An Evening of Reflection, Advocacy and Solidarity

Student organisations in partnership with the College of Health Sciences’ Public Relations team hosted a movie night on the Medical School campus which featured the screening of Gaza: Doctors Under Attack, a searing documentary by Basement Films.

The event called ‘Frontline Voices – Movie Night’, was an evening of reflection, advocacy, and solidarity.

This critical documentary sheds light on the brutal conditions under which Palestinian healthcare workers function in the ongoing genocide in Gaza. It illustrates the systematic destruction of medical infrastructure, the loss of countless lives, and the unwavering courage of doctors and nurses who continue to serve despite overwhelming adversity.

Key expert panellists at the screening were humanitarian and founder of Gift of the Givers, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman; Mr Nkosi Zulu of The Coalition for Good; and renowned sociology and criminology academic, Professor Monique Marks. Together, they led an invigorating discussion that explored the parallels between Apartheid South Africa and Israel.

Student organisations stood united in solidarity:

“As Medical students, we are witnesses to what our colleagues endure and must support them by uplifting their voices and stories.” – UKZN Friends of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).

“The screening of the documentary inspires action and advocacy within the healthcare community and raises awareness.” – South African Medical Students Union.

“It is essential to acknowledge and amplify these stories, reminding us of our shared humanity and responsibility as future health professionals.” – South African Medical Students Association.

“We are often told to stay neutral – but neutrality in the face of injustice sides with the oppressor. Bearing witness is our moral and professional duty.” – Physicians Society.

The South African Students Congress, the Hindu Students Association, the Muslim Students Association, Peer Wellness mentors, the Student’s Surgical Society, and others also stood firm in support, showing that the cause transcended politics: “It’s about life, dignity, and justice,” they said.

“The systematic destruction of Gaza’s healthcare system has reduced hospitals to rubble and turned clinics and ambulances into battlefields,” said Ms Maryam Bassa, a third-year Medical student and event organiser.

“Women and children have borne the brunt of atrocities committed by the Zionist Israeli apartheid regime – atrocities which the United Nations has recognised as potential acts of genocide. For over 75 years, Palestinians have fought for their rights, land, dignity and lives. As Medical students, we honour the bravery of our colleagues in Gaza who continue to serve their people under siege in under-resourced and unsafe conditions,” she said.

According to student organisations: “Doctors Under Attack captures the systematic destruction of Gaza’s healthcare system – every one of its 36 main hospitals has been damaged or destroyed. Hundreds of healthcare workers have been killed, injured, or detained, some alleging torture while imprisoned by Israeli forces. This film highlights the vital role of frontline workers in one of the world’s most precarious humanitarian contexts. As South Africans and future healthcare professionals, we have a duty to listen, to bear witness, and to carry forward their stories.”

Bassa said ‘Frontline Voices Movie Night’ was not just a screening, but a powerful act of solidarity. “It served as a reminder that advocacy is not limited to politicians or activists. As Medical professionals in training, we too have a role to play in defending human rights and upholding the dignity of our peers across the globe.”

“This night was only the beginning,” Bassa said.

The panel encouraged the students to always remember where they came from, to reflect on South Africa’s own historical injustices, and to go out and be of servitude, with love, care and compassion at the heart of the medical practice.

Words: Maryam Bassa and Lunga Memela

Photographs: Lunga Memela