Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has strengthened its commitment to student success after Public Health Senior Lecturer Dr Raikane Seretlo secured R138,000 in financial support from Siemens Healthineers South Africa for four undergraduate nursing students.
The funding, allocated through the Department of Nursing within the School of Healthcare Sciences, assisted the students with tuition fees and accommodation costs. The initiative demonstrates the value of academic advocacy and external partnerships in addressing financial barriers to higher education.
The opportunity emerged in 2025 when Dr Seretlo approached Siemens Healthineers South Africa to explore funding opportunities for his own postgraduate studies. During discussions with the organisation, he learned of an opportunity to support undergraduate students and redirected his efforts towards securing assistance for students facing financial challenges.
“My teaching philosophy is that no student should be left behind. Students are co-creators of knowledge, and once a student is registered at the university, we have a responsibility to support them irrespective of their background or financial circumstances,” said Dr Seretlo.
Although the funding was divided among four students, the assistance has made a meaningful contribution to their academic journeys. Tuition and accommodation costs can place significant pressure on students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, potentially affecting their ability to focus on their studies.
A student representative expressed appreciation for the assistance, noting that the funding had eased financial pressure and enabled the beneficiaries to focus more fully on their academic responsibilities. “I would like to sincerely thank you for the financial support you have provided through the Siemens Healthineers’ bursary. Although the bursary did not cover the full tuition fee, the contribution made a meaningful difference and helped me continue my studies with less financial pressure. I am truly grateful for this opportunity and for the investment you have made in my education. Your support motivates me to work hard, perform well academically, and make the most of the opportunity I have been given,” said .
Dr Seretlo described the initiative as part of his broader commitment to being a pro-student academic and advocate. His efforts extend beyond his own department, reflecting his belief that students across SMU should benefit from opportunities that promote academic success.
“I believe that students across SMU deserve support where opportunities arise. I am willing to approach external stakeholders and seek assistance where this can contribute to student success,” he said.
The initiative also highlights the importance of collaboration between the university and external stakeholders in expanding student support opportunities. A representative of Siemens Healthineers South Africa said the organisation was pleased to support students and contribute to their educational journey. “Access to quality healthcare begins with empowering those who will deliver it. We are honoured to contribute to the academic journey of these future nurses and support the development of a stronger healthcare workforce for South Africa and the positive impact they will make in communities across South Africa,” said Melissa Rambally – Marketing and Communications Manager, Siemens Healthineers South Africa.
Dr Seretlo expressed his appreciation to Siemens Healthineers South Africa for responding positively to his request and making the funding available. He also acknowledged the contribution of the Nursing Department acting Head of Department, Dr Andile Mokoena-de Beer, who helped identify students requiring financial support, as well as lecturer Glen Malepa, who coordinated logistical arrangements.
Dr Mokoena-de Beer said the support would make a meaningful difference to the students, particularly in helping them remain focused on their studies despite financial pressures. “Financial challenges can have a significant impact on students’ academic journeys. This support has provided much-needed relief to the beneficiaries and demonstrates what can be achieved when academics and external partners work together in the interest of student success. We are grateful to Siemens Healthineers South Africa for investing in our nursing students and to Dr Seretlo for identifying and pursuing this opportunity. Supporting our students in this way contributes not only to their individual success, but also to the development of the future nursing workforce,” said Dr Mokoena-de Beer.
The initiative aligns with SMU’s commitment to student-centredness, accountability and Ubuntu, while advancing its mission of excellence in teaching, learning and professional education in the health sciences.
Through academic advocacy and strategic partnerships, SMU continues to promote an inclusive and supportive learning environment that enables students to pursue their qualifications and contribute meaningfully to the future of healthcare in South Africa.
By Tumelo Moila
