Founding story
The vision for a medical school in the North West Province began as early as the 1970s, when leaders and educators recognised the need for locally trained doctors to serve the Province. For decades, this dream faced numerous obstacles, including resource limitations, policy challenges, and infrastructure issues, but it remained alive in the hearts of those committed to equitable healthcare. Over nearly fifty years, the idea gained momentum under the leadership of Prof. Bismark Tyobeka and Prof. Awie Kotzé, with a joint agreement with the North West Department of Health.
In 2023, this vision took a historic leap forward. North-West University received ministerial approval from the Ministry of Health to establish a medical school, a milestone achieved through 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 support from the Health Professionals Council of South Africa. The School's naming in honour of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, born in Klerksdorp, anchors it in values of moral courage, justice, and compassion.
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 also transform health systems, fulfilling a dream that has been half a century in the making.
Vision
Producing doctors of excellence, integrity, and compassion who heal patients, transform 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 Tutu. Through an innovative medical education, early and sustained community engagement, and partnerships across the health sector, we prepare 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
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.