University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) alumnus and specialist anaesthesiologist Dr Sizwe Zungu will take on one of Africa’s toughest ultra-distance races in an effort to raise R100 000 for financially disadvantaged medical students.
Dr Zungu will participate in the 161km Washie 100 Miler in the Eastern Cape from July 31 to August 2 as part of a fundraising campaign led by the UKZN Foundation to assist students struggling to pay their registration fees.
The initiative forms part of the MBChB Class of 2006’s 20-year reunion celebrations, with graduates choosing to give back to the university that helped launch their medical careers.Widely regarded as Africa’s oldest 100-mile road race.
“The Washie 100 Miler is the ultimate endurance test. It is a 26-hour challenge that requires incredible persistence. Along the route, a strong community of volunteers makes enormous sacrifices to support runners. Their dedication fuels the determination needed to reach the finish line,” Zungu said.
He has appealed to UKZN alumni, healthcare professionals, medical organisations and corporate partners to contribute towards the fundraising target, saying every donation will help deserving students continue their studies.
After graduating with an MBChB degree from UKZN, Zungu completed a Diploma in Anaesthetics, a Master of Medicine in Anaesthetics and later obtained the Fellowship of the College of Anaesthetists of South Africa. He has served at Ngwelezane Hospital and Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital and completed registrar training at several UKZN-affiliated teaching hospitals before joining a specialist anaesthesiology practice in Durban.
UKZN Foundation Legacy and Endowment Officer Tankiso Mabotha said the initiative demonstrates the role alumni can play in supporting future generations of healthcare professionals.
“The fundraising campaign is a reminder of the impact alumni can have on future generations of graduates. By supporting students facing financial hardship, the MBChB Class of 2006 will help ensure that talented young medical students can continue their studies and ultimately contribute to South Africa’s healthcare system,” Mabotha said.
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