As the MBChB Class of 2006 marks 20 years since graduating from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), an alumnus is going extra miles to make a meaningful difference in the lives of future doctors.
UKZN alumnus and specialist anaesthesiologist, Dr Sizwe Zungu, will take on the legendary Washie 100 Miler (a 161km race) in the Eastern Cape this July to raise R100 000 towards registration fees for financially deserving UKZN medical students.
The fundraising initiative, facilitated by the UKZN Foundation, forms part of the MBChB Class of 2006’s 20-year reunion celebrations, which include giving back to the institution that helped shape their careers.
Widely regarded as the oldest 100-mile road race in Africa, the Washie 100 Miler is one of South Africa’s most demanding ultra-distance endurance events.
The 2026 race takes place from 31 July to 2 August, beginning at the Cathcart Country Club in Cathcart and finishing at Buffs Club in East London.
For Zungu, the 161km race is about much more than endurance.
“The Washie 100 Miler is the ultimate endurance test,” said Zungu. “It is a 26-hour challenge that requires incredible persistence. Along the route, a strong community of volunteers makes enormous sacrifices to support runners. Their dedication fuels the determination needed to reach the finish line,” he said.
Zungu says he is inspired by the people who believed in his potential when he needed it most.
“I carry with me the memory of those who helped me, as well as the friends, teachers, mentors and colleagues who have shaped my journey. This campaign is an opportunity to honour their generosity by helping another student realise their dream of becoming a doctor.”
Zungu is encouraging UKZN alumni, staff members, healthcare professionals, medical organisations and corporate partners to support the campaign by contributing towards the fundraising target. Every donation will assist medical students who are struggling to secure registration funding, helping them remain on track with their studies.
A respected figure in both the public and private healthcare sectors, Zungu’s professional journey reflects years of dedication and academic excellence. After completing his MBChB degree at UKZN, he went on to obtain a Diploma in Anaesthetics (DA), a Master of Medicine in Anaesthetics (MMed), and the prestigious Fellowship of the College of Anaesthetists of South Africa (FCA).
His professional experience includes serving as a medical officer at Ngwelezane Hospital and Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital, followed by registrar training across several UKZN-affiliated teaching hospitals. Today, he practises as a specialist anaesthesiologist with Dr Edington and Partners in Durban.
“The journey to becoming a specialist was challenging, but deeply worthwhile,” he reflected.
Running has been a constant companion throughout much of that journey. After leaving his specialist training programme in 2015, he began running regularly with his brother and a close friend. Together they formed a WhatsApp group called Dream Chasers, inspiring one another to pursue ambitious goals.
In 2016, Dr Zungu completed his first Comrades Marathon, beginning a passion for endurance running that continues today.
Beyond medicine and sport, he is passionate about arts, music and culture, interests that continue to enrich his personal and professional life.
Ms Tankiso Mabotha, Legacy and Endowment Officer at the UKZN Foundation, said: “The fundraising campaign is a reminder of the impact alumni can have on future generations of graduates. By supporting students facing financial hardship, the MBChB Class of 2006 will help ensure that talented young medical students can continue their studies and ultimately contribute to South Africa’s healthcare system.”
Those wishing to contribute to the campaign can make donations through the UKZN Foundation Contribute to the fundraising initiative https://ukzn.devman.co.za/devman/mbchb2006/giving/
Follow Dr Zungu’s 161km race journey via UKZN social media handles.
https://www.facebook.com/ukzn1
https://www.instagram.com/ukzn
https://www.youtube.com/user/UKZNSouthAfrica
Name of author: Melissa Mungroo mungroo@ukzn.ac.za
Photographer: Supplied
