Medical Class of 2005 Celebrates 20-year Reunion at UKZN

The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine welcomed back its Class of 2005 (old curriculum) for a heart-warming 20th reunion weekend filled with laughter, nostalgia, and pride.

The day began with an emotional tour through the iconic spaces that shaped the class’s journey from students to medical professionals. The tour began at the library and continued through the dissection hall, the skills laboratory (where an Objective Structured Clinical Examination was in progress), the Steve Biko Lecture Theatre, and the much-loved student social areas.

A special highlight of the reunion was the tour of the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA) and the KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP), where alumni were given an inside look into the world-renowned research being conducted on campus. Dr Jennifer Giandhari shared insights into the ground-breaking genomic work that led to the discovery of the Omicron variant, reflecting on the intense yet inspiring experiences during the pandemic.

Professor Salim Abdool Karim Director of CAPRISA, and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) at UKZN … also addressed the group, highlighting CAPRISA’s core values – ‘Searching for Excellence’, ‘Thinking for Innovation’, and ‘Striving to Serve Humanity’ – principles that continue to inspire medical professionals across generations.

Representing the class, Dr Mohammed Mitha extended heartfelt thanks to UKZN and the School of Medicine for hosting such a memorable occasion. Professor Refiloe Masekela, Dean of Medicine, warmly welcomed the alumni back, reminding them that they will always have a home at UKZN and encouraging them to stay connected and continue contributing to the advancement of health sciences.

The reunion was more than a visit – it was a beautiful rediscovery of friendships, memories, and the enduring spirit of UKZN Medicine. Some of the classmates shared their reflections of the day.

“Being back at Med School felt like I never left. It was so nostalgic and heart-warming. Meeting our friends was also quite magical. It was amazing to see the progress at CAPRISA that Prof and his team are making – we are so proud to be part of UKZN. The visit renewed my excitement and inspiration to strive higher. We look forward to the next visit,” said Dr Zeenat Moorad, clinical haematologist.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the excellent job you and your team did with our Medical School tour. It brought back the best of memories. It was so lovely reconnecting after so many years. We did not have CAPRISA on site when I was there, so that was truly an exceptional part of the tour,” said Dr Nafeesa Vawda, clinical and radiation oncologist.

“The tour was well organised and informative, but also relaxed so that we all felt comfortable enough to be ourselves. It was wonderful to revisit our alma mater and see how far it has come,” said Dr Pravani Moodley, emergency physician and lecturer at Wits University.

As the Class of 2005 walked the familiar corridors once again, it was clear that while much has changed in the last two decades, the spirit of camaraderie, excellence, and compassion that defines the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine remains stronger than ever.

Words: MaryAnn Francis

Photographs: Sethu Dlamini