On 16 September 2025, a night filled with warmth, gratitude, and deep reflection, the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Walter Sisulu University honoured one of its most distinguished contributors Professor Colin Lazarus with a special public lecture celebrating his decades-long impact on medicine, education, and humanity.
Held at the East London Health Resource Centre, the lecture was part of the faculty’s 40th anniversary programme, offering a heartfelt look at the life of a man whose commitment to healing has touched countless lives across the Eastern Cape and beyond.
Their Story
Born in 1943 in the Eastern Cape, Prof Colin Lazarus dedicated more than 50 years to the service of others. After earning his medical degree from the University of Cape Town in 1968, he began his journey in mission hospitals, where he developed an expansive surgical skill set. His career progressed from general surgery into paediatric surgery a field where he would ultimately leave a transformative legacy.
At the height of his career, he served as principal paediatric surgeon and head of the Eastern Cape paediatric surgical service, training 91 specialists and sub-specialists and influencing paediatric care policy across the province.
Prof Lazarus also served as President of the South African Association of Paediatric Surgeons, contributed to academic literature, edited trauma handbooks, and helped grow the research output of his department.
Beyond the hospital and lecture halls, he was also an avid endurance athlete, often using marathons and cycling events to raise funds for children’s health initiatives merging physical challenge with compassionate action.
The Event/Occasion
Tuesday evening’s lecture was more than just ceremonial, it was a celebration of legacy and leadership. Executive Dean Professor Wezile Chitha opened the event with words of reverence and recognition.
“Our milestones are not measured only in years, but in the contributions we have made to the development and sustenance of the health sector particularly in the Eastern Cape and in rural, underserved areas of our country,” said Prof Chitha.
He described the honorary lecture as a fitting tribute, not only to Prof Lazarus’s career but also to the values that define the faculty’s mission, service, excellence, and community-centred care.
Prof Chitha reminded the audience that the East London Health Resource Centre a hub for clinical training is one of Prof Lazarus’s most enduring contributions, still shaping future generations of healthcare professionals.
Community Reactions
The lecture drew a cross-section of academics, students, clinicians, and community partners, all united in their admiration for Prof Lazarus. Many spoke of his kindness, rigour, and quiet leadership.
“He didn’t just teach us surgery. He taught us humility, discipline, and what it means to truly care for the most vulnerable,” said Dr Nompumelelo Vika, a paediatric surgeon who trained under Prof Lazarus.
Others highlighted his enduring influence on the university’s culture of service.
“His mentorship changed the way I see medicine,” said final-year student Simphiwe Ndlovu. “He showed us that healing is both a science and a calling.”
As the evening closed, Prof Chitha extended heartfelt thanks to Prof Lazarus on behalf of the entire WSU community.
“We are deeply grateful for your life, for your wisdom, and for the foundation you have laid,” he said. “May your retirement be rich with health and joy.”
