Midrand, Gauteng, After six years of studying medicine and overcoming personal loss and financial hardship, a final-year student now faces the possibility of not completing his degree due to outstanding fees.
Muleya Simango, a sixth-year MBBCh student at the University of the Witwatersrand, is just one step away from qualifying as a doctor, but an outstanding balance of R130,000 now threatens to halt his journey at the final stage.
A Dream Years in the Making
For Muleya, becoming a doctor has never just been a goal, it has been a lifelong calling.
Despite growing challenges, he has remained committed to completing his studies and serving others through medicine.
“I have made it this far because I am determined to fulfil my purpose and serve my community as a doctor,” he shared.
A Journey Marked by Loss and Resilience
The road to this point has not been easy.
The financial strain brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic placed significant pressure on his family, followed by the loss of his father in 2022, a turning point that impacted both his emotional and financial stability.
Still, Muleya continued, pushing through each year of study despite mounting challenges.
So Close, Yet at Risk
Now in his final year, Muleya has completed the majority of his medical training and is on the verge of qualifying.
However, the outstanding tuition fees mean he may not be able to graduate or proceed with the next steps required to enter the medical profession.
“I am so close to the end of this long, difficult journey… but I cannot overcome this last hurdle alone,” he said.
Giving Back While Studying
Even while facing financial pressure, Muleya has remained deeply involved in uplifting others.
He served for four years in the Wits Students’ Surgical Society, including as Vice President, where he helped drive outreach programmes and skills development initiatives.
He has also spent over two years tutoring school learners, supporting them in their own educational journeys.
If you are unable to donate, sharing his story can help reach others who can.
To support Muleya Simango, visit his BackaBuddy campaign page here.
