Dr. Mashudu Sharo, a South African pioneer, made medical history in 2019 by performing the world’s first middle ear replacement surgery using 3D-printed bones. His groundbreaking work achieved global recognition, shining in international medical circles and even gracing the storylines of popular media dramas. This operation was more than a medical achievement; it presented a potential cure for certain forms of deafness, restoring hope and hearing to patients whose middle ear functions were nearly obliterated by accidents. Despite the significant acclaim, Dr. Sharo remains humble, driven by a desire to expand the body of scientific knowledge.
A native of Venda, South Africa, his aspirations and achievements starkly contrast with the initial skepticism he faced as a child in apartheid-era South Africa. Despite his teacher telling him he wasn’t smart enough to be a doctor, Sharo’s resolve remained unshaken. This single-minded pursuit saw him shatter barriers, becoming the youngest professor at the University of Limpopo and pioneering techniques that markedly improved ENT procedures, including bloodless tonsillectomies in HIV-positive patients.
Dr. Sharo criticizes South Africa’s inadequate investment in science and innovation, calling for a paradigm shift from dependency on foreign solutions to fostering indigenous intellectualism and problem-solving. He advocates for nurturing innovative thinking from a young age, to create a generation of local innovators capable of transforming society. His dissatisfaction stems from the perceived lack of belief in local talent and the underutilization of African intellectual resources.
For his immense contribution, Dr. Sharo was bestowed the African Genius Award, celebrating exceptional skill and creativity in addressing modern challenges. This accolade, along with many others, affirms his belief in the potential of African minds and stands as an inspiration for young Africans to pursue their ambitions. Dr. Sharo stresses the importance of self-belief and dedication to chosen paths, urging young innovators to persist despite adversities. His journey exemplifies a personal and professional triumph, setting a precedent for integrating cutting-edge technology with medical practice globally.
