Alumni

How Medical Ethics and Health in Islam became a master’s journey for Rabia Mahomed

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Rabia Mahomed’s long-standing passion project, Medical Ethics and Health in Islam, recently culminated in her completing a Master’s Degree in Islamic Studies at Unisa and publishing her findings in the form of a book. Despite entering the academic world later in life, Mahomed has found deep fulfilment in this achievement.

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Book front

Her academic focus stems from her interest in social issues, particularly the intersection of lifestyle, culture and religion, and how they impact health and well-being.

"When it came to furthering my studies, Unisa was the obvious choice," Mahomed says. "I completed my undergraduate degree with majors in International Politics and Islamic Studies, and went on to pursue both my Honours and Master’s Degrees in Islamic Studies at the university."

Though she is awaiting formal confirmation of the successful completion of her master’s, Mahomed says studying through distance learning enabled her to manage multiple responsibilities, including her roles as a wife and mother. "Maturity is a great asset in distance education," she notes. "It helps you stay focused on your goals and manage your time and discipline more effectively. We often underestimate the immense value of distance learning."

Mahomed’s career as a journalist had a strong focus on health-related topics, and she reported on medical innovations, procedures and common health challenges, particularly in Saudi Arabia. She was especially struck by the health issues faced by women who lacked empowerment, despite having access to top-tier medical care.

Her book was born from this exposure, as well as from her observations of the mental toll that unfulfilled goals and ideals can take. "This is an area where I believe government-led intervention programmes could make a real difference," she says. "Neglect in health management is a universal issue, which makes the message of the book relevant globally."

Mahomed emphasises that good health is foundational. "When health is compromised," she says, "everything else becomes more difficult. Many health issues arise from neglect or simply not knowing better."

Her book serves as a practical, accessible guide demystifying medical jargon for the general reader while promoting preventive care and a holistic approach to well-being. It also explores medical innovations, lifestyle practices and Islamic perspectives on health, including mental health – an area she believes is too often overlooked and stigmatised.

"This book is meant to be a reference throughout life’s various stages," says Mahomed. "I hope it fulfils that purpose."

Medical Ethics and Health in Islam has been published by Safis Publishing in the United Kingdom.

* By Busisiwe Mahlangu, Communications Coordinator, Unisa Foundation and Alumni Relations, with input from ChatGPT

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Publish date: 2025/05/08

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