Rhodes University’s newest full professor is tackling chronic illness by putting play back into public health

By Siya Hlebani

At Rhodes University, celebration met substance at the inaugural lecture of Professor Candice Christie, marking her formal recognition as a full professor. But this wasn’t just an academic milestone. It was a moment that tied decades of research to a deep commitment to community health, particularly for children.

One of Prof Christie’s most impactful projects, 'Healthy Active Kids South Africa 2026', lies at the heart of this contribution. The initiative focuses on addressing physical inactivity among children, a condition that contributes significantly to chronic illnesses later in life, including heart disease and certain cancers.

“We know that physical inactivity is a precursor to cardiovascular disease and cancers,” she explained during her address. “And that physical activity levels established as a child carry through to adulthood. It’s one of the easiest things we can change.”

This initiative is part of a global effort to improve health outcomes in young people. South Africa is one of over 60 countries participating in the Active Healthy Kids Global Alliance, where Prof Christie contributes data and insight. The project examines screen time, sedentary behaviour, and public policy on physical education. According to the latest global report card, South Africa, while making progress, still has a long way to go in fostering environments that promote consistent physical activity in children.

That gap is exactly what projects like the 'Young Warriors' programme aim to fill. Created by the Rhodes University Community Engagement (RUCE) division and operating in Makhanda’s local schools, the programme provides children with opportunities to engage in fun, structured physical activity.

The impact of the project is both immediate and long-term. Children gain confidence, build social skills, and develop healthy habits that stick with them. The broader goal is to produce generations that are more physically literate and less likely to suffer from preventable illnesses. Prof. Christie’s role in supporting this programme illustrates the bridge between research and real-life application.

Director of RUCE, Di Hornby, underscored this connection in her tribute: “I am super proud to celebrate Prof Christie’s achievement not just because of her academic status, but because of the work she’s doing with our office. She is indeed an engaged citizen.”

The kind of citizen Prof Christie exemplifies is one who doesn’t keep knowledge confined to the lab or lecture hall. She puts it to work. In townships. In public schools. In collaboration with civil society.

Yet, her journey wasn’t a straight line to success. “I always say I succeeded in academia because my parents told me they’d pay for university, but only if I passed, and I failed in the first year.” But rather than quit, she applied for financial aid and scholarships, eventually funding her undergraduate, honours, master’s, and PhD herself.

She spoke movingly of those who supported her along the way from her family in Australia to Rotary Club International. It’s that mix of perseverance and generosity that continues to define her career.

As the global landscape of health continues to shift, the urgency for community-based, preventative health strategies grows. Prof Christie’s research reminds us that public health doesn't begin in hospitals; it starts in homes, playgrounds, and classrooms. She advocates for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week for adults and 60 minutes daily for children, a prescription grounded in World Health Organisation recommendations.

The Healthy Active Kids South Africa 2026 campaign is already seeing traction. With a strong network, clear goals, and passionate leadership, the project is shaping what community-engaged research can look like in Africa. It also lays the groundwork for future funding, partnerships, and expansion across under-resourced regions.

As Rhodes University marks 80 years of Human Kinetics and Ergonomics, the University is not only celebrating the past but is also investing in the future. A future where kids grow up active, empowered, and supported. A future where professors like Candice Christie make scholarship matter by making it count where it’s needed most.

Because strong futures start with healthy kids. And sometimes, with one professor who believes deeply in both.