Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) reaffirmed its commitment to community engagement and social responsibility by commemorating Nelson Mandela International Day through a meaningful outreach programme at Kgatoentle Secondary School in Ga-Rankuwa. Staff and students from the School of Medicine, together with colleagues from the Advancement and Communications Department, Human Capital and Transformation Department, and Gardening Services, dedicated their 67 minutes to serving the school community, demonstrating the University’s enduring commitment to compassion, service and ubuntu.
The initiative formed part of the global observance of Nelson Mandela International Day, which encourages individuals and organisations to devote 67 minutes to acts of service in honour of the 67 years Nelson Mandela spent fighting for justice, equality and human dignity. Working side by side, participants shared their skills, offered practical assistance and engaged with learners and staff, reinforcing SMU’s belief that higher education institutions have a responsibility not only to educate future professionals but also to cultivate active citizens who contribute positively to society.
School of Medicine Operations Manager Monica Maseko said the outreach reflected the University’s commitment to making a meaningful difference in the communities it serves. “Nelson Mandela taught us that leadership is measured by service to others. Today, we came together not simply to fulfil our 67 minutes but to demonstrate our collective responsibility towards our communities. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, contributes towards building a stronger and more compassionate society.”
Maseko added that community engagement remains central to SMU’s mission of producing healthcare professionals who understand that serving humanity extends beyond the classroom and clinical environment.
Project and Communication Officer in the School of Medicine, Molatelo Ramokone, highlighted the importance of collaboration across the University to ensure the initiative’s success. “This initiative brought together colleagues from different departments and students from various disciplines with one shared purpose – giving back. It demonstrates that when we have resources and strengths, we create a lasting impact that extends well beyond a single day of service.”
She noted that Mandela Day provides institutions with an opportunity to reflect on their role in addressing social challenges and to strengthen relationships with surrounding communities.
Radiography lecturer Tebogo Baloyi said community service is an essential component of healthcare education because it teaches students the values that underpin professional practice. “As educators in the health sciences, we have a responsibility to model compassion, empathy and servant leadership. Our students learn not only through lectures and practical training but also by witnessing the value of serving communities with humility and respect. Mandela Day reminds us that healthcare begins with caring for people.”
For MBChB student Bonolo Malema, the outreach demonstrated that meaningful change begins with a willingness to serve. “Being part of this outreach has been both inspiring and humbling. It reminded me that making a difference does not always require extraordinary resources; it simply requires a willing heart. As future healthcare professionals, we must remember that our responsibility extends beyond hospitals and clinics into the communities we serve.”
The outreach strengthened partnerships between the University and the local community while inspiring staff and students to embrace active citizenship. By honouring Nelson Mandela’s legacy through practical acts of service, SMU continues to demonstrate that excellence in health sciences education is inseparable from compassion, social responsibility and a commitment to building healthier, stronger and more resilient communities.
By Dimakatso Modise
