From a small town in Limpopo to graduating cum laude from one of South Africa’s top health sciences universities, Dr Gert Loubser’s journey is a testament to the calibre of graduates produced by Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). His dedication to patient-centred care, academic excellence, and lifelong learning reflects SMU’s mission to shape the future of health in South Africa.
Raised in Hoedspruit, Loubser discovered his passion for medicine in Grade 10 during a job-shadowing experience at a clinic in Acornhoek. “An elderly man thanked the doctor and me for helping him. That moment showed me the profound impact doctors can have,” he recalls.
Recently completing his MBChB degree cum laude, Loubser credits his success to consistency and discipline. “I studied daily. I didn’t wait until the last minute. Keeping the end goal in mind—becoming a doctor—kept me going.”
This perseverance was especially vital during clinical training. “Internal Medicine in the fifth and sixth year was overwhelming, but I believe the Lord gave me the strength to stay calm during those long nights.”
Despite the challenges, Loubser describes his SMU experience as “amazing.” He praises the university’s academic rigour and emphasis on holistic development. “Beyond teaching and skills training, I made lifelong friendships. SMU shaped me into a doctor who always puts patients first.”
He acknowledges mentors like Professor Zack Koto and Professor Pindile Mntla, whose dedication to teaching and patient care left a lasting impression. “Their passion and extra effort in teaching really inspired me.”
Among his clinical rotations, paediatrics and ophthalmology were the most fulfilling. “The gratitude from patients during clinical training echoed that early experience in Grade 10. It kept reminding me why I chose medicine.”
Loubser values SMU’s emphasis on continuous learning. “I plan to pursue diplomas and primary exams soon to improve my chances of securing a registrar post. I’m considering specialising in ophthalmology or urology.”
Looking ahead, he hopes to be a qualified specialist running his own practice. “For me, medicine is a calling. Young doctors have a duty to serve with compassion and to inspire others.”
His achievement has also had a ripple effect. “My family is incredibly proud. It’s even motivated my siblings to pursue their studies with more determination.” He celebrated his graduation with them over a well-earned dinner — a fitting end to a chapter marked by resilience.
Loubser’s advice to aspiring students is both practical and spiritual: “Apply yourself. Learn something every day. Don’t leave things too late. And most importantly, trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
Through graduates like Loubser, SMU continues to affirm its role as a leading institution producing competent, compassionate, and community-driven healthcare professionals.
By Tumelo Moila
