Pandemics, wars and aging populations have made humankind conscious of the crucial role of individuals who at the risk of their own health, aid and care for others. Healthcare personnel are the new superheroes of modern times.

One such superhero is alumnus Sister Kagiso Kgage, a qualified public healthcare practitioner with 15 years’ experience in nursing, epidemiology and research.

 

After completing her Bachelor of Nursing Science undergraduate studies (cum laude) on the Mahikeng Campus, Kagiso obtained her Master of Public Health qualification at Sefako Makgatho Health Science University.

 

She then enrolled for a postgraduate diploma in higher education at Botho University in her country of birth, Botswana. Currently, she is enrolled for a PhD in public health with the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

 

Where it all started

 

Looking back at her time on the Mahikeng Campus, Kagiso says she made friends with students from other countries such as Kenya, Swaziland and Lesotho, which exposed her to various cultures on the continent.

 

Her first position after completing her Bachelor of Nursing Science undergraduate studies was as a nursing officer at Princess Marina Hospital in Botswana.

 

Currently, as a senior lecturer with Botswana’s Institute of Health Sciences, Kagiso trains and educates other healthcare workers.She also develops learning materials for research and epidemiology courses, serves as a national examiner and moderator and supervises research projects and proposals for post-basic graduate students.

 

“At the NWU, we were one big community and I will forever remain grateful for what I am today because I was groomed by one of the best universities,” Kagiso says.

 

Each culture or society has its own set of heroes. A tough period in history requires leaders of outstanding character and with particular abilities to give people the fortitude to endure and to light the way ahead. Alumnus Kagiso Kgakge is one such leader.