by Lorato | Jul 22, 2026 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is celebrating a major sporting achievement after SMU Ladies Football Head Coach, Dorah Thorisa Mashigo, guided Team SA Women’s Football to a gold medal at the 2026 Confederation of Universities and Colleges Sports Association (CUCSA) Games in Gaborone, Botswana.
South Africa claimed a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Zambia in the final at the Lekidi Sports Complex, capping an impressive tournament campaign and reaffirming the country’s strength in university women’s football. The triumph marks another milestone in Mashigo’s coaching career and further enhances SMU’s reputation for developing leaders who excel beyond the university’s borders.
The women’s football competition featured six teams divided into two groups. Stream A consisted of hosts Botswana, Lesotho and Zimbabwe, while Stream B featured South Africa, Zambia and Malawi.
Team SA began their campaign in emphatic fashion with a 12–1 victory over Malawi before playing to a goalless draw against Zambia in their second group match. The results saw South Africa progress to the semi-finals, where they produced another commanding performance to defeat Botswana 3–0 and book their place in the gold medal match. In the final, Team SA faced Zambia once again and delivered an outstanding performance to secure a 2–1 victory and claim the CUCSA title.
Appointed as head coach only weeks before the tournament, Mashigo successfully united a squad comprising some of South Africa’s top university footballers and steered them to regional glory. The achievement highlights not only the quality of the players but also the discipline, professionalism and leadership that have become synonymous with her coaching philosophy.
Reflecting on the victory, Mashigo paid tribute to everyone who contributed to the team’s success.
“Firstly, I would like to thank God, the players, the technical team, and everyone who supported Team SA. Winning in Botswana was a proud moment for all of us. This victory is a testament to the hard work, discipline and commitment that the team displayed from the beginning of the tournament until the final whistle. We represented South Africa with pride, and bringing the trophy home is something we will always cherish.”
The road to the championship was far from straightforward. Team SA faced formidable opponents throughout the competition and had to adapt to unfamiliar conditions while maintaining focus under pressure. According to Mashigo, those challenges ultimately strengthened the squad and fostered an even greater sense of unity.
“The journey was not without challenges. We faced strong opposition, had to adapt to varying playing conditions, and endured moments of pressure when we had to remain mentally strong. However, every challenge became an opportunity for us to grow, and the players responded with courage and determination.”
Mashigo believes teamwork was the defining factor behind the team’s success, crediting every player, member of the technical team and support staff for embracing their responsibilities and working towards a shared goal.
“Teamwork was the foundation of our success. Every player, every member of the technical team, and every support staff member understood their role. We trusted one another, communicated well, and worked towards one common goal. Football is never about one individual; it is about the collective effort, and this victory belongs to everyone who contributed.”
The final against Zambia proved to be Team SA’s toughest assignment of the tournament, demanding resilience, tactical discipline and unwavering belief.
“The toughest game was the final against Zambia, where we were truly tested both physically and mentally. Our opponents pushed us to our limits, but our resilience, tactical discipline and belief in one another helped us overcome the challenge.”
Looking ahead, Mashigo sees the gold medal as the beginning of a new chapter for women’s football in South Africa.
“This victory is only the beginning. We want to continue building on this success, develop more talented players and ensure that Team SA remains competitive on the international stage. We hope this achievement inspires young athletes across South Africa to believe in themselves, work hard and pursue excellence.”
The achievement is a proud moment for the entire SMU community and reflects the university’s commitment to excellence, leadership and student development. By producing coaches and athletes who continue to excel on regional and international platforms, SMU is strengthening its reputation as a university that transforms lives through education, sport and innovation.
By Rose Moreki
by Lorato | Jul 22, 2026 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has received support from retail giant Shoprite to expand its Student Gardening Project through a partnership with Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA), a move aimed at strengthening food security and empowering students and surrounding communities.
The partnership will see the university establish and develop a sustainable community food garden at its campus, with Shoprite providing support through FTFA, its implementing partner. The initiative forms part of Shoprite’s broader efforts to combat hunger and promote sustainable food production across South Africa.
Under the agreement, the SMU Student Gardening Project will receive training, resources, equipment and technical support to develop a flourishing permaculture garden that is expected to serve as both a source of food and a centre for learning and community engagement.
A Shoprite representative, Msizi Hlongwane, said the project aligns with the retailer’s long-standing commitment to addressing food insecurity. “As part of our commitment to fight hunger, the Shoprite Group partners with a number of community food gardens to take them from small gardens to flourishing, sustainable food sources. This is one of the ways in which we Act for Change,” the representative said.
The project is being spearheaded by SMU horticulturist Mpho Mmako, who will serve as the primary contact person and coordinator for the initiative.
According to the agreement, all participants in the Student Gardening Project will undergo training and contribute their time voluntarily to ensure the long-term sustainability of the garden. Any income generated from the sale of produce will be reinvested in the project to support reconstruction, restocking, equipment purchases, and further training opportunities.
Mmako said the initiative had the potential to create meaningful change beyond the university campus. “Together we’re helping to bring about change, one food garden at a time,” he said.
Beyond food production, the project seeks to position the SMU garden as a demonstration site that can inspire and support similar initiatives in neighbouring communities. The university has also committed to hosting project events, inviting schools and community organisations to visit the garden and offering permaculture training opportunities.
FTFA will oversee the management of funds provided by Shoprite and will be responsible for implementing the project in accordance with the approved proposal and budget. The organisation will also design and implement the garden, procure materials and equipment, provide educational resources and facilitate a series of workshops and training sessions.
As part of its responsibilities, FTFA will monitor and evaluate the project throughout its implementation and provide regular progress reports to Shoprite.
The university, in turn, will provide written reports, photographs and feedback to demonstrate the project’s impact and raise awareness of food security interventions in South Africa.
The project is scheduled to commence in July 2026, following the signing of the agreement, and will run until August 2026. Shoprite and FTFA will also be invited to attend the official launch of the garden and may visit the site at any time during the implementation period.
The partnership is expected to make a meaningful contribution to food security, environmental sustainability and community development while equipping students with practical agricultural skills and experience.
Through this collaboration, SMU joins a growing network of community food gardens supported by Shoprite and Food & Trees for Africa, highlighting the importance of partnerships in addressing hunger and creating sustainable livelihoods across the country.
By Tumelo Moila
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
