Prof KP Mokhobo Foundation annual lecture

The Prof. KP Mokhobo Foundation will have their annual lecture on Saturday 21 September 2024.

The lecture will be held at G20 Lecture Hall, North West University (NWU) Potchefstroom campus at 14:00.

A little more about Prof. KP Mokhobo:

Professor Kubedi Patrick Mokhobo’s illustrious career spans over six decades, distinguished by his relentless pursuit of medical excellence and his profound impact on healthcare in Southern Africa. As the first African cardiologist in countries like South Africa, Swaziland, and Lesotho, Prof. Mokhobo broke barriers and set new standards in the field. His pioneering work was instrumental in transforming mission hospitals into state-owned facilities, ensuring broader access to healthcare. He also initiated the nursing practitioner program that became the foundation for training offered by the South African Nursing Council, a significant contribution to healthcare education.

Born on a farm in Haaskraal, Prof. Mokhobo’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in cardiology is a testament to his resilience and passion for medicine. His contributions to health sciences, particularly in the nursing department of the former University of Bophuthatswana (now North-West University), have left an indelible mark on the academic and medical communities. Recognized with numerous accolades, including an Honorary Doctorate from North-West University and lifetime membership in the Medical Association of Colleges of Medicine, Prof. Mokhobo’s legacy extends to the development of drug policy and the Essential Drug List philosophy. His unwavering dedication has not only shaped the medical field but has also uplifted communities, making him a beacon of hope and inspiration both locally and internationally.

Exceptional milestones reached in Prof. KP Mokhobo’s Career:

• First Black Registrar at Baragwanath Hospital (1962): Prof. Mokhobo became the first Black medical registrar, specializing in pediatrics and internal medicine, at a time when the medical field was heavily segregated.
• Pioneering Cardiology Studies (1966): He wrote Medical Fellowship examinations, becoming the first Black doctor to do so, setting a precedent for future generations.
• Establishment of the Lesotho Medical Association and Medical Congress (1972): He was instrumental in founding the first Lesotho Medical Association and organizing the first-ever Lesotho Medical Congress, which brought together medical professionals from across the region.
• Pioneer: First Black cardiologist in 1973 and thus becoming the epitome of Black excellence and a trailblazer.
• Development of Primary Healthcare in Bophuthatswana (1979-1981): As Minister of Health, Prof. Mokhobo was a driving force behind the decentralization of healthcare services, introducing community health committees and training nurses as clinicians, which transformed healthcare delivery in the region.
• Leadership at MEDUNSA (1990): He became the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, where he spearheaded numerous initiatives, including the drafting of the first Essential Drug List for South Africa and the introduction of compulsory community service for doctors.
• Advisory (1998-2000): Appointed as Advisor to MEC of Health, Dr Gwen Ramokgopa.
• Returned to clinical medical practice (2000): Returned to clinical medical practice. Senior specialist in internal medicine at Natalspruit hospital, and then Tembisa hospital. Also accepted a part-time post of lecturer to cardiology students and family medicine at Medunsa.
• Cardiologist (2007): Took up a post on an annua renewable basis as a Principal Specialist/ Cardiologist at the Potchefstroom Provincial Hospital.
• 2018:   Final retirement at the ripe old age of 86.

Description of Exceptional, Outstanding, and Dedicated Service

Prof. Mokhobo’s service to the medical profession is unparalleled. His work transcends clinical practice, encompassing education, policy development, and community engagement. His efforts in decentralizing healthcare services in Bophuthatswana and his role in developing the Essential Drug List reflect his deep commitment to making healthcare accessible to all. As an educator, he has shaped the minds of countless medical professionals, ensuring that his legacy of excellence and compassion continues to thrive. Even in retirement, his dedication to medicine did not wane, as he continued to serve as a specialist and mentor until the age of 86, embodying the very essence of lifelong service to humanity.