IMASA-Durban Branch Student Orientation 2023
The Islamic Medical Association (IMA) Durban Branch held its annual student orientation on Saturday 5th August 2023. Approximately 35 1st year health science students and student leaders from campuses around Durban attended the event.
The orientation aimed to introduce medical students to the various activities and services provided by the IMA. The itinerary included visits to the Malukazi Clinic south of Durban, the IMA Frail Care Centre, and the Ahmed Al Kadi Hospital, followed by a braai lunch at the IMA Offices in Sherwood. “We wanted to show the students what the IMA is about rather than just tell them of our activities,” said Dr Mohamed Raiman, coordinator of the student orientation.
The day began with a visit to the Malukazi Clinic, a primary healthcare facility run by the IMA. The clinic serves the population of the Malukazi township and surrounding areas. Sr Farida Morris gave the students an overview of all the IMA Clinics and they were then guided through the clinic’s various departments. They had the opportunity to interact with the clinic staff and witness the clinic’s commitment to providing quality healthcare services to the community.
Following the Malukazi Clinic visit, the students were taken to the IMA Frail Care Centre. This facility is dedicated to providing specialized care for elderly individuals who require assistance with daily activities due to their health conditions. The students were given a tour of the centre, where they observed the compassionate care provided to the residents. They also learned about the importance of geriatric care and the challenges faced by the elderly population.
The Ahmed Al Kadi Hospital, a project of the IMA known for its excellent medical services, was the next stop on the itinerary. Students were led through various departments including the IMA Renal Dialysis Unit. Mr Solly Suleman addressed the students about the history of the hospital as well as the establishment of the IMA renal unit and frail care centre.
After the hospital visit, the students gathered for a braai lunch at the IMA Durban Branch new Hatton Road offices. The informal setting allowed students to engage in meaningful conversations with IMA members, healthcare professionals, and fellow students. It also provided an opportunity for networking and sharing experiences. Dr GM Hoosen, one of the founding fathers of the IMA in South Africa shared some inspiration and anecdotes with the students, fostering a sense of social responsibility. He emphasized the importance of community engagement and the role of healthcare professionals in serving vulnerable populations.
Chairperson of the IMA Durban Branch, Mrs Yasiera Mahomed – Suliman welcomed the students to the health profession and encouraged them to get involved with the many IMA projects and activities. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the IMA Durban Branch and the MSA of 3 campuses – UKZN Medical School, UKZN Westville and Durban University of Technology (DUT). This officially relaunched the IMA KZN Student Wing.
The orientation will hopefully inspire these future healthcare practitioners to contribute meaningfully to society and promote the values of the Muslim health profession Inshaa Alla