On 24 May 2025, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) made history by hosting the University Sport South Africa (USSA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the first time since the institution’s establishment in 2014. Held on the university’s vibrant campus, the event welcomed delegates from over 26 universities across the country and underscored SMU’s growing influence in student sport and holistic development.
The USSA AGM is the highest decision-making body in university sport and plays a vital role in shaping national discussions around governance, transformation, inclusion, integrity, and athlete development. SMU’s selection as host reflects the confidence placed in the institution by both the higher education and sporting communities.
Welcoming delegates to the historic gathering, Vice-Chancellor Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus underscored the university’s mission beyond academic excellence, “As a university grounded in the health sciences, our mission extends beyond the classroom and clinic. We are committed to nurturing well-rounded graduates who embody leadership, discipline, and community engagement. Hosting this AGM is not just about sport—it is about nation-building through youth empowerment.”
She also pointed out the alignment between the event and SMU’s core values of excellence, integrity, ubuntu, respect, and accountability. “Our participation in USSA and our contribution to student sport are rooted in our values. We believe in empowering young people holistically, and this event is a reflection of that commitment,” she added.
The AGM followed a series of sporting and academic successes for SMU. At the recent Autumn Graduation Ceremonies, 47 student-athletes received their qualifications, including 12 from the rigorous MBChB programme, highlighting the university’s dedication to both academic and sporting excellence.
“This is a proud moment for all of us,” said SMU Sport Officer Busisiwe Sijora. “We are showing the country that at SMU, we don’t choose between the mind and the body—we develop both. These graduates are living proof that excellence in the classroom and on the field is possible.”
SMU’s leadership in university sport goes beyond event hosting. The university holds strong representation within USSA’s national structures, with staff and students in influential positions helping shape the direction of student sport in South Africa. Senior Sport Officer
Andiswa Zwelibanzi serves as Chairperson of USSA Canoeing, Secretary of USSA E-Sport, and a member of the USSA Transformation and Development Sub-Committee. Sport Officer Busisiwe Sijora is Vice-Chairperson of USSA Football, Secretary of USSA Handball, and a member of the Bidding and Hosting Sub-Committee.
Third-year MBChB student Paballo Moshoma also holds a national leadership role, serving as Secretary for USSA Chess.
“Serving in these national roles is not just about representation,” said Zwelibanzi. “It’s about ensuring that our student-athletes have a voice, that sport becomes more inclusive, and that transformation becomes a lived reality.”
At SMU, sport is not an extracurricular activity—it is central to student life and development. The university views sport as a platform to foster leadership, promote health and wellness, and strengthen social cohesion—objectives closely aligned with its mission of producing competent and compassionate health professionals.
SMU Sport expressed gratitude to USSA leadership, the SMU Sport Council, support staff, and volunteers who made the AGM a resounding success. “This event has been a milestone, but more than that, it’s been a statement,” said Sijora. “SMU is ready to take its place among the leaders in sport and student development. We’re just getting started.”
As SMU continues its evolution into a centre of excellence in health sciences and student life, the successful hosting of the USSA AGM marks not just a first, but a defining chapter in its story—one that positions sport and education as equal pillars in building a healthier, more inclusive South Africa.
By Dimakatso Modise
