Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to establish itself as a leading institution in South Africa, committed to the holistic development of its students. Beyond its academic offerings, SMU is committed to actively engaging students in real-world learning experiences, ensuring they are equipped to excel both within and outside the classroom.
One recent initiative that stands out is the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme under the Department of Physics. This programme offers students hands-on exposure to industries they may join after graduation. A remarkable example was a recent visit by third-year Physics students to the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) facility. The trip was organised to provide students with invaluable insight into career opportunities in nuclear energy and related sectors.
Mmathapelo Mphelane, a dedicated Lab Technician from the Department of Physics, shared the profound impact such experiences have on students. “The visit to Necsa was not just about seeing the technology in action; it was about inspiring our students. Many of them left feeling motivated, having interacted with former students who, like them, started at SMU and have now excelled in their careers,” Mphelane comments.
The visit to Necsa included tours of the Reactor and Tomography Departments, where students learned about modern reactor technologies and cutting-edge research in radioisotopes—critical for diagnosing and treating cancer. In the Tomography Department, students were exposed to advanced imaging techniques, learning how neutron, gamma, and X-ray radiation are used in research that spans across fields like geology and medicine.
This initiative is part of SMU’s broader strategy to not only equip students academically but also immerse them in career-building activities. The success of these programmes lies in the university’s collaboration with top industries and companies, such as Necsa, which provides students with a deeper understanding of their potential roles in the workplace.
As Mphelane puts it: “These visits give students a real glimpse into the industries they can join. It is not just about knowledge; it is about showing them the doors that SMU opens for their future.”
The Department of Physics has been proactive in ensuring these opportunities are consistently available to students. The visit to Necsa is one of many similar initiatives that will make SMU graduates more competitive in the job market. SMU’s commitment to preparing students for professional success is evident in these immersive programmes, where students witness the direct application of their classroom knowledge.
As SMU continues to grow, it is an ideal university for students who seek more than just a degree. Through initiatives like WIL programmes, SMU sets itself apart as a university that invests in the future of its students, empowering them with the skills, knowledge, and inspiration needed to lead in their respective fields. For those seeking an institution that prioritises both academic excellence and practical experience, SMU stands as the university of choice.
