At just 19 years old, Smangele Sithole has achieved a remarkable milestone that sets her apart as one of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University’s (SMU) youngest-ever graduates. Earning a Bachelor of Oral Hygiene (BOH) at the 2024 Autumn graduation, her journey from a bright-eyed teenager in Soweto to a future healthcare leader exemplifies SMU’s dedication to nurturing young, resilient professionals who aim to make a difference in their communities.
Smangele Sithole
Growing up in Soweto, Sithole’s initial dreams were centred around a career in media. However, a personal family experience changed her path dramatically. Witnessing her family struggle with oral health issues ignited a deep curiosity within her. “I wanted to understand what caused the oral health issues in my family and help prevent them for others,” she recalls, describing how this personal experience steered her towards oral hygiene. This newfound passion led her to SMU, where her academic journey was shaped by a commitment to improving oral health care and educating the public about preventative care.
Sithole’s perspective on the role of an Oral Hygienist goes beyond the traditional view of teeth cleaning. “We educate patients about how to take care of their oral health, prevent problems like cavities and gum disease, and improve their overall oral hygiene,” she explains. Through her studies at SMU, she has been equipped with the skills to clean teeth and educate, empower, and inspire those around her to take better care of their oral health.
Her journey, however, was not without its challenges. Transitioning from secondary school to university posed several obstacles for Sithole, who had to adapt quickly to the demands of higher education. “It was tough adapting to university life,” she admits. “I had to become independent, manage my own time, and handle responsibilities that I was not used to. It was hard at first, but I pushed through and eventually found my way.” Her determination to succeed, despite the challenges, reflects the resilience and perseverance that SMU instils in its students, preparing them to face the realities of both academia and professional life.
Reflecting on her academic journey, she credits much of her success to SMU’s environment, which fostered her growth and development as a student and future professional. “Because of SMU, I can now go out there and educate people who are unfamiliar with cavities, tooth decay, and gum diseases. A lot of people think the only way to care for their mouth is just brushing their teeth, but there’s so much more to it,” she says with confidence, ready to take on the world and raise awareness about oral health.
Sithole’s achievement serves as an inspiration to countless students who may face obstacles in their academic journey. Her advice to her peers is simple yet powerful: “Study hard throughout your studies and always put God first. Don’t ever feel ashamed to ask for help.” With her degree in hand and a mission to improve oral health, she is poised to make a significant impact in oral hygiene.
As SMU continues to shine as a beacon of excellence, Sithole’s story exemplifies the university’s commitment to empowering young South Africans to achieve their full potential, overcome adversity, and contribute meaningfully to society. With a bright future ahead, Smangele Sithole is ready to make her mark and, quite literally, brighten many smiles along the way.
