Health sciences is 99 years and counting down

The Faculty of Health Sciences celebrated its 99th birthday on 6 June with the launch of a year-long programme of events that counts down towards its centenary.

"The faculty has a proud history and has not only done a lot for South Africa," said deputy vice-chancellor Professor Danie Visser at the event, "but it's also very good at looking in on itself, and addressing the dark side of UCT's history. The faculty continues to be a jewel in UCT's crown."

Faculty dean Professor Marian Jacobs outlined the events planned for the year, including symposia, courses, exhibitions, social events and the planned launch of commemorative coins, stamps and wines. "Our challenge for the future is building partnerships with the private and public sectors, producing a succession plan to find new leaders and, in the next six months, come up with a new research strategy to strengthen a full spectrum of research in the faculty. We're in for some interesting times."

Violinist Nicoli Wills and accompanist Gayle Tatz, both medical students, provided musical entertainment at the event.