Medical graduates 'ready to serve'

Fifty freshly-minted Namibian dentists, who graduated on 28 July, have extended their gratitude to the Namibian government for funding their studies in Cuba over the past six years.The students obtained their degrees from a Havana university, with the support of the health ministry, which covered their tuition, accommodation, and related living costs, including allowances and medical insurance.The group of graduates left Namibia in 2016 to embark on their six-year graduate course.In an exclusive interview with Namibian Sun, student spokesperson Phiina Mwandingi, speaking on behalf of the group, said when they arrived in Havana, in the summer of 2016, they could not imagine celebrating graduation one day."The night we arrived was incredibly hot, the air was heavy and there was a distinct tropical scent. We didn’t know it then, but we were going to get used to that, but back then it felt terrifying. The people around us were speaking a foreign language so we communicated using gestures. It added more fear," Mwandingi said.Open doorsMwandingi added: "After several years of trial and tribulations, temptations and misfortunes, struggle, pain, good times and bad, and wonderful friendships formed with each other as Namibians as well as with the Cuban people, we are now returning to the Land of the Brave as trained dentists, ready to serve."The group expressed "profound gratitude" to the Namibian government, and especially the health ministry, for their support."A special thank you to the Namibian government and the ministry of health, especially all the officials who worked tirelessly for our well-being on the island. Your load was heavy and although the relationship had its ups and downs, you have stayed true to your word and have fulfilled your part with this incredible opportunity you have given us. We are truly grateful," she said.Mwandingi said the Namibian embassy in Cuba was always ready to listen to the students and assist them. She said this open-door policy made their stay in the country bearable.Ready to serveAs Namibia continues to grapple with a shortage of healthcare workers nationwide, the graduates say they are ready to serve Namibians."To the Namibian people, we are ready to serve you. We are aware of the preconceived notions regarding foreign-trained medical professionals, however, we were sent to study abroad by the health ministry, and they have faith that we have gained all the necessary skills to assist in bettering our healthcare system," Mwandingi said.tuyeimo@namibiansun.com

Medical graduates 'ready to serve'

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-01

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Medical graduates 'ready to serve'

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-01

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