by Lorato | Feb 17, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
A spirit of celebration and scholarly distinction filled the air as academic excellence took centre stage at a prestigious handover ceremony hosted by the School of Science and Technology at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). The occasion marked a significant milestone in the University’s enduring partnership with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), underscoring a shared commitment to advancing student success, innovation, and capacity development within the health sciences sector.
The ceremony formally acknowledged SAHPRA’s generous sponsorship towards the Dean’s Excellence Awards, through which high-performing students were awarded laptops to support their academic and research pursuits. The initiative reflects a strategic alignment between academia and regulatory institutions in cultivating a scientifically competent and ethically grounded workforce.
Professor Sechene Stanley Gololo, Deputy Dean of the School of Science and Technology, expressed profound gratitude for SAHPRA’s contribution and reaffirmed the value of collaborative partnerships. “Compliments of the new season. On behalf of the School of Science and Technology, please accept our sincere appreciation for SAHPRA’s generous sponsorship towards the Dean’s Excellence Awards. Your contribution is both commendable and impactful, as it meaningfully advances our shared commitment to student success, excellence, and capacity development,” he said.
Prof Gololo further highlighted the symbolic and practical importance of the handover ceremony. “To formally acknowledge this support, we deeply value the presence of SAHPRA representatives at the official handover of the laptops to the award recipients. Such engagements reinforce the strategic alignment between academia and regulatory bodies in shaping a responsive and competent scientific workforce,” he added.
Four outstanding students were recognised during the ceremony for their exemplary academic achievements. Nkosi Lindokuhle, a Bachelor of Science (Extended Curriculum Programme) undergraduate student, was honoured for academic merit and perseverance. Pitse Thulaganyo was celebrated as the Bachelor of Science (Honours) Overall Achiever 2025, while Kekana Tumisho received recognition as Master of Science Overall Achiever 2025. In a remarkable demonstration of research innovation, Lekgoathi Thabo Lesiba was acknowledged as Patent Holder of the Year 2025.
In line with principles of transparency and responsible stewardship, the School confirmed that four laptops were distributed at the ceremony. The remaining laptop will be retained in the Dean’s Office and allocated to a subsequent approved student support initiative, of which SAHPRA will be duly notified.
Zingisa Nodada and Khanyisile Mabuza, SAHPRA Learning and Development Specialists, delivered compelling reflections on the partnership with the University, particularly the School of Science and Technology. They emphasised that their collaboration is anchored in strengthening regulatory science, promoting skills development, and ensuring that graduates are equipped to contribute meaningfully to national health priorities.
The SAHPRA representatives noted that investing in students extends beyond financial sponsorship; it is an investment in the intellectual capital that will sustain and transform the country’s health regulatory landscape. Their remarks reaffirmed SAHPRA’s commitment to long-term academic partnerships that bridge theory and practice while nurturing excellence.
Dr Baratwa Moema, Operations Manager of the School of Science and Technology, also extended heartfelt appreciation to SAHPRA for its sustained support over the years. She acknowledged that the partnership has evolved into a dynamic and mutually beneficial relationship grounded in trust and shared vision. Dr Moema expressed optimism that the collaboration will continue to flourish, opening new avenues for student empowerment and institutional growth.
The handover ceremony thus symbolised more than the presentation of technological tools; it represented a deliberate investment in academic distinction and future innovation. Through strategic collaboration, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and SAHPRA are collectively shaping a generation of scientists equipped with the knowledge, skills, and resources required to advance health sciences in South Africa and beyond.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Feb 16, 2026 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Thohoyandou Primary School in Gauteng Province, Saulsville West, recently hosted an environmental education outreach programme that brought together young learners and student volunteers for a day of hands-on learning. The initiative, organised by the Green Campus Initiative of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) in collaboration with Miss Earth South Africa, focused on teaching learners the importance of caring for their environment through practical action.
The day began with an interactive discussion where learners were encouraged to think about how their daily habits affect their surroundings. Topics included littering, recycling, water conservation, and the protection of green spaces, creating a platform for learners to reflect on their role in preserving the environment.
Tshiamo Morare, Miss Earth titleholder and founder of My Sister Foundation, addressed the learners on environmental stewardship. She emphasised the value of starting awareness at a young age.
“Environmental awareness must start while children are still young,” she said. “When learners understand that their everyday choices matter, they begin to see themselves as part of the solution. Protecting our environment is not a once-off event; it is a lifelong responsibility.”
Following the discussion, learners participated in a hands-on planting session in the school garden, coordinated by Tshepo Ntlemeza and Atlegang Leeuw, alongside SMU student volunteers. Together, they prepared the soil, planted seedlings, and learned basic gardening skills. The activity not only enhanced the school garden but also provided practical knowledge that learners could apply at home.
The outreach also included a clean-up campaign around the school grounds, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a healthy and safe learning environment. Armed with gloves and refuse bags, learners enthusiastically collected litter and helped restore the school’s neatness.
The atmosphere was energetic and engaging, with learners actively participating in every activity. Their excitement was particularly evident during the planting session.
Tshego Motsayi, the currently elected Chairlady of the Green Campus Initiative, reflected on the experience.
“What stood out most for me was the eagerness of the learners to take part in the planting activity,” she said. “Their enthusiasm confirmed something powerful: children do not just learn by listening, they learn by doing.
“By involving them directly in preparing the soil and planting seedlings, we moved beyond theory and gave them a practical experience. The goal was not only to plant in the garden, but to plant skills, responsibility, and environmental awareness in the learners themselves.
“When young people are trusted with action, they rise to the occasion. That is how we begin building a generation that values and protects its environment.”
Lehlogonolo Makina, an active member of the Green Campus Initiative, shared his reflections as well. “Seeing the children so happy while planting the vegetables brought me joy,” he said. “It felt like we were planting more than just plants. We were planting hope and responsibility. Moments like these remind us that giving back strengthens both the community and ourselves.”
The outreach aimed to cultivate basic gardening skills, environmental awareness, and a sense of responsibility among the learners. More importantly, it demonstrated that meaningful change begins with practical education and collaborative partnerships.
Through initiatives such as this, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to promote sustainability not only on campus but also within the broader community. By empowering young learners with knowledge and hands-on experience, the University contributes to the development of environmentally conscious citizens who understand that caring for the planet starts with everyday actions.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Feb 15, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) reaffirmed its institutional leadership in community-centred health development during the Health Sector Stakeholders Summit held from 10 to 13 February 2026 under the theme “Strategic Collaboration for Sustainable Health Outcomes.” The four-day convergence brought together traditional authorities, government representatives, private sector companies, academics, health practitioners and community stakeholders in a unified effort to strengthen health systems, advance wellness and stimulate socio-economic progress in Tsitsing and neighbouring villages.
The summit coincided with the official launch of the Botsogo, Bophelo le Boitekanelo Summit 2026 by Kgosana Koketso Rakhudu of the Kgotla Ya Rakhudu, marking the commencement of a transformative partnership between traditional leadership and the university. In his opening address, Kgosana Rakhudu described the gathering as a watershed moment in the community’s developmental trajectory. “This summit represents hope translated into action,” he asserted. “It unites leadership, academia, business and the community in a shared commitment to improving health outcomes and securing a sustainable future for our villages.”
Anchored in a collaborative framework that integrates traditional leadership structures, government departments, academic institutions, non-governmental organisations, corporate partners and community formations, the initiative seeks to position Tsitsing as a demonstrative site for community-based health innovation. The active involvement of several companies underscored the growing recognition that sustainable health development requires public–private partnerships capable of mobilising financial resources, technical expertise and innovation. Through coordinated planning, evidence-driven research, capacity development and sustainable interventions, stakeholders aim to fortify primary healthcare systems, enhance service delivery efficiencies and generate enduring socio-economic dividends.
During the Stakeholder Pledge and Closing Remarks session, SMU formalised its commitment to the partnership, underscoring its enduring mandate of socially responsive scholarship. Representing the institution was Professor Mathildah Mokgatle, Head of the Department of Public Health. Prof. Mokgatle articulated the university’s conviction that sustainable transformation emerges from authentic collaboration across sectors. “As a university dedicated to advancing public health, we recognise that meaningful change occurs when institutions, business and communities work in concert,” she said. “SMU commits to supporting this ongoing partnership to strengthen local health systems and improve sustainable health outcomes.”
She further emphasised that the initiative would serve as a dynamic platform for community-based research, experiential student training and contextually relevant, evidence-based interventions. “Our responsibility transcends classroom instruction,” Prof. Mokgatle noted. “We must ensure that our research, training and service are intrinsically aligned with the lived realities of communities such as Tsitsing, thereby contributing directly to their health, dignity and overall wellbeing.”
A defining feature of the summit was the unveiling of the 3B’s conceptual framework — Botsogo, Bophelo le Boitekanelo — spearheaded by Evah Molapisi, Lecturer in Community Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation at SMU. Molapisi elucidated that the framework encapsulates an integrated vision of health, life and holistic wellness as interdependent pillars of community advancement. “Botsogo speaks to health, Bophelo to life, and Boitekanelo to comprehensive wellness,” she explained. “These principles remind us that health is not merely the absence of illness, but the presence of empowerment, opportunity and human dignity.”
The 3B’s vision aspires to cultivate sustainable community–academic partnerships, advance Sustainable Development Goal 3 on Good Health and Well-being, stimulate youth participation in health professions and establish a viable community-based platform for student training and service delivery. By embedding academic expertise within community contexts while drawing on the innovation and support of corporate stakeholders, the initiative seeks to bridge the divide between theory and practice, ensuring that scholarship translates into measurable social impact.
Complementing the health systems discourse, Moagisi Edwin Seleka, Senior Lecturer and Head of Department at SMU, contributed a reflective exploration of the therapeutic dimensions of arts and bibliotherapy. Dr Seleka illuminated the intricate interrelationship between mental and physical health, underscoring the physiological benefits of creative engagement. “The body and mind function synergistically,” he observed. “Music and humour stimulate the release of endorphins, thereby alleviating pain and mitigating stress.”
Expanding on the transformative potential of reading and artistic expression, he added, “To read is to journey beyond one’s immediate circumstances; it is to encounter new perspectives and possibilities. Creative expression enlarges the imagination, fosters emotional resilience and facilitates psychological restoration.” His insights reinforced the summit’s holistic orientation, recognising that sustainable health outcomes necessitate attention to both corporeal and psychosocial dimensions of wellbeing.
As proceedings concluded, the Health Sector Stakeholders Summit emerged as a seminal platform for structured, long-term collaboration. By harmonising academic rigour, traditional governance, corporate participation and community engagement, the initiative presents a replicable model for inclusive, sustainable health development. Through its active involvement and formal pledge, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to advancing equitable health outcomes and fostering resilient communities across South Africa.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Feb 5, 2026 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) launched its 2026 academic year with a high-energy, purpose-driven Orientation Programme for first-time entering (FTEN) students, signalling not just the start of university life, but the beginning of a demanding and transformative journey in the health sciences.
Held over five days, the programme was designed to do one thing exceptionally well: equip new students to succeed. From the moment students arrived on campus, the message was clear — orientation was not optional window dressing, but a strategic foundation for academic focus, belonging and resilience.
Welcoming students, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus, described the moment as both significant and symbolic. “SMU was established with a clear mandate: to educate future health sciences professionals who will serve society with excellence, integrity and compassion,” she said. “By joining this institution, you formally become part of that mission.”
The programme combined institutional clarity with emotional resonance. An academic procession, performances by the SMU Choir, and a candlelight Vision Walk reinforced a shared sense of purpose, while practical sessions tackled the realities of university life head-on.
Orientation activities were structured to address students’ most pressing challenges — understanding academic expectations, accessing support services, navigating campus systems and building social confidence. According to Tulani Nkuntse, Director: Student Affairs, orientation was intentionally designed to remove uncertainty early. “If students know where to go, who to ask and what is expected, they start stronger and stay focused,” he noted.
Key programme highlights included residence day, focused on settling in, safety, and community-building; academic welcome, featuring messages from senior leadership and the SRC; vision walk and affirmation ceremony, anchoring personal purpose; school-based orientations, introducing academic cultures and expectations; teaching and learning sessions, covering advising, tutoring, mentoring and e-learning; campus tours and student affairs market, turning information into experience
Student leadership played a central role. SRC President Mthokozisi Dlamini addressed new students directly, reinforcing a message of belonging and earned opportunity. “Your presence here is not by chance,” he said. “You earned it, you deserve it, and you belong here.”
For many students, the impact was immediate. Brendon Ntlatlane Mabuse, a first-year Mathematical Sciences student, reflected on how orientation reshaped his confidence. “Orientation helped us overcome the fear of socialising and learn how to navigate campus independently. It also helped bridge cultural differences and made us feel included.”
Similarly, Buyile Mkhwanazi, a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) first-year student, highlighted the balance between guidance and motivation. “The programme showed us the level of support the institution provides, while also giving us direction and space to connect.”
The week concluded with campus-wide activities, sport and celebration, including a Super Cup final that drew students together beyond lecture halls and residences. Yet beneath the excitement ran a consistent theme: SMU expects excellence — and provides the structure to achieve it.
As the 2026 cohort steps fully into the academic year, the Orientation Programme served its purpose decisively. It replaced uncertainty with clarity, isolation with community, and anticipation with resolve. This was not just a welcome. It was a statement of intent.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Feb 5, 2026 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The School of Health Care Sciences (SHCS) officially welcomed its new cohort of first-time entering (FTEN) students during a recently held Orientation Programme, marking an important milestone in the academic journey of first-year students embarking on careers in the health sciences.
The programme aimed to introduce students to the culture, expectations and support systems of the SHCS, while fostering a strong sense of professional identity and belonging within the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) community. It also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to excellence in healthcare education and service to society.
The SHCS received 28 382 applications for just 245 available FTEN spaces across its undergraduate programmes, reflecting both the SMU’s strong reputation and the high demand for health sciences education. The breakdown of applications and available spaces was as follows:
- Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery: 15 058 applications (60 spaces)
- Bachelor of Science in Dietetics: 920 applications (40 spaces)
- Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy: 4 898 applications (60 spaces)
- Bachelor of Occupational Therapy: 3 358 applications (35 spaces)
- Bachelor of Audiology: 2 929 applications (25 spaces)
- Bachelor of Speech Language and Pathology: 1 219 applications (25 spaces)
Proceedings commenced with a formal welcome and the introduction of administrative staff by Dr Babalwa Vuyokazi Soga-Kamdem, Operations Manager of the SHCS, who highlighted the critical role of administration in supporting student success. “Our administrative teams are here to walk this journey with you,” said Dr Soga. “Never hesitate to seek guidance and support as you navigate university life.”
Addressing the students, Franco Baloyi, Student Representative Council (SRC) Chairperson for the SHCS, encouraged them to embrace the demands of healthcare training with commitment and integrity. “You are entering professions that require discipline, compassion and resilience,” he said. “The knowledge and values you gain here will not only shape your careers but also impact the lives of the communities you will serve.”
A comprehensive overview of the SHCS, including the introduction of Heads of Departments and a keynote address, was delivered by the Dean, Prof Douglas Maleka. He outlined the SHCS’s academic vision and emphasised the importance of future achievements. “Comfort zones and previous successes are the enemies of future achievement; students must let go of yesterday and focus on what lies ahead,” Prof Maleka said. “You are not just a number at SMU; you are a person with a face, a name and a future that matters. By choosing SMU, students have chosen a university committed to transforming health services through excellence and innovation. This is the beginning of a transformative journey where potential is nurtured, passion is ignited, and horizons are expanded.”
Further highlighting academic expectations, Senior Lecturer in the Occupational Therapy Department, Dr Hanlie Pitout, addressed the SHCS’s responsibilities in teaching and learning, stressing professionalism and accountability. “Academic excellence goes hand in hand with ethical conduct and consistent hard work,” she noted.
Student well-being was also a key focus of the programme. Tumisho Mokwele, a Clinical Facilitator in the Department of Nursing Science, presented on available student support services, reminding students that support extends beyond academics. “We recognise that student success is holistic,” she said. “Your mental, emotional and social well-being matter just as much as your academic performance.”
One of the most symbolic moments of the programme was the Oath Taking, led by Prof Maleka and Dr Andile Mokoena-de Beer, Acting Head of the Department of Nursing Science, reinforcing the ethical responsibilities associated with healthcare professions. “The oath you take today is a commitment to humanity,” said Dr Mokoena-de Beer. “It is a promise to serve with integrity, respect and compassion.”
The successful orientation programme underscored SMU’s dedication to preparing competent, ethical and socially responsive healthcare professionals ready to contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s health system.
By Tumelo Moila
