The University of Pretoria spring graduation took place from 2 to 6 September 2019 and the Faculty of Health Sciences had 163 graduates who were awarded qualifications. Sixteen doctoral, ninety-three masters including medicine masters, fifty-three undergraduate and one PG diploma.

There were numerous highlights that showcased the academic excellence of some graduates. Human Physiology student Jolene Helena had an interesting journey towards her academic finish line. Jolene was initially registered as a master’s student in Human Physiology for two years, then converted her masters to a doctoral degree, which she then finished within eighteen months.

Professor James Ker Jr. son of Prof Ker graduated with a doctorate in science. His father Prof Ker was Deputy Dean in Health Sciences and is now a part-time Lecturer, Chairperson of two undergraduate Blocks and he runs the CPD accreditation at the faculty. This is an inspirational example of academic excellence running in the family.

The Faculty of Health Sciences is looking forward to the impact that some of the graduates will have in education and research. Professor Leonie Scholtz is an Extraordinary Professor in Radiology and aims to foster private partnerships that will help expand training platforms, which will help improve the capacity for training clinicians to accommodate the growing demand.

Prof Tiaan de Jager, Faculty Dean at Health Sciences shared “The number of doctoral graduates this year proves that we are on track towards fulfilling the University of Pretoria’s vision of being a leading research-intensive university in Africa. We are extremely proud of all of the graduates for reaching the finish line.”