by Lorato | Jul 9, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Master of Pharmacy student Mahlorhi Baloyi has earned national recognition after representing the University with distinction at the prestigious Siyaphumelela 2026 Conference, recently held at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg.
Hosted under the theme, “Reimagining Student Success and Expanding Opportunity for All,” the conference brought together more than 500 delegates, including university executives, academics, researchers, policymakers, student success practitioners and development partners to share evidence-based strategies that strengthen student success and institutional transformation across South Africa’s higher education sector.
Baloyi was selected to deliver a 30-minute Evidence-Based Sharing presentation titled “Problem-Based Learning in Health Sciences for Student Success and Equity.” His presentation was accepted through a rigorous peer-review process in which more than 200 proposals were submitted nationally, with only about 100 selected for the conference programme.
His presentation demonstrated how Problem-Based Learning can strengthen critical thinking, collaborative learning, student engagement and academic success in health sciences education. It further highlighted how innovative teaching approaches can create more equitable learning environments while preparing future healthcare professionals to address increasingly complex health challenges.
In recognition of his contribution, Baloyi received a Speaker Recognition Badge for contributing to the national dialogue on student success.
His impact extended beyond the presentation room. Throughout the conference, he actively participated in plenary discussions, workshops, networking sessions and collaborative learning activities. His exceptional engagement earned him the Number One position on the Siyaphumelela Leadership Board, recognising his active participation and leadership throughout the conference.
The conference also provided opportunities to engage with distinguished scholars, university leaders, policymakers and student success practitioners from institutions across the country. These interactions fostered valuable professional networks and laid the foundation for future collaborations aimed at strengthening teaching, learning and student success.
SMU also received institutional recognition during the conference for the successful administration of the Institutional Capacity Assessment Tool (ICAT), reflecting the University’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity and embedding evidence-based initiatives that enhance student success.
Reflecting on the experience, Baloyi said, “The Siyaphumelela Conference was an inspiring platform that brought together individuals who are passionate about transforming higher education. Presenting my research while learning from leading experts across the country reinforced my belief that student success is achieved through collaboration, innovation, evidence-based practice and listening to the student voice. The meaningful conversations and professional connections established during the conference have inspired me to continue contributing towards strengthening health sciences education and advancing SDG 4: Quality Education.”
Baloyi expressed appreciation to Dr Joshua Maliavusa and the sponsorship for enabling him to attend and present at the conference. He also thanked everyone who supported and encouraged him throughout the event.
Baloyi’s achievements reflect the calibre of SMU’s postgraduate students and the University’s commitment to academic excellence, research, leadership and innovation. By showcasing his research, contributing to national discussions on student success and building meaningful collaborations, he has further strengthened SMU’s reputation as a leading institution in health sciences education while demonstrating the transformative impact of postgraduate scholarship.
This version follows a professional media style suitable for publication on a university website, in newspapers, and for distribution as a press release. It prioritises the news, reduces repetition, improves flow, and concludes with a strong institutional significance statement.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jul 9, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Adverts
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to demonstrate its global impact in health sciences education through the remarkable achievements of alumnus and current PhD candidate Thabo Sekwati, who recently served as the physiotherapist for the South Africa national football team, popularly known as Bafana Bafana, during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Sekwati was part of the national team’s medical staff as Bafana Bafana made history by reaching the last 32 knockout stage of the tournament co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Originally from Mamone village in Limpopo’s Sekhukhune district, Sekwati’s journey to the world’s biggest football stage began at Tenyane Secondary School, where he completed his matric in 2006. He enrolled at the then University of Limpopo’s Medunsa Campus in 2007 before pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy in 2009. He later completed a Master of Science in Physiotherapy in 2019 and is currently pursuing a PhD at SMU, focusing on the development of a physiotherapy fatigue management protocol for footballers.
Reflecting on his academic journey, Sekwati credited SMU for laying the foundation for his professional success.
“The education I received at SMU played a crucial role in shaping my career by equipping me with the essential knowledge, skills and experience needed for the sports industry,” he said.
His rise to the national team is the result of years of dedication and continuous professional development. After joining the South African Football Association (SAFA) database in 2016, he completed specialised training, including the FIFA Online Football Medicine Diploma, while balancing other professional commitments.
His breakthrough came in 2018 when he received a call-up to serve the South African under-17 men’s team. Between 2018 and 2021, he worked with the under-17 and under-20 national teams before earning promotion to the senior Bafana Bafana squad under coach Hugo Broos.
“I was excited but also nervous. The pressure is immense at the senior national level, but once you understand that anatomy and physiology remain the same regardless of the level, everything falls into place,” he explained.
As part of the national team’s medical staff, Sekwati plays a vital role in ensuring players remain fit and match-ready. His responsibilities include injury assessments, treatment interventions, rehabilitation planning and working closely with team doctors, coaches and nutrition specialists to optimise player performance.
“Our day starts early with meetings to review player health, treatment plans and nutrition strategies. We conduct clinical assessments, provide treatments and ensure that players are physically prepared to perform at their best,” he said.
Among the greatest challenges he faces is managing multiple injuries during major tournaments while balancing the emotional well-being of athletes eager to compete.
“Players want to play, but sometimes their bodies do not cooperate. Managing their emotional and psychological well-being is just as important as treating the injury itself,” he noted.
Representing South Africa at the FIFA World Cup remains the pinnacle of his professional journey.
“It is a privilege to contribute to the success of our national team and to showcase the expertise that South African physiotherapists can offer on the global stage,” he said.
Despite his achievements, Sekwati remains focused on the future.
“I want to continue contributing to sports physiotherapy through research, innovation and mentorship. I also hope to establish a sports recovery centre that will help athletes reach their full potential while advancing the profession in South Africa,” he said.
Sekwati’s accomplishments embody SMU’s vision of transforming health services through excellence and innovation. His journey from a small village in Limpopo to the global stage of the FIFA World Cup highlights the University’s commitment to producing highly skilled healthcare professionals who continue to advance research, healthcare and human performance around the world.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jul 9, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and The Innovation Hub Management Company (TIHMC) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will strengthen innovation, entrepreneurship and healthcare technology development within South Africa’s township economy.
The three-year agreement establishes the physical presence of The Innovation Hub’s eKasiLab Ga-Rankuwa programme within the SMU ecosystem, creating a collaborative platform that connects academia, industry and government to accelerate enterprise development, skills training and the commercialisation of healthcare, medical and biotechnology innovations.
The partnership will leverage shared facilities, research and development resources, and innovation networks to transform research outcomes into practical solutions that address both healthcare and broader societal challenges. The initiative will be jointly overseen by Ms Naledi Mathole who currently oversees activities at SMU’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (CfERI), and TIHMC Manager for Partnerships, Mpho Mbonani.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mathole described the agreement as a strategic step towards strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship within the university and surrounding communities.
“The MoU establishes a strategic partnership between Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University and The Innovation Hub Management Company to strengthen innovation, entrepreneurship, skills development and the commercialisation of solutions that address healthcare and societal challenges,” she said.
Mathole added that the collaboration would provide students and staff with enhanced access to innovation programmes, mentorship opportunities, industry networks and incubation support.
“The partnership will support the development of student and staff start-ups, the commercialisation of research and intellectual property, and greater access to innovation ecosystems through investors and industry partners,” she said.
Professor Dini Mawela, SMU Acting Vice Chancellor, said the agreement aligns with the university’s vision of becoming an entrepreneurial institution that equips graduates with practical skills alongside academic excellence.
“We want all activities at SMU to point towards being an entrepreneurial university so that our students graduate with tangible, practical skills,” said Mawela. “Our students are discovering incredible things, and through initiatives such as innovation hackathons and programming competitions, we are encouraging them to transform creative ideas into solutions that can make a meaningful impact in society.”
A key objective of the partnership is to stimulate socio-economic development in Ga-Rankuwa, Mabopane and surrounding communities by creating pathways for local innovation and sustainable business growth.
TIHMC Area Innovation Manager for Township Economic Revitalisation, Buti Makama, highlighted the importance of building a self-sustaining healthcare innovation ecosystem that reduces reliance on imported interventions.
“SMU is producing the scientists, while we provide access to laboratories, capital and business expertise. Together, we are building an ecosystem that can develop local healthcare solutions and strengthen South Africa’s innovation capacity,” he said.
Acting Executive for Township Economy Revitalisation at The Innovation Hub, Kgaugelo Tsoka, said the partnership would expand opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators.
“By bringing together the strengths of SMU and eKasiLab, we are creating opportunities for young people, innovators and entrepreneurs to access the skills, support and networks they need to transform ideas into sustainable businesses and impactful solutions,” said Tsoka.
The agreement also promotes joint intellectual property development, strengthens compliance with data privacy requirements under the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act, and creates opportunities for new revenue streams through innovation and commercialisation.
As South Africa commemorates 50 years since the 1976 Youth Day uprisings, the partnership reflects SMU’s ongoing commitment to transforming health services through excellence and innovation. By empowering future scientists, entrepreneurs and healthcare leaders, the university continues to advance solutions that improve lives, strengthen communities and contribute to the country’s long-term development.
By Rose Moreki
by Lorato | Jul 2, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and the Royal Bafokeng Nation have strengthened their shared commitment to improving healthcare access, advancing medical education and empowering communities through the renewal of their longstanding Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).
The renewed partnership reinforces a strategic collaboration focused on expanding quality healthcare services, strengthening clinical training opportunities for future healthcare professionals and deepening community engagement initiatives that respond to the evolving health needs of communities served by the Royal Bafokeng Nation. It also aligns with SMU’s mission of transforming health services through excellence, innovation and socially accountable healthcare education.
The renewal discussions were led by the Dean of the SMU School of Medicine, Professor Risenga Chauke, and the Acting Managing Director of the Royal Bafokeng Nation, Mr Obakeng Petwe. The meeting reaffirmed both institutions’ shared vision of building healthier communities through sustainable partnerships that combine education, service delivery and community development.
Discussions centred on practical strategies to extend healthcare services to underserved communities while ensuring that SMU medical students receive high-quality clinical training in real-world healthcare environments. Both institutions agreed that strengthening academic-healthcare partnerships is essential for producing competent healthcare professionals capable of addressing South Africa’s growing healthcare challenges.
Professor Chauke said the renewed agreement reflects SMU’s unwavering commitment to developing healthcare professionals who are equipped to serve communities with compassion, competence and professionalism.
“This partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to improving the health and well-being of communities through collaborative action. By combining our expertise and resources, we are not only expanding access to quality healthcare services but also creating meaningful learning opportunities for our students. Community-centred healthcare remains at the heart of our mission, and this renewed agreement strengthens our ability to make a lasting impact.”
A key priority identified during the discussions was the expansion of primary healthcare services by bringing essential healthcare closer to communities. Both parties agreed that improving access to preventative healthcare, early diagnosis and primary care services is fundamental to reducing health inequalities, improving patient outcomes and strengthening community health over the long term.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of meaningful community engagement that places patients at the centre of healthcare delivery. Future collaboration will include career exhibitions designed to inspire learners to pursue careers in the health sciences, public health awareness campaigns promoting disease prevention and healthy lifestyles, and community-based screening programmes that support the early detection and management of common health conditions.
Recognising the shortage of healthcare professionals in many rural and underserved areas, SMU and the Royal Bafokeng Nation will also explore opportunities to expand specialised medical services into communities where access remains limited. This approach will not only improve healthcare equity but also expose students to diverse clinical environments that strengthen their practical skills, professional confidence and understanding of community healthcare.
The discussions further underscored the importance of maintaining existing and securing additional Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) accreditation for clinical training platforms. Expanding accredited training sites will ensure compliance with national healthcare education standards, strengthen clinical supervision and create additional placement opportunities for SMU students.
Mr Petwe said the Royal Bafokeng Nation values its longstanding relationship with SMU and remains committed to initiatives that create lasting benefits for local communities.
“Our partnership with Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University is founded on a shared responsibility to improve the quality of life of our communities. Renewing this agreement enables us to strengthen healthcare services, invest in the development of future healthcare professionals and ensure that our people continue to benefit from accessible, quality healthcare. Together, we are building a sustainable model of community healthcare that will serve future generations.”
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to renew the Memorandum of Agreement and continue strengthening collaboration in healthcare delivery, medical education and community engagement. As SMU continues to build strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, the university remains steadfast in its mission of advancing healthcare, producing highly skilled health professionals and driving sustainable solutions that improve the health and well-being of communities across South Africa.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jul 2, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Groundbreaking research by Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) exploring the role of exercise in supporting recovery from Nyaope addiction has earned continental recognition after being showcased at the prestigious World Physiotherapy Africa Region Congress 2026 in Kigali, Rwanda.
SMU Physiotherapy Lecturer Moitheki Evah Molapisi represented both the University and South Africa at the biennial congress, held recently, where she presented her research poster titled, From Addiction to Action: Restoring Physical Function in Nyaope Recovery through Exercise. She was accompanied by Professor Douglas Maleka, Dean of the School of Healthcare Sciences at SMU and her doctoral research supervisor.
The congress brought together physiotherapists, researchers, clinicians, educators, policymakers and healthcare leaders from across Africa to share knowledge, showcase innovative research and strengthen collaboration aimed at improving rehabilitation services throughout the continent.
Molapisi’s study addresses one of South Africa’s most pressing public health challenges by investigating how structured exercise programmes can enhance the physical functioning, mental well-being and overall quality of life of individuals recovering from Nyaope addiction. Her findings demonstrate that physiotherapy can play a vital role alongside conventional medical treatment and psychosocial support in promoting holistic recovery.
The research found that appropriately designed exercise interventions can significantly improve cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, functional capacity and social participation, helping individuals rebuild their health, confidence and independence after addiction.
Reflecting on the opportunity to present her work on an international platform, Molapisi described the experience as both professionally rewarding and personally meaningful.
“Representing Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University and South Africa at the World Physiotherapy Africa Region Congress was both an honour and a privilege. Sharing research that addresses one of our country’s most complex health challenges allowed me to demonstrate how physiotherapy can contribute meaningfully to addiction recovery. It was encouraging to see strong interest from delegates across Africa who recognised the value of exercise as an evidence-based intervention that complements existing rehabilitation programmes.”
Her presentation generated significant interest among delegates and sparked discussions on the importance of multidisciplinary approaches to addiction rehabilitation. Participants emphasised the growing need to integrate physiotherapy into comprehensive treatment programmes that address both the physical and psychological effects of substance use disorders.
Beyond presenting her research, Molapisi participated in scientific sessions covering neurological rehabilitation, musculoskeletal care, community-based rehabilitation, digital health, leadership, education, workforce development and public health. The congress also created opportunities to engage with leading rehabilitation experts and establish research collaborations across the African continent.
Professor Douglas Maleka said the recognition reflects the quality of scholarship emerging from SMU and the University’s commitment to solving real-world healthcare challenges through impactful research.
“Ms Molapisi’s work exemplifies the type of impactful research that Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University seeks to produce. By exploring innovative rehabilitation approaches for individuals recovering from substance use disorders, this research contributes not only to physiotherapy practice but also to broader public health interventions. We are proud to see our researchers representing South Africa on international platforms and contributing to scientific knowledge that has the potential to improve lives.”
The congress further highlighted Africa’s growing commitment to strengthening rehabilitation services, expanding research capacity and advancing evidence-based physiotherapy practice.
For Molapisi, the experience reaffirmed the importance of collaboration in addressing Africa’s healthcare priorities.
“This experience has strengthened my commitment to conducting research that translates into meaningful improvements in patient care and community health. It has also inspired future collaborations with colleagues across Africa as we continue exploring innovative rehabilitation strategies for vulnerable populations. Together, we can transform lives by moving people from addiction to action through the power of physiotherapy.”
The presentation further strengthens SMU’s international research profile and underscores the University’s commitment to advancing rehabilitation science, fostering innovation and improving health outcomes for communities in South Africa and across the African continent.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jun 30, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has earned global recognition for its contribution to advancing health and education after being ranked among the world’s Top 200 universities for Good Health and Well-being and Quality Education in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Rankings.
Released on 24 June 2026, the latest rankings mark SMU’s strongest performance to date and affirm its growing global impact in health sciences education and sustainable development. The achievement underscores the university’s rising international reputation for producing healthcare professionals, expanding access to quality education and creating meaningful impact in communities across South Africa and beyond.
SMU also improved its overall global position, advancing from the 1001–1500 band in 2025 to the 801–1000 band in 2026, with every Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) ranked recording an improvement over the previous reporting cycle.
Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Dini Mawela, says the rankings affirm SMU’s commitment to improving lives through health sciences education, research and community impact. “This recognition is an affirmation that our work is making a meaningful difference in society. As a specialised health sciences university, our purpose has always been to educate healthcare professionals, generate knowledge that addresses real-world challenges, and contribute to healthier, more equitable communities.”
Mawela adds: “Being recognised among the world’s Top 200 universities for Good Health and Well-being and Quality Education demonstrates that the impact of our staff, students, researchers, clinicians and partners extends far beyond our campuses. It reflects the collective commitment of the entire SMU community to excellence, innovation and service.”
The THE Sustainability Impact Rankings measure how universities contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through teaching, research, stewardship and community engagement. For a specialised health sciences university established just over a decade ago, SMU’s performance demonstrates that focused excellence can compete on the global stage.
The university’s strongest performance was recorded in SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, recognising its contribution to strengthening healthcare systems through the education of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists and allied health professionals. SMU also achieved a Top 200 global ranking for SDG 4: Quality Education, reflecting its commitment to widening educational access, developing future educators within the health professions and promoting lifelong learning.
Beyond these milestone achievements, SMU improved across all four SDGs ranked, including Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8) and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17), while increasing its overall score to 59.7 out of 100—its highest Sustainability Impact Rating to date.
Dr Carlien Jooste, Director: Internationalisation, says the rankings provide more than international recognition. “The THE Sustainability Rankings provide SMU with a valuable global benchmark that helps us measure our progress, identify areas for improvement, and strengthen our commitment to academic excellence and growth. The process encourages continuous reflection and innovation, ultimately helping us deliver a better experience for our students, staff and broader community.”
The achievement reflects SMU’s sustained investment in producing highly skilled healthcare professionals, advancing research that addresses national and global health priorities, strengthening partnerships and expanding educational opportunities that improve lives. It also reinforces the university’s vision of becoming a leading African health sciences university distinguished by excellence in teaching, research, innovation and community engagement.
Acting Director: Advancement and Communications, Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli, says the results provide an important opportunity to strengthen the University’s international reputation. “Independent global rankings provide credible evidence of institutional excellence. These results tell a powerful story of improved performance and a university whose impact is increasingly being recognised on the international stage,” she explains.
“For our students, alumni, staff, partners and prospective students, this achievement reinforces confidence that SMU is delivering education and research that matters globally while remaining deeply committed to addressing South Africa’s healthcare priorities. It is a story of purpose, progress and growing international recognition,” adds Mphaphuli.
As the world increasingly looks to universities to address society’s most pressing challenges, SMU’s latest global recognition affirms that its greatest contribution is not simply its ranking, but the lives it changes. From educating the next generation of healthcare professionals to advancing research that transforms communities, SMU continues to demonstrate that purpose-driven excellence can achieve global impact.
