by Lorato | Nov 26, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The first Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed under the leadership of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus, has marked a decisive step in strengthening African-led academic partnerships. Fresh from her inauguration earlier in November 2025, Professor Matsha-Erasmus led a senior delegation of SMU deans and directors to Maputo, Mozambique, where an MoU between SMU and Universidade Wutivi (UniTiva) was formally concluded.
The delegation received a warm welcome from UniTiva’s Chancellor, Professor Domingos Tivane, and Rector, Professor Nelson Chacha. Held from 18–19 November, the visit brought together leaders from both institutions to identify strategic areas of collaboration, tour UniTiva’s newly launched Faculty of Health Sciences Simulation Laboratory, and formalise the MoU that will anchor the growing partnership.
Senior SMU representatives—including Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dini Mawela; Dean of the School of Medicine, Professor Risenga Chauke; Dean of the School of Pharmacy, Professor Patrick Demana; and Dean of the School of Health Care Sciences, Professor Douglas Maleka—met with their Mozambican counterparts to chart practical joint initiatives. Discussions focused on internationalising curricula, increasing staff and student mobility, and deepening collaborative research.
In parallel, the Director of SMU’s Skills and Simulation Centre, Dr Lesego Phiri, visited UniTiva’s Simulation Centre, which was designed based on SMU’s model. Director of Student Affairs, Tulani Nkuntse, and Director of Internationalisation, Dr Carlien Jooste, held further engagements centred on student life and intercultural exchange.
Reflecting on how meaningful partnerships are built, Dr Jooste emphasised: “Collaborations should never only be a signature on a piece of paper. The success of a collaboration lies in how schools, academics, and students find common areas of interest and subsequently grow fields of knowledge.”
The MoU was officially signed on 19 November 2025, with the South African High Commission in Mozambique represented by First Secretary: Political, Stanley Netshimboni. Speaking at the ceremony, Netshimboni said: “I am delighted to be here today, as our role is to support initiatives such as this between our two countries.”
The signing ceremony also drew several former Mozambican Ministers of Health who played pivotal roles in establishing UniTiva’s Faculty of Health Sciences. Addressing the gathering, Rector Professor Nelson Chacha underscored the significance of the new partnership: “We expect to create a collaborative movement. We want to make a big difference with this MoU. We want to solve the problems that our two countries are facing in the health sector.”
In her keynote address, Professor Matsha-Erasmus outlined a clear vision for African-led advancement, stating, “I look at what Africa can do for itself. It is time for Africa to solve its own problems. For SMU, the signing of this MoU is the seed of what Africans can achieve when we work together. We commit, in South Africa and at SMU, to honour this partnership. This partnership is mutual and requires respect and shared commitment.”
This latest milestone follows a high-level benchmarking visit by UniTiva to SMU in April 2025. The ongoing momentum—through exchanges, joint planning sessions and now a formal agreement—demonstrates SMU’s commitment to building impactful, sustainable collaborations on the continent. The University continues to prioritise partnerships that deliver measurable value, uphold academic excellence, and expand Africa’s capacity to address its own health challenges.
by Lorato | Nov 26, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) alumnus and retired Head of the Department of Cardiology, Professor Pindile Mntla, is celebrated for a career defined by vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to medical education and research.
Born at Malmesbury Hospital in Cape Town, Prof Mntla was the second of five children, though only three survive today. Raised in Idutywa by his maternal grandfather and uncle, he attended primary school in Bolotwa and completed secondary education in Cofimvaba and at St John’s College in Mthatha. His early years instilled in him discipline and curiosity. “I owe much of my resilience and work ethic to those formative years,” he reflects.
Mntla graduated as a medical doctor from the Medical University of Southern Africa (MEDUNSA), now SMU, in 1984. During his years there, he was introduced to politics through the formation of Azanian Students Organisation (AZASO), where he served as the founding secretary of the Medunsa branch. He had already been exposed to uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) activities as a Grade 11 pupil at St John’s College, assisting with distributing literature, knitting jerseys, and supporting cell activities in Spring Street.
His medical training coincided with turbulent times in South Africa. Initially slated for an internship at Edendale Hospital in 1985, he refused to sign the “Inkatha Pledge” and was redirected to Natalspruit Hospital (now Telle-Mogoerane Hospital) during the height of the East Rand uprisings. Prof Mntla recalls the horrors of the era: a house in Thokoza, along with his graduation gown, hood, and books, was burnt, and he was closely monitored by Internal Security. Despite these challenges, he resolved early in his medical career that private practice would not be his path.
His registrar years at Wits were also marked by systemic inequities: restrictions on accommodation due to the Group Areas Act, unequal benefits compared to fellow registrars, and ongoing discrimination. Yet these obstacles did not deter him.
Returning to his alma mater in 1994 as a lecturer in Cardiology and Internal Medicine, Mntla co-launched the Refresher Course alongside Prof Willie Bam and departmental administrator Mrs Jackson in 1995. What began in a modest lecture hall evolved into a nationally recognised platform, now hosted at the CSIR, providing doctors with access to the latest cardiology knowledge in a structured, professional setting.
Mntla’s research collaborations, including work with the late Prof Bongani Mayosi, addressed critical cardiology issues such as pericardial disease, rheumatic heart disease, hypertension, and heart failure. Mentorship remains a core principle for him; numerous Master’s and PhD students under his guidance have completed studies shaping clinical practice today.
Beyond SMU, Prof Mntla has contributed to the Medicines Control Council (now SAHPRA – South African Health Products Regulatory Authority), the College of Physicians Council, and the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA) Senate, and chairs the Nelson Mandela/Fidel Castro (NMFC) Medical Collaboration Programme. He has served on advisory boards, including the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), acted as an external examiner for the University of Botswana and the University of Malawi, and participated in medical outreach through the Phalala Programme in Eswatini.
Mntla’s personal legacy is equally profound. He is married to Dr Edith Nonhlanhla Mntla (née Madela) and is a proud father of three children, two of whom have followed him into the medical profession. “Seeing my children pursue medicine fills me with immense pride,” he reflects.
“Prof Mntla embodies a rare blend of vision and humility,” says Dr Edith Mntla. “He inspires excellence while nurturing talent.” His leadership journey includes serving as Deputy Dean for Students (2002), Director of the School of Medicine (2005–2009), and Acting Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences.
Throughout his career, he has exemplified intellect, action, mentorship, and service. “He doesn’t just teach medicine; he teaches us how to serve humanity,” Dr Mntla adds. His story remains one of resilience, leadership, and lasting influence on South African medicine.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Nov 26, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has achieved another significant research milestone through the appointment of Dr Vusani Muswa Maphiri as Guest Editor for a Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI) Special Issue titled “Advances in Supercapacitor Materials and Performance.” MDPI, a global pioneer in open-access scholarly publishing, is dedicated to fostering unrestricted scientific exchange across all disciplines. Dr Maphiri’s appointment not only reflects his growing international influence but also underscores SMU’s expanding role in shaping global research on advanced energy materials.
Maphiri, widely recognised for his precise and confident academic writing, will lead the editorial direction of the Special Issue, ensuring the publication of high-impact research in one of the world’s fastest-advancing renewable-energy fields. Reflecting on the appointment, he said: “This role is a tremendous responsibility. It allows me to help shape the scientific conversation in supercapacitor technology and ensure that high-quality, meaningful research reaches an international audience.”
His journey into the world of physics began long before his university career. Growing up in a rural community, his journey into the world of physics began long before his university career. Growing up in a rural community of Vondwe Village, just a few streets away from the late Prof Mulalo Doyoyo, he was raised in an environment where education, discipline and perseverance were deeply ingrained values. “My upbringing taught me resilience, humility and the importance of hard work. Those early lessons have guided my entire academic path,” he shared.
He attended Gooldville Mission School in Vhufhuli for his primary education, a nurturing environment that sparked his early curiosity and laid the foundation for his academic ambitions. His secondary education took him to St Augustine Residential School and later Thengwe High School in Makhitani near Tshilamba, where his interest in physics and mathematics flourished. “Those were formative years for me,” he reflected. “They strengthened my determination to pursue higher education and to contribute meaningfully to scientific advancement.”
Driven by a passion for understanding materials and energy systems, Maphiri pursued his BSc, BSc Honours and MSc (cum laude) at SMU, steadily refining his research interests and academic focus. He later completed his PhD in Physics at the University of Pretoria in 2022, specialising in supercapacitor and microsupercapacitor applications under the supervision of Prof Ncholu Manyala, a highly recognised materials scientist and a top-cited researcher ranked among the world’s leading 2% scientists. This advanced training laid the foundation for Maphiri’s growing expertise in supercapacitor energy storage and emerging nanomaterials.
Today, he is a Lecturer in the SMU Department of Physics and one of the institution’s most productive early-career researchers, with an H-index of 14 and over 45 SAPSE-accredited publications, most of them published in the Journal of Energy Storage (impact factor 10). His research spans nanomaterials, electrochemical energy storage, optoelectronic devices and advanced electrode engineering, and his collaborations extend across Africa, Europe and South America.
Discussing his broader mission as a scientist, he noted: “Energy-storage materials play a vital role in the global transition to cleaner technologies. I aim to contribute solutions that are both scientifically innovative and socially relevant, particularly for African contexts.”
Colleagues across the School of Science and Technology (SST) have welcomed his appointment as a significant boost to SMU’s visibility. SST Operations Manager Dr Esmey Moema commented: “Dr Maphiri’s editorial appointment reflects the calibre of scholarship emerging from SMU. It also shows that our researchers are helping shape international scientific directions, particularly in energy-materials research.”
Equally passionate about mentorship, Maphiri supervises and mentors postgraduate projects on graphene-based electrodes, metal-oxide nanostructures and 3D-printed current collectors. Many of the students he supervises—both locally and across Africa—have successfully peer-reviewed publications under his guidance.
He also volunteers as equipment manager for advanced spectroscopy and microscopy instruments at the University of Pretoria, including the state-of-the-art Witec micro-Raman 300RAS alpha system, a high-resolution instrument capable of nanoscale chemical imaging, phase identification, and vibrational analysis of complex materials. Through this role, he strengthens national research capacity and supports multidisciplinary projects across physics, chemistry, materials science, and biomedical research.
As Maphiri assumes his new editorial role, SMU celebrates a researcher whose work, values and life journey continue to elevate the university’s standing in sustainable-energy innovation and physics-led discovery.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Nov 20, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a year defined by strategic reinvention and unprecedented momentum, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has entered the national spotlight with its first-ever accolade from the prestigious Marketing, Advancement and Communication in Education (MACE) Excellence Awards. The recognition marks not only a milestone for the Communications and Public Relations Unit but also a defining moment in the university’s evolving institutional identity.
MACE, the sector’s leading professional body for higher-education communicators across Southern Africa, celebrates innovation, strategic excellence and impactful storytelling. Its awards are widely regarded as the sector’s highest honour, recognising institutions that demonstrate distinction in brand positioning, engagement and advancement. For SMU, competing among 26 universities, this achievement signals a shift in the university’s competitive posture and brand maturity.
This recognition emerges from a year in which the Communications and Public Relations Unit underwent a remarkable transformation, reshaped through refined processes, elevated outputs and a clarified strategic purpose. Since assuming leadership in October 2024, Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli, Manager: Communications and Public Relations, has guided a deliberate repositioning of the unit anchored in rigorous storytelling, institutional clarity and competitive brand visibility. It has been, in many ways, a re-awakening of SMU’s voice.
Reflecting on the achievement, Mphaphuli says: “When I assumed duty, I knew that SMU possessed an extraordinary story—rich, rigorous and rooted in purpose. My vision has always been to craft a brand presence that mirrors the calibre of our academic excellence, our people and our impact. This award signals that our voice is now resonating beyond our borders, and we are only getting started.”
Under her leadership, the unit delivered some of the institution’s most sophisticated communication outputs to date. Institutional publications were revitalised into rich, editorially strong, visually compelling assets that reflected SMU’s academic prestige and social impact. Digital communication experienced its strongest year yet, with engagement rising by nearly 50%, follower growth accelerating significantly, and search engine optimisation positioning SMU among South Africa’s most visible health-sciences brands. These gains, achieved through disciplined strategy and a commitment to excellence, created the foundation for the national recognition the university celebrates today.
But the triumph belongs equally to the team whose collective dedication sharpened SMU’s communications edge. Public Relations Officer Tumelo Moila notes that the award reflects a relentless pursuit of agility. “We had to operate at the speed of the sector,” he explains. “Our work demanded creativity, instinct and a willingness to constantly stretch ourselves. This isn’t just a win, it’s a reflection of our readiness to compete nationally.”
Team member, Public Relations Officer, Dimakatso Modise, echoes this sentiment, emphasising the team’s evolution. “We became a unit that embraces complexity,” he says. “Our landscape shifts daily, and we’ve learned to shift with it—always with excellence at the centre of everything we produce.”
The excellence was not confined to written communication alone. The university’s visual language underwent a noticeable elevation under the creative direction of Graphic Designer Dineo Motshegare, whose artistry strengthened brand identity, event branding, and publication design throughout 2025. “Our role is to reflect SMU’s essence visually, emotionally and with precision,” she shares. “Design became a strategic enabler, not an accessory. This recognition validates that approach,” adds Motshegare.
The surge in online visibility was also powered by meticulous web optimisation and digital stewardship led by Web Editor Lorato Molubi, who ensured that SMU’s online platforms aligned with global accessibility, SEO, and content consistency standards. “We focused on making SMU discoverable, authoritative and trustworthy in the digital space,” she explains. “Seeing our SEO rankings climb was proof that our digital storytelling is resonating.”
Within the communications ecosystem, SMU FM’s contributions played a central role in strengthening internal communication and real-time storytelling on campus. “Radio became a conduit for immediacy and authenticity,” says Mpho Legodi.
Collaboration extended beyond the unit itself. In 2025, the Communications and Public Relations Unit worked closely with Student Recruitment Officer, Ntsheu Collins Mangena, to align recruitment messaging with the university’s broader brand narrative. “Strategic recruitment relies on strategic communication,” Mangena reflects. “By working hand-in-hand with the Communications & Public Relations Unit, we were able to position SMU in a way that spoke powerfully to prospective students and their parents. This award confirms the strength of that alignment.”
The achievement has been warmly welcomed by university leadership. Acting DVC: Operations, Odette Ramsingh, who oversees the unit’s strategic direction, praised the milestone as a significant accomplishment for SMU. “This award reflects the team’s collective effort in positioning the university’s reputation on a national scale, especially as the recognition comes against the backdrop of competing with 26 other universities. It is also a powerful affirmation of the excellence, creativity and dedication of our Communications and Public Relations team, whose strategic work continues to elevate SMU’s voice and presence. Their commitment to position SMU is central to achievements such as these.”
As SMU steps into 2026, the MACE recognition serves not merely as an award but as a marker of strategic excellence, in which the institution’s voice is sharper, its story more confidently told, and its reputation increasingly aligned with national and continental expectations for a modern health sciences university.
What began as an internal transformation has now entered the national stage. And with a unified team carrying forward a shared vision, SMU’s voice—once quiet—has become unmistakably resonant.
by Lorato | Nov 20, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a decisive move to tackle the escalating global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital (DGMAH) hosted a high-impact Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) Symposium on Monday, 17 November 2025. The event forms part of global, World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW), observed annually from 18–24 November under the theme: “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.”
AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to standard treatments, rendering common infections increasingly difficult to manage. The consequences extend far beyond clinical settings, threatening food systems, animal health, and the environment. WAAW seeks to raise awareness, strengthen best practice, and mobilise urgent One Health collaboration to curb the spread of drug-resistant pathogens.
The symposium brought together pharmacists, medical practitioners, microbiologists, nurses, and other professionals committed to improving antimicrobial use across the healthcare system. Speakers delivered focused presentations on key stewardship challenges and emerging solutions. Highlights included:
- Global Point Prevalence Survey findings in Outpatient departments, presented by SMU/DGMAH clinical pharmacists Lindiwe Mnukwa, Ama Annor, Tsholofelo Makgale, Pinky Ntuli, and Nombuyiselo Shokane.
- Microbiology susceptibility trends for 2025, presented by Dr Grace Ntlemo, Pathologist / Microbiologist,
- Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) – AMS contributions by Matron Millicent Boshoga, IPC – Assistant Manager Nursing, DGMAH.
- Evidence-based guidance on Ceftazidime–Avibactam provided from Pfizer Pharmaceuticals by Silindokuhle Davidson (Medical Science Liaison Hospital Business Unit).
- Targeted treatment strategies for Clostridoides difficile, presented by Clinical Pharmacist, Tsholofelo Makgale, SMU/DGMAH.
- Resistance patterns in adult intensive care units by Dr Khunou, ICU Medical doctor/ Consultant, DGMAH.
- Infectious disease case studies led by Dr Thandekile Manzini, Infectious Disease Specialist (SMU/DGMAH) & Dr Ntsizi, Internal Medicine medical doctor (SMU/DGMAH) and Fumani Baloyi, Medical student (SMU)
- Updates on Gauteng’s Provincial antimicrobial guidelines delivered by Professor Andries Gous, Clinical Pharmacy Department/AMS Chairperson, SMU/
The event was organised by Professor Andries Gous, Chairperson of the DGMAH AMS Committee, in collaboration with the hospital’s Clinical Pharmacy team, SMU’s Department of Clinical Pharmacy, and Pfizer Pharmaceuticals. Attendees were also provided with campaign materials and patient information leaflets to extend stewardship advocacy beyond the symposium.
Its timing could not have been more relevant. “On clinical rounds, I see how challenging some infections have become to treat. The session on hand hygiene was a real eye-opener—sanitisers are our first line of defence against dangerous pathogens. This symposium has been incredibly informative, and I’m eager to put these lessons into practice every day,” said Emmanuella Owusu, a Master of Pharmacy in Clinical Pharmacy student at SMU.
Professor Gous underscored the urgency: “AMR is not a distant challenge—it is happening now. Every stakeholder, from healthcare providers to environmental managers, has a role to play. Immediate, coordinated action is essential to protect our present and secure our future.”
Alongside the symposium, the Gauteng Department of Health has issued two significant circulars guiding antimicrobial governance. The first, concerning Ceftazidime-Avibactam, formally notifies stakeholders of updates related to the medicine.
The second circular provides detailed directions on the Provincial Antimicrobial Therapeutic Guideline. It instructs pharmacy departments to select antimicrobial options aligned with stock availability, emphasising that the guideline supports—rather than replaces—clinical judgement. Healthcare workers are encouraged to consult infectious disease specialists, microbiologists, or clinical pathologists before making recommendations. Approved in November 2024 and June 2025, the guideline was implemented by institutional committees, supported by provincial stewardship structures.
Together, the symposium and newly issued circulars demonstrate a clear provincial commitment to strengthening antimicrobial stewardship. Gauteng’s health sector is intensifying surveillance, expanding education, and driving coordinated action to safeguard life-saving medicines and protect future generations.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Nov 20, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
A simple moment of frustration at Soshanguve Clinic 3 has grown into a powerful community health initiative led by Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)’s fourth-year Physiotherapy student: Toys With a Purpose. What began as a struggle to assess a four-year-old patient without suitable play tools has evolved into a dedicated paediatric therapy space designed to make rehabilitation more effective, engaging, and child-centred.
The project was sparked when student Tshegofatso Bafetanye realised the clinic lacked even basic items needed for paediatric assessment. “Assessing a child is very different from assessing an adult. Children are easily distracted and don’t always follow instructions, so toys and play therapy are essential. I simply wanted to observe the child’s knee and hip movements, but there wasn’t a single ball in the department,” Bafetanye explained.
That small challenge exposed a broader issue: the clinic had limited space and almost no appropriate equipment for paediatric rehabilitation. The group—Tshegofatso Bafetanye, Eza Ngwekazi Dyabaza, Masego Kgarodi and Rialene de Jager decided to act. “What started as frustration became a vision to create a space where therapy feels natural, playful, and meaningful,” the students said.
Their motivation was clear: every child deserves rehabilitation that is functional and joyful. Although the clinic’s clinicians were dedicated and skilled, the lack of resources restricted treatment outcomes. The students are committed to designing and sourcing affordable, safe, functional toys that support coordination, motor development, balance and emotional regulation.
Space constraints remained a persistent challenge “I saw the cylinders and wanted to facilitate four-point kneeling with an adolescent patient, but there was simply no room,” said de Jager.
The students also acknowledged the group that worked in the department before them—Shereen Dlamini, Khanyisile Aphane and Tshepiso Kekana —whose clean-up efforts created a foundation on which they could build. Their work made it possible for this new initiative to move beyond problem-identification into problem-solving.
Working with the multidisciplinary rehabilitation team, the students established a dedicated paediatric playroom equipped with purposefully selected toys and structured learning zones. Guided by the DIR/Floortime model and supported by developmental theories from Vygotsky and Bronfenbrenner, every toy was chosen to promote emotional, cognitive, social and physical growth.
The result is a dynamic, inclusive therapy environment where children are more confident and engaged, therapists can assess motor and social skills more effectively, and caregivers are equipped with simple, cost-effective strategies they can use at home.
On 20 August 2025, the students hosted a health talk with the rehabilitation team, supervisors, and nursing executives. The session functioned as both an official launch of the new space and a refresher on the importance of play in paediatric therapy. The response was overwhelmingly positive.
“You’ve taken us back to the basics, the fundamentals of matwork, hands-on therapy, and purposeful play. This is amazing. I’m so excited,” said rehab team member Lindelwe Mazibuko.
Toys with a Purpose embodies the principles of community-based healthcare: resourcefulness, compassion and collaboration. It reflects not only the students’ clinical knowledge, but also their leadership and commitment to improving children’s rehabilitation.
The group expressed gratitude to the rehabilitation staff, caregivers, previous student teams, and Physiotherapists David Seloa, Kwandiswa Shoba, Karel Rasakanya and lastly, their lecturer and block supervisor, Frida Kotsokoane, who made the project possible.
In their words, the initiative is more than a project; it is a lasting commitment to creating therapy spaces where children can thrive through play.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Nov 20, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
A cohort of sixteen female Mathematics and Applied Mathematics lecturers and postgraduate students from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) recently participated in the WAFIRA-SA3 2025 Workshop, hosted by the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) in Muizenberg, Cape Town, from 30 October to 1 November 2025. The three-day programme, themed “Advancing Women in Mathematical Sciences,” brought together women from across Africa to strengthen leadership, research, and mentorship capacity within STEM disciplines.
WAFIRA—short for Women’s Advancement Forum: International Exchanges, Research & Academia—is a continental initiative launched in 2014 by AIMS in partnership with African Gong. The programme equips women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with leadership tools and professional networks to help them thrive in academia and industry. Since its inception, WAFIRA has empowered more than 1,500 women across Africa through workshops and mentorship programmes. The name “Wafira”, derived from Arabic, signifies abundance—a fitting reflection of the initiative’s goal to cultivate an abundance of women leaders in STEM.
The SMU lecturers and postgraduate students joined other African academics for an intensive programme combining leadership training, personal development, and collaborative reflection. The opening day focused on empowering women for growth, exploring both intrinsic enablers—such as confidence, resilience, and lifelong learning—and extrinsic ones, including institutional support and inclusive environments. “Empowerment starts from within, but it flourishes in spaces that value women’s voices,” said Dr Rejoyce Gavhi-Molefe, one of the workshop facilitators.
The afternoon sessions centred on mentorship and work-life integration, underscoring the importance of balance and intentional engagement between mentors and mentees. Participants reflected on strategies for effective communication, professional boundaries, and mutual accountability. SMU participant and Junior Lecturer Kelebogile Medupe noted, “The session helped me see mentorship not just as guidance, but as a partnership built on trust and shared growth.”
Day Two placed emphasis on leadership and international collaboration, highlighting the transformative power of global partnerships in advancing research and visibility. Dr Elizabeth Rasekoala, Founder of WAFIRA, urged participants to lead boldly and intentionally: “Leadership is not bestowed—it’s cultivated through competence, confidence, and courage. Women must position themselves to access global opportunities that match their ambitions.”
A lively panel discussion followed, featuring voices from academia, research, and industry. Panellist Dr Juliet Nagawa, a WAFIRA alumna, shared, “Mentorship changed the trajectory of my career. It opened doors I didn’t even know existed.” The discussion underscored that institutions must formalise mentorship frameworks to ensure sustainability and equitable access to leadership pathways.
The final day of the workshop encouraged participants to design career progression roadmaps and reflect on their leadership journeys. Guided by facilitators, they crafted personal strategies for self-management and long-term success. “I leave this workshop with clarity, confidence, and a community of women who inspire me to dream bigger,” said Sindiswa Mnguni, participant and Junior Lecturer at SMU.
The workshop concluded with a certificate ceremony, celebrating each woman’s growth and commitment to leadership. In her closing remarks, Dr Rasekoala reminded participants that “the WAFIRA network is more than a programme—it’s a movement. We are building a legacy of abundance, where women in STEM lead, innovate, and transform Africa.”
The sixteen SMU lecturers and postgraduate students returned home inspired to champion mentorship, gender equity, and innovation within their departments—embodying WAFIRA’s vision of empowering African women to lead with purpose, resilience, and impact.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Nov 20, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
At just 23, Vuyo Delight Dlakude has become a name to watch in South Africa’s nursing and research community. A Community Service Professional Nurse at Edenvale Regional Hospital, Dlakude represents a new generation of healthcare professionals — bold, disciplined, and deeply committed to advancing patient care through evidence-based practice.
“I’ve always believed that good nursing goes beyond procedures,” he says with conviction. “It’s about empathy, precision, and a hunger to learn — because every patient teaches you something new.”
Born in Kamhlushwa, Mpumalanga, Dlakude grew up in a family that valued education above all else. “Both my parents were teachers,” he reflects. “Even after they passed away, their influence never left me. My family taught me resilience, respect, and the power of learning.”
He completed his schooling at Driekoppies Combined School, achieving excellent matric results that earned him a place at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) — South Africa’s only dedicated health sciences institution. There, he pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and Midwifery (Honours), graduating in 2025.
SMU, he says, became more than a university — it was the environment where his purpose crystallised. “Studying at SMU taught me that nursing isn’t just a job; it’s a calling. Every lecture, every clinical rotation shaped the nurse I am today.”
Now based in the theatre unit at Edenvale Hospital, Dlakude’s days are spent assisting surgeons and ensuring safe, compassionate care before, during, and after operations. “Theatre nursing requires focus and teamwork,” he explains. “You anticipate needs, monitor patients, and support recovery. There’s no room for error — just precision and humanity.”
But Vuyo’s curiosity extends beyond the operating room. During his final year at SMU, he discovered a passion for research, co-authoring a peer-reviewed article titled “Factors Influencing Late Antenatal Booking in Tshwane District: Pregnant Women’s Perceptions” (Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med, 2025). The paper explored barriers to early maternal healthcare and proposed solutions rooted in better communication and community trust.
His research journey continued when he presented his poster “Improving Midwife-Pregnant Women Communication During Health Education to Enhance Antenatal Care Uptake” at the Sedibeng District Health Research Conference 2025, earning second place out of ten submissions.
“Research is my tool for change,” he asserts. “It’s how I turn questions into solutions — and how I can give voice to the people behind the data.”
Dlakude’s leadership and excellence have not gone unnoticed. Among his accolades are the Exceptional Student Nurse Award (2023 TEN Campaign) and Extraordinary Leader of the SMU Nursing Department (2023). He also served as a DENOSA Student Movement Sports Officer and CUTL Mentor, nurturing future student nurses.
Colleagues describe him as “disciplined with humour” — a balance he believes keeps him grounded. “Discipline drives performance, but compassion keeps it human,” he says. “That’s the heart of nursing.”
Looking ahead, Dlakude aims to specialise in nursing ethics and qualitative research. His ultimate goal? “To improve how nurses are trained, supported, and valued,” he says. “When we elevate nurses, we strengthen the entire healthcare system.”
In his own words, “My journey is only beginning. I’m not just working in healthcare — I’m helping to reimagine it.”
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Nov 20, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Class of 2005 reunited in Umhlanga, Durban, for an elegant gala dinner that blended celebration, reflection, and a renewed commitment to their alma mater. For many, the evening served as a reminder of the bonds forged during their formative years at the Medical University of Southern Africa (MEDUNSA), now SMU, and of the shared purpose that has guided their professional lives over the past two decades. Alumni travelled from across South Africa to reconnect, share stories, and reaffirm their commitment to the institution that helped shape their careers.
A highlight of the evening was a stirring address by Mr Japhta Phala, President of the SMU Convocation and Alumni, who urged his classmates to consider the long-term future of the university. He emphasised that SMU’s growth and excellence depend on more than its curriculum and academic staff—it also requires modern, functional infrastructure. “Our university needs new infrastructure. If SMU is to compete globally and offer a world-class learning environment, we as alumni must play an active role in investing in that progress,” he said. His words resonated deeply, not merely as a call for financial contribution, but as a rallying cry for a more engaged and sustained commitment to SMU’s mission.
Mr Phala framed alumni not only as former students, but as active custodians of the university’s legacy. “Alumni are not just former students—we are custodians of SMU’s legacy. Each contribution, big or small, helps build a stronger foundation for future generations of health professionals.” By linking the university’s future to alumni engagement, he underscored that the reunion was more than a nostalgic gathering; it was a strategic step in ensuring SMU’s continued capacity to train healthcare leaders equipped to meet South Africa’s evolving needs.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Prof Lebogang Phahladira, Specialist Psychiatrist and Senior Lecturer at Stellenbosch University, spoke from the heart about the shared journey of the Class of 2005. Born and raised in Limpopo, Prof Phahladira graduated from MEDUNSA with his MBChB in 2005 and has since built a distinguished career in academia and clinical practice. “We are not only marking 20 years since we graduated; we are honouring the resilience, sacrifice, and dedication that carried us from our days at MEDUNSA to where we stand today,” he reflected. His words captured both the individual challenges faced by members of the class and the collective strength gained through mutual support.
Prof Phahladira also emphasised the unity that underpins the cohort’s achievements. “Our unity remains our greatest strength. This reunion reminds us that we have grown not only as professionals but as a community committed to service,” he said. His address reinforced the importance of maintaining ongoing alumni connections—not simply for nostalgia, but for mentorship, collaboration, and the shared advancement of SMU’s mission.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr Luvuyo Bayeni, Chairperson of the Organising Committee and Chief Director for Human Resources at the National Department of Health. Dr Bayeni’s remarks highlighted the moral responsibilities that accompany a career in health.
“Our work goes beyond clinical skill … it requires a commitment to ethical leadership and the well-being of the people we serve,” he observed. Dr Bayeni praised the Class of 2005 for exemplifying the university’s values throughout their careers.
“You are a class that continues to lead with purpose. Your presence in hospitals, academic institutions, government, and private practice speaks to the excellence that MEDUNSA and SMU instilled in you,” he said, urging alumni to collaborate in addressing national health challenges: “A stronger health system depends on our willingness to work together.”
As the evening drew to a close, the atmosphere shifted to one of camaraderie, celebration, and reflection. Alumni honoured colleagues who had passed on, shared personal and professional milestones, and strengthened long-standing friendships. The night ended with an unmistakable sense of purpose—a collective belief in SMU’s enduring importance and a renewed determination to invest in its future.
Mr Phala’s closing message captured the spirit of the reunion: “SMU’s future is in our hands. When we invest in the institution, we invest in the future of healthcare in South Africa.”
For the Class of 2005, the gathering was not just a celebration of past achievements but a powerful recommitment to what lies ahead, ensuring their legacy continues through new infrastructure, shared purpose, and the unwavering power of alumni to shape the future.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Nov 15, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has officially entered a defining new era as it inaugurated Dr Penny Moumakwa as Chancellor and Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus as Vice-Chancellor and Principal, marking the first time in the institution’s history that the apex leadership trio, including the Chairperson of Council, is led entirely by women.
This historic moment positions SMU not only as a university on the rise, but as an institution rewriting the narrative of leadership in South Africa’s higher education landscape.
A transformational milestone for higher education
In a ceremony that blended academic tradition with powerful symbolism, the installation of the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor affirmed SMU’s commitment to excellence, transformation, and a renewed identity rooted in leadership, integrity, and societal purpose.
Chairperson of Council, Nontlaza Sizani, celebrated the milestone, noting that: “Today, we are witnessing an extraordinary moment for our country, one where women lead with intellect, courage, and clarity. This leadership collective will shape SMU’s future and strengthen its contribution to the nation.”
Upon taking the oath of office, Moumakwa delivered an acceptance address grounded in humility, purpose, and a commitment to service.
She noted: “I accept this honour with deep appreciation and a profound sense of duty. A Chancellor must represent the soul of the institution, its integrity, its aspirations, and its promise to society. I accept that responsibility with reverence, with clarity, and with unwavering commitment.” She also pledged her full support to the Vice-Chancellor, saying: “Professor Matsha-Erasmus, your leadership is already shaping a powerful new chapter for SMU. I look forward to walking alongside you as we strengthen this institution and expand its impact.”
Delivering her inaugural address, themed “The Ascent of SMU: A University Reimagined for Global Impact,” Matsha-Erasmus set out a bold, future-oriented vision for SMU’s next chapter. She emphasised: “There are moments in the life of a nation when an institution steps fully into its purpose. Today is such a moment for SMU. We will not ask for respect, we will earn it. Not by rhetoric, but by results.”
Referencing SMU’s recent rise in the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, she highlighted that the institution is becoming a continental hub for health sciences excellence, research leadership, and innovation.
The Vice-Chancellor continued: “We stand at an inflexion point, a moment to honour the history that shaped us and boldly define the future we will create. Our mission is not only to generate knowledge, but to heal, innovate, and impact global health.”
A university on the rise
In their respective addresses, both the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor underscored SMU’s accelerating trajectory as a university on the rise — one positioning itself as a continental force in health sciences education, research, and innovation.
They highlighted how SMU is deepening its footprint in world-class research, evidenced by the groundbreaking patents emerging from its scholars and the increasing visibility of its scientific outputs. This momentum is matched by the university’s bold expansion of its One Health leadership, advancing interdisciplinary solutions in a world where human, animal, and environmental health are inseparably linked.
The leaders further emphasised SMU’s drive to strengthen innovation, commercialisation, and entrepreneurship, ensuring that research does not remain in academic journals but moves into clinics, communities, markets, and manufacturing ecosystems. They articulated a clear vision of SMU as a continental reference point for health sciences training, producing graduates who are globally competent and locally responsive.
Central to this rise is a renewed commitment to student-centred excellence, ensuring that student experience, wellbeing, and opportunity are embedded at the heart of institutional decision-making.
Both leaders also reaffirmed SMU’s responsibility to the country: contributing meaningfully to national health priorities, including the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI), universal health coverage, and the future architecture of South Africa’s healthcare delivery.
Together, these ambitions signal a university not only transforming itself but also reshaping the health landscape of South Africa, Africa, and the world.
A new epoch of leadership
This all-women leadership collective—Council Chair, Chancellor, and Vice-Chancellor- signals SMU’s entry into a new epoch of institutional renewal, ethical purpose, and academic ambition.
It is a milestone that not only embodies transformation but positions SMU as a university charting a bold path for South Africa and Africa.
*By Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli
