PARKTOWN, 25 APRIL: The Aurum Institute extends its heartfelt congratulations to one of its longest-serving Board members, Prof Yosuf Veriava, after his outstanding service to South Africa was recognised with a National Order at a ceremony on Thursday 25 April 2019.
President Cyril Ramaphosa honoured Veriava with the Order of Luthuli (Silver) “for his brilliant contribution to the medical profession in South Africa. He has consistently personified medical ethics and progressiveness. He also courageously pushed back the frontiers of the unjust and repressive laws of apartheid.” The Order of Luthuli recognises South African citizens who have contributed to the struggle for democracy, nation-building, building democracy and human rights, justice and peace as well as for the resolution of conflict.
Aurum Institute Board Chairman Dr Paul Davis said it had been an absolute privilege for the organisation to benefit from Veriava’s vast experience, networks and generosity through his service on the Board for over 10 years. “Yosuf is so clearly committed to Aurum’s mission of providing healthcare support and solutions to those who need it the most and has put a huge amount of time into the governance of Aurum. We are proud to be associated with him and his work. It is fitting to see him recognised for his significant contribution to the country.”
Prof. Veriava was part of the team of six doctors who challenged the medical establishment and the apartheid government over the unethical conduct of the doctors involved in struggle icon Steve Biko's case. He spent many years heading up the Department of Internal Medicine at Wits University and currently sits on the Ministerial Technical Task Team for the medical training of South African students in Cuba. Veriava also assists the Gauteng Department of Health as a co-convenor of the Independent Panel on Patient Safety and Medico-legal Litigation.
Prof. Veriava’s response to the award was a true reflection of his dedication and humble commitment. “I am deeply honoured. This is probably the greatest award that has ever been bestowed on me. I am hoping that this award will stimulate a lot of other people, many of whom are very deserving, to continue their work to make South Africa a worthwhile place for all our people.”
The national order is considered the highest honour that a South African president can bestow on its citizens and eminent foreign nationals.
