Pretoria - In an effort to boost the number of medical doctors in the province, the Gauteng Department of Health has awarded 145 bursaries to youngsters to study medicine in Cuba.
The youngsters, who are leaving the country this month, were selected based on their Grade 12 performance and financial status, among other requirements. They will return to the province after six years to make a difference in provincial hospitals and clinics.
The course comprises of one year of Spanish and foundation courses; five years of medical studies and thereafter two years of medical study at a South African University to complete a degree in medicine.
Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu will today meet the students at Johannesburg City Hall to bid them farewell, give words of encouragement and offer them support.
Currently, South Africa has 2 074 students from rural areas and disadvantaged backgrounds studying medicine in Cuba.
The South Africa - Cuba Medical Training Programme started in 1998 as part of the government's efforts to address the critical shortage of medical professionals in the country.
According to 20 Year Review: South Africa 1994 to 2014 document, released earlier this year by President Jacob Zuma, South Africa has 2 074 students from rural areas and disadvantaged backgrounds studying medicine in Cuba. – SAnews.gov.za
