by Lorato | Feb 25, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
At Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), academic ambition meets an unwavering commitment to excellence. SMU’s enabling environment has long been the springboard for talent, and few stories illustrate this better than that of Dr Yuvthi Rampersadh. Her trailblazing journey in orthodontics—marked by grit, dedication, and passion—is exemplary of SMU’s calibre of dental specialists.
Dr Rampersadh’s academic odyssey began at the University of Pretoria, where she laid the foundations of her dental career and exploring the nuances of Aesthetic Dentistry. She then further honed her skills at the University of the Western Cape, completing a master’s thesis in Orthodontics and earning a diploma in Interceptive Orthodontics. Yet, it was at SMU where her dream of becoming a specialist orthodontist was brought to life. “SMU provided me with a challenging yet rewarding environment that fostered my growth into an orthodontist,” she recalls, underscoring the rigour and support that shaped her professional journey.
Joining the SMU Oral Health Sciences Department as a Registrar in Orthodontics in 2020, Rampersadh quickly became known for her resilience and commitment. One pivotal moment remains etched in her memory: the fateful call on 20 December 2019, offering her the chance to specialise—a call that set her on a path to transform not just smiles but lives. At SMU, she forged lasting bonds with mentors, colleagues, and patients, experiencing first-hand the unique intimacy of orthodontic care, where relationships can span over two years.
Her drive to master the art of symmetry and her willingness to embrace delayed gratification have defined her approach to orthodontics. Yet, balancing a demanding full-time course, clinical responsibilities, and research with the challenges of home life—especially as a new mother —was no small feat. It is here that the SMU community’s steadfast support, alongside her supportive family, played a crucial role in helping her navigate obstacles and emerge stronger.
As she prepares to embark on a new chapter at Hugo Orthodontics as a Specialist Orthodontist, Dr Rampersadh’s career is a testament to perseverance and excellence. Working alongside luminaries such as Dr Andre Hugo and Dr Keitumetse Taunyane, she is poised to further innovate within the field, taking the lessons learned at SMU into the realm of private practice. Yet, her connection to SMU remains unbreakable, with plans to return in a sessional capacity to inspire future generations.
In a landscape where challenges are met with tenacity, SMU continues to stand as an incubator of exceptional talent and global leadership. Dr Rampersadh’s journey is a reminder that with the right environment, passion can indeed transform mere dreams into reality. As SMU proudly celebrates its role in nurturing world-class professionals, its legacy as an enabling environment for breakthrough achievement endures—propelling its alumni to redefine excellence on the international stage.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Feb 25, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a resounding testament to Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University’s (SMU) academic excellence, Dr Sabashnee Govender-Davies has been awarded the Best Beginner University Teacher Award at the 2024 Vice-Chancellor’s Awards. This prestigious accolade places her at the forefront of innovative medical education, reinforcing SMU’s position as a leader in the training of future health professionals.
Govender-Davies’ recognition is not merely an individual achievement—it underscores SMU’s commitment to world-class teaching, student-centred learning, and the advancement of health sciences education in South Africa and beyond.
A Lecturer in Anatomy, Govender-Davies has revolutionised the way students engage with one of the most complex fields in medical education. Her teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in technology-driven, interactive learning, designed to ensure that students not only grasp theoretical knowledge but can apply it to real-world medical challenges.
She integrates cutting-edge 3D visualisation software, interactive discussions, and evidence-based teaching methodologies, making anatomy education more dynamic and impactful. “Anatomy is the foundation of medical science, and my goal is to make it as accessible and engaging as possible,” she explains.
Her student-first approach is a defining factor in her success. She closely monitors academic performance, offering tailored support to those struggling, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has an equal opportunity to excel. “Seeing students finally grasp difficult concepts is the most rewarding aspect of my job,” she says. “Their enthusiasm for learning pushes me to constantly refine my teaching approach.”
SMU’s commitment to academic innovation
Govender-Davies’ success is also a reflection of SMU’s dedication to fostering academic excellence. The Centre for University Teaching and Learning (CUTL) plays a pivotal role in equipping educators with the latest teaching strategies, ensuring that SMU remains at the forefront of modern health sciences education.
“SMU provides a supportive ecosystem for academic growth, enabling us to continuously refine our teaching methodologies and embrace new innovations in education,” she says.
Beyond teaching, she integrates her research into the classroom, ensuring that students are kept abreast of groundbreaking discoveries in anatomy and medical sciences. This aligns with SMU’s vision of producing globally competitive health professionals who are not just practitioners but also thought leaders in their fields.
Govender-Davies is determined to further elevate SMU’s teaching standards by introducing advanced imaging modalities into anatomy education, offering students a more detailed and immersive understanding of the human body. She is also spearheading educational outreach initiatives such as Anatomy Day, aimed at strengthening community engagement and fostering a greater appreciation for medical sciences.Her message to aspiring educators is clear: “Great teaching is built on adaptability, continuous learning, and a passion for student success.”
As SMU continues to position itself as a premier institution in health sciences, the achievements of Govender-Davies and other high-calibre academics reaffirm the university’s commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and healthcare innovation. Her award is not just a personal triumph—it is a powerful statement about the calibre of education at SMU and the future of health sciences training in South Africa.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Feb 25, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is storming the global arena with audacious strides in internationalisation, cementing its reputation as a powerhouse of academic innovation and cross-cultural collaboration. In an era where higher education is defined by its global reach, SMU’s involvement in elite international training programmes sets a new benchmark for excellence.
At the forefront of this bold initiative is the highly competitive Germany–Kenya-based DIES/DAAD Management of internationalisation training programme, an exclusive course funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and Dialogue on Innovative Higher Education Strategies (DIES). Hosted collaboratively by Leibniz University in Germany, alongside premier Kenyan institutions, this biennial programme accepts only the very best—forty participants from Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia for 2023/2024.
Dr Carlien Jooste, Director of Internationalisation at SMU, made history as the first-ever SMU professional selected for the course and the sole South African representative in the 2023/2024 cohort. Tasked with pioneering a Virtual Exchange Hub for SMU, her project harnessed the power of Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) to transform the institution’s approach to global engagement. “This programme has not only expanded SMU’s global network but has redefined our strategy for internationalisation,” Jooste asserts, underscoring the transformative impact of her experience.
Riding on this wave of success, SMU has again demonstrated its global prowess by having Director of Student Affairs Tulani Nkuntse selected for the 2025/2026 edition of the same prestigious course. One of only thirty participants worldwide—and one of just two from South Africa—Nkuntse is poised to launch his project, ‘Global Village Days at SMU’. This innovative initiative will create an inclusive platform for cross-cultural engagement, celebrating diversity and fostering a globally aware student body.
Nkuntse, who has already embarked on the online component of the training, enthuses, “This opportunity will be instrumental in elevating SMU’s internationalisation efforts. By integrating diverse cultural insights into our student affairs, we are setting the stage for a truly global campus experience.”
SMU’s resolute commitment to internationalisation is not merely an institutional strategy—it is a rallying cry for academic excellence on a global scale. Through participation in globally recognised programmes like DIES/DAAD, SMU is not just expanding its network; it is actively redefining what it means to be a world-class university in the 21st century.
Through strategic participation in globally recognised programmes such as the DIES/DAAD Management of Internationalisation training course, SMU continues to advance its internationalisation agenda. The achievements of Jooste and Nkuntse underscore the university’s commitment to global engagement, innovation, and academic excellence. These efforts will undoubtedly contribute to positioning SMU as a key player in the international higher education landscape locally and globally.
As SMU continues to push boundaries and forge powerful global alliances, its achievements serve as a resounding declaration: South African higher education is not only competitive—it is leading the charge on the international stage.
By The Department of Communications and Marketing
by Lorato | Feb 19, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
At Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), a quiet revolution is unfolding—one that is shaping future female leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. The Student Women Economic Empowerment Programme (SWEEP) is more than a student society; it is a force redefining what it means to be a woman in higher education, proving that empowerment extends far beyond the lecture hall.
SMU has long been recognised as a leading institution in health sciences, but SWEEP is ensuring that its impact reaches further, creating an enabling environment where female students gain not only academic knowledge but also the confidence, financial independence, and leadership skills to excel in the real world.
“Our goal is to provide a platform for women to not only succeed at university but also thrive in the outside world,” says Noluthando Nsele, Chairperson of SWEEP. “We ensure that our members gain practical insights into business, leadership, and personal growth that will set them apart in their careers.” From hosting high-impact leadership development workshops to running mentorship programmes and networking opportunities, SWEEP is actively closing the gender gap in business and leadership. Its initiatives are designed to ensure that women graduate not just with a degree, but with the ability to navigate corporate boardrooms, launch successful businesses, and advocate for change in their communities.
Building women of substance
SWEEP’s approach is holistic, addressing key challenges that women face both on and off campus. The society runs intensive training on financial literacy and entrepreneurship, equipping students with the skills to start and sustain businesses. Leadership and confidence-building initiatives ensure that women take charge of projects, develop critical decision-making abilities, and prepare for executive roles.
Beyond professional development, SWEEP acknowledges the importance of mental wellness and work-life balance, offering structured support for students juggling academic, personal, and professional responsibilities. Through self-care events, mental health discussions, and social impact projects, the society fosters a well-rounded sense of empowerment. “Through team-building events, panel discussions, and pitching competitions, SWEEP fosters community engagement and growth,” says Nsele. “We also focus on raising awareness about critical issues such as gender-based violence (GBV) and mental health, which are integral to women’s empowerment.”
One of SWEEP’s most powerful aspects is its ability to create real-world change. A recent success story saw a SWEEP member turn a small idea into a thriving bakery business, employing fellow students and demonstrating the tangible impact of the programme.
Despite its successes, SWEEP faces significant challenges. Engagement and participation remain hurdles, with the society working to attract more students and make its activities widely accessible. Funding is another critical issue—while SWEEP has achieved remarkable feats through fundraising, the need for financial support continues to grow.
“The first challenge is engagement and participation—we believe more women should get involved, but we need to find innovative ways to market the programme effectively,” Nsele explains. “The second challenge is funding. Despite our efforts, we still lack sufficient resources to execute all our planned events and programmes. We are actively seeking sponsors and additional funding sources to expand our impact.”
In response, SWEEP is intensifying its marketing efforts, leveraging digital platforms, and forging new partnerships with organisations such as Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE), the British Council, and Universities South Africa (USAf). These collaborations expand students’ professional networks and create additional opportunities for funding and support.
Looking ahead, the society plans to expand outreach in 2025, reaching students across different faculties, increasing female leadership participation, and supporting the creation of more student-led businesses. Social initiatives such as pad drives and GBV awareness campaigns will remain central to SWEEP’s mission.
Beyond university: A lifetime of impact
SWEEP is not just about student life—it is a movement that prepares young women for life beyond university. By ensuring that SMU graduates leave with business acumen, leadership skills, and financial independence, SWEEP is actively shaping a new generation of female trailblazers.
More than just a student society, SWEEP is a launchpad for women ready to challenge norms, redefine success, and create lasting change. Through resilience, strategy, and relentless determination, the women of SWEEP are proving that at SMU, empowerment is not just a concept—it is a lived reality.
By Musa Msibi
by Lorato | Feb 19, 2025 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has long been recognised as a hub for academic excellence and innovation. However, beyond its reputation for rigorous academic programmes and cutting-edge research, SMU plays a vital role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Through its commitment to leadership development, SMU equips students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences necessary to drive positive change in society. One notable example of SMU’s success in cultivating leaders is Jerry Thoka, whose remarkable journey is a testament to the university’s transformative power.
From the rural village of Zebediela in Limpopo to the corridors of corporate governance and actuarial science, 28-year-old Thoka’s journey is one of resilience, faith, and a steadfast commitment to creating societal impact. Raised in a modest household by a truck driver father and a mother working on a poultry farm, he was no stranger to financial hardship. However, instead of being weighed down by his circumstances, he was driven by an unwavering desire to rise above them.
“Growing up in a financially constrained household was never easy, but it gave me the motivation to work harder,” he reflects. “I knew that education was my gateway to changing my circumstances.”
His exceptional aptitude for mathematics and science earned him top student honours at Makhutjisha Senior Secondary School, setting the foundation for his academic pursuits. Thoka began his higher education at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), where he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences, specialising in Applied Mathematics and Computer Science. Recognising his passion for actuarial science, he later enrolled at the University of the Free State (UFS) to further his studies in the field. His time at UFS was marked by rigorous academic challenges, earning multiple actuarial exemptions and establishing his credibility within the Actuarial Society of South Africa (ASSA).
“Actuarial science is more than just numbers; it’s about using data to solve real-world problems and manage risks,” he explains. “This field has the power to influence financial security, social policies, and economic structures.”
Thoka’s expertise led him to Munich Reinsurance of Africa, where he currently works as an Actuarial Analyst. In his role, he engages in financial modelling and risk reserving, helping companies maintain stability in the face of uncertainty. His work underscores the critical role actuarial science plays in safeguarding financial security and mitigating economic risks.
Beyond his technical expertise, he has distinguished himself as a formidable leader in governance and policy advocacy. His leadership journey began at SMU, where he served as a mentor and later as Chairperson of the Residence Committee. His passion for student advocacy propelled him into the Student Representative Council (SRC), where he championed postgraduate funding and research opportunities.
In 2021, Thoka took on a more prominent leadership role as President General of the Institutional SRC at UFS, making history as an influential voice in university governance. As a member of the Senate and Institutional Forum, he actively contributed to shaping institutional policies, advocating for student welfare, and addressing systemic challenges in higher education.
“Leadership, to me, is about service and impact,” he asserts. “It’s about using one’s knowledge and position to create opportunities for others and drive meaningful change.” His governance work extended beyond university borders when he engaged with the South African Union of Students (SAUS) on policy development. In November 2024, he was elected as a Member of the UFS Council, where he continues to influence strategic decision-making.
“My election into the UFS Council disrupts the norm and introduces critical technical skills into governance. Having led two competitive institutions, I bring a unique student-centred perspective to the Council.” Thoka’s leadership was put to the test during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he played a pivotal role in reintegration policies, ensuring academic continuity while prioritising safety. He was also instrumental in the university’s adoption of a workers’ insourcing policy, benefiting both students and staff.
A devout Christian, he attributes much of his leadership philosophy to his faith. He believes in the principles of servant leadership, as exemplified in Matthew 23:11 (KJV): “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” “Faith has kept me committed to genuine societal development, ensuring that my leadership remains rooted in integrity,” he states. “Greatness is attainable by anyone willing to serve.”
Thoka’s dedication to community upliftment extends beyond his personal achievements. He envisions a future where young professionals merge technical expertise with social responsibility. To this end, he co-founded the Chamber of Executive Youth (COEY), an initiative aimed at mentoring and equipping young professionals with critical skills while fostering leadership capabilities.
“Many skilled professionals limit their contributions to their fields, depriving society of their impact. COEY will recruit and persuade masters of scarce industries to engage in societal development and governance,” he explains. “We need to build a generation of young executives who are not only technically skilled but also socially conscious.”
His advocacy in higher education governance also centres on inclusivity and equity. As a member of the UFS Council, Jerry supports policies that ensure diverse student populations have access to quality education and resources. He emphasises the importance of scholarships, community partnerships, and outreach efforts to uplift underrepresented groups.
Thoka’s story is one of relentless ambition and purpose-driven leadership. “My aspiration is to leave behind a legacy of inspiration—a testament to the endless possibilities available to those who dare to dream. I want individuals to see, through my journey, that one’s background does not determine their ultimate success,” he concludes.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Feb 19, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to assert its position as a leading global institution in health sciences, with its Internationalisation Directorate recently hosting a high-level delegation from Zimbabwe’s Midlands State University (MSU) for a benchmarking workshop. The visit underscores SMU’s growing influence in shaping higher education internationalisation strategies across Africa.
Professor Laurine Chikoko, Executive Director for International Relations and Alumni at MSU, led the delegation, seeking to gain insight into SMU’s internationalisation model—one that has rapidly positioned the university as a dynamic player in the global academic landscape. The two-day engagement delved into critical areas, including international student recruitment, alumni relations, global partnerships, and strategies to enhance institutional reputation on an international scale.
“This visit demonstrates the strides SMU has made in fostering international collaborations and advancing a global agenda in higher education,” remarks Dr Carlien Jooste, Director of Internationalisation at SMU. “As a Directorate that turns three in March, we are pleased to share our approach to internationalisation while continuously refining our strategies.”
The workshop provided MSU with a comprehensive overview of SMU’s internationalisation framework, including Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) management, curriculum internationalisation, and integration of international students and staff. Discussions also explored how SMU ensures seamless student registration, effective alumni engagement, and strategic global partnerships.
A significant highlight of the visit was the in-depth discussions with SMU’s Student Affairs Department, led by Director, Tulani Nkuntse and Deputy Director Themba Khumalo, focusing on the integration and management of international students. Additionally, SMU’s Advancement Officer, Legodi Mashiane, engaged with Chikoko on alumni development strategies, underscoring the role of former students in strengthening institutional networks globally.
Beyond benchmarking: A vision for collaboration
The visit concluded with a campus tour led by SMU master’s student, Tshepo Aphane, followed by a working lunch with key support directorates. Reflecting on the experience, Chikoko lauded SMU’s internationalisation efforts: “Once again, thank you for an excellent hosting. I have learned so much, and there is a wealth of knowledge to take back for the development of our office.”
The benchmarking workshop has laid the groundwork for tangible collaborations between SMU and MSU, with both institutions identifying pilot projects to strengthen academic exchange and research partnerships. SMU’s growing recognition as a benchmark for internationalisation in Africa reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future of global health sciences education.
By opening its doors to institutions across the continent, SMU continues to drive meaningful engagement and position itself as a globally competitive university, leading innovation and collaboration in health sciences education.
By The Department of Communications and Marketing
