The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in South Africa has pledged ongoing support to the Eswatini Medical Christian University (EMCU) to aid in the institution’s growth and development.
This assurance was made by Professor Amadi Ihunwo, Head of the School of Anatomical Science at Wits, during a benchmarking meeting held last week at Mountain View Hotel. The session followed a campus tour of EMCU, including the Faculty of Medicine, and concluded with a discussion of observations and recommendations.
Also in attendance were Eric Hutchson and Professor Jacob Makwe from Wits University.
Support and Collaboration
During the discussions, the Wits delegation advised on various areas of potential improvement at EMCU, including the establishment of dissection laboratories. Professor Ihunwo expressed gratitude to EMCU for entrusting Wits with the opportunity to assist and noted that their partnership, which began in 2022, was a natural fit.
He highlighted that Wits had previously supported other institutions such as the University of Johannesburg, University of Limpopo, and University of Namibia.
“We understand EMCU is still new, and we don’t expect its medical school to be on our level yet—but there’s clear potential,” he said. “This is our chance to give back, and we’re ready to help however we can.”
Professor Ihunwo added that Wits had already begun engaging with Eswatini students through various activities and services. He urged continuous collaboration to ensure timely and effective assistance.
Student and Government Engagement
Speaking to Student Representative Council (SRC) members present, Ihunwo emphasized their vital role in these programmes, encouraging active participation in initiatives that align with their academic fields.
Meanwhile, Dr. Buyile Dladla, Chief Inspector for Tertiary Education, thanked Wits University for their contribution, saying the partnership was already addressing challenges within the country’s higher education system.
“We can clearly see that a lot can be achieved through this collaboration,” she said. “It’s a huge step forward in solving our existing problems.”
A Milestone for Eswatini’s Medical Education
EMCU Chairman of Council, Boy Dlamini, also expressed appreciation, calling the partnership with Wits a major milestone in EMCU’s journey since its inception in 2022.
He noted that EMCU’s accreditation process was greatly supported by Wits, who assessed their curriculum and committed to “hand-holding” EMCU through the establishment of Eswatini’s first-ever Medical Faculty.
“We are grateful for the guidance and the tour of our facilities by the Wits team,” Dlamini said. “Their insight will help us reach international medical education standards.”
He also acknowledged the support of South African legislators and government officials who joined the recent EMCU campus tour.
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