From the humble classrooms of Whetstone Primary School in Phoenix to the global stages of medical innovation and international healthcare leadership, Dr Rakesh Mohanlall’s journey is a powerful story of vision, resilience, and ground-breaking achievement. Honoured as the Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Alumnus of the Month for June 2025, Dr Mohanlall continues to inspire future generations through his unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and humanity.

A pioneer in every sense, Dr Mohanlall is internationally recognised as the first Cardiovascular Perfusionist in the world to obtain a Doctorate in the discipline, and the first individual at any University of Technology in Africa to achieve a master’s-to-doctorate conversion. His academic and professional trajectory reflects not only personal brilliance, but a lifelong dedication to improving lives — “one heartbeat at a time.”

His extraordinary story began in his youth, marked by a rare combination of academic excellence and athletic achievement. From earning provincial colours in karate to winning the National Science Olympiad, Dr Mohanlall’s talents emerged early. He went on to graduate with a National Diploma and later achieved his Doctor of Technology Degree in Cardiovascular Perfusion, laying the foundation for a truly historic career.

Dr Mohanlall’s clinical expertise took him to the Northwest Armed Forces Hospital in Saudi Arabia, where he rose to the positions of Senior and later Chief Perfusionist, receiving honours for service excellence. Yet, he remained driven by a greater mission — to revolutionise cardiac care back home.

Returning to South Africa, he pioneered several landmark achievements. He became the first in Africa and the Middle East to perform the 3D Vasculography (3DVG) cardiac scan, and led the introduction of External Counterpulsation (ECP) — a non-invasive, HPCSA-accredited cardiac therapy that is now changing lives across the continent. Through his initiative, www.counterpulsation.co.za, and the establishment of centres like the Centre for Advanced Medicine, Heart and Healthcare Centre, and South Africa’s first accredited ECP training centre registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), Dr Mohanlall has made world-class care accessible to thousands.

As Founder and Patron Chief of the International ECP Association (IECPA), he has united over 195 international medical specialists, hosted the 1st International ECP Conference in India, and serves as a certified global ECP instructor. He has presented his expertise in countries including Saudi Arabia, India, and China, while continuing to serve and uplift communities in South Africa.

Beyond clinical practice, Dr Mohanlall is a researcher, entrepreneur, educator, and humanitarian. His published work includes innovative research in ultrafiltration, full-body biofeedback testing, 3DVG, ECP protocols, and virtual light scanning technologies. His insights have been featured in academic journals, national newspapers like the Sunday Tribune, and in radio broadcasts, where he simplifies complex medical science for public understanding.

Despite his international acclaim, Dr Mohanlall’s heart remains with DUT. As a Clinical Technology Moderator and motivational speaker for Health Sciences graduates, he continues to mentor young professionals, champion academic excellence, and collaborate in research initiatives. His message is clear:

“Believe in the power of education. Use science for good. And never stop pushing boundaries to uplift humanity.”

Today, Dr Rakesh Mohanlall is more than a Doctor of Clinical Technology — he is a visionary leader, a scientific innovator, and a compassionate changemaker. His life’s work embodies DUT’s ENVISION2030 values — empowering people to be adaptive, impactful, and innovative contributors to a better world.

His recognition as Alumnus of the Month celebrates not only a lifetime of remarkable achievement, but a future filled with continued breakthroughs in the name of health, knowledge, and humanity.

Pictured: Dr Rakesh Mohanlall.

Swelihle Shoba