This paper presents the integration of technology-focused interventions into student health and wellness programs at an open distance learning university in South Africa. The advancement of Distance E-Learning (ODEL) in South Africa has revealed significant findings regarding its integration with peer education and mental health, emphasizing its potential to transform educational outcomes in diverse settings (Dick et al ,2015) .The objectives of the paper focus on identifying the specific technologically driven interventions and processes utilized to broaden student and community participation in health and wellness services. South Africa, with its unique socio-economic challenges and diverse educational context, offers a rich ground for examining the integration of technology into educational practices, particularly in the realm of student health and wellness. In recent years, the integration of technology into educational practices has gained traction as institutions seek innovative approaches to enhance student engagement and well-being, particularly within open distance learning (ODEL) environments. Within this context, Unisa (University of South Africa) implemented the first online student peer educator training program, which was executed in four phases: recruitment, training, practicum implementation, and certification. A total of 3,500 students applied to participate; of the 2,854 students who enrolled to participate, 1,085 were active participants. Through outreach efforts, both online and in-person, in forty locations across South Africa, 16,000 community members were reached. The key outcomes from the utilization of a technology-driven intervention revealed that technology-enhanced peer education programs significantly improved students’ awareness and understanding of health and wellness issues, with a marked increase in the utilization of available mental health resources overlooked in traditional educational settings. The program contributes to the broader discourse on student health by demonstrating that effectively harnessing technology can mitigate barriers to communication and support, thereby enhancing the well-being of students in distance learning contexts. Key findings: The program enhances communication, accessibility, and student participation in health-related discussions and activities, as well as the potential to overcome barriers to accessing mental health resources. The peer education program offers practical applications by providing actionable insights into the integration of health-focused educational technologies. In conclusion, the implementation of the first online Student Peer Educator Training Program at the University of South Africa (Unisa) signifies a transformative approach to enhancing student engagement and educational empowerment. This initiative not only facilitates peer-based support systems but also addresses critical educational challenges faced by students in a diverse and digital learning environment. By effectively integrating technology into peer education, the program promotes accessibility and inclusivity, crucial in a context where many students face socio-economic barriers to learning. A YouTube video demonstration and evidence form part of the research presentation demonstrate the implementation and outcomes of the program within the Unisa context.

Keywords: E-Learning, Open Distance Learning, Peer to peer education, mental health ,health and wellness