Just News |
The South African Medical Association (SAMA) says it noted the remarks by its Chairperson, Dr Angelique Coetzee during an interview on CapeTalk on 26 January 2022 relating to admission requirements to medical schools in South Africa.
During the interview, Dr Coetzee expressed personal opinions that the admission processes to medical schools were highly politicised, that race played a significant role in determining acceptance to medical faculties, in many instances more than the applicant’s matric performance and that different criteria exist for different race groups with regard to admission requirements.
Dr Coetzee has apologised unreservedly for any emotional hurt this statement may have caused. After considerable deliberation, the SAMA Board accepted her apology. The Board acknowledges that Dr Coetzee’s interpretation of the admission requirements is incorrect.
SAMA further acknowledges that entrance to medical schools requires a high level of academic achievement across the board and that all candidates selected for entry into medical school are chosen on merit and ability.
The Association said it appreciates the painful history of South Africa, and therefore empathises with the hurt and anger the unfortunate remarks by Dr Coetzee may have caused to doctors and the general population in the country.
