By Ashoke Ramsarup :: A United Arab Emirates medic has become the first foreigner to graduate with a Master of Medicine (MMED) from the prestigious University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa.

     Dr Nahyan Al Mansoori was honoured with his Master in Emergency Medicine in virtual graduation as a result of the Covid pandemic that is affecting the globe. The 34-year-old Emirati who is also a Fellowship in Emergency Medicine from the College of Medicine of South Africa was the first supernumerary to graduate from the Discipline of Emergency Medicine.

     Soon after graduating Dr Al Mansoori said: “ There is a global shortage of specialists in Emergency Medicine as it is the important gateway for community members to access health care.

     “My study experience at UKZN has been amazing. Now I will be furthering my academic studies in the field of sub-specialising in critical care medicine,” added Dr Al Mansoori.

     In paying tribute to Dr Al Mansoori, Acting Academic Head Dr Sharadh Garach has commended the Emirati, stating that the transition from another healthcare system to South Africa is often difficult.

     Commenting on his achievement, Dr Garach said that Dr Al Mansoori had displayed exceptional dedication and commitment to the programme that earned him the Masters.

     UKZN Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Nana Poku said as a result of the Covid pandemic, they were constrained in meeting face-to-face, but know that recording and honouring “your success virtually” had the same significance and meaning as it would have taken place at the UKZN campus.

     The University of KwaZulu-Natal has conferred 2042 degree certificates. One-thousand-108 were awarded to undergraduate recipients and 934 to post-graduates.