by Lorato | Aug 13, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
With an eye on digital innovation and a firm belief in inclusive leadership, Nkosenhle Ngongoma is bringing fresh energy and a future-focused outlook to his new role as Deputy Chairperson of the Council at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU).
Currently serving as Information Technology (IT) Director at City Lodge Hotels, Ngongoma’s extensive background in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector offers a strategic advantage to SMU’s governance. His career spans over two decades, including senior leadership positions such as Group Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Ascendis Health and CIO at Toyota Financial Services. Now, his expertise is helping shape the digital transformation of one of South Africa’s leading health sciences universities.
“One of the primary factors that drew me into higher education governance was the critical need for digital transformation in this sector,” says Ngongoma. “From modernising learning and research systems to optimising student engagement platforms, universities require bold and informed ICT leadership to thrive in the 21st century.”
Ngongoma’s election as Deputy Chair of Council reflects the confidence his peers place in his leadership. More than a technical strategist, he has evolved into a holistic governance leader committed to institutional excellence and social impact. “It is a great honour, both personally and professionally,” he shares. “My collaboration with the former Chairperson inspired me to contribute beyond my technical background.”
As Deputy Chairperson, Ngongoma envisions his role as both complementary and collaborative. “I support the Chairperson in shaping a Council that is diverse, inclusive, and impact-driven. My responsibility is to act as a sounding board, ensure the Council’s mandate is realised, and provide continuity when required.”
His leadership is grounded in accountability, stewardship, and purpose. “Leadership today is not about holding a title,” he notes. “It’s about being visionary, principled, and adaptable. I strive to lead with courage and humility.”
Ngongoma’s values are closely aligned with SMU’s mission to advance health sciences education, research, and community service. “Every decision we make must answer one question: How does this serve our students, staff, communities, and future?”
His role as an external Council member uniquely positions him to connect the University with the broader ecosystem of government, industry, and civil society. “I offer a perspective rooted in real-world demands, helping SMU maintain relevance while navigating complex challenges.”
A champion for youth leadership, Ngongoma is passionate about mentoring future Council members. “We must build a pipeline of capable and passionate future governors. Alumni, former student leaders, and community stakeholders are vital to this effort.”
Outside of SMU, he serves on several governance structures, including the Audit & Risk Management Committee at the National Credit Regulator and the ICT Strategic Committee of the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). He holds qualifications from Wits, TUT, and DUT, and is a member of the Institute of IT Professionals South Africa.
Closing with a message to the SMU community, Ngongoma affirms:
“Governance is not about control, but upliftment, service, and shared purpose. Transformation is a collective journey—and I thank the SMU community for the opportunity to serve.”
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Aug 13, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Final-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) student, Tshepang Lenkoe, has proudly reintroduced Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Dental School to the national stage after winning the prestigious 2025 South African Dental Association (SADA) Young Dentist Publisher Undergraduate Research Award.
Lenkoe, who also serves as a class representative and member of the Dental Student Council, chose dentistry to address the pressing need for accessible oral healthcare in South Africa. Growing up, he witnessed countless individuals suffering from oral health problems without access to a dentist. “I wanted to bring change to my community,” he said. “Dentistry offered me the opportunity to provide a direct service that could transform lives.”
His journey through dental school has been far from easy. Balancing demanding clinical duties with student leadership roles required discipline, effective time management, and resilience. “Helping my peers while excelling academically meant structuring my time meticulously. It’s been challenging physically and mentally, but it has taught me patience and the importance of perseverance,” he reflected.
The award-winning research that earned him national recognition was titled Diagnosis and Management of a Cystic Lesion: The Use of CBCT – A Case Report. His study compared the diagnostic accuracy of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) with conventional radiographic imaging. “SMU Dental School handles many head and neck cystic lesions, serving as a primary referral hospital for Gauteng, Limpopo, and North West. My research highlighted CBCT’s superior diagnostic capabilities, showing reduced chances of misdiagnosis compared to traditional methods,” Lenkoe explained.
His findings also carried a broader message: the urgent need for investment in state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to better serve South Africa’s population. While obtaining biopsy results in time posed challenges, the radiographic reports from CBCT enabled him to make a confident diagnosis and compare it to international literature.
Winning the award was a deeply personal achievement. “It was surreal,” he said. “I wanted to make my family proud and represent black students on a national platform. No SMU dental student had attended SADA or participated in the research competition for five years, and no SMU student had won in seven. This victory showed that we can compete at the highest level.”
The experience at the SADA Congress was both inspiring and affirming. An international keynote by Canadian dual specialist Dr David Chvartszaid reinforced Lenkoe’s passion for academic dentistry, while the encouragement of SMU lecturers and research mentors Dr Idah Mmutlana and Dr Ntombizodwa Zwane kept him motivated during research setbacks.
Looking ahead, Lenkoe aims to specialise in prosthodontics and remain active in academic dentistry to train future professionals. He also intends to continue research to contribute to South Africa’s growing body of dental knowledge. His advice to young dentists is simple yet powerful: “Pursue research. It enhances clinical skills, professional competence, and the quality of patient care.”
Through his dedication, Lenkoe has not only earned a national accolade but also reignited SMU’s presence in the dental research arena—an achievement that may inspire a new generation of South African dental scholars.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Aug 13, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The School of Medicine at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) painted Pretoria in vintage flair as it hosted a lively Women’s Day celebration at The Blades. With the theme “Vintage”, the occasion brought together an inspiring mix of female academics and support staff from across the School to celebrate the achievements, resilience, and leadership of women in health sciences.
Professor Risenga Chauke, Acting Dean of the School of Medicine, opened the programme with warmth and admiration. “Women are phenomenal – the architects of life,” he said, reminding the audience that their influence stretches across every corner of health sciences — from the laboratory bench to the highest levels of leadership.
The keynote speaker, Dr Moyahabo Brenda Nemukongwe, a dedicated histopathologist from Limpopo and part-time Senior Lecturer at SMU, delivered a captivating motivational talk titled “Cultivating a State of Presence.” Her words carried a powerful call for women to stand tall, speak out, and claim their space in both professional and personal spheres.
A graduate with a master’s degree in Anatomical Pathology and currently pursuing a master’s in Cytopathology at the University of Stellenbosch, Nemukongwe is also the founder of Pulse Path Solutions — a platform she established in 2018 to train medical professionals and raise awareness on women’s health, especially early detection of breast and cervical cancers.
“Women must stop being silent or ignorant about the issues they face,” she urged. “Open and honest conversations are essential for growth and change. The women of the 1956 march showed us the way, and today SMU women are carrying that torch — leading with power and purpose.”
Professor Lineo Matsela, an accomplished obstetrician and gynaecologist and the newly inaugurated President of the South African Menopause Society (SAMS), shone a spotlight on a rarely addressed topic — menopause. “It is a gender-specific psychological phenomenon,” she explained, “yet it remains under-discussed in both medical practice and social discourse. We must talk about it openly so women can navigate this phase with knowledge and confidence.”
The celebration also heard from Professor Dini Mawela, Dean of the School of Dentistry and Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor at SMU, who paid tribute to the women who drive the university forward. “Women at SMU are central to advancing our mission in education, research, and community engagement,” she said. “Your leadership, innovation, and dedication inspire progress in every sphere of health sciences.”
The formalities blended beautifully with a vibrant programme of activities that left attendees smiling, laughing, and connecting. Awareness presentations were followed by interactive games such as the Tissue and Cup Challenge, Tin Can Alley, and the Spoon and Egg Race. These light-hearted moments fostered camaraderie, teamwork, and plenty of cheer, with prizes adding a touch of excitement.
Lunch was served in a relaxed atmosphere, accompanied by the smooth sounds of jazz that had some guests tapping their feet and others simply soaking in the ambience. The presentation of thoughtful gifts drew delighted reactions, while group photographs captured the joyful spirit of the day. Many attendees commented on how refreshing it was to step away from their demanding schedules and share in a celebration that recognised not only their work but also their well-being.
The event’s success was evident in the animated conversations, the laughter echoing across the venue, and the many lingering goodbyes at the end. For those present, it was more than just a Women’s Day celebration — it was a moment to connect, recharge, and reflect on the strength and influence of SMU women.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Aug 12, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to affirm its standing as a home to visionary leaders shaping the national higher education agenda. In a resounding recognition of leadership excellence, SMU’s Director: Student Affairs, Tulani Nkuntse, has been elected Deputy Secretary-General of the South African Association of Senior Student Affairs Professionals (SAASSAP) for the 2025–2028 term.
The announcement was made during SAASSAP’s Annual General Meeting and Elective Conference, held on Friday, 8 August 2025, at the University of the Free State. This appointment not only reflects Nkuntse’s exceptional professional stature but also signals SMU’s growing 
influence in strategic national platforms that shape student life and development across South Africa’s universities.
A respected national platform
Founded in 2000, SAASSAP represents the most senior student affairs leaders—Deans, Directors, and Executive Directors across all South African universities. The association’s work is central to advancing holistic student growth, development, and success. It achieves this through policy influence, resource mobilisation, fostering innovation, and strategic stakeholder engagement.
For the next three years, Nkuntse will serve alongside distinguished peers from leading institutions, including:
- Jerome September – President – University of the Witwatersrand
- Dr Irene Mohasoa – Deputy President – Walter Sisulu University
- Dr Bernard Sebake – Secretary-General – Central University of Technology
- Tebogo Ncokazi – Treasurer-General – University of Zululand
- Professor Percy Sepeng – Research & Development Officer – University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Asanda Tele – Media Liaison Officer – University of Fort Hare
- Nonkosi Tyolwana – Projects Coordinator – Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Leadership with purpose
Reflecting on his election, Nkuntse said: “What an honour to be called to serve. I look forward to this challenge with excitement, knowing that collectively as the NEC and its entire SAASSAP membership, we will continue to advocate for better conditions and create spaces for our students to thrive.”
He added: “This is not just a personal achievement, it is an important milestone for SMU, contributing to putting our university on the national map.” Nkuntse’s appointment comes at a time when higher education institutions are called upon to strengthen student development models and foster inclusive, enabling environments. His presence on the SAASSAP National Executive Committee reinforces SMU’s position as an institution whose leaders are not only committed to the success of its own students but also to shaping the future of student affairs nationally.
by Lorato | Aug 7, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
A strategic partnership between Bonitas Medical Fund and Gift of the Givers has brought meaningful relief and renewed hope to students and healthcare staff at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). Through this impactful collaboration, Bonitas awarded four bursaries to academically deserving students and donated essential computer equipment to support the digitisation of SMU’s Campus Health Clinic.
Hosted at SMU, the official handover ceremony highlighted the power of public-private partnerships in advancing access to education and improving campus healthcare services. The initiative forms part of Bonitas’ broader commitment to developing South Africa’s future healthcare professionals while improving operational efficiency in institutional health infrastructure.
Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli, Acting Director: Communication and Marketing, provided context for the initiative: “This handover is the result of a well-considered proposal titled Enhancing Healthcare Services at SMU Campus Clinic. Bonitas responded with vision and leadership, making a direct, measurable impact on our students and staff.”
Delivering the welcome address, SMU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus, expressed appreciation for the partnership. “We are honoured to host Bonitas and their implementation partner, Gift of the Givers, whose unwavering support is helping us advance both academic and healthcare excellence,” said Matsha-Erasmus. “The bursaries awarded today not only relieve financial pressure but affirm that the private sector is willing to invest in the future of our youth. The donation of digital tools for our Campus Health Unit is equally timely, ensuring we remain aligned with global healthcare transformation.”
The donated HP i3 desktops and i5 laptops will assist clinical staff in digitising patient records and improving administrative efficiency at the clinic, which serves a student population of nearly 7,000. This move supports SMU’s ongoing commitment to innovation in healthcare service delivery.
Speaking on behalf of Bonitas, Principal Officer, Lee Callakoppen reaffirmed the fund’s commitment to targeted investment in healthcare and education: “At Bonitas, we believe access to quality healthcare and education should never be compromised by circumstance. These bursaries represent more than financial assistance; they are an investment in South Africa’s future healthcare leaders.”
The four bursary recipients, Raymond Mabulana, Fumani Matimu Baloyi, Thendo Mudua, and Jennifer Emeh, were recognised for their academic potential and resilience in the face of financial challenges. Expressing his appreciation, Mabulana said: “Receiving this bursary has lifted an enormous burden from my shoulders. It will allow me to concentrate fully on my studies and give back to my community in the future.” Baloyi added: “This support is more than just financial, it’s a message of encouragement and belief in our potential. I am deeply thankful to Bonitas and SMU for making this opportunity possible.”
Tulani Nkuntse, Director: Student Affairs, noted the broader impact of the partnership: “This initiative affirms that academic success and student wellness are deeply interconnected. The support received today will tangibly improve student life.” Representing Gift of the Givers, infrastructure lead Nithaam Bawa added: “We’re honoured to support Bonitas in this initiative and walk alongside SMU in empowering its future health sciences workforce.”
This collaboration serves as a model for sector-wide partnerships, uniting healthcare, education, and community service in the pursuit of student success.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Aug 7, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a significant affirmation of his ongoing dedication to public health governance, Dev Mamabolo, Projects Coordinator in the Technology Transfer Office at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has been reappointed to the board of Bertha Gxowa Hospital. He will serve in this capacity until March 2028.
Speaking after the announcement, Mamabolo expressed both gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity to continue contributing. “There were over 5,000 applicants considered, so to be reappointed is not only an honour but also incredibly reassuring,” he said. “It’s exciting to be given another opportunity to serve the people of Gauteng with integrity.”
This marks Mamabolo’s second term on the hospital board, having initially joined in 2023 through a nomination process. His reappointment is intended to ensure continuity and enhance the value brought to the institution. At SMU, his work focuses on driving innovation and research commercialisation — expertise he is keen to apply in the public healthcare space. “Personally, this is a confidence booster. Professionally, it reaffirms that my contributions are recognised by both the hospital and the Gauteng Department of Health & Wellness,” Mamabolo added.
His vision for the upcoming term is to embed innovation within the hospital’s service delivery model. “Digital health technologies such as telemedicine, mobile health applications, and data analytics can significantly enhance care, disease surveillance, and encourage healthy behaviours. Innovation must be part of the boardroom agenda,” he asserted.
Mamabolo acknowledges the demands of balancing his board duties with his role at SMU. “Strategic time management, prioritisation, and a clear understanding of the board’s role are key to succeeding in both spaces,” he said.
He also addressed some of the pressing challenges facing public hospitals, particularly the strain caused by undocumented foreign nationals seeking care.
“While Section 27(1) of the Constitution ensures everyone’s right to access healthcare, we must consider sustainable solutions. As board members, we advise the MEC and can recommend policy directions, such as requiring medical insurance for visitors, similar to international practice.”
Mamabolo sees immense value in strengthening collaboration between academic institutions like SMU and public hospitals. “These partnerships can improve research, education, and the implementation of public health initiatives. SMU’s strength in health sciences should directly support the operational needs of healthcare facilities.”
He has outlined several outcomes he hopes to achieve during his term: improved financial systems, the integration of technology, stronger community engagement, and increased collaboration with industry partners.
On the importance of community involvement, he emphasised: “Community participation enhances accountability and responsiveness. Hospitals must actively involve residents to understand barriers to care and work towards inclusive solutions.”
Looking to the future, Mamabolo believes this role positions him to make broader contributions to healthcare governance. “It provides a front-row seat to the realities of our public health system and an opportunity to shape policy beyond the university context.”
To professionals aspiring to serve in similar roles, his message is clear and encouraging: “The public health sector needs your voice. Your insights can help shape a more equitable and effective healthcare system. Together, we can build a healthier society.”
By Tumelo Moila
