2013 AUSC Blacks Division 3 Men best and fairest winner Mahesh Umapathysivam is the 2014 Rhodes Scholar for South Australia.
Mahesh will undertake a Masters degree in Evidence Based Healthcare at the University of Oxford – and “join the fight to close the gap between research and clinical practice”.
The University of Adelaide medical student becomes the University’s 107th Rhodes Scholar.
“As a future medical specialist, research and health advocate, I want to improve the lives of others through the delivery of up-to-date, targeted and effective healthcare,” Mahesh said.
“I believe that a more disciplined evidence-based approach to clinical practice, as well as improvements to the systems that underpin the delivery of medical care, are necessary to ensure a more effective use of limited health resources.”
“It’s a matter of global injustice that proven treatment is readily available but patients continue to receive sub-optimal care.”
Mahesh has excelled academically and, in 2012, was awarded First Class Honours in Medical Science for his work on the better long-term management of diabetes. He was invited to present his research at the 2013 American Diabetes Association Scientific Session, the leading international diabetes conference.
He was President of the Adelaide University Surgical Society in 2011/2012 and Education Officer for two years.
His charitable works include organising, in 2009, a delegation to rural India to work with a hospital that provides free medical services to the poorest of patients.
Mahesh is also vice-captain of the Adelaide University seconds soccer team, and organises and plays in social basketball and soccer teams at a local community centre.
In announcing the Rhodes Scholarship at Government House, His Excellency Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce AC CSC RANR, the Governor of South Australia, said: “I am inspired by the extraordinary academic achievements of the seven finalists considered by the selection panel and the extent to which each of them also finds time to make such a beneficial contribution to society through volunteering or other community service.
“Mr Umapathysivam will be an excellent ambassador for Australia and the Rhodes Trust and I look forward to hearing of his future success at the University of Oxford.”
The Rhodes Scholarship perpetuates the commitment to learning, research and humanity of businessman and philanthropist Cecil Rhodes.
Candidates are selected on the basis of outstanding intellect, character, leadership and commitment to service.
– Article source: The University of Adelaide
