By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed sadness at the passing of veteran clinician, researcher and academic, Prof Harry Seftel, who passed away less than a month before his 95th birthday.
Prof Seftel was a teacher, clinician, researcher and broadcaster who taught generations of doctors, nurses and other health practitioners at the University of Witwatersrand medical school as well as hosting popular health education shows on Radio 702 and the SABC.
In a statement, the President sent his deep condolences to the Seftel family and the late Prof Seftels’ friends and associates around the country and internationally.
Seftel spent more than 50 years in the Department of Medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand.
“Prof Seftel’s passing at the end of an extended life with which he was blessed is another instance of loss among a generation that defined the South Africa of the 20th century.
“Prof Seftel’s life journey includes his university-days friendship with Nelson Mandela. Seftel’s journey was one of continuous curiosity and discovery, with the aim of assisting individuals and entire communities to make healthy lifestyle choices and enjoy a healthy life.
“He was a relentless achiever, who passionately educated generations of medical practitioners and researchers. He will be remembered for sharing his knowledge in the most accessible and entertaining ways, which endeared him to his students and millions of people who learned from him via public platforms, “Ramaphosa said.
The President said Seftel was a national treasure, whose love for his work and for the people of South Africa must be celebrated at this time of mourning and remembrance, and must live on in the ethos of all health care professionals.
Seftel is survived by his wife, Effie, four children and three grandchildren.