Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to affirm its standing as a home to visionary leaders shaping the national higher education agenda. In a resounding recognition of leadership excellence, SMU’s Director: Student Affairs, Tulani Nkuntse, has been elected Deputy Secretary-General of the South African Association of Senior Student Affairs Professionals (SAASSAP) for the 2025–2028 term.
The announcement was made during SAASSAP’s Annual General Meeting and Elective Conference, held on Friday, 8 August 2025, at the University of the Free State. This appointment not only reflects Nkuntse’s exceptional professional stature but also signals SMU’s growing 
influence in strategic national platforms that shape student life and development across South Africa’s universities.
A respected national platform
Founded in 2000, SAASSAP represents the most senior student affairs leaders—Deans, Directors, and Executive Directors across all South African universities. The association’s work is central to advancing holistic student growth, development, and success. It achieves this through policy influence, resource mobilisation, fostering innovation, and strategic stakeholder engagement.
For the next three years, Nkuntse will serve alongside distinguished peers from leading institutions, including:
- Jerome September – President – University of the Witwatersrand
- Dr Irene Mohasoa – Deputy President – Walter Sisulu University
- Dr Bernard Sebake – Secretary-General – Central University of Technology
- Tebogo Ncokazi – Treasurer-General – University of Zululand
- Professor Percy Sepeng – Research & Development Officer – University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Asanda Tele – Media Liaison Officer – University of Fort Hare
- Nonkosi Tyolwana – Projects Coordinator – Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Leadership with purpose
Reflecting on his election, Nkuntse said: “What an honour to be called to serve. I look forward to this challenge with excitement, knowing that collectively as the NEC and its entire SAASSAP membership, we will continue to advocate for better conditions and create spaces for our students to thrive.”
He added: “This is not just a personal achievement, it is an important milestone for SMU, contributing to putting our university on the national map.” Nkuntse’s appointment comes at a time when higher education institutions are called upon to strengthen student development models and foster inclusive, enabling environments. His presence on the SAASSAP National Executive Committee reinforces SMU’s position as an institution whose leaders are not only committed to the success of its own students but also to shaping the future of student affairs nationally.
