Durban’s medical school has left an indelible mark on South African history and society. Although not the first institution to train black doctors in South Africa, it was the first to successfully provide a full biomedical training for black students as its primary mandate, and in the process, laid the foundation of the black medical profession. During a time of repression and political unrest it also offered students an education in politics and activism. Alumni – among them Steve Biko, Jerry Coovadia, Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Malegapuru Makgoba, Zweli Mkhize and Mamphela Ramphele – went out from here to change the medical landscape, make history and -set the tone of public life.