Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has strengthened its presence in regional university sport following the election of SMU Staff Sports Association (SMUSSA) Chairperson, Caroline Moeletsi, as Deputy Secretary General (DSG) of the Southern Africa Universities Staff Sports Association (SAUSSA).
The election took place during the SAUSSA Annual General Meeting (AGM), recently hosted by the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) in Gaborone. The meeting brought together representatives from universities across Southern Africa to review the Association’s activities, elect new leadership and discuss strategic priorities aimed at advancing staff sport in the region.
Moeletsi’s appointment marks a significant milestone for both SMUSSA and SMU, further cementing the University’s growing influence in regional university sport. Her election to the SAUSSA Executive Committee reflects the confidence member institutions have in her leadership, experience and commitment to promoting staff wellness, institutional collaboration and sporting excellence.
The appointment follows the successful hosting of the 2025 SAUSSA Games by SMU from 7 to 13 December 2025. Under Moeletsi’s leadership, the University welcomed delegates and participants from 19 member institutions across Southern Africa, delivering a well-organised and memorable tournament that earned widespread praise from participating universities.
Throughout the Games, Moeletsi demonstrated exceptional leadership and an unwavering commitment to ensuring the well-being and positive experience of every participant. Her contribution further enhanced SMU’s reputation as a capable host of major regional sporting events and a champion of university staff development through sport.
As Chairperson of SMUSSA, Moeletsi has played a pivotal role in expanding staff participation in sport and promoting initiatives that encourage healthy lifestyles, teamwork and institutional pride. Under her stewardship, the Association has strengthened its contribution to university sport through successful participation in regional competitions and wellness programmes that support staff development beyond the workplace.
Speaking on her election, Moeletsi expressed gratitude to member institutions for entrusting her with the responsibility of serving on the SAUSSA Executive.
“It is a great honour to have been nominated and elected by fellow member institutions. I look forward to working closely with the SAUSSA Executive and all member universities to strengthen staff sport, promote collaboration and create opportunities that will benefit our institutions across the Southern African region,” she said.
Beyond the elections, delegates conducted an inspection of sporting facilities at the University of Botswana as part of preparations for the proposed hosting of the 2027 SAUSSA Games by BUAN. Following the inspection and deliberations, the AGM confirmed BUAN as the prospective host institution, subject to the fulfilment of several requirements, including venue readiness, accommodation, transportation, medical services and security arrangements.
Reflecting on the significance of the appointment, Moeletsi said regional collaboration through sport creates valuable opportunities for institutions to learn from one another and build lasting partnerships.
“Sport has the power to unite institutions, promote wellness and strengthen relationships across borders. I am committed to contributing to initiatives that advance staff sport and create meaningful opportunities for our member universities,” she said.
Moeletsi’s election aligns with SMU’s broader commitment to leadership, partnership and community engagement. Through its active participation in regional organizations such as SAUSSA, the University continues to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of university staff sport while strengthening relationships across Southern Africa.
The appointment further positions SMU as an institution that not only excels in health sciences education and research but also champions staff development, wellness and regional collaboration through sport. As preparations for the next SAUSSA Games gather momentum, SMU remains committed to supporting initiatives that inspire excellence, strengthen partnerships and demonstrate the transformative power of sport in higher education.
By Rose Moreki
