Luzuko Duku, a 28-year-old final-year medical student from Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape, is embarking on his last academic year with newfound confidence, courtesy of a prestigious bursary from Bonitas Medical Fund. Luzuko is one of eight recipients who received bursaries in December to cover their final year’s fees, bringing them one step closer to fulfilling their dreams of becoming doctors by the end of 2024.
Luzuko, a product of Rietvlei High School, hails from a humble background. Raised by his late grandmother, who battled hypertension and arthritis, Luzuko developed a passion for medicine while assisting her with medication dosages and accompanying her to medical appointments. His childhood dream of becoming a doctor has now become a reality, fueled by the potential he discovered during his academic journey.
“For me, the bursary means more than just financial assistance. It comes at a crucial time, relieving me of financial stress and allowing me to focus on my studies. This support is not just an investment in my education but in the future healthcare landscape of our country,” says Luzuko, expressing gratitude for the opportunity.
The selection process for these bursaries involved a careful assessment of academic achievements and financial needs. Vetting was conducted by both the University and Gift of the Givers to identify promising students from diverse backgrounds, all sharing a common goal of enhancing the healthcare landscape in South Africa.
Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas, emphasizes the significance of supporting aspiring medical professionals: “Our partnership with Gift of the Givers is a testament to our commitment to uplifting the healthcare sector. Luzuko and his peers represent the future of healthcare in South Africa, and we are proud to contribute to their journey.”
This scholarship initiative is part of the broader partnership between Gift of the Givers and Bonitas Medical Fund, now in its sixth year. Beyond scholarships, the collaboration includes interventions like the provision of boreholes to address critical water shortages in public healthcare facilities across the country.
“The success of our collaboration with Bonitas is evident in the positive outcomes achieved in various healthcare projects. Luzuko’s journey is a testament to the impact we can make when organizations come together for a common cause,” notes Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, Founder of Gift of the Givers.
The partnership’s impact extends to addressing critical water shortages in public healthcare facilities. Six hospitals and clinics, located in the Eastern Cape, Gauteng, KZN, and Free State, including a psychiatric hospital, general hospitals, clinics, and an orphanage, have been identified for urgent water interventions. The completion date for these projects is set for April 2024.
The collaborative effort between Gift of the Givers and Bonitas not only supports aspiring medical professionals like Luzuko but also contributes to broader initiatives aimed at improving healthcare accessibility and facilities across South Africa. As Luzuko looks forward to his future career in pediatrics, his journey serves as an inspiring example of how partnerships and bursaries can shape the next generation of healthcare professionals.
