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Emotions ran high as Eastern Cape Health MEC, Dr Pumza Dyantyi, held an official send off for 94 students who will be studying medicine in Cuba .
The students and their parents from all over the province gathered at the Frere Hospital Hall in East London today for a final address from Dyantyi before they depart to Cuba on Thursday on medical scholarships.
The programme however was in the spotlight last year after students in Cuba complained that they were not getting enough food and money from the Eastern Cape Health Department.
MEC Dyantyi, who also studied medicine in Cuba, says the students must focus on their studies.
"They are getting $200 which is R2 000 and every other thing is paid for, so what would a student want? I trained in Cuba, and I don't believe, unless they want Kentucky and Nando's that they are not getting a balanced meal" she said
One of the students off to Cuba, 21 year Mandisi Motina from Ugie says he's both excited and nervous at the same time.
"I can say I am excited, although there is a fear inside. I do not know what will happen there. I am proud of myself. It is a big opportunity.
