Support our Neuropsychology Interns

In a recent Daily Maverick article the plight of our neuropsychology interns was brought to light. As said in the article 'the University of Cape Town is the only university in South Africa with an active master’s degree programme in neuropsychology. Graduates cannot qualify without completing a one-year internship in the public health sector. However, a lack of funding support from the Health Department means their work during this time is unpaid.' 

This effectively means that those from less privileged backgrounds face huge barriers to complete their studies and must either give up or choose to work multiple jobs, putting their studies at risk. With a dearth of indigenous language health professionals in South Africa this is especially problematic. We need equittable access and we need it pronto. 

Appeals have been made to the Department of Health. 'A letter co-signed by the dean of humanities and the dean of health sciences at UCT was sent to then acting health minister Mmamoloko Kubayi in 2021, requesting that the situation facing neuropsychology interns be addressed. However, no response beyond an acknowledgement of receipt has yet been received.'

While the wheels slowly turn can we as the neuroscience community come together to fund a monthly stipend for these 7 students?

Any donation is welcome and will be significant for these hard-working interns.

Find the backabuddy page here