SMU Vice-Chancellor Prof Peter Mbati together with his Executive and Senior Management Team welcomed on board new members o morning 08 September 2022. The new team members are Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus (Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and Research), Ms Noxolo Tshutsha (Director Supply Chain Management) and Mr Tulani Nkuntse (Director Student Affairs).

Speaking during the occasion, Prof Mbati congratulated the new team members on the appointment to critical management positions and wished them well in their tenure. The Vice-Chancellor thanked all colleagues who acted in the three portfolios before they could be filled. He pointed out that Professor Patrick Demana held the fort of DVC with dedication and efficiency. The VC further thanked Mr. Themba Khumalo who acted as Director Student Affairs for ensuring stability in this portfolio. Ms Tshutsha had previously acted as Director SCM and was applauded for having stabilized the directorate. The VC further emphasized that the Academic and Research portfolio is critical for the University and that everyone at SMU is here to support the academic project and the academics should be made to feel appreciated and supported.

Prof Matsha-Erasmus expressed her appreciation for the warm welcome she received upon arrival at SMU. She described herself as a nice and orderly person who is straightforward, honest and tells the truth as she sees it. She also thanked Prof Demana for his assurance that he will support her until she gets on her feet.

Mr Tulani Nkuntse also mentioned that the SMU family was welcoming when he commenced with his duties and echoed the VC’s sentiments that SMU is a supportive environment. He was excited to be part of the team and optimistic that together will achieve great things for the university.

Ms Tshutsha expressed her gratitude for the opportunity the University gave her to serve in the senior management team.