KARKLOOF TEEN’S MEDICAL DREAM IN JEOPARDY
Thandolwethu Ngubane has been dreaming about becoming a doctor since he was a child.
His drive and discipline helped him to achieve eight A grades in physical science, agricultural science, life science, pure mathematics, isiZulu and life orientation in last year’s matric exams. He also achieved a B grade in English.
Thandolwethu, who grew up in the Karkloof and matriculated at Injoloba Secondary School, told Village Talk: “I would love to become a cardiologist. It’s something that I have always been interested in doing, since I started school. That’s why I worked so hard.”
Last year the teenager made sure to apply to universities as early as possible.
“Because I want to study medicine, I applied very early to get admission – I think it was in April – to the University of KwaZulu-Natal Medical School, Wits University and the Nelson Mandela University,” Thandolwethu said.
Despite this, he is struggling to get a place at a tertiary institution to start his medical studies. All three of the places he applied to have turned him away.
Thandolwethu, who has secured NSFAS funding, has been offered the chance to study civil engineering at the University of Johannesburg.
He is worried, however, that if he does so, or if he chooses to take a gap year, that he will be unable to enrol for a medical degree at a later stage.
“I really want to become a cardiologist. I know it will be hard work, but I have always loved a challenge. I hope someone can help me to achieve my dream,” he added.
The youth office at uMngeni Municipality is trying to assist Thandolwethu to get into university and has sent his details to the dean of a medical school for a possible enrollment.