Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) recently welcomed Mapula Sekele to its Finance Division as the new Procurement Officer. With more than 16 years of dedicated public sector procurement experience, Sekele brings with her a strong foundation in supply chain management, honed during her tenure at the National Department of Mineral Resources and Energy. Her arrival marks a significant step in strengthening SMU’s procurement function and supporting the institution’s strategic and academic objectives.
Sekele is a seasoned professional whose career has been built on sound governance, regulatory compliance, and an unwavering commitment to ethical procurement practices. Speaking on her new role, she shares: “I am excited to be part of an institution that is shaping the future of health sciences. I look forward to contributing to SMU’s mission through procurement systems that are efficient, transparent, and aligned with national legislation.”
Her qualifications are as impressive as her work ethic. She holds an Advanced Diploma in Supply Chain Management from Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and a National Diploma in Logistics Management from the University of South Africa (UNISA). She is also a practising member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) and is currently advancing her qualifications with the institute. “For me, learning never stops,” she adds. “By day, I serve SMU. By night, I study. It’s all about growing so I can give my best to the institution.”
Walter Maleyana, Deputy Director: Finance at SMU, expresses his excitement at her appointment. “Sekele brings exactly the kind of energy, expertise, and professionalism we need in our team. Her appointment significantly strengthens our procurement capability, especially at a time when we’re focused on enhancing compliance, accountability, and value for money in our processes.”
He adds that her deep understanding of the public sector frameworks and practical, hands-on experience are a welcome addition. “She doesn’t just know the policies, she’s lived them, implemented them, and improved them. That level of experience is rare, and we’re lucky to have her.”
Throughout her career, Sekele has demonstrated a unique ability to turn policy into action. Her strengths lie in drafting watertight specifications, implementing airtight bidding processes, and designing procurement plans that stand up to both operational demands and audit scrutiny. At SMU, she is already making strides in aligning procurement practices with institutional goals and national compliance standards, such as the Public Finance Management Act and the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act.
Beyond her technical expertise, she is passionate about embedding a culture of good governance. “I believe procurement is more than a support function; it’s a strategic partner in delivering the university’s mandate,” she explains. “When done right, procurement supports teaching, research, and service delivery. That’s what I want to be part of here at SMU.”
Her vision aligns closely with the broader goals of the Finance Division, which is focused on operational excellence, risk mitigation, and ethical financial stewardship. Maleyana believes her arrival will accelerate progress in these areas, especially as SMU continues to expand its academic offerings and infrastructure. “She’s joining us at the right time,” he says. “With her leadership in procurement, we can ensure that every rand spent advances our core mission.”
Sekele’s story is one of passion, persistence, and professionalism. As she begins this new chapter at SMU, the university is proud to support her journey and to be the institution where she continues to shine.
By Dimakatso Modise
