The Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) community came together in a profoundly moving and dignified memorial service to honour the life and enduring legacy of its late Chancellor, Tito Titus Mboweni. Held at the university’s Sports Complex on 19 March 2025, the event brought together dignitaries, students, faculty, and members of the broader SMU community in a heartfelt tribute to a leader whose vision and influence transcended academia.
In her opening and welcome address, Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus reflected on Mboweni’s profound impact on SMU and the nation at large. “Tonight, we gather to honour the legacy of a leader whose unwavering commitment to academic excellence and public service continues to guide us,” she said.
She further emphasised how Mboweni’s passion for knowledge and innovation remains woven into the university’s core mission. “Our commitment at SMU is clear: we build on the foundation laid by Mboweni by nurturing innovation, excellence, and community service. His legacy remains our guiding light.”
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Matthews Phosa, a respected political leader and activist, paid tribute to Mboweni’s exceptional leadership in governance and economic transformation. He recounted his pivotal role as Minister of Labour and Governor of the Reserve Bank, highlighting his contributions to shaping South Africa’s economic policies.
“Tito was not just a leader; he was a force of nature. His dedication to economic growth, fiscal discipline, and the empowerment of young professionals reshaped South Africa’s financial landscape,” said Phosa. He also acknowledged Mboweni’s dedication to education, crediting him with ensuring that SMU remained a beacon of excellence in health sciences. The evening was marked by heartfelt messages from various university structures, each underscoring Mboweni’s transformative influence.
Japhta Phala, President of the SMU Convocation, reflected on his personal relationship with Mboweni and their deep conversations about the state of education in South Africa. He shared how he had convinced Mboweni to accept the role of Chancellor.
“When I approached him about the nomination, he hesitated. But after numerous discussions about the importance of leadership in higher education, he embraced the role with his characteristic passion and vision,” Phala recalled.
Katlego Moshanyane, President of the SMU Student Representative Council (SRC), spoke about how Mboweni’s leadership left an indelible mark on students. “As students, we looked up to him, not just as a leader, but as an inspiration. His unwavering belief in education as a tool for transformation challenges us to strive for excellence, to lead with integrity, and to use knowledge to drive societal change,” Moshanyane said.
Representing the Mboweni family, Dr Martin Mboweni expressed deep gratitude for the tributes and outpouring of love shown to their beloved relative. “As a family, we are humbled by this remarkable tribute. Tito’s passion for education, his relentless drive for progress, and his commitment to the future of this country will continue to inspire generations,” he said. He extended heartfelt appreciation to SMU for honouring Mboweni’s memory and reaffirmed the family’s support for the university’s mission.
The service was marked by profoundly moving moments that captured the essence of Mboweni’s legacy. A tribute video showcased his remarkable journey, from humble beginnings to his towering presence in leadership and academia. A stirring poetry recital added to the emotional weight of the evening, while the SMU Choir delivered a heartfelt performance that resonated with every attendee.
One of the most poignant moments of the evening was the presentation of the SMU flag to the Mboweni family, a symbolic gesture of the university’s eternal gratitude for his leadership and service.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the hall stood in solemn unity as the South African National Anthem was sung, an emblem of hope, resilience, and the shared commitment to continue Mboweni’s vision.
Through this memorial, SMU reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the values that Mboweni championed excellence, innovation, service, and integrity. His legacy will continue to shape the university and inspire future generations to lead with wisdom, courage, and purpose.
By Dimakatso Modise
