Dr. Decent Mkhombo made headlines in 2016 when he enrolled for an MBChB degree at the University of Limpopo (UL) at the age of 15 and was dubbed the youngest medical student in South Africa, fast-forward seven years later, Dr. Mkhombo says studying toward his qualification was a journey of self-discovery
Dr. Mkhombo, who is currently serving at Mapulaneng Hospital in Mpumalanga as an intern, said more than anything, being a medical doctor was a journey of self-discovery and a commitment to saving lives, especially those of the less privileged.
“I literally spent all my teen years at varsity and there was a lot of learning on myself and being in a new environment at that age, it was quite challenging as you balance social and academic aspects of your life,” Dr. Mkhombo highlights.
He says he chose UL because it came with benefits, saying UL accepted him and ensured that he was awarded a bursary from the Limpopo Department of Health. He also jokes that UL forms part of his heritage as his parents, who are teachers, studied at the former University of the North (now UL) in the late 80s and 90s.
Dr. Mkhombo comes from a family of two siblings; his sister is also a medical doctor.
“My family still sees me as that young Decent, I do house chores, and I still run to the shops. Nothing has changed,” Dr. Mkhobo says.
Due to his young age, Dr. Mkhombo says although he knew what he wanted in life, little did he know his life would be a spectacle.
“It’s still unbelievable to be celebrated and appreciated by the public at large,” he adds.
Dr. Mkhombo has been invited to grace prestigious gatherings such as the recent Integrated Youth Development Summit hosted by NYDA in Johannesburg.
The Bushbuckridge-born says working at Mapulaneng Hospital has opened his eyes and he is even more determined to serve his community. Dr. Mkhombo is also exploring various areas of specialisation and is currently fascinated by gynaecology and nuclear medicine.
He thanked UL management and everyone who facilitated his learning and nurtured him to become what is today. He further thanked his sister, who is also a qualified medical doctor, for inspiring him.
“My sister was an inspiration to me, and I guess the desire to work in the health sector runs in the family,” Dr. Mkhombo’s face lights up as he concludes.
By Reuben Maake