Former Volkie Dux learner is a qualified doctor
"I chose this career so that I could contribute to the medical fraternity whose objective is to preserve lives."
Nolwazi Mkhatshwa (29), a former Volkie learner, has qualified as a medical doctor.
Mkhatshwa attended Heidelberg Hoër Volkskool from 2009 to 2013. She obtained seven distinctions in her matric exams and was the top learner in the Sedibeng East District.
She was the Dux learner at Volkies throughout her high school years.
Mkhatshwa completed her medical degree studies in 2019, graduating Cum Laude with distinctions from the University of Pretoria.
She is now fully employed as a medical doctor at the Far East Rand Hospital linked to the Department of Medical Emergency.
Mkhatshwa said she always challenged herself throughout her years of study to work hard and maintain high academic standards.
Her reason for choosing a medical career is to contribute to the medical fraternity, whose objective is to preserve lives.
“When I was born, my father was already in the health profession practising as a psychologist. This exposure instilled in me a passion and interest in the health profession.
“My job allows me to save lives and also promote healthy lifestyles among people,” she said.
Her sister Thandekile Mkatshwa (27), also a former Volkie, graduated in 2020 and is practising as a dentist in Pretoria.
Besides becoming a specialist, Mkhatshwa wants to establish a medical journal to contribute to the body of knowledge.
“I haven’t decided on my specialisation yet, but I am considering either emergency medicine or psychiatry,” she said.
