Nineteen final-year Dental Therapy students from the Seychelles received clinical training during a two-week sojourn at UKZN hosted by the Dentistry Discipline.
The students were qualified dental therapists who are part of a special collaboration between UKZN and the National Institute of Social Studies in the Seychelles to upgrade the existing skills of health professionals.
They were officially welcomed at two gala dinners sponsored by the Office of the Mayor in the eThekwini Municipality. A team led by Mr Eric Applegren, eThekwini Municipality International and Governance Relations Head, co-ordinated the dinners which added flair to the events, leaving the students with special memories.
The students were further welcomed by the College of Health Sciences Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Busi Ncama; the Director of Professional Services, Professor Fanie Botha, and Professor Shenuka Singh and colleagues from the Dentistry discipline.
Speaking on behalf of the group, student Ms Cynthia Sanders, thanked UKZN and the Office of the eThekwini Mayor’s office for their hospitality.
‘Two weeks ago, the students left their homes not knowing where exactly they were heading though they were told the destination was going to be their home for two weeks. We were on two flights before finally boarding a third for our journey to Durban,’ said an excited Sanders. ‘That was really an experience and we have been so warmly welcomed in Durban.’
Sanders said they were humbled by the love and support they received from everyone with their days being both hectic and enjoyable. ‘We learned a lot during the study programme and enjoyed our visits to interesting sites.’
The group hoped UKZN would continue to support them in their endeavours.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini