The MEDUNSA Class of 1996 celebrated three decades of medical excellence, professional achievement and service to communities at a 30th anniversary medical conference and gala dinner held at Irene Dairy Farm in Centurion on 17 October 2026. The milestone brought together alumni to reflect on their professional journeys, honour distinguished former lecturers and strengthen ties with their alma mater, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU).
Organised by Dr Hlombe Makuluma on behalf of the class organising committee, the reunion celebrated the enduring legacy of graduates who began their medical careers three decades ago and have since contributed to healthcare, medical education, research and leadership in South Africa and beyond.
A highlight of the celebrations was the tribute paid to two retired professors, Prof Z. Mtshali, a general surgeon, and Prof R. Golele, an orthopaedic surgeon. The two distinguished academics were recognised for their contributions to medical education, clinical practice and the development of generations of healthcare professionals. Their recognition underscored the lasting influence of educators whose knowledge, mentorship and commitment helped shape the careers of the Class of 1996.
Addressing alumni during the daytime conference, representatives of the university encouraged graduates to maintain meaningful relationships with their alma mater and contribute to its continued development. Alumni were urged to look beyond commemorative gatherings and embrace opportunities to support teaching, research, community engagement and student development.
The message emphasised that alumni relations should be an ongoing partnership through which experienced professionals share their expertise, mentor emerging healthcare practitioners, establish professional networks and create opportunities for future generations of health professionals.
Dr Solly Motlanthe, President of the SMU Alumni Association, highlighted the history of the association and its role in sustaining connections between graduates and the university. He emphasised the importance of alumni unity, encouraging graduates to work together in strengthening their collective voice and supporting the institution that contributed to their professional development.
The Alumni Association provides a platform for graduates to remain connected, build relationships across professional fields and contribute to the university’s broader objectives. The anniversary gathering demonstrated the value of such networks in preserving institutional identity while creating opportunities for collaboration and shared growth.
The gala dinner’s keynote address was delivered by Prof Risenga Frank Chauke, Dean of the School of Medicine at SMU, who reflected on the significance of the class reaching its 30-year milestone. He described the anniversary as an opportunity to consider the journey from graduation to professional maturity and the responsibilities that accompany decades of service.
Prof Chauke noted that thirty years represents the completion of a generation and the beginning of another chapter. Graduates who entered the profession in 1996 have since developed into experienced clinicians, specialists, academics, researchers, public servants and leaders, many of whom have helped train and guide younger healthcare professionals.
Drawing on biblical references, he explained that the age of thirty is associated with maturity, readiness and public service. He highlighted the examples of Joseph, David and Jesus, using these accounts to illustrate that thirty should not be viewed as an endpoint but as a stage at which preparation gives way to greater responsibility and service.
His address reinforced the importance of using professional experience to benefit others, particularly through mentorship, leadership and continued contributions to healthcare.
Mr Rammoelo Ditsoane of the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) also addressed the gathering, expressing the organisation’s support for the initiative. His contribution highlighted the value of partnerships that recognise and support initiatives aimed at strengthening professional relationships and celebrating achievements within the healthcare sector.
The anniversary conference and gala dinner served as both a celebration of past achievements and a call to continued service. For the MEDUNSA Class of 1996, the occasion reaffirmed the bonds formed during their training and the shared responsibility to advance healthcare and support the next generation of medical professionals.
As the graduates reflected on three decades of achievement, the reunion reinforced a central message: the relationship between a university and its alumni should continue long after graduation, sustained by collaboration, mentorship and a commitment to improving the lives of the communities they serve.
By Dimakatso Modise
