A University of Cape Town (UCT) medical student has been recognised for his leadership, community service and efforts to make healthcare more inclusive for Deaf and hard-of-hearing patients.
Sayuran Pillay, a 22-year-old fifth-year medical student, received the prestigious UCT Vice-Chancellor’s Award in recognition of his contributions both within the university and the wider community.
Having grown up helping his deaf parents navigate communication barriers, Pillay has turned his personal experiences into a drive to improve healthcare accessibility. His research focuses on enhancing surgical care for Deaf and hard-of-hearing patients, addressing communication challenges that can affect their experiences within the healthcare system.
Beyond his academic work, Pillay is the founding convenor and outgoing co-chair of the Student Curriculum Lekgotla, an initiative that promotes student involvement in curriculum development.
The Lekgotla was also recognised at UCT’s Student Leadership Awards on 16 October 2026, where it received the Team of the Year award.
Pillay’s achievements highlight the role of student leadership and lived experience in driving meaningful change, while contributing towards a more accessible and inclusive healthcare system.
