The Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Karate Team has once again demonstrated excellence and determination, securing podium finishes at the prestigious FKO-AFRICA Selection Tournament. The competition, held on 25 January 2025 at Leondale Hall in Germiston, served as a crucial qualifier for the 1st World Full Contact Karate Organisation (WFCKO) Tournament, scheduled to take place in Japan in May.
Four outstanding karatekas represented SMU with remarkable performances: Tshiamo Sefolo (1st Place – Women under 50kg) clinched the gold medal, showcasing discipline, focus, and technique. As a second-year BSc Life Science student, her victory not only highlights her athletic prowess but also reflects SMU’s commitment to balancing sports and academics. She will proudly represent Africa at the World Tournament in Japan. Innocent Zikhali (2nd Place – Men under 90kg) fought his way to a silver medal, earning a position as a reserve for the world competition. Oratilwe Sethabela (2nd Place – Women under 54kg) delivered a strong performance, securing silver and a reserve spot for the World Tournament. Ntsako Sono (3rd Place – Women under 59kg) completed the team’s success with a well-earned bronze medal.
The tournament provided an opportunity for top African karatekas to showcase their skills on an international stage. SMU’s team embodied the values of excellence, integrity, and accountability, proving that dedication and rigorous preparation yield remarkable results. The university takes pride in its student-athletes who balance academics and sports with efficiency and student-centredness at the core of their journey.
Leondale Hall in Germiston served as the battleground where top athletes competed fiercely for a chance to represent Africa at the WFCKO Tournament in Japan. This significant event marked another milestone in SMU’s commitment to fostering sporting excellence.
Participation in the tournament was not only about winning medals but also about securing a place at the upcoming WFCKO World Tournament in Japan. The SMU karate team’s success reinforces the university’s dedication to student development, leadership, and respect for diverse talents.
SMU Karate Instructor, Issac “The African Tiger” Mashinini Shihan, expressed his gratitude to the Sports and Recreation department for granting the team access to the sports facilities during the festive season for their preparation. He also commended the karatekas for sacrificing their family time during this period. “Having produced countless champions from SMU, this is only the beginning of the year, true training is yet to begin. This is yet another important year where the SMU flag must be flown high, and the team is poised to meet the challenge,” he stated.
The SMU Karate Team’s remarkable success was made possible through intense training, mentorship, and institutional support. Their achievements highlight the university’s emphasis on effective leadership in sports, guiding students towards global opportunities. The university community celebrates this milestone and extends its best wishes to Tshiamo Sefolo as she embarks on a historic journey to represent both SMU and Africa on the world stage.
SMU takes immense pride in its students’ success and looks forward to more victories that reflect the institution’s values and dedication to holistic student development.
By Dimakatso Modise
