Throughout 2026, the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS) at Stellenbosch University will be celebrating a remarkable milestone: 70 years of advancing health, transforming lives and shaping the future of healthcare in South Africa and beyond.

The theme of the FMHS’ 70th campaign, “Legacy through Impact”, is brought to life through a series of showcases, stories, and events that honour the Faculty’s history while looking ahead to future possibilities.

Since its establishment, the FMHS has grown into one of Africa’s leading centres for medical and health sciences education, research and healthcare innovation. It has trained thousands of healthcare professionals, driven groundbreaking research, and strengthened health systems through meaningful partnerships and community engagement. This anniversary year provides an opportunity to reflect on these achievements while celebrating the people, ideas, and collaborations that continue to define the Faculty’s impact.

The year began with a focus on transformation, exploring how the FMHS has redefined possibilities through inclusive leadership, equitable access to education and a commitment to building a diverse and representative healthcare workforce.

A focus on internationalisation highlighted strong global connections, from collaborative research initiatives to exchange programmes that enrich learning and broaden perspectives for students and staff.

The spotlight then turned to learning and teaching, celebrating the innovation and excellence that underpin our educational approach: from cutting-edge learning technologies to progressive teaching methodologies designed to meet the complex demands of modern medicine.

May, the official birthday month of the Faculty, marks a moment to celebrate 70 years of progress and partnerships. A gala dinner will bring together colleagues, partners and supporters who have helped shape the FMHS journey.

In June, the Faculty celebrates Youth Month, recognising the young people shaping the future of healthcare and reaffirming the FMHS’ commitment to nurturing the next generation of health leaders and empowering students to drive change within their communities.

In July the focus shifts to social impact, and our enduring dedication to community engagement and service through outreach programmes, partnerships and patient-centred initiatives.

Research takes centre stage in August, celebrating groundbreaking studies and innovations emerging from the Faculty, including everything from biomedical discoveries to public health advancements to help address some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.

The FMHS also pays tribute to its alumni, acknowledging graduates who have made invaluable contributions to the healthcare sector locally and internationally. Their achievements stand as a testament to the enduring influence of FMHS education and training.

In October, the attention turns to breakthrough achievements, showcasing significant advancements and discoveries through the Faculty’s innovation drive. This month will also feature the NextGen Maties Open Day, welcoming prospective students to explore opportunities at the FMHS, as well as a special farewell celebration honouring retiring staff who have helped shape the Faculty’s legacy.

With all that has been achieved and learned, the FMHS also looks ahead and reflects on its vision for the future: Advancing health and medicine in South Africa, driving innovation and strengthening healthcare systems remain central to its commitment to excellence. 

Several special events throughout the year will bring these themes to life, from our “Birthdays for Bursaries” initiative earlier in the year to vibrant coffee raves, a pledge ceremony celebrating shared values and global connections, and many more. 

Together, these moments of reflection, celebration, and engagement will highlight not only how far the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences has come over the past 70 years, but also the exciting journey that lies ahead. As we reflect on our “Legacy through Impact”, we invite the FMHS’ community of students, staff, alumni and partners to join in a year that honours the past while inspiring the future.