Mr Moosa Ismail and Mr Ahmed Sameer Ikram.Deputy Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for MBChB Duo
Fourth and third year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) students at UKZN’s Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, Mr Moosa Ismail and Ahmed Sameer Ikram are thrilled to be the recipients of the prestigious UKZN College Deputy Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship Award.
This scholarship, which was first instituted in 2012, is awarded to the five top-ranked undergraduates proceeding from first-year to second-year study in each of the four Colleges at UKZN. Recipients of this award must have obtained 80% on a normal full-year subject load.
‘This award came as a surprise - I was unaware such an award even existed. This scholarship serves as a means of financial assistance as well as a token of recognition. I hope it motivates me, and inspire others to continue working hard,’ expressed Ikram.
Ikram is a fourth year MBChB student. He matriculated at the Orient Islamic School with an aggregate 95% and is grateful to his High School teacher, Mr Nelson Govender who still supports and encourages him.
‘I knew that all my hard work would eventually pay off, but I never imagined myself being rewarded with such a high-level achievement. And for that, I am truly grateful. This helps to ease my current financial situation, and provides me with the platform to complete my undergraduate studies. Furthermore, this scholarship serves as an incentive for me to achieve more in the future and to inspire others along the way,’ said an excited 21-year-old old Ismail.
Ismail added that his formula for success revolves around being logical, systematic and organised.
‘I wasn’t the best in my matric year, but I surely didn’t give up on my dream of becoming a doctor. Additionally, I am passionate about what I do, and I am doing what I love, which is Medicine.’
Ismail says he can never find the time to balance his social life with academics due to the hectic study schedule, he still tries to make time to do the few things he enjoys like cooking, reading and most importantly, watching YouTube videos.
‘I chose UKZN as my university of choice simply because they have brilliant lecturers, doctors and consultants that work tirelessly to educate, guide and motivate us.’
Ismail grew up in Asherville, Durban and completed primary school at Hartley Road Primary School and thereafter, attended Sastri College to complete his secondary schooling.
‘I feel extremely honoured and appreciative of the fact that I was chosen to be a recipient of this prestigious award. To me, this scholarship means that I am on the right path to fulfilling my dream of becoming a successful doctor.’