Stellenbosch University Caps One of the Youngest Doctors to Qualify in SA at the December Graduation
- David Obagbuwa has graduated with an MBChB from Stellenbosch University (SU), fulfilling his dream of becoming one of South Africa's youngest doctors at the age of 21
- He was welcomed into the 2020 medical intake at the age of 15, commencing his studies during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic
- The achievement is a testament to his dedication, as he successfully navigated academic and social hurdles to complete the demanding medical programme
Source: UGC
David Obagbuwa has successfully graduated with an MBChB from Stellenbosch University (SU), officially qualifying as one of South Africa’s youngest medical doctors at the age of 21.
Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, David set a personal goal upon his admission into SU's medical programme in 2020 at the tender age of 15.
At the age of 11, David and his family relocated to South Africa. A misunderstanding led to him being placed in Grade 9 at Kharwastan Secondary School in Durban, but despite the age difference, he excelled and continued studying. He later dedicated himself to gaining admission to Stellenbosch University's renowned medical programme.
Navigating early challenges
Entering university at the age of 15 brought its own social and psychological hurdles. “At first, it was exciting to get into medical school. But walking into lecture halls and libraries and being the youngest person in every room was also intimidating,” he recalled. The COVID-19 lockdown further complicated his social integration, as studies moved online. He eventually integrated into the community, focusing on his work and learning, noting that age soon stopped being an issue.
Source: UGC
The humbling journey of medicine
The graduate attributes his success to the mentorship and wealth of knowledge shared by the staff and the entire Tygerberg Campus community. He explained that beyond academics, the demanding medical degree itself fostered personal growth, teaching him empathy and discipline, and humbling him while focusing his passion for the field. He admitted to facing intense challenges, including long hours, self-doubt and imposter syndrome. He successfully managed these hurdles by setting detailed goals, maintaining consistency, and balancing his demanding schedule with hobbies like hiking, playing football, and listening to podcasts on metaphysics and ethics to prevent burnout.
Ready to serve the nation
For his internship, David has been placed at Phologong Hospital in Gauteng’s East Rand. His plans while there include exploring specialisation and research options before deciding on where he wants to take his career. The young doctor stressed his eagerness to implement everything he learned to contribute meaningfully to South Africa's healthcare system. "I want to be the best doctor I can be for every patient who crosses my path," he stated.
5 Briefly News articles about graduations
- A KwaZulu-Natal man went viral for giving humorous yet profound advice to students after completing his degree in seven years instead of the expected four.
- A former security guard has graduated with a visual arts qualification from Tswane University of Technology (TUT), a story that has inspired many social media users.
- A man was filmed proposing on stage during his girlfriend's graduation, and the crowd cheered in excitement over the double celebration.
- A young woman juggling her studies while working at a restaurant shared a clip of herself working at RoccoMamas cleaning toilets, windows and tables and then graduating, leaving many inspired online.
- Sharks rugby player James Venter graduated with an LLB, his second qualification, proving that it was possible to balance two demanding things and impressing online users.
Source: Briefly News
