UKZN alumnus to run 161km ultra-marathon to fund future doctors
He said the campaign was inspired by those who supported him throughout his own journey to becoming a doctor.
A University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) alumnus is set to tackle one of South Africa’s toughest ultra-marathons in a bid to help financially struggling medical students continue their studies.
Specialist anaesthesiologist Dr Sizwe Zungu will take on the gruelling 161km Washie 100 Miler in the Eastern Cape later this month to raise R100 000 towards registration fees for financially deserving UKZN medical students.
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The fundraising campaign, facilitated by the UKZN Foundation, forms part of the MBChB Class of 2006’s 20-year reunion celebrations, with graduates choosing to mark the milestone by giving back to the institution that launched their medical careers.
Widely regarded as Africa’s oldest 100-mile road race, the Washie 100 Miler is one of the country’s most demanding endurance events.
This year’s race takes place from July 31 to August 2, starting at the Cathcart Country Club and finishing at Buffs Club in East London.
For Zungu, the challenge is about far more than completing the distance.
“The Washie 100 Miler is the ultimate endurance test. It is a 26-hour challenge that requires incredible persistence,” he said.
Along the route, a strong community of volunteers makes enormous sacrifices to support runners. Their dedication fuels the determination needed to reach the finish line
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He said the campaign was inspired by those who supported him throughout his own journey to becoming a doctor.
“I carry with me the memory of those who helped me, as well as the friends, teachers, mentors and colleagues who have shaped my journey.”
“This campaign is an opportunity to honour their generosity by helping another student realise their dream of becoming a doctor.”
Zungu is encouraging UKZN alumni, staff, healthcare professionals, medical organisations and corporate partners to support the campaign, saying every donation will help students who are struggling to secure registration funding remain on track with their studies.
After graduating from UKZN with an MBChB degree, Zungu went on to earn a Diploma in Anaesthetics, a Master of Medicine in Anaesthetics and the Fellowship of the College of Anaesthetists of South Africa.
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His career has included roles at Ngwelezane Hospital and Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital before completing registrar training at several UKZN-affiliated teaching hospitals.
He now practises as a specialist anaesthesiologist with Dr Edington and Partners in Durban.
“The journey to becoming a specialist was challenging, but deeply worthwhile,” he said.
Running has become a major part of his life since leaving his specialist training programme in 2015, when he began training with his brother and a close friend.
Together, they formed a WhatsApp group called Dream Chasers, encouraging one another to pursue ambitious goals.
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He completed his first Comrades Marathon in 2016 and has continued to embrace endurance running ever since.
UKZN Foundation Legacy and Endowment Officer Tankiso Mabotha said the initiative demonstrated the lasting impact alumni could have on future generations.
“The fundraising campaign is a reminder of the impact alumni can have on future generations of graduates,” Mabotha said.
By supporting students facing financial hardship, the MBChB Class of 2006 will help ensure that talented young medical students can continue their studies and ultimately contribute to South Africa’s healthcare system.
Those wishing to contribute to the campaign can make donations through the UKZN Foundation.
Those wishing to follow Zungu’s journey can do so on UKZN’s official social media.
