For Dutch physiotherapy student Ciara Kohlhoff, a three-month internship at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) in Pretoria has been more than an academic exchange — it has been a life-changing experience.
A third-year student at THIM University of Applied Sciences for Physiotherapy in the Netherlands, Kohlhoff joined SMU’s Department of Physiotherapy as a visiting international student earlier this year. Her placement was made possible through collaboration between SMU and THIM University, a partnership aimed at fostering global learning and professional development in health sciences.
“Being accepted by SMU has been an amazing opportunity,” says Kohlhoff. “From the moment I arrived, I was supported, guided, and made to feel part of the team. The attention to detail during orientation — from registration and uniforms to clinical placements — showed how committed the department is to ensuring student success.”
Kohlhoff followed the same practical programme as SMU’s third-year physiotherapy students, integrating classroom theory with hands-on experience across multiple clinical settings. She describes the programme as “well-structured and comprehensive,” noting that it has helped her develop confidence and competence across new areas of practice.
At SMU, her clinical exposure expanded beyond the orthopaedic and neurological rehabilitation focus of her degree in the Netherlands. She gained experience in paediatrics, respiratory care, burn management, and neurological rehabilitation, working alongside local students in hospitals across Pretoria.
“I have learned far more than I expected,” she reflects. “The clinical experience here has deepened my understanding of how physiotherapy serves diverse communities. It has also given me valuable insight into South Africa’s healthcare system and the role physiotherapists play within it.”
Before joining SMU, Kohlhoff faced challenges finding a hospital or clinic willing to accommodate her internship requirements. The partnership with SMU provided the breakthrough she needed. The university supported her through every stage of the process — from assisting with her Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) registration to arranging multiple hospital placements to ensure a broad clinical experience.
“SMU went above and beyond to make my practical experience meaningful,” Kohlhoff says. “Their support has been unwavering, and it has truly shaped my professional journey.”
She credits much of this success to Dr Muziwakhe Tshabalala, Acting Head of the Department of Physiotherapy, whose leadership and mentorship have made a lasting impact.
“Studying in the Netherlands never meant I wanted to leave South Africa,” she adds. “My goal has always been to return and serve my country. Thanks to SMU and Dr Tshabalala, I have gained the skills and confidence to do exactly that.”
Kohlhoff’s experience highlights SMU’s growing reputation as a globally connected health sciences institution — one that not only trains future healthcare professionals but also fosters international collaboration grounded in compassion, excellence, and inclusion.
“I will forever be grateful to SMU for welcoming me,” she concludes. “It has been worth every moment — a journey that has strengthened both my passion and my purpose as a physiotherapist.”
By Tumelo Moila
