When I first heard of ‘South Africa’s Youngest Doctor’ – Sandile Kubheka I
was really inspired and I certainly thought it would be great if I
interview him and get to know more about him and his background.
With me being inspired by this young man, I knew there were many
other people; young and old who would be inspired. As I chatted to him, I
could see and feel the passion and dedication in him through his words.
He is only 20 years old and currently works at Greys Hospital in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. While other young people were enjoying their festive season, he enjoyed his time volunteering at Emadadeni Hospital in his hometown, Newcastle.
How does it feel to be the youngest doctor in South Africa?
It feels like a dream, unbelievable, I’m really humbled, blessed and motivated to do even more.While growing up, have you always wanted to be a doctor?
Yes, I’ve always wanted to be a doctor but I also had interest in computer engineering. So in high school I had to choose between these two, and I consulted my mom and teachers. They convinced me that I would do better in medicine.
Were there people who didn’t take you seriously when you told them about your passion? It feels like a dream, unbelievable, I’m really humbled, blessed and motivated to do even more.While growing up, have you always wanted to be a doctor?
Yes, I’ve always wanted to be a doctor but I also had interest in computer engineering. So in high school I had to choose between these two, and I consulted my mom and teachers. They convinced me that I would do better in medicine.
Yes, in life there are always naysayers who don’t believe in you and your dreams, but I believe these people made me stronger and believe in myself.
How old were you when you graduated from high school?
15.
How did it feel beingthe youngest in the lecture rooms? Were there some fellow students who took advantage of your age somehow?
I didn’t actually pay much attention, it felt normal. They didn’t take advantage in any malicious way, but they used to call me neonate (new born) … and I was cool with it.
You have literally made history, a lot of young people are proud of you (including myself) – will you be going around schools motivating students? Or you are already doing that?
Yes, with my medical school classmates, we are currently in a process of launching a Trust fund which will focus on mentorship and giving scholarships to learners that come from underprivileged backgrounds.
Describe a proud South African in one word…
Passionate.
Have you ever voted before or will this year be your first time? If yes, are you excited?
I have only voted for the local government election, but this will be the first time for national government. And yes, I’m excited to make that cross.
What does the term “free generation” mean to you?
It mean we are liberated from all the struggles of the past, we can now chase our dreams, use the opportunities our parents didn’t have and empower other people.
What is your opinion on the matric pass rate this year?
I think they did well, I’m so proud of the education system, its going from strength to strength, however it would be even better if they increase the pass mark to 50% for all subjects. Congratulations to all those who made it. I wish them all the best.
Which school did you go to?
Siyamukela High School.
What’s your opinion on the issue of public clinics where nurses abuse patients?
I think they have lost the true essence of their profession, which is to help people. I believe if any patient receives any bad treatment it should be reported because as health professional we are guided by the Batho Pele principles. However, in my experience working in clinics with nurses. I had a great experience. The level of professionalism and good conduct was amazing.
Do you plan to release a book in the future?
Haha! I haven’t thought about it but its sounds like a good idea.
Are you reading any books at the moment? If yes, please name a few…
Yes, [laughs] Oxford Book of Clinical Medicine and Essential Drugs List 2012.
Who is your favourite author?
William Shakespeare.
What would you say is still missing in the department of health in South Africa?
The Department of Health has world class policies and protocols in place and somehow the good intentions are falling on the wayside.
What should be done?
Fully functional operational manager to follow up on all these policies and see if they are being implemented.
One word that describes the future of South Africa…
Dynamic.
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