The Medical Association chairperson made a statement regarding medical school admission processes Photo: Facebook
SAMA Chairperson steps down from her role with immediate effect
SAMA Chairperson, Dr Angelique Coetzee received a lot of backlash from other doctors in the country who did not agree with what she said.
The Medical Association chairperson made a statement regarding medical school admission processes Photo: Facebook
Dr Angelique Coetzee, Chairperson of the Board of Directors, at the South African Medical Association (SAMA) has stepped down from her role with immediate effect.
This follows her controversial statement about admission processes in medical schools. The Association distanced itself from the statement.
WHY DID DR COETZEE STEP DOWN FROM HER ROLE IN SAMA?
During an interview with Cape Talk on 26 January, Coetzee expressed personal opinions that the admission processes to medical schools were highly politicised. She further said 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.
Coetzee received a lot of backlash from other doctors in the country who did not agree with the statement.
This week, SAMA distanced itself from the statement.
“SAMA 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. The Association represents all doctors in South Africa, regardless of race, gender, creed or religion and it does so to promote and protect their rights,” The Association previously said.
WHERE TO FROM HERE?
Coetzee will now remain as an ordinary member of the SAMA Board.
SAMA he current Vice-Chairperson of the SAMA Board, Dr Mvuyisi Mzukwa, will assume the role of Interim Chairperson while the Board contemplates Dr Coetzee’s permanent replacement.
“Mzukwa is an experienced general practitioner in KZN and a seasoned member of the Association. Dr Edward Ngwenya, the Chairperson of SAMA’s Chairperson’s Forum – a forum of the chairpersons of all SAMA branches, will assume the role of Interim Vice-Chairperson.
“Dr Ngwenya is a specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon practicing in Gauteng. He is equally well-versed in matters related to the health profession. We look forward to a successful tenure as we continue championing for the health of the nation.”
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