"Proud to say that Wits is our Alma Mater" - The Rams
- By Deborah Minors
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The Rams’ first Wits success was Dr Jaywant Ram, 57, who became the first ophthalmologist in Lenasia with his own practice. This achievement he attributes in part to Wits’ non-racial policy that enabled him to enter Medical School. Dr Ram (MBBCh 1979) also completed a Masters in Medicine (1989). He combined private practice with 21 years at the Lenasia South Community Health Clinic.
Asheer is completing articles at Deloitte, and pursuing a Masters degree at Wits. “My father is a true role-model to us. Thanks to his determination and drive, and Wits’ open arms, he was able to achieve excellence, motivating us to follow in his footsteps,” concludes Asheer. “We are exceptionally proud to say that Wits is our Alma Mater.”
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The Ram family boasts two generations of Witsies: Dr Jaywant Ram and his sons Kavir, Sameer, and Asheer. The Ram Witsies emphasise the role that Sharon – wife and mother – has played in their lives. Sharon is “a truly special woman” who made sacrifices to educate her children. “She has raised three Witsies, and supported our father in his studies,” writes Asheer. “Our success is due in great part to her.” 
Dr Ram and Sharon’s oldest son, Kavir, 27, studied Actuarial Science at Wits – believing this to be the leading programme of its kind in South Africa. Kavir graduated Honours in 2010, earning merit certificates as well. Kavir’s student experience was “enlightening” and he enjoyed the mental stimulation and challenges the degree presented. “My degree enabled me to cultivate critical normative and technical skills which are vital in the workplace,” says Kavir, now at PPS Insurance. “I’m able to deal with the pressure due to excellent preparation at Wits.”
In a departure from medicine and commerce, Kavir’s younger brother, Sameer, 25, graduated as a chemical engineer (2010). He is a microbrewery technician at SA Breweries. Sameer works with the division dealing with new product development and he credits Wits’ practical tutorials for equipping him for the role.
The youngest Ram Witsie, Asheer, 22, an Accounting Science Honours graduate (2013), writes, “My experience as a student has been challenging…Wits strives to expand one’s boundaries and abilities. Wits has given me the confidence to handle situations where the answers are not apparent, but, by applying one’s mind, can be determined. I know that when I enter the working world I will be well prepared and ready to tackle the challenges of the profession. Wits showed me my potential, and gave me the edge.”