Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is solidifying its reputation as a forward-thinking institution in higher education, championing leadership development and gender equity. By actively participating in the esteemed Higher Education Resources Services South Africa Academy (HERS-SA), SMU is not only nurturing the next generation of female leaders but also reinforcing its position as a truly supportive and empowering employer.
The recent HERS-SA conference, held in a hybrid format in Cape Town, marked the academy’s 21st annual gathering of women leaders in higher education. The event attracted attendees from across Africa and the United States of America (USA), including directors, heads of departments, managers, and aspiring leaders, all united by the mission to empower women in the sector. SMU proudly nominated two rising stars, Nonhlanhla Sindane, Acting Manager: Organisational Development, and Busisiwe Mbanjwa, Acting Manager: Gender-Based Violence, to represent the university.
Both Sindane and Mbanjwa praised the programme for its exceptional quality, noting that the insights they gained would be invaluable in their roles at SMU. Mbanjwa, an aspiring leader with a passion for human resources (HR), reflected on the global challenges facing higher education institutions, including the increasing demands on academic and administrative staff and the quest for work-life balance. Her participation in HERS-SA solidified her belief in the importance of strategic HR initiatives that prioritise employee well-being, growth, and professional development.
“One of the key takeaways for me is that the challenges we face at SMU are not unique. Institutions worldwide are grappling with similar issues, and the need for HR strategies that support staff and promote continuous growth is paramount,” says Mbanjwa. Her perspective underscores the crucial role of HR in driving institutional success and ensuring that universities remain adaptable to the evolving demands of the sector.
SMU’s commitment to professional development is further highlighted by the involvement of its Senior Director of Human Resources, Odette Ramsingh, a distinguished alumna of the HERS-SA Academy. As a keynote speaker, Ramsingh led a thought-provoking session on succession planning within higher education, urging institutions to focus on creating a credible talent pipeline. “Performance will always distinguish you in the quest for better opportunities,” she advised the audience, emphasising the importance of personal branding in leadership success.
The conference, enriched by contributions from international speakers, vice-chancellors, and prominent figures from the UK, USA, and East Africa, provided a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration on strategies for sustainable higher education. The insights shared extended beyond local concerns, offering a global perspective on women’s experiences in leadership roles.
As SMU continues to send its leaders to platforms like HERS-SA, the university demonstrates its dedication to cultivating a workforce that not only excels in its current environment but is prepared to lead future generations. The participation of women like Sindane, Mbanjwa, and Ramsingh reflects SMU’s broader commitment to gender equity and professional growth.
The conference concluded with a prestigious awards ceremony attended by the Honourable Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Dr Mimmy Martha Gondwe, who lauded the contributions of women in the sector and encouraged others to follow in their footsteps.
For SMU, its involvement in such high-calibre initiatives speaks to its broader strategy of empowering staff and creating opportunities for personal and professional growth. In doing so, SMU not only fosters future leaders but also positions itself as an employer of choice in the competitive landscape of higher education.
