The School of Health Care Sciences (SHCS) officially welcomed its new cohort of first-time entering (FTEN) students during a recently held Orientation Programme, marking an important milestone in the academic journey of first-year students embarking on careers in the health sciences.

 

The programme aimed to introduce students to the culture, expectations and support systems of the SHCS, while fostering a strong sense of professional identity and belonging within the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) community. It also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to excellence in healthcare education and service to society.

 

The SHCS received 28 382 applications for just 245 available FTEN spaces across its undergraduate programmes, reflecting both the SMU’s strong reputation and the high demand for health sciences education. The breakdown of applications and available spaces was as follows:

 

• Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery: 15 058 applications (60 spaces)
• Bachelor of Science in Dietetics: 920 applications (40 spaces)
• Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy: 4 898 applications (60 spaces)
• Bachelor of Occupational Therapy: 3 358 applications (35 spaces)
• Bachelor of Audiology: 2 929 applications (25 spaces)
• Bachelor of Speech Language and Pathology: 1 219 applications (25 spaces)

 

Proceedings commenced with a formal welcome and the introduction of administrative staff by Dr Babalwa Vuyokazi Soga-Kamdem, Operations Manager of the SHCS, who highlighted the critical role of administration in supporting student success. “Our administrative teams are here to walk this journey with you,” said Dr Soga. “Never hesitate to seek guidance and support as you navigate university life.”

 

Addressing the students, Franco Baloyi, Student Representative Council (SRC) Chairperson for the SHCS, encouraged them to embrace the demands of healthcare training with commitment and integrity. “You are entering professions that require discipline, compassion and resilience,” he said. “The knowledge and values you gain here will not only shape your careers but also impact the lives of the communities you will serve.”

 

A comprehensive overview of the SHCS, including the introduction of Heads of Departments and a keynote address, was delivered by the Dean, Prof Douglas Maleka. He outlined the SHCS’s academic vision and emphasised the importance of future achievements. “Comfort zones and previous successes are the enemies of future achievement; students must let go of yesterday and focus on what lies ahead,” Prof Maleka said. “You are not just a number at SMU; you are a person with a face, a name and a future that matters. By choosing SMU, students have chosen a university committed to transforming health services through excellence and innovation. This is the beginning of a transformative journey where potential is nurtured, passion is ignited, and horizons are expanded.”

 

Further highlighting academic expectations, Senior Lecturer in the Occupational Therapy Department, Dr Hanlie Pitout, addressed the SHCS’s responsibilities in teaching and learning, stressing professionalism and accountability. “Academic excellence goes hand in hand with ethical conduct and consistent hard work,” she noted.

 

Student well-being was also a key focus of the programme. Tumisho Mokwele, a Clinical Facilitator in the Department of Nursing Science, presented on available student support services, reminding students that support extends beyond academics. “We recognise that student success is holistic,” she said. “Your mental, emotional and social well-being matter just as much as your academic performance.”

 

One of the most symbolic moments of the programme was the Oath Taking, led by Prof Maleka and Dr Andile Mokoena-de Beer, Acting Head of the Department of Nursing Science, reinforcing the ethical responsibilities associated with healthcare professions. “The oath you take today is a commitment to humanity,” said Dr Mokoena-de Beer. “It is a promise to serve with integrity, respect and compassion.”

 

The successful orientation programme underscored SMU’s dedication to preparing competent, ethical and socially responsive healthcare professionals ready to contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s health system.

By Tumelo Moila