About us

Founding story

The vision for a medical school in the North West Province dates back to the 1970s, when leaders and educators recognised the need for locally trained doctors to serve the Province. For decades, this dream faced obstacles, from resource limitations to policy and infrastructure challenges, but it remained alive in the hearts of those committed to equitable healthcare. Over nearly 50 years, the idea gathered momentum under the leadership of Prof Bismark Tyobeka, Mr Bert Sorgdrager, and Prof Awie Kotzé, and with a joint agreement with the North West Department of Health. 

In 2023, with the strategic direction by Prof Binu Luke and Prof Petra Bester, this vision took a historic leap forward. The NWU received ministerial approval from the Ministry of Health to establish a medical school, a milestone built on strategic partnerships, provincial health collaboration, and a bold curriculum design shaped by an expert reference group. At the beginning of 2025, the School obtained ministerial approval from the Minister of Higher Education and Training and endorsement from the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA). The School's naming in honour of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, born in Klerksdorp, anchors it in values of moral courage, justice, and compassion. Desmond Mpilo Tutu also received an honorary doctorate degree from the University in 2002.

Today, the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine stands as a beacon for socially accountable medical education. With its integrated, community-focused MBChB programme, it is poised to produce doctors who not only heal individuals but transform health systems, fulfilling a dream half a century in the making.

Vision

Producing medical doctors of excellence, integrity, and compassion who heal patients, families and communities, strengthen health systems, and lead with courage in South Africa and beyond.

Mission

The Desmond Tutu School of Medicine is committed to training clinically competent, socially accountable, and ethically grounded doctors who embody the values of  Desmond Mpilo Tutu. Through innovative medical education, early and sustained community engagement, and partnerships across the health sector, we prepare medical graduates to address the health needs of underserved communities, advocate for social justice, and respond to the evolving challenges of healthcare locally, nationally, and globally.

Values

The Desmond Tutu School of Medicine:

  • Advances health and healing through excellence in education, research, and service. 
  • Inspired by Desmond Tutu’s legacy of justice, compassion, reconciliation, and ubuntu.  
  • Prepare medical professionals who embody integrity, inclusivity, and respect for human dignity. 
  • Strive to reduce inequities, strengthen communities, and contribute to a more just and caring society through socially accountable education, transformative research, and collaborative partnerships.