At the beginning of the year, Dr Siyabonga Khoza set out on a mission to reach and tutor mathematics in 50 disadvantaged schools, and he DID IT – reminding young people across South Africa that their circumstances do not have to determine their futures.
Johannesburg, South Africa (02 November 2026) – At the beginning of this year, Dr Siyabonga Khoza made a commitment to visit 50 schools. Using his time outside the hospital, he set out to teach mathematics, mentor learners and inspire young people, particularly those from under-resourced communities.
Last year, Good Things Guy first shared the touching story of this dedicated doctor, who goes beyond treating patients to tutor mathematics and empower school learners in disadvantaged communities during his free time away from hospital wards.
Now, as the academic year draws to a close, he is happy to share with us that he has officially achieved his goal of reaching 50 schools across South Africa in 2026!
For Dr Khoza, this heartfelt mission is personal, inspired by his own schooling journey as a young boy who wanted nothing more than an education that would pave the way to a successful future.
“Having grown up in a disadvantaged community myself and becoming the first graduate in my family, this journey has been deeply personal. I understand what it means to have big dreams while growing up with limited opportunities,” he says.
Throughout his 2026 school visits, Dr Khoza encountered thousands of remarkable learners whose potential far exceeded the circumstances in which they find themselves.
“The goal was 50 schools, but the mission was always bigger than the number. It was about reminding young people that their circumstances do not have to determine their futures.”
Khoza has always been inspired by Charlotte Maxeke’s words: “If you can rise, bring someone with you”.
With those words guiding him, he now looks back with a full heart on a busy year of enriching young minds between demanding hospital shifts.
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For giving so much of your time to others, whether treating patients or empowering the next generation, we take our hats off to you, Dr Khoza. We celebrate the healer, educator and hero you are to so many!
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