Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to shape South Africa’s health sciences landscape, producing visionary professionals, pioneering researchers, and transformative leaders. From government corridors to hospital theatres and corporate boardrooms, SMU alumni advance health sciences, drive innovation, and contribute to socio-economic development across the continent.
To preserve and strengthen this legacy, SMU Convocation invites alumni, partners, and friends to the SMU Convocation Fundraising & Alumni Awards Gala Dinner on 25 October 2025 at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria. The event is more than a celebration — it is a call to action to invest in the next generation of health sciences leaders. Many talented SMU students face financial challenges that threaten their academic and professional aspirations. The Gala Dinner aims to bridge this gap, ensuring no deserving student is left behind. The evening will also honour distinguished alumni whose contributions reflect SMU’s values of Excellence, Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, and Respect.
In preparation for the event, the SMU Convocation Executive Committee (EXCO) held a strategic workshop to plan for the year ahead. The session provided an opportunity to reflect on Convocation’s role in advancing the University’s mission, strengthening alumni relations, and ensuring meaningful participation in institutional development.
Delivering the welcome address, Japhta Phala, President of SMU Convocation, emphasised that Convocation is more than a statutory structure — it is a vibrant community of graduates, academics, and stakeholders united by a shared responsibility to support SMU’s growth. “The Convocation exists to be the voice of alumni, strengthen the bond between graduates and their alma mater, and play a meaningful role in the life of the institution,” he said.
Vice-President Elifolet Bhembe outlined the workshop objectives, which included preparing for the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and finalising plans for the Fundraising Gala Dinner. “We reviewed the SMU Statute and Convocation Constitution to ensure compliance and alignment, developed a detailed checklist for the AGM, and explored ways to enhance Convocation activities and alumni benefits,” he explained.
The workshop focused on governance, accountability, and innovation. By grounding its work in the SMU Statute and Constitution, Convocation reaffirms its commitment to transparency and good governance. The AGM was highlighted not merely as a statutory requirement, but as a democratic platform empowering alumni to influence the University’s direction.
Participants also discussed enhancing alumni engagement through tangible benefits, such as professional networking platforms, mentorship programmes, and opportunities for collaboration in research and community development. “A vibrant alumni community is central to the sustainability and reputation of SMU. When alumni thrive, the University’s name shines brighter — and when the university grows, alumni benefit in return,” the EXCO noted.
The workshop included dedicated Convocation EXCO members: Japhta Phala (President), Elifolet Bhembe (Vice-President), Sello Madibela (Secretary), Jeff Shipalana and Remofilwe Poeng (Additional Members), Dr Zukiswa Gonya (University Council Member), and Letsai Mashishi (Senior Officer: Convocation Administration).
Concluding the session, Phala thanked members for their dedication, emphasising that their work lays the foundation for a more connected alumni community and a stronger institution. “The work we are doing today paves the way for a stronger Convocation, a more engaged alumni network, and a university that continues to shine as a centre of excellence in health sciences education,” he said.
As SMU prepares for the Fundraising & Alumni Awards Gala Dinner, the call is clear — come together as a community, invest in the dreams of future health professionals, and build a lasting legacy of opportunity, excellence, and impact.
By Dimakatso Modise
