By Siya Tsewu, 19 October 2017, dailydispatch.co.za.
Mthatha-born Professor Bongani Mayosi has been elected to the US National Academy of Medicine, and is the only African representative out of 10 international members elected.
The dean of the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) faculty of health sciences was one of 80 US and international members elected during NAMs annual meeting on Monday in Washington DC.
The other international members are from Australia, China, the UK, France, the Netherlands, India, Japan and Thailand.
His election to the NAM is considered one of the highest honours in the fields of health and medicine and recognises individuals who have demonstrated outstanding professional achievement and commitment to service.
In a statement from UCT, Mayosi, 50, a cardiologist, said he held the accolade in high esteem.
“I feel honoured to be elected as an international member of the National Academy of States.
“Membership of the NAM reflects the height of professional achievement and commitment to service.
“I am indebted to my mentors, my students, my collaborators, and above all my wife and children who have supported and inspired me over the years,” he said.
With their election, members make a commitment to volunteer their services to the NAM’s aspiration to encourage Medicine of the United education and research, to recognise outstanding contributions to knowledge, and to increase public understanding.
NAM president Victor Dzau said the newly-elected members represented the most exceptional scholars and leaders in science, medicine and health in the US and around the globe.
“Their expertise will help our organisation address today’s most pressing health challenges and inform the future of health and healthcare to benefit us all.
“I am honoured to welcome these distinguished individuals to the National Academy of Medicine,” he said in a statement.
Among other portfolios he holds, Mayosi has since 2011 advised Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi on the policy and strategy for health research in his capacity as the National Health Research Committee chairman.
Through its domestic and global initiatives, the NAM works to address critical issues in health, medicine, and related policy and inspire positive action across sectors.
