Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) launched its 2026 academic year with a high-energy, purpose-driven Orientation Programme for first-time entering (FTEN) students, signalling not just the start of university life, but the beginning of a demanding and transformative journey in the health sciences.
Held over five days, the programme was designed to do one thing exceptionally well: equip new students to succeed. From the moment students arrived on campus, the message was clear — orientation was not optional window dressing, but a strategic foundation for academic focus, belonging and resilience.
Welcoming students, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus, described the moment as both significant and symbolic. “SMU was established with a clear mandate: to educate future health sciences professionals who will serve society with excellence, integrity and compassion,” she said. “By joining this institution, you formally become part of that mission.”
The programme combined institutional clarity with emotional resonance. An academic procession, performances by the SMU Choir, and a candlelight Vision Walk reinforced a shared sense of purpose, while practical sessions tackled the realities of university life head-on.
Orientation activities were structured to address students’ most pressing challenges — understanding academic expectations, accessing support services, navigating campus systems and building social confidence. According to Tulani Nkuntse, Director: Student Affairs, orientation was intentionally designed to remove uncertainty early. “If students know where to go, who to ask and what is expected, they start stronger and stay focused,” he noted.
Key programme highlights included residence day, focused on settling in, safety, and community-building; academic welcome, featuring messages from senior leadership and the SRC; vision walk and affirmation ceremony, anchoring personal purpose; school-based orientations, introducing academic cultures and expectations; teaching and learning sessions, covering advising, tutoring, mentoring and e-learning; campus tours and student affairs market, turning information into experience
Student leadership played a central role. SRC President Mthokozisi Dlamini addressed new students directly, reinforcing a message of belonging and earned opportunity. “Your presence here is not by chance,” he said. “You earned it, you deserve it, and you belong here.”
For many students, the impact was immediate. Brendon Ntlatlane Mabuse, a first-year Mathematical Sciences student, reflected on how orientation reshaped his confidence. “Orientation helped us overcome the fear of socialising and learn how to navigate campus independently. It also helped bridge cultural differences and made us feel included.”
Similarly, Buyile Mkhwanazi, a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) first-year student, highlighted the balance between guidance and motivation. “The programme showed us the level of support the institution provides, while also giving us direction and space to connect.”
The week concluded with campus-wide activities, sport and celebration, including a Super Cup final that drew students together beyond lecture halls and residences. Yet beneath the excitement ran a consistent theme: SMU expects excellence — and provides the structure to achieve it.
As the 2026 cohort steps fully into the academic year, the Orientation Programme served its purpose decisively. It replaced uncertainty with clarity, isolation with community, and anticipation with resolve. This was not just a welcome. It was a statement of intent.
By Tumelo Moila
