Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) serves as more than just a centre of academic learning; it plays a vital role in shaping students into future leaders. By fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and responsibility, SMU provides an environment where students develop essential leadership qualities. Through academic excellence, student governance, extracurricular activities, mentorship, and community engagement, students gain the knowledge and experience necessary to lead in various sectors.
Among these rising leaders is Kwanele Makubalo, the Vice-President for External Affairs of the African Regional Organisation of Dental Students Associations (AFRODSA). A dynamic student leader, activist, and advocate for dental education, Makubalo has committed himself to advancing student representation, professional development, and the fight against injustices faced by students in South Africa and beyond.
Makubalo’s leadership journey began long before his university years. He describes himself as an activist by nature, with his advocacy dating back to his secondary school years. “Leadership is about taking responsibility and finding solutions. I have always been motivated by the need to address the challenges students face,” he shares. His surroundings deeply influence his activism, and he consistently adapts his leadership to address the needs of those around him.
Growing up in a community that valued education and service, Makubalo was exposed to leadership roles through his involvement in civil organisations. Assisting community leaders taught him the importance of empathy, resilience, and collaboration. These experiences have shaped his leadership style, which prioritises inclusivity, empowerment, and organised governance. “Leadership is not about titles; it is about impact and inspiring others to make meaningful contributions,” he explains.
One of Makubalo’s most significant contributions to student leadership is the founding of the South African Dental Students’ Association (SADSA), where he serves as its President and has been recognised as the VC’s Award Student Leader of the Year. Inspired by the inconsistencies in dental training across institutions, he aimed to create a platform for advocacy, professional development, and networking among dental students nationwide.
Despite challenges such as securing recognition and operating on a zero budget, SADSA has grown into a key player in student representation within the dental profession. “We faced many challenges, but we knew our vision was bigger than the obstacles. Today, SADSA is a voice for dental students across South Africa,” he states proudly.
As a dental student, Makubalo faces the challenge of balancing academic responsibilities with leadership roles. He attributes his success to meticulous time management, prioritisation, and delegation. However, he acknowledges the difficulty of this balance, especially in academic environments that are often inflexible towards student leaders. “It takes discipline and sacrifice, but when you’re passionate about making a difference, you find a way,” he says.
Makubalo has spearheaded several initiatives through his leadership in SADSA and AFRODSA, including:
- SADSA National Exchange Policy – Facilitating student exchanges within South Africa.
- Funda Thembi Study Campaign – Promoting academic excellence among dental students.
- Dental ‘Therapy’ Sessions – Mental Relief Campaign – Addressing mental health challenges among students.
- 8th AFRODSA General Assembly and Scientific Conference (2025) – Bringing together dental students from across Africa to discuss the profession’s future.
Navigating institutional bureaucracy is one of the biggest challenges Makubalo has faced. He emphasises the importance of understanding governing policies, strategic communication, and persistence in overcoming barriers. “If you want to bring about change, you must learn how systems work and use them to your advantage,” he advises.
Serving in the Internal Affairs Bureau of the International Association of Dental Students (IADS), Makubalo has played a crucial role in securing SADSA’s full national membership. This milestone enables South African dental students to participate in international programmes and collaborate on global initiatives. “Networking and collaboration open doors for innovation and growth. We need to position ourselves globally,” he asserts.
For young dental students aspiring to leadership roles, Makubalo offers the following advice: “Stay passionate, be proactive, and seek growth opportunities. Leadership is about serving others, not personal gain.” He encourages students to engage in meaningful work and leave a lasting impact on their communities.
Looking ahead, Makubalo envisions continuing his advocacy for dental professional development. He also plans to engage in the dentolegal profession to enhance his skills in advocacy and representation. “The future of dental education depends on strong leadership, and I intend to play my part in ensuring students receive the best opportunities possible,” he says.
Reflecting on his leadership journey, he finds the most rewarding aspect to be the tangible impact he has made in the dental student community. “Seeing students achieve their goals and knowing that I played a role in their success fuels my passion,” he shares.
Despite the challenges, Makubalo remains steadfast in his commitment to student leadership. “Without passion, there are little to no chances of survival,” he concludes. His leadership, vision, and relentless drive continue to shape the future of dental education and student representation in South Africa and beyond.
SMU plays a crucial role in developing student leaders like Makubalo. By offering platforms for governance, innovation, and global networking, it equips students with the skills and confidence to navigate leadership challenges. Through academic programmes, research, and social initiatives, SMU shapes students into resilient and adaptable leaders capable of driving change in their professions and communities.
By Tumelo Moila
