Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has strengthened its commitment to developing South Africa’s future healthcare workforce through its participation in the Kutlwanong Investec Maths and Science Initiative Winter School, an outreach programme that inspires high-performing Grade 12 learners to pursue careers in science and the health professions.
Recently held at Makgetsi High School in Hammanskraal, the winter school brought together top-performing learners from 22 high schools across the Tshwane North District. The programme focused on improving competencies in Mathematics and Physical Sciences while exposing learners to higher education opportunities and career pathways in critical skills sectors.
Representing SMU were the Coordinator: Student Recruitment, Collins Mangena, and two recent graduates, Unathi Ndhlovu and Kgothatso Malebane. Ndhlovu graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy in 2025, while Malebane completed a Bachelor of Diagnostic Radiography in the same year. Both are currently undertaking their community service at Jubilee District Hospital in Hammanskraal. In a poignant full-circle moment, Ndhlovu returned to the programme as a former beneficiary of the Investec Kutlwanong initiative.
During the engagement, SMU provided learners with information on its academic programmes, admission requirements, bursary opportunities and student support services. Learners also gained valuable insights into careers in dentistry, health care sciences, medicine, pharmacy and science & technology.
Edith Seabi, Centre Manager of the Kutlwanong Maths, Science and Technology Centre, said the winter school forms part of the renowned Promaths Programme, an award-winning national initiative launched in 2005 through a partnership between Investec and the Kutlwanong Centre.
“Over the past two decades, the programme has empowered thousands of learners by improving Mathematics and Science performance, strengthening critical thinking skills and opening doors to higher education opportunities,” said Seabi. “It continues to play a vital role in developing South Africa’s future professionals, innovators and leaders.”
Mangena said SMU’s participation extended beyond student recruitment and reflected the university’s commitment to investing in the country’s future healthcare workforce.
“By connecting with academically gifted learners at an early stage, we are helping to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity,” he said. “We want young people to see themselves as future doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, radiographers, pharmacists, scientists and public health professionals who will one day serve their communities.”
South Africa continues to face a growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals, making initiatives that encourage learners to pursue careers in health sciences increasingly important. Through strategic partnerships and targeted engagement initiatives, SMU continues to expand access to health sciences education and attract academically strong, service-oriented students.
The event also highlighted the aspirations of learners who have already applied to study at SMU in 2027. Onalenna Mokhabelai from Steve Bikoville Secondary School has applied for the Bachelor of Diagnostic Radiography, while Lesedi Malatjie from Botse Botse Secondary School has applied for the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB).
“Studying at SMU has always been one of my goals,” said Mokhabelai. “I am excited about the opportunity to pursue Diagnostic Radiography and look forward to becoming part of the SMU family in 2027.”
Malatjie said pursuing medicine at SMU would bring her closer to achieving her dream of serving communities through healthcare.
“Applying for the MBChB programme is the first step towards making a meaningful contribution to society,” she said. “I will continue working hard academically to achieve my goal.”
As applications for the 2027 academic year approach the 31 July closing date, SMU remains steadfast in its mission to transform health services through excellence and innovation, while nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals who will contribute to a resilient and equitable healthcare system in South Africa.
By Tumelo Moila
