At Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), leadership is more than a skill — it is a core value nurtured through rigorous clinical training, social accountability, and ethical governance. One shining example is Dr Siqiniseko Ntuli (36), who in January 2025 was appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Dannhauser Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal’s Amajuba District. His journey from rural KwaNongoma to the helm of a district hospital exemplifies SMU’s mission: to produce capable, compassionate leaders who transform systems and uplift communities. “It’s both exciting and terrifying,” Ntuli reflects. “Leading in these financially unstable times is a challenge, but it’s a calling I’m ready for — and one I approach with boldness.”
Raised in Ulundi in a humble home, Ntuli credits his father for instilling the belief that education could change not only his future but the fate of his community. “Even when the path seemed uncertain, I held on to that belief,” he recalls.
His path to leadership began at SMU, where he pursued medicine with a passion for clinical excellence. Although he didn’t initially set out to manage a hospital, his relentless pursuit of quality care and service excellence naturally positioned him for leadership. “I’ve always believed in doing my best. Leadership followed that commitment.”
After qualifying, he completed his internship within the Pietermaritzburg complex, gaining hands-on experience at Grey’s, Harry Gwala (formerly Edendale), and Northdale hospitals. It was here that his passion for district-level healthcare emerged. “Primary healthcare is the heartbeat of our system,” he says.
His community service at Ceza Hospital and later his post at Dannhauser Community Health Centre reinforced that passion. He eventually returned to Ceza Hospital as Medical Manager and Acting CEO, helping to stabilise operations in the face of major challenges. “We kept the hospital afloat and ensured that patients continued to receive quality care,” he says.
Now at the helm of Dannhauser Hospital, Ntuli is focused on improving access to healthcare, enhancing holistic services, and promoting preventative care. “We need to build a culture of health education and strengthen community participation. Health champions must emerge from within the communities we serve.”
Despite his executive role, Ntuli stays connected to the clinical side. Mornings are reserved for academic rounds and patient care, while evenings are dedicated to continuing education. “I never want to lose touch with medicine,” he says.
His leadership strategy is built on transparency, inclusive staffing, performance monitoring, and constant feedback. “We must create workspaces where individuals and teams thrive — that’s the foundation of quality service.”
Ntuli also emphasises the need for a culture shift. “Healthcare is more than a job — it’s a calling. We must cultivate passion, professionalism, and purpose.”
He attributes much of his leadership development to SMU’s bedside teaching model and Ubuntu-centred mentorship from esteemed figures like Prof Honey Mabuza and Prof Zach Koto. “You represent your university in how you work and how you lead,” he says.
To aspiring leaders, he offers timeless advice: “Be a great follower first. Respect those around you. Work hard, stay curious, and remain humble. That mindset will always take you far.”
Even with his demanding role, Ntuli stays grounded through prayer, reading, and time with family. “I always say I’ll join a gym — maybe one day,” he laughs. “But what keeps me grounded is seeing others make a difference.”
Looking ahead, Ntuli hopes to build leadership pipelines, formalise student placements, and forge deeper partnerships between SMU and healthcare institutions. “Hospitals must become academic allies. Research informs policy, and education drives equity.”
To young professionals navigating the weight of responsibility, he offers heartfelt reassurance: “You’re on the right path. Don’t give up. Rest if you must, reflect, and rise”.
Ntuli’s journey is a striking reflection of what SMU stands for: excellence in leadership, integrity in service, and courage in governance. Through his visionary yet grounded approach, he affirms SMU’s status as a national beacon for developing leaders who not only manage systems but transform them, with skill, purpose, and heart.
By Tumelo Moila
