Professor Rajendra Bhimma, a professor of paediatrics at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), has been awarded the prestigious Fellow of the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) award. Picture: UKZN

A RENOWNED academic, Professor Rajendra Bhimma, an academic and medic in the field of paediatrics at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has bagged the prestigious Fellow of the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) award.

Bhimma is also the head of the Paediatric Kidney Clinical Unit at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital (IALCH).

The award recognised his exceptional professional career and significant contributions to paediatric nephrology.

In a statement by UKZN, Bhimma said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Fellow of the International Society of Nephrology award. This award is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the incredible support and guidance I’ve received throughout my journey as a paediatric nephrologist.

He added: “I am profoundly grateful to my mentors, the late Professor Hoosen Mohamed Coovadia and now retired Professor Miriam Adhikari, my dedicated students, my patients, and my family, who have been instrumental in my professional growth.”

Miriam Ravelo Gonzalez, ISN Membership Manager, made the official announcement at the World Congress of Nephrology (WCN), held in New Delhi, India, earlier this month.

Bhimma has a string of qualifications under his academic belt, including an MBChB from the former University of Natal, a PhD in Paediatrics and Child Health, and has completed specialised training in paediatric nephrology, earning the ISN Fellowship in 1999.

He has also received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the David Hepburn Award and several Medical Research Council grants for his research on kidney diseases in children.

According to UKZN, Bhimma is celebrated for his leadership, which extends to international and national bodies, including the International Paediatric Nephrology Association; he is an Executive Member of the South African Nephrology Society and President and Executive Member of the Southern African Hypertension Society.

His expertise, the university said, was frequently sought after, with appointments as an examiner for various academic institutions and as a reviewer for research grants and scientific journals. His research work has been widely published, focusing on paediatric nephrology and other related fields, solidifying his reputation as a leading expert.

Professor Refiloe Masekela, academic head of the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health and Africa Health Research Institute faculty, sang praises for Bhimma.

Masekela said: “It is wonderful to see one of our nephrologists receiving such prestigious international recognition. Professor Bhimma has made significant contributions to paediatric nephrology, particularly in the field of HIV nephropathy, and it is gratifying to see his work being acknowledged. As UKZN continues to pursue internationalisation as a key goal, this achievement further highlights the university’s presence on the global stage.”

lungani.zungu@inl.co.za

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