SAMA distances itself from its chairperson’s controversial statement

The South African Medical Association has distanced itself from a statement made by its national chairperson regarding medical school admission processes.

CONTROVERSIAL STATEMENT REGARDING ADMISSION PROCESSES

This follows backlash by other doctors in the country who did not agree with the statement made by the Association’s national chairperson.

The chairperson, Dr. Angelique Coetzee during an interview on CapeTalk in January expressed personal opinions that the admission processes to medical schools were highly politicized, that race played a significant role in determining acceptance to medical faculties.

She further said in many instances more than the applicant’s matric performance and that different criteria exist for different race groups with regard to admission requirements.

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Dr Coetzee has since apologized unreservedly for any emotional hurt this statement may have caused. 

SAMA BOARD SETS THE RECORD STRAIGHT 

In a statement, the board said after considerable deliberation they accepted her apology. 

“The board acknowledges that Dr Coetzee’s interpretation of the admission requirements is incorrect,” said the statement.

The board also said it acknowledges that the entrance processes for medical students were much more complex and thorough than what was stated in her opinion. 

“The board is fully cognisant of the fact that the stringent entry requirements are meant to ensure the provision of only the highest quality medical professionals for the country.” 

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“The South African Medical Association further acknowledges that entrance to medical schools requires a high level of academic achievement across the board and that all candidates selected for entry into medical school are chosen inter alia on merit and ability.”

The Association said it appreciated the painful history of the country and therefore empathizes with the hurt and anger the unfortunate remarks by Dr Coetzee may have caused to doctors and the general population in the country. 

“SAMA, moreover, distances itself from the statement made by Dr Coetzee as it does not represent the ethos of the Association and the democratic principles it stands for.”