By Reuben Maake – reuben.maake@ul.ac.za
For Nazifa Bhuiyan, graduating with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) from the University of Limpopo (UL) during the 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremonies represents far more than a personal achievement, it stands as a profound continuation of a legacy cultivated at home
Following in the footsteps of her father, Dr Mirza Bhuiyan, a medical doctor and lecturer at UL’s School of Medicine, and her mother, Dr Merzi Bhuiyan, also a medical practitioner, Nazifa’s journey into the medical profession was inspired years before she set foot on campus.
Born in 2001 in Polokwane, Nazifa attended her basic education at Northern Muslim School before embarking on a path she describes as a natural progression rather than a difficult choice.
“Growing up, I watched my father dedicate his life to helping others. Seeing his passion and commitment planted a seed in me from a very young age,” she says.
That early exposure to the profession provided clear direction, transforming childhood admiration into a dedicated calling — one rooted in purpose, discipline, and compassion.
“When you grow up seeing someone succeed in a field, it becomes easier to believe that you can also walk that path,” she reflects. “My father’s journey made medicine feel like a natural fit for me.”
However, her transition to university life in 2020, during the COVID-19 period, was not without challenges. Moving from a small school environment to a large and diverse institution required adjustment.
“It was a big shift, both academically and socially, but my classmates and support system helped me adapt,” she says.
The experience took on a unique dimension when her father served as one of her lecturers during her second year, teaching the gastrointestinal module.
“It felt strange at first,” she admits. “But we both maintained a strict standard of professionalism — in an academic setting, he was my lecturer, and at home, he was my father.”
Despite this overlap, Dr Bhuiyan ensured that academic boundaries were maintained. Nazifa notes that in other years he stepped back and allowed other lecturers to teach, a move she credits for fostering her independence and growth.
Beyond the classroom, their shared profession strengthened their bond. Studying together became a meaningful part of their relationship.
“We used to study together, and those moments became some of my favourite memories. It turned what could have been pressure into something special.”
Nazifa describes obtaining her medical degree as a surreal moment — the result of years of sacrifice, faith, and perseverance.
Her perspective on medicine was further refined during her recent clinical exposure at Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Gauteng, where she engaged in patient care during her internship.
“That experience made me realise the true impact of this profession — being there for people in their most vulnerable moments. It gave my journey a deeper sense of purpose.”
While she is still exploring her future specialisation, Nazifa is resolute about the standard of care she intends to provide.
“Patients do not only need skill — they need compassion. Making people feel heard, understood, and cared for is just as important as medical knowledge.”
She admits that having a father who is both a doctor and lecturer initially brought pressure.
“It was nerve-wracking at first because I felt I had big shoes to fill,” she says with a smile. “But over time, that pressure became motivation.”
Dr Nazifa Bhuiyan (centre) celebrates her graduation after obtaining her medical degree at the University of Limpopo (UL), embraced by her father, Dr Merzi Bhuiyan (left), a respected medical practitioner and lecturer in the School of Medicine where she studied, and her mother (right), who played a significant role in her academic journey.