CELEBRATING A TRAILBLAZER WHOSE LIFE AND WORK SHAPED THE FABRIC OF SA HEALTHCARE AND MEDICAL EDUCATION

The Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences celebrated the extraordinary life and legacy of its founding dean, Professor Marina Nolwandle Xaba-Mokoena, a visionary leader, clinician, and educator whose pioneering work transformed medical education in South Africa.

This was done at a public lecture held in her honour, which served as more than just a mere tribute to her achievements, but rather a celebration of her enduring belief in women’s leadership that is grounded in compassion and courage.

The theme “Her story, our future: Celebrating women's strength and resilience", was a retrospection of her accomplishments and a reflection of how her pioneering spirit continues to shape the next generation of women leaders.

Reflecting on Xaba-Mokoena’s journey in service, faculty executive dean, Professor Wezile Chitha, said that it was back in 1985 when she stepped into academia with a bold vision of establishing the country’s 8th medical school at the former University of Transkei.

“It has been 40 years since the doors of medical education were opened at the then University of Transkei, now Walter Sisulu University. Achieving and documenting milestones such as these is important for the development of societies, as it enables them to appreciate how far they have come, what they have been able to achieve, and perhaps more importantly, what still needs to be achieved and how it will be done,” said Chitha.

He added that Xaba-Mokoena had laid the foundation for a philosophy that continues to shape the faculty today. “Her legacy reminds us that medicine must serve humanity, and education must empower communities. As we mark 40 years since those doors first opened, we honour her story as a beacon guiding our future,” Chitha continued.

Revolutionary in her approach, Xaba-Mokoena believed that doctors should not only be skilled clinicians but also compassionate servants of the communities they served.

In 1990, her first cohort of doctors who trained under her philosophy graduated and carried forward her legacy, entering the world as healers and advocates of change.

Her influence continued to echo through the lives of many professionals she mentored as this was evident in the messages shared by past students who testified of the enduring impact of her leadership.

One such student, general practitioner Dr Luyanda Lubelwana, shared how her teachings continue to guide his practice. “Every patient I see, every decision I make, I carry her lessons with me. She did not just teach us medicine, she taught us how to serve,” said Lubelwana.

Eastern Cape Health Department representative, Prof Singilizwe Moko, offered heartfelt congratulations to Xaba-Mokoena, acknowledging her profound impact on healthcare and medical education in the region.

“We are the beneficiaries of the teaching, training and academic platform that was built through your dedication, hard work and commitment. We join WSU in celebrating your pioneering spirit,” Moko said.

Xaba-Mokoena’s affiliation with the University and tenure as faculty dean ended when she resigned in 1993, following a major back operation.

Having lived her professional life in the service of people, Xaba-Mokoena continues to enjoy her retirement after retiring professionally in 2013.

By Thandeka Mgqibi