Showcasing its commitment to international engagement and student support, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) participated in a recent International Student Symposium hosted by the Vaal University of Technology Student Representative Council. The event, held under the theme “Celebrating the Human Rights of International Student Communities in South Africa,” commemorated Human Rights Day (21 March 2025) and examined the policies and regulations that govern the movement and enrollment of international students in the country.
SMU boasts a vibrant international cohort, with students from across Africa who contribute a wealth of cultural insights, innovative ideas, and diverse perspectives to campus life. However, international students often face complex governmental and institutional policies that can hinder a smooth experience abroad. The symposium addressed these challenges by reviewing South African higher education and government regulations that shape international students’ access to universities.
By reflecting on such policies and legislation, the symposium emphasised the importance of protecting the human rights of students wishing to pursue academic opportunities beyond their home countries. As SMU’s Director of Internationalisation, Dr Carlien Jooste, explains: “It is important for the SMU Internationalisation Directorate to facilitate and support such engagement, as it further establishes SMU’s international student footprint but also allows our international students to engage with other international students, learn from their experiences, and give a voice to their needs while studying in South Africa.”
SMU’s International Student Organisation (ISO) delegates, Samuel Olajide (Nigeria) and Sobahle Simelane (Kingdom of Eswatini), proudly represented SMU during the two-day event. Discussions ranged from the impact of the South African Migration Act and university regulations to the significance of participation and feedback from the international student community in shaping inclusive policy reform. Commenting on the symposium’s impact, Olajide highlights the value of unity among international students: “The key takeaway for me was the importance of international students being organised and unified at a national level. By presenting a collective voice, we can more effectively address challenges that may be insurmountable for individuals to tackle alone.”
Simelane echoed these sentiments, emphasising the need to harness collective power in overcoming challenges stemming from nationality-based constraints: “The symposium was very eye-opening. It made me realise that, as international students, we are at a disadvantage due to our nationality, but we have the power to pave our way to our desired future.
Beyond the formal discussions, participants visited the Sharpeville Memorial Garden in remembrance of the Sharpeville Massacre, tying the event’s focus on human rights to a landmark moment in South African history. The visit served as a poignant reminder of the importance of continued advocacy for equity and inclusivity in higher education.
SMU’s proactive engagement in this symposium demonstrates the university’s commitment to supporting its international student community, fostering cross-cultural exchange, and shaping policy discussions that enhance the overall student experience. Through forging strong connections and amplifying diverse voices, SMU is truly cementing its place as a leader in international collaboration and higher education excellence.
