Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has appointed Dr Velencia Maupye as Manager of its Transformation Office within the Human Capital and Transformation Department, reinforcing the university’s commitment to institutional transformation, diversity, inclusion and organisational development.
In her new role, Dr Maupye will lead the development and implementation of SMU’s transformation strategy, coordinate strategic initiatives, engage executive leadership and guide transformation governance structures. She will also support the Executive Director: Human Capital and Transformation in advancing the university’s transformation objectives and translating strategic priorities into measurable outcomes.
“Transformation must be embedded in the everyday practices, policies and culture of an institution. It requires collective commitment, meaningful engagement and sustained action to create an environment in which everyone is treated with dignity and respect,” Dr Maupye said.
Dr Maupye brings extensive experience in transformation management, gender mainstreaming, employment equity, organisational culture, and change management. Her career spans higher education and government, with expertise in policy development, stakeholder engagement, change management and institutional programme implementation.
She previously served as Head of Transformation at the University of Venda, where she provided strategic leadership on GBV and femicide, employment equity, diversity initiatives, change management and organisational culture transformation. Before that, she worked at SMU as Manager: Gender-Based Violence from December 2021 to June 2024 and served as Acting Manager: Transformation from December 2023 to June 2024.
Her earlier career includes positions at the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, National Treasury, the Department of Correctional Services and the Department of Social Development. These roles strengthened her experience in transformation, gender-responsive planning, employee wellness, diversity management and support for vulnerable groups.
“Effective transformation depends on policies being translated into practical interventions that address institutional challenges. Listening to stakeholders, using evidence to guide decisions and holding ourselves accountable for progress are essential to achieving sustainable change,” she said.
In her new position, Dr Maupye will work with deans, heads of departments, directors and managers to strengthen transformation policies, identify organisational challenges and promote a workplace culture aligned with SMU’s vision, mission and values.
Her qualifications include a Master of Arts in Social Work from the University of the Witwatersrand, a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from the University of Limpopo and a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management from MANCOSA. She also holds a Prosci Certified Change Practitioner qualification, obtained in 2025, and has completed several management and strategy development programmes.
Dr Maupye’s appointment reinforces SMU’s focus on building an accountable, inclusive and high-performing institution. Through effective transformation governance, stakeholder collaboration and evidence-based interventions, the university aims to strengthen its organisational culture while supporting staff and students.
As a dedicated health sciences university committed to excellence in teaching, learning and innovative research, SMU continues to position transformation as a critical component of its institutional development and its contribution to the health and well-being of the communities it serves.
By Tumelo Moila
