by Lorato | Jul 9, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has reaffirmed its commitment to global engagement and academic excellence following an internationalisation oversight visit by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) on Wednesday, 8 July 2026.
Held in the Vice-Chancellor’s Boardroom, the visit brought together representatives from DHET and SMU’s executive leadership to assess the University’s internationalisation strategy, review progress in implementing national policy and explore opportunities for greater collaboration across the higher education sector.
The engagement also coincided with the appointment of SMU’s Director of Internationalisation, Dr Carlien Jooste, to the DHET Reference Group tasked with developing the implementation strategy for South Africa’s Policy Framework for Internationalisation of Higher Education.
Welcoming the delegation, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic and Research Professor Douglas Maleka said internationalisation had become a critical pillar of institutional development and a key driver of academic and research excellence.
“Internationalisation is no longer optional for universities seeking to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world. It provides opportunities to strengthen academic quality, expand research collaborations and prepare graduates to contribute meaningfully in an interconnected global society,” he said.
Professor Maleka added that SMU’s internationalisation agenda remains firmly aligned with the University’s mandate of producing socially accountable healthcare professionals while responding to national and continental development priorities.
Presenting an overview of the University’s internationalisation strategy, Dr Jooste highlighted the work of the Directorate of Internationalisation and its contribution to advancing SMU’s global engagement agenda. She outlined the University’s expanding network of international partnerships, collaborative research initiatives and academic mobility programmes that continue to position SMU as an emerging global health sciences institution.
“Our internationalisation strategy is centred on creating meaningful partnerships that advance teaching, learning and research while ensuring that our initiatives contribute to both national priorities and global knowledge exchange,” she said.
Dr Jooste also reflected on the University’s progress in implementing the DHET Policy Framework for Internationalisation of Higher Education and identified opportunities for closer collaboration between universities and the Department to maximise the impact of international partnerships.
Leading the delegation was DHET Deputy Director for University Research Support and Policy Development, Dr Idah Makukule, who engaged with University leadership on policy implementation, governance and institutional readiness. Discussions focused on how higher education institutions can collectively strengthen internationalisation and ensure that global partnerships contribute to teaching and learning, research, innovation and community engagement.
Professor Mapaseka Seheri, SMU’s Director of Research and Innovation, underscored the importance of international research partnerships in addressing complex health challenges.
“International collaborations create valuable opportunities for knowledge exchange and scientific advancement. They enable researchers to work across borders and disciplines to develop solutions to some of society’s most pressing healthcare challenges,” she said.
The delegation also included Geoffrey Letsoalo, Executive Managing Director of Ywait Solutions and former CAS Pilot Operations Manager for DHET. Drawing on his extensive experience in higher education operations, Letsoalo engaged University representatives on various operational aspects of SMU’s internationalisation processes, prompting valuable discussions on governance and institutional systems.
A significant highlight of the visit was the recognition of Dr Jooste’s appointment to the DHET Reference Group. Her inclusion in this strategic advisory structure reflects national recognition of her expertise and affirms SMU’s growing contribution to shaping the future of higher education internationalisation in South Africa.
The appointment positions SMU at the forefront of national policy development and ensures that the University’s experiences and best practices will contribute to implementing the country’s internationalisation agenda.
The oversight visit concluded with a shared commitment between DHET and SMU to deepen collaboration in support of a coordinated, inclusive and sustainable approach to internationalisation. As the University continues to expand its global partnerships and contribute to national policy development, SMU remains steadfast in its mission of transforming health sciences education through innovation, collaboration and international excellence.
By Dimakatso Modise
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 9, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) reaffirmed its commitment to developing socially accountable and resilient healthcare professionals by hosting the I LEAD Panel Discussion Programme recently at the University’s New Auditorium. Held under the theme, Leading Together, Building Resilient Minds, Collaborative Teams, and Future Healthcare Leaders, the event brought together accomplished alumni, students, academics and healthcare professionals for an afternoon of meaningful dialogue on leadership and professional development.
The programme highlighted SMU’s dedication to producing graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also equipped with the leadership skills, emotional intelligence and collaborative mindset needed to navigate increasingly complex healthcare environments.
Welcoming attendees, Professor Honey Mabuza, Head of the Department of Professionalism, Medical Ethics and Clinical Integrated Programmes (POME) in the School of Medicine, emphasised the importance of nurturing healthcare professionals who lead with integrity and compassion.
“Technical competence alone is no longer sufficient in today’s healthcare landscape. We must develop professionals who can lead ethically, work collaboratively and respond effectively to the challenges facing our health systems,” she said.
Dr Nokufa Mnguni, POME 2 Coordinator, provided an overview of the programme and encouraged students to embrace opportunities for mentorship and continuous learning.
“Leadership is not developed overnight. It is cultivated through curiosity, meaningful engagement and the willingness to learn from those who have walked the path before you,” she said.
The highlight of the event was an engaging panel discussion facilitated by Dr Brenda Kubheka-Chauke, featuring four distinguished SMU alumni whose careers span various sectors of the healthcare industry. The panel comprised Dr Stan Moloabi, Principal Officer of the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS); Dr Inge Kleinhans, Public Health Medicine Specialist at SMU; Major General Dr Nsizwa Skosana, Deputy Surgeon General of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF); and Dr Molapane Chueu, Public Health Medicine Specialist at the Auditor-General of South Africa.
Drawing from their professional journeys, the panellists shared valuable lessons on resilience, ethical leadership and lifelong learning. They stressed that effective leadership extends beyond positions of authority and is rooted in accountability, empathy and a commitment to serving communities.
“The healthcare sector needs leaders who can work across disciplines and build partnerships that improve patient outcomes and strengthen health systems,” one panellist remarked.
One of the programme’s most impactful moments came during the interactive question-and-answer session, where students sought advice on career development, overcoming adversity and maintaining well-being in demanding professional environments. The panellists responded candidly, encouraging students to remain resilient, seek mentorship and continuously develop both their clinical and interpersonal skills.
Representing the student body, second-year MBChB POME Student Leader Mogau Matlanyane expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with accomplished alumni.
“Hearing the experiences of these professionals has broadened our understanding of leadership and inspired us to pursue excellence in every aspect of our future careers,” he said.
The programme also acknowledged the valuable partnership with GEMS, whose support reinforced the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in advancing healthcare education and leadership development.
Certificates were presented to student leaders in recognition of their commitment to academic excellence, peer support and responsible leadership within the University community.
As the event concluded, attendees continued networking over refreshments in an atmosphere of optimism and inspiration. The I LEAD Panel Discussion Programme served as a powerful reminder that leadership is shaped through mentorship, shared experiences and collaboration. By connecting students with accomplished alumni and industry leaders, SMU continues to strengthen its mission of developing visionary healthcare professionals who are prepared to lead meaningful change in South Africa’s healthcare sector and beyond.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jul 9, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
A delegation of MBChB students from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has returned inspired after attending the 53rd Surgical Research Society of Southern Africa (SRSSA) Conference, hosted by the University of the Witwatersrand’s Department of Surgery.
The delegation comprised third-, fourth- and fifth-year medical students who attended through the support of the School of Medicine Deanery Office under the leadership of Professor Risenga Chauke. Their participation reflects SMU’s commitment to developing future clinician-scientists, researchers and healthcare leaders.
The annual SRSSA Conference is one of Southern Africa’s premier academic surgical gatherings, bringing together surgeons, researchers, clinician-scientists and medical students to present and discuss original surgical research. This year’s scientific programme covered trauma, gastrointestinal, vascular, paediatric, breast, hepatopancreatobiliary and orthopaedic surgery, among other specialities, while providing a dedicated platform for medical student research presentations.
Representing SMU were fifth-year students Vumbhoni Mahlaule and Tshepiso Maredi, fourth-year students Albert Sebulela and Thapelo Mthimunye, and third-year student Thabiso Seerane.
The students had the opportunity to learn from internationally respected experts, including Professor Zach Koto, President of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa; Professor Thifhelimbilu Luvhengo, President of the SRSSA; Professor Tom Varghese from the United States; Professor Craig McBride from Australia; Dr Daryll Baker from the United Kingdom; and Professor Rachel Hargest from the United Kingdom.
Addressing delegates, Professor McBride encouraged aspiring surgeons to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, saying, “We’ve not gotten this far to only get this far.” Professor Luvhengo welcomed the strong participation of medical students, describing them as the future of surgery.
Dr Mthembu also commended SMU’s representation, saying: “The future of Surgery at SMU is in the correct trajectory. It was heartwarming to see SMU Medical Students from 3rd year, 4th year and 5th year of study participating in the scientific programme of the Surgical Research Society.”
Adding to the University’s achievements, SMU-trained general surgeon Dr W. Vosloo received an award for his presentation on the patient profile and socioeconomic impact of chronic venous disease at a tertiary hospital in Gauteng, highlighting the quality and impact of SMU alumni in surgical research.
For the students, the conference provided invaluable exposure to cutting-edge research and evidence-based surgical practice.
Fifth-year student and School of Medicine SRC Chairperson Vumbhoni Mahlaule said, “The conference serves as an inspiration of what I aspire to become: an exceptional clinician surgeon with a strong passion for research and academia. The future of surgery is safeguarded by research and evidence-based medicine.”
Fourth-year student Albert Sebulela said the conference reinforced that research remains the cornerstone of surgical practice and strengthened his aspiration to make a meaningful contribution through surgery and research.
Reflecting on the experience, fourth-year student Thapelo Mthimunye said the conference broadened his understanding of surgical innovation and reinforced the importance of integrating research, leadership and lifelong learning into clinical medicine.
Third-year student Thabiso Seerane said the conference strengthened his ambition to become a surgeon who combines clinical excellence with research and academic leadership, adding that he left inspired by surgeons who continue to seek better answers while investing in the next generation.
The conference reaffirmed that the future of surgery depends on innovation, collaboration and evidence-based medicine. Through continued support from the School of Medicine Deanery, SMU remains committed to producing graduates who are not only skilled clinicians but also researchers, academics and healthcare leaders dedicated to improving patient care in South Africa and beyond.
By Tumelo Moila
