Medical Students in Uganda Gain Knowledge on Cardiology

Two fifth-year UKZN Medical students spent three weeks in Uganda boosting their knowledge of cardiology thanks to a GEMx global medical exchange programme.

Mr Ntuthuko Mkhabela (23) and Mr Lindokuhle Dlamini (24) spent three weeks studying cardiology at the Mulago Hospital’s Heart Institute.

The students observed and participated in cardiac procedures as well as patient management.

The GEMx programme aims to bridge the gap in connection with clinical medical practice in African countries as well as enforcing standardisation of clinical practice.

‘I believe the experience did not only benefit myself, but the country as a whole,’ said Dlamini.

Mkhabela is looking forward to finishing his medical degree and going back home to serve his community of Jozini in northern KwaZulu-Natal.

Both students said the programme was a great learning experience and also a special opportunity to explore new places and meet new people.

The two are extremely grateful to GEMx and Professor Mergan Naidoo at UKZN’s Department of Family Medicine who allied them to this opportunity as well as the support they received from the School of Clinical Medicine.

Words: Lihle Sosibo

Photographs supplied by Ntuthuko Mkhabela