21 January 2026

Wednesday 21–Friday 23 January 11.15 am
The Ancient Egyptian civilisation represents the cradle of Western medicine. This course highlights the basic Ancient Egyptian concepts regarding health and will highlight various aspects of ancient medical care, including medical and surgical therapies. The Greek period started with Asclepius, after whom the first hospitals, the Asklepieia, were named. Hippocrates left approximately seventy medical text books. Much of Roman medicine was focused on the army. Much of the Greco-Roman medical tradition was incorporated in the very sophisticated Arabic medicine, the base for Medieval medicine, gradually metamorphosing into modern Western medicine.

This lecture describes the unique injuries sustained by aircrew during World War II and the surgical innovations designed to treat such patients. Most injuries involved severe burns to the hands and face. The proposed procedures were explained to the patients, as well as the fact that these procedures had never been tried before and were essentially experimental. Hence the patients created a club, The Guinea Pig Club.

Molluscs are the largest marine phylum, comprising 23% of all the named marine animals. They are highly diverse in size and structure, as well as in behaviour, habitat and lifestyle, in the oceans as well as on land and in freshwaters. What are the key factors that have made them so successful? There is now increasing evidence that octopi are intelligent and can feel pain, and questions are being asked about whether it is ethical to farm them for food or use them in research. Should molluscs enjoy special rights?

The lecture will discuss how optimal performance for individuals and teams – whether in sport, business and or life in general – may be achieved. Work done to influence performance outcomes in various teams, including the Stormers, Melbourne Rebels, Ikey Tigers, SA rugby and the Protea cricket team, will receive mention. Tom will develop the concept that leadership and achievement skills work equally in many aspects of life.

This presentation will cover the topic of maximising human potential.

South Africa has proved to be a working democracy. This is the case through all sectors of society: government, politics, business, civil society, organised labour. However, the political environment has become more fluid and less predictable. Coalition government seems to be the order of the indefinite future. Reflections on the options and possible scenarios for the period leading up to the next general election have already started. These speculations could either be enhanced through the national dialogue, or not.

Join us for a sparkling gala of opera presented by the Director of Opera UCT, Professor Jeremy Silver. Featuring gifted opera students and a small instrumental ensemble, the evening will showcase captivating excerpts from a wide-ranging repertoire, including works by Mozart, Verdi and Puccini.

Celebrate the power and beauty of opera in a festive evening that promises a feast of musical excellence.