26/05/2022
SA dentists' graduation celebration 2021.
Yes, 2021, shared in May of 2022. NEXUS hosted these brand new young Drs as they celebrated 5 years of study, joining the dental professionals community of South Africa. The unfortunate thing is, we had to wait 5 months before we could share any photos from the graduation party. Two of the universities, in particular Wits Dental School staff, forbade their attendance, and threatened the graduates with disciplinary action. In particular a Dr "H" from Wits dental school had the audacity to contact NEXUS and demand we turn over names of those attending the grad party so as to target the students. And so we had to wait before sharing any of the celebration photos, since the Wits graduates had to extend their studies into 2022, and are all only now free and independent in the com serv posts.
There are no words to describe this, the state that SA dental schools and their education are in, the perpetuated behaviour of those unto whom the care and education of dental students are entrusted to, and how they shamelessly persecute and target students. It is exactly in response to the behaviour of such academic university staff that NEXUS aims to provide mentorship and community for young dentists in SA. And while this is a generalization of the general state of affairs, there are some absolute gems and exemplary educators in the minority at the dental schools. And to you few, we salute you too.
To the class reps from the dental schools, in particular Maryya Ismail and your Wits graduate colleagues - we salute you, celebrate you, and welcome you. May the dismal, uninspired, oppressive 5 years you all endured finally be way way behind you. To all the dental school grads of 2021 - a happy belated congratulations to you all! Onward and upward! Welcome to the NEXUS phase of your dental careers!
