Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has reaffirmed its commitment to student-centred leadership and constructive engagement following an introductory meeting between its executive management and the newly elected 2027 Student Representative Council (SRC). The meeting laid the groundwork for collaboration, strengthened communication, and identified key priorities affecting the student community.
The engagement gave incoming student leaders an opportunity to raise concerns, highlight areas needing attention, and discuss ways to improve the university experience. SRC members welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with management and committed themselves to working collaboratively to ensure that student needs remain central to institutional dialogue.
Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof Dini Mawela welcomed the incoming representatives and assured them of management’s willingness to work with the SRC to address student matters. She encouraged the student leaders to view their tenure as an opportunity for personal development, leadership growth and empowerment, urging them to approach their responsibilities with a commitment to learning, collaboration and constructive engagement.
Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation Prof Douglas Maleka echoed this message, encouraging the SRC members to use their tenure to strengthen their leadership capabilities and gain experience that would benefit them beyond university. Drawing on his experience as a former SRC member, he highlighted the value of student representation in developing leadership skills and preparing young people for future responsibilities.
The executive management delegation also included Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic and Community Engagement Dr Alufheli Edgar Nesamvuni; Acting Executive Director: Human Capital and Transformation Prof Mala Singh; Acting Registrar Sello Simon Mokoena; Acting Chief Financial Officer Mahlatholle Masha; and Acting Executive Director of Student Affairs Tulani Nkuntse.
To prepare the incoming council for its responsibilities, Deputy Director of Student Affairs Themba Khumalo confirmed that the university would arrange a formal induction programme. The programme will familiarise SRC members with their respective roles, university policies, procedures and governance structures, equipping them to represent their constituencies effectively and engage management on matters affecting students.
Speaking on behalf of the incoming student leadership, Deputy President General Tiyani Chantell Mangena described the meeting as fruitful. She thanked them for the opportunity to interact directly with university leadership and emphasised the importance of maintaining constructive working relationships to ensure student concerns are heard and addressed.
Led by President General Onismus Mamokwa Maelane, the 2027 SRC comprises representatives across leadership, student affairs and academic portfolios. The executive committee includes Mangena, Secretary General Ntsakelo Manganyi, Deputy Secretary General Itumeleng Techron Marule and Treasurer General Sedume Palesa Makgoale.
Other portfolio representatives are Kgwadi Manamela (Culture, Religion and Gender), Letlhogonolo Ndukule (Residence and Safety), Maite Prudence Seabi (Sport and Recreation), and Philasande Radebe (Projects and Campaigns). Academic representation includes Nkosinathi Michael Nkabinde (School of Medicine), Ace Junior Netshipale (School of Dentistry), Linda Tshepo Alfred Maputla (School of Health Care Sciences), Confidence Malebese Chego (School of Sciences and Technology) and Mihlali Ngcebetsha (School of Pharmacy). Zinhle Felicia Mahlangu will serve as Postgraduate Officer.
The engagement underscored the importance of open communication, accountability and cooperation between university management and student leadership. Through meaningful consultation and informed representation, the SRC will play an important role in conveying student concerns and contributing to discussions on academic life, campus facilities and student welfare.
As the incoming council prepares to serve the university community in 2027, SMU remains committed to fostering an inclusive, student-centred environment that supports academic excellence, leadership development and institutional progress. The partnership between management and the SRC will be important in advancing the university’s mission of excellence in health sciences education, innovative research and service to society.
By Dimakatso Modise
