Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) recently celebrated a momentous occasion as 25 Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) graduates took the Hippocratic Oath on Wednesday, 26 March 2025, marking their transition from students to medical professionals. This significant event underscored their commitment to ethical practice, patient care, and upholding the values of the medical profession. With this milestone, SMU reaffirms its status as a leading institution in medical education, consistently producing graduates who are not only skilled but also dedicated to serving their communities with compassion and professionalism. As they begin their careers, these new doctors carry forward the high standards set by SMU in their pursuit of excellence in healthcare.
The ceremony, attended by staff members from the School of Medicine, family, and friends, was filled with pride and anticipation as the graduates pledged to serve with integrity, competence, and compassion. They vowed to practise medicine without bias or discrimination, ensuring the well-being of their future patients remains their highest priority. The event underscored the responsibility that comes with being a healthcare professional and the expectations placed upon them as they step into the medical field.
Professor Risenga Chauke, Acting Dean of the School of Medicine, delivered an inspiring address, urging the new doctors to embrace their responsibilities with diligence and integrity.
“You are now transitioning from a position of dependency to a position of responsibility and accountability. Remember, you waited six years to step into the final position of accountability. You have now transitioned from being dependent on your lecturers to taking responsibility for making decisions. If you fail with integrity, you will surely rise again,” he stated.
The ceremony was an emotional moment for many, including Dr Mohau Phiti, a former Miss Mamelodi Sundowns North West Princess for 2019/2020, who expressed her overwhelming joy and gratitude.
“This experience is exhilarating; it is a moment of pure joy, and I am beyond grateful to the highest. I was determined to reach this point in my journey. Thank you so much, SMU—you will forever hold a special place in my heart. And to everyone who has supported me along the way, a thousand thank you,” said Dr Mohau Phitishe.
The event also recognised the achievements of Dr Blessing Langa, who not only completed his medical degree but also successfully launched the Foreign Lands Clothing Brand while at SMU. Reflecting on his journey, he shared how he managed to balance academic responsibilities with entrepreneurship.
“It feels absolutely amazing. These are the two titles I have earned from SMU—I obtained a degree, and I also managed to establish a business. From an entrepreneurial perspective, I would say I am doing quite well. The key to balancing everything was time management. I advise others to manage your time wisely, and you will always stay ahead,” he shared.
The Hippocratic Oath-Taking Ceremony served as both a moment of celebration and a solemn reminder of the immense responsibility these young doctors now bear. Their training has prepared them for the challenges ahead, and they step into the medical profession equipped with knowledge, skill, and ethical principles.
As these newly qualified doctors step into their professional roles, they do so with the assurance of a strong foundation built at SMU, where academic excellence, ethical practice, and compassion are paramount. The university’s continued commitment to producing competent and empathetic healthcare professionals ensures that these graduates are well-equipped to make a positive impact in the healthcare sector. With the values of dedication, professionalism, and patient care deeply ingrained in their training, these young doctors are set to uphold the legacy of excellence that SMU has long been known for, bringing about meaningful change in the communities they serve.
By Tumelo Moila
