On Wednesday, 24 June 2026, the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) community, joined by leaders from higher education, government, the health sector, and partner institutions, gathered at the SMU Sports Complex for a memorial service honouring the life and legacy of Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus. A profound sense of reflection and collective gratitude marked the occasion as mourners paid tribute to a pioneering academic leader, renowned researcher, and the University’s first female Vice-Chancellor, whose vision, leadership, and service left an enduring mark on both the institution and South Africa’s higher education landscape.
The memorial service brought together staff, students, alumni, family members, friends, and national and international stakeholders in a solemn yet celebratory atmosphere. It was a moment defined not only by grief but also by deep appreciation for a life marked by intellectual excellence, scientific contribution, and transformative leadership in higher education.
Opening the service, Acting Vice-Chancellor of SMU, Professor Dini Mawela, paid tribute to Matsha-Erasmus as a visionary leader whose impact is permanently embedded in the university’s identity and trajectory. “We are not only gathered to mourn a loss, but to honour a legacy that continues to define who we are as a university,” said Mawela.
She reflected on Matsha-Erasmus’ pivotal role in shaping SMU during its formative years, noting that her leadership provided stability, direction, and an uncompromising commitment to excellence.
“Professor Matsha-Erasmus led with conviction and quiet strength. She carried this institution with a sense of purpose that never wavered, even in the most challenging moments,” she said. Mawela emphasised that the late Vice-Chancellor set exceptional academic and institutional standards that continue to guide the university.
“She reminded us that building a university is not about structures alone, but about people, values and a shared commitment to excellence. Those standards remain our responsibility to uphold,” she added.
SMU Chancellor, Dr Penny Moumakwa, described her as a principled and resilient leader who ensured institutional stability while advancing a long-term vision for the university’s growth and sustainability.
The University Council acknowledged her strong governance leadership, highlighting her commitment to transformation, accountability, and institutional development. A distinguished scholar and internationally respected researcher, Matsha-Erasmus supervised and mentored more than 60 postgraduate and postdoctoral researchers, including honours, master’s, doctoral, and postdoctoral students—leaving a generational academic footprint across the health sciences field.
Her scholarly contribution was equally remarkable. She published over 180 peer-reviewed scientific papers, which have collectively received more than 43,000 citations, positioning her as a leading voice in cardiometabolic and vascular health research.
Beyond SMU, her research leadership extended across institutions. According to her husband, Emeritus Professor Rajiv Erasmus, she established the Vascular and Metabolic Health Study and the MRC Research Unit on Cardiometabolic Health at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, strengthening South Africa’s research capacity in chronic disease and metabolic health.
Sectoral and stakeholder tributes further reflected her far-reaching influence. Universities South Africa (USAf), represented by CEO Dr Phethiwe Matutu, recognised her contribution to strengthening collaboration within the national higher education system. The University of Limpopo, represented by Vice-Chancellor Dr Jeffery Mabelebele, described her as a respected colleague whose collegial spirit strengthened institutional partnerships and advanced cross-university collaboration.
International tributes from Universidade Wutivi (UniTiva), delivered by Vice-Chancellor Dr Domingos Tivane, highlighted her role in advancing African academic cooperation. The Department of Higher Education and Training acknowledged her contribution to policy engagement and sector development.
The SMU Senate tribute, delivered by Professor Risenga Chauke, honoured her dedication to academic excellence and research advancement. The Institutional Forum, represented by Dr Abongile Bele, reflected on her inclusive leadership style and her commitment to participatory governance.
A deeply moving family tribute was delivered by Emeritus Professor Rajiv Erasmus, husband of Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus, who offered a personal reflection on her life beyond academia. “She was full of life,” he said, describing her as a woman of warmth, strength, humour, and deep devotion to family.
“To many, she was a Vice-Chancellor, a leader and a trailblazer. To us, she was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and the heart of our family.” His words revealed a deeply personal dimension of a leader widely admired in academia, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
Across all tributes, a consistent narrative emerged: the late VC was a transformational leader whose legacy is defined by both institutional impact and scientific excellence. Her contributions to research, mentorship, and higher education leadership continue to shape disciplines and institutions far beyond SMU.
As the university moves forward, her legacy remains firmly embedded in its identity, culture, and future direction. The foundations she built continue to guide SMU’s pursuit of excellence, innovation, and global relevance.
The Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University extends its deepest gratitude to all who participated in the memorial service and to those who continue to honour her life and legacy. Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus leaves behind a legacy defined not only by leadership but also by knowledge, humanity, and an enduring contribution to science and society.
By Dimakatso Modise
