Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) shone brightly on the night of 8 October as it hosted the 2025 Student Affairs Excellence Awards under the glamorous theme, All-White Masquerade. The event was a celebration of students whose passion, leadership, and dedication have elevated the university’s culture of excellence across academics, sports, residence life, and the arts.
Rooted in SMU’s institutional values, the awards were established to recognise and reward students who embody the principle of Excellence—a cornerstone that drives the university’s operations and academic ambitions. This year’s ceremony reaffirmed that SMU’s pursuit of excellence extends far beyond the lecture hall; it encompasses every sphere of campus life, from community engagement to entrepreneurial innovation.
In her keynote address, Vice-Chancellor Professor Thandi Matsha-Erasmus reminded attendees that excellence is not merely an aspiration but a daily practice that defines the SMU community. She emphasised that the university’s mission to develop competent, ethical, and compassionate graduates depends on cultivating a shared commitment to integrity, collaboration, and impact. “Excellence isn’t confined to the classroom,” she said. “It’s reflected in how our students lead, collaborate, and serve their communities.”
The evening highlighted a diverse range of achievements that reflected the vibrant spirit of SMU students. Among the standout honourees was Ndungelo Tsanwami, who received the Sports Physiotherapist of the Year Award for her outstanding contribution to athlete wellbeing and sports performance. The Change Maker of the Year Award went to Nzuzo Mpondwana, a student whose initiatives have driven meaningful transformation and inclusivity on campus.
Student societies also took the spotlight, with SMU Pride Connect and Khulanathi Edu Hub jointly recognised as Societies of the Year for their exceptional engagement and positive influence on student life. In residence life, Tshepo Ntlemeza was commended for outstanding leadership through a community-focused project that earned the title of Outstanding Project Initiative by a House Committee.
Athletic prowess featured prominently in the celebrations. Amogelang Mositse was named Sportsman of the Year, while Tshiamo Sefola took home the title of Sportswoman of the Year. The dynamic SMU Dance Elites received the Team of the Year Award, a recognition of their discipline, creativity, and team spirit. The 4B Residence was crowned Residence of the Year, standing out for fostering an environment of unity, support, and excellence among its members.
The awards also celebrated students who have excelled administratively and entrepreneurially. Thapelo Mthimunye was honoured as Student Administrator of the Year for his dedication to efficient student affairs management, while Amukelani Chauke received the Most Promising Entrepreneur Award for driving social innovation and community upliftment. In recognition of outstanding leadership, Tshililo Sigari was awarded House Committee of the Year, and Mahlorhi Baloyi was named Co-Curricular Leadership Student of the Year for demonstrating integrity and influence beyond academics.
The evening reached its peak when the Vice-Chancellor’s Award, SMU’s highest accolade, was presented to Pharmacy student Mahlorhi Baloyi. Known for her academic excellence and remarkable leadership, Baloyi embodies the essence of SMU’s institutional values—excellence, service, and transformative leadership.
Closing the event, Director of Student Affairs Mr Tulani Nkuntse expressed heartfelt gratitude to students, staff, and partners who continue to shape SMU’s thriving campus community. He praised the recipients for setting new benchmarks of achievement and urged all students to keep striving for excellence in every pursuit.
The 2025 Student Affairs Excellence Awards stood as more than a celebration—it was a testament to SMU’s unwavering commitment to nurturing leaders who will drive innovation, integrity, and impact in South Africa and beyond.
By Dimakatso Modise
