University has a tactical response team ready for emergency intervention or support.Clinical Training Platform Safety GuidelinesThe year 2024 will long be remembered as a pivotal period for safety on the clinical training platform. Existing Safety Measures CLINICAL TRAINING PLATFORM SAFETY GUIDELINES

18SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024The safety of our students remains our highest priority. As clinical training continues to evolve in high-risk environments, so too must our security strategies. Through continuous improvement and proactive planning, we aim to create a safe, supportive, and enriching learning environment for every student.A Continued Commitment to SafetyOngoing and Upcoming Safety InitiativesTo strengthen safety protocols further, several new initiatives are underway:• Mobile Panic Buttons Soon to be implemented, these devices will serve as a backup communication tool, linking directly to the control room and enabling rapid emergency response—even if cellphones are lost or stolen.• Improved Communication Channels We are working to streamline communication with students, ensuring timely updates about security alerts and transportation changes.• Protocol Review The Tygerberg Risk and Safety Committee is conducting a comprehensive review of current safety procedures to enhance preparedness for future incidents.• Stronger External Partnerships Our collaboration with SAPS, the Department of Health and Wellness, and local community leaders is being intensified to address security risks in a more integrated and proactive manner.

19SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024CTP Software Support ToolsThis centralised platform is designed to streamline communication, asset management, and service requests across all SUNLOC-supported sites.For Students:The Helpdesk Tool allows students to:• Book ICT resources, including laptops, mobile routers, and LED lights.• Submit feedback or queries related to accommodation, transport, and ICT support.For SUNLOC Staff:The tool enables staff to:• Track and manage assets across all sites.• Receive and respond to student queries efficiently.• Update inventories in real time for better operational oversight.The SUNLOC Helpdesk Tool is part of our commitment to improving service delivery and ensuring students are well-supported during their training on the Clinical Training Platform.SUNLOC Helpdesk Tool dashboardSUNLOC is pleased to present the SUNLOC Helpdesk Tool. SUNLOC HELPDESK TOOL

20SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024Financial OverviewIn2024,SUNLOCfacedseveralfinancialchallenges that tested the resilience and adaptability of its systems. Despite unforeseen expenses and operational shifts, the team remained committed to upholding principles of discretion, accountability, and transparency.Navigating 2024’s Financial ChallengesAmong the unexpected hurdles was the seasonal storm that caused significant damage to the Helderberg Student Learning Centre—an event that required urgent funding and resource reallocation. Additionally, the transition to a new financial system and staffing changes posed further operational complexities. These disruptions demanded quick, strategic responses to ensure continuity of services and support for students.In spite of these challenges, SUNLOC successfully managed to stay within the set budgetfor2024—anachievementthatreflectsstrong fiscal discipline and proactive planning.Preparing for a Tighter 2025 BudgetLookingaheadto2025,financialpreparationismore crucial than ever. With a leaner budget on the horizon and several major projects in the pipeline, careful financial oversight will be essential. Key priorities for the coming year include:• Establishment of a new Stellenbosch Student Learning Center• Upgrades to the Bishop Lavis site’s security infrastructure• Securing funding for the reconstruction of the Helderberg Student Learning CenterEach of these initiatives will require thoughtful budgeting and effective project management to ensure delivery within financial constraints.Transport: SUNLOC’s Largest Cost DriverAs in previous years, transport remains the single largest expenditure in the SUNLOC budget. The continued demand for safe, reliable, and efficient student transport—particularly to high-risk clinical training sites—underscores its critical role in the platform’s success. Investments in safety enhancements, vehicle maintenance, and route management contribute significantly to this cost but are essential in supporting student wellbeing and program quality.Efficient financial management is the cornerstone of a well-functioning clinical training platform.

21SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024Transport Breakdown 2023–2024: Trends, Insights, and Strategic MovementAs the academic and clinical environments continue to evolve, so too does the need for efficient, secure, and well-coordinated transport solutions. The TransportBreakdownfor2023–2024 offers a valuable snapshot of how transport services have been utilised and highlights where notable shifts in usage and expenditure have occurred.The data outlines performance across five key categories: Shuttle Bookings, Departmental Bookings, VP59 Levies, Travel Claims, and Operations, with year-on-year comparisons indicating trends in both growth and optimisation.2. Departmental BookingsDepartmental bookings remained fairly consistent across both years, with a small butsteadyincreasein2024.Thissuggestscontinued investment by departments in coordinating their own travel needs, potentially reflecting a rise in outreach programs, fieldwork, or administrative mobility as post-pandemic operations normalize.3. VP59 LeviesAsignificantincreaseisnotedunderVP59Leviesin2024.Theseleviesaretypicallyassociated with internal cost recoveries, and the spike indicates either increased travel or more accurate cost allocations within departments. This could point to better reporting systems or an uptick in approved travel for training, outreach, or research-related purposes.4. Travel Claims2024sawasharpriseintravelclaimscompared to the previous year. This may be attributed to more students and staff using personal or third-party transport services and later claiming reimbursements. It could also reflect a broader return to external conferences, workshops, and decentralized placements post-COVID.1. Shuttle BookingsShuttle bookings continue to account for the largest portion of transport-related activities. In2023,usagepeaked,exceeding4million,butsawaslightdeclinein2024.Whilethedecrease is not drastic, it may suggest a shift in scheduling strategies, consolidation of transport routes, or increased use of alternatives like departmental vehicles. Despite the dip, the reliance on shuttle services remains substantial—especially critical in transporting students to and from high-risk clinical sites.2024Expenditure R21 504 002R5459 844 RemunerationTransportAccommodationOperationsICTCommitmentsVP59 VehiclesR6267 556R5439 582R1346 881R33 421R235 914R2720 803

22SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024OperationsThough operations remain the smallest category, 2024datashowsaslightincrease.Thesecoststypically include coordination, administrative support, and fleet management. The growth suggests enhancements in operational capacity or resource reallocation to meet rising demand in other areas of the transport system.Overall,the2023–2024transportdatapresentsa picture of controlled, purposeful transport management. While shuttle bookings slightly decreased,otherareassuchasVP59leviesandtravel claims saw notable growth, suggesting increased activity in student and staff mobility.As the transport needs of the university community continue to grow and diversify, strategic investment in flexible, responsive, and secure transport systems remains essential. These trends provide important direction for future planning, budgeting, and resource allocation.The institution remains committed to providing reliable transport services while maintaining a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and user satisfaction.SUNLOC’s ability to maintain budget integrity in a turbulent financial year is commendable. With careful planning and continued vigilance, the team is well-positioned to navigate the challengesof2025,deliverkeyinfrastructureupgrades, and maintain the high standards expected of the distributed training platform.For stakeholders and students alike, this continued commitment to responsible financial stewardship is a positive sign of SUNLOC’s long-term stability and mission-driven focus.

23SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 202423SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024CLOSINGREMARKSThis year, the SUNLOC logistical team was challenged to operate within one of the most stringent budgets to date. Rising costs and evolving training needs required a shift in how we approach decision-making—particularly around transport, accommodation, and ICT resources. In response, we adopted a more strategic, value-driven mindset, ensuring every decision supports both operational efficiency and student safety.Our ability to adapt has laid the groundwork for a more resilient logistical model—one that aligns with the changing demands of clinical training environments. As the nature of these platforms continues to evolve, so too must our methods of support.Acorefocusthroughout2024hasbeenmaintaining student safety at high-risk sites. Our behind-the-scenes work ensures academic teams can deliver high-quality clinical training without compromise. By rethinking the way we support delivery—from logistics to infrastructure—we are helping future-proof our training model.This foundation sets the tone for the years ahead, as we continue to navigate complex environments with a commitment to excellence, safety, and strategic support.Dr Therese Fish ViceDean:ClinicalServicesandSocialImpactOur ability to adapt has laid the groundwork for a more resilient logistical model...

24SUNLOC ANNUAL REPORT 2024With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, the SUNLOC community mourns the passing of our esteemed colleague, Naasier Kariem. More than just a team member, Naasier was a friend, a mentor, and a guiding light to many—especially the students whose lives he touched with his warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support.Naasier was known not only for his professionalism and dedication but also for the kindness and empathy he brought into every interaction. His commitment to student development and the clinical training platform was unmatched, and his positive spirit left a lasting imprint on all who had the privilege of working with him.We will remember Naasier with fondness—for his compassion, his laughter, and his deep sense of purpose. His legacy lives on in the students he mentored, the colleagues he inspired, and the mission he served so faithfully.Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in peace, Naasier. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.In Loving Memory of Naasier Kariem 6September1985—2April2025

LAYOUT & DESIGN: Anna Metherell Design

Contact SUNLOC:SUNLOC Tygerberg Office(021) 927 7188sunloc@sun.ac.za