UKZN PhD student Mr Anathi Phela, a promising academic at the University of Fort Hare, is bringing a fresh and experimental approach to teaching Medical Jurisprudence to fourth-year Law students.

Phela’s innovative methods are reshaping the way students engage with the complex intersection of law, medicine and ethics.

He credits his innovative teaching methods to his own academic journey, which has been deeply influenced by his studies and training in Medical Law. Having completed his LLM in Medical Law at UKZN, Phela developed a particular interest in forensic medicine, a subject he found both fascinating and impactful. This is because it was offered by the father of Forensic Medicine Professor Steven Naidoo and Phela has nothing but praise for him and his influence. His experiences during his LLM, along with the mentorship he received, were pivotal in shaping his teaching approach.

Currently, pursuing his PhD in Medical Law at UKZN, he says he is fortunate to be supervised by Professor David McQuoid-Mason, whom he regards as a role model. Phela speaks highly of McQuoid-Mason’s guidance, which he credits for deepening his understanding of the subject and inspiring him to continue exploring the intersection of Law and Medicine.

His module in Medical Jurisprudence covers a wide range of critical topics, including Bioethics, Medical Ethics, and Forensic Medicine. These areas of study are essential for Law students to understand as they prepare to navigate the legal issues that arise in the Medical field.

But what sets Phela apart from other educators is his commitment to incorporating hands-on, experiential learning into his teaching practice. Rather than relying solely on traditional lectures, Phela takes his students to a medico-legal mortuary, where they have the unique opportunity to observe and engage in practical learning. This immersive experience allows them to better understand the real-world implications of medical and legal cases and the complexities involved in forensic investigations. By blending theoretical knowledge with practical observation, he ensures that his students gain a well-rounded and deeper understanding of medical jurisprudence. He also exposes them to the Moot Court on aspects that are medico-legal in nature where he calls on the assistance of seasoned practitioners such as advocates and judges. Recently the moots were facilitated by members of the General Council of the Bar from the Bisho Society of Advocates.

Through his academic work and teaching, Phela is not only advancing his own career but also enriching the educational experience of the next generation of Law professionals. His approach demonstrates that learning should go beyond the classroom and embrace real-world experiences, providing students with the tools they need to succeed in this highly specialised field.

As Phela continues his PhD journey and refines his teaching methods, it’s clear that he is making a significant contribution to the development of Medical Law education in South Africa.

He is thankful to Mrs Boniswa Phela, who raised him as a single mother and convinced him to study his LLM in Medical Law at UKZN. Woodbrook Mortuary for their continued support as well as the Faculty of Law at the University of Fort Hare, Advocate Zimasa Mashiya, and Advocate Vuyolwethu Jozi of The Bisho Bar who were able to facilitate excellent moot court sessions and drafting of pleadings. Phela also acknowledged Dr Sithandiwe Kunyuza for her impactful linkage of forensic medicine with medical law and providing a more practical approach to death investigation.

‘Ms Nomfundo Sipunzi who took time out during her acting as a judge in various courts to come bring such experience to the students of Medical Law, Ms Nonduduzo Gumede and Ms Sanele Msibi for providing expertise in the field of bio-ethics, Dr John Uhomoibhi for making it all possible and my family at large, especially my brother, Mr Xolisani Phela who made sure that I choose UKZN and ensured I graduated with UKZN through his emotional support during reading of this qualification and PPS in the East London Branch for providing PPE for these students,’ he said.

Phela’s students Mr Konke Ngwalase and Mr Ayabulela Mqetheba appreciate him as they see him as their “go to lecturer” for Medical Law and medico-legal moots.

Phela hopes to qualify as a professor of medical and forensic medicine and eventually join the bar.

Words: NdabaOnline

Photograph: Supplied