by Lorato | Oct 23, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In 2025, a quiet revolution began at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). Out of conversations once confined to private circles emerged SMU Pride Connect — the university’s first student-led queer structure. Founded by a group of determined students led by Freddy Kunene (Chairperson) and Phozisa Gumede (Secretary), Pride Connect was born from a shared conviction: queer students at SMU deserved to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
“For years, queer students were visible yet unseen,” recalls Kunene. “We were part of the community but not represented in its spaces or policies.” That absence became the spark. What began as honest conversations among friends evolved into a movement that redefined inclusivity on campus.
From its inception, SMU Pride Connect has stood for advocacy, community, and celebration. The structure’s mission is simple but powerful — to make SMU a safer, more inclusive home for LGBTQIA+ students. Within months of its founding, Pride Connect made history with its March 2025 Awareness Campaign, introducing the university community to a vision of belonging that left a lasting impression. The campaign was followed by game nights and safe spaces, giving queer students and allies room to connect and express themselves freely.
June 2025 marked a turning point. The group hosted SMU’s first-ever Pride Celebration Picnic — a colourful, joy-filled gathering that doubled as the structure’s official launch. “Seeing students dancing under rainbow flags felt like liberation,” Gumede says. “For many, it was the first time they felt free to exist openly on campus.”
Then came October’s Pride Month March and Panel Talk, a bold milestone that sparked campus-wide dialogue about identity, inclusion, and visibility. The event brought together students, staff, and university leaders — proof that Pride Connect’s advocacy was inspiring genuine cultural change. For its groundbreaking work, the group was named Vice-Chancellor’s Society of the Year 2025, a recognition that cemented its place in SMU’s evolving story of transformation.
Behind these milestones is a committed leadership collective whose dedication drives the structure forward. The 2025 executive committee includes:
Freddy Kunene (Chairperson), Hlonipho Leshilo (Deputy Chairperson), Phozisa Gumede (Secretary), Esther Msiza (Deputy Secretary), Masala Kutama (Treasurer), Tumisho Manyama (Media Officer), Sibongile Molefe (Media Officer), Dimpho Pilusa (Counselling Officer), Thuto Matsie (Counselling Officer), Lehlogonolo Mathete (Events Organiser), and Alex Chokwe (Events Organiser). Atholl Valdon Kleinhans and Eunice Modiba serve as Technical Advisors.
Each plays a vital role in advancing Pride Connect’s mission of visibility, equality, and empowerment. Together, they ensure that every initiative — from awareness campaigns to policy dialogues — reflects the diverse voices within SMU’s queer community.
Leading a queer organisation within a health sciences context has not been without challenges. From navigating bureaucracy to confronting social stigma, the founders have faced their share of resistance. Yet, their resilience continues to drive them. “Education and dialogue are our tools,” says Gumede. “We’re turning misunderstanding into empathy, one conversation at a time.”
Looking ahead, Pride Connect plans to launch a Queer Health Education Series, strengthen mental health support systems, and expand its Pride Month activities into a full Pride Week celebration in 2026.
Their vision is bold: a campus — and ultimately, a country — where inclusivity is not an aspiration but a norm.
“Pride,” Kunene concludes, “is love without apology. It’s courage, compassion, and community — and at SMU, it’s only just beginning.”
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 21, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
At a time when South Africa’s health system continues to demand capable, compassionate, and visionary professionals, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is once again leading from the front. Through its Convocation, the university is rallying alumni, partners, and the broader corporate community to reinvest in the next generation of health-sciences leaders.
This initiative will culminate in a prestigious evening of celebration and purpose — the SMU Convocation Fundraising & Alumni Awards Gala Dinner, to be held on 25 October 2025, under the theme “SMU NextGen: Investing in South Africa’s Future of Health Sciences.”
The gala will bring together distinguished alumni, corporate partners, government leaders, and philanthropists in an atmosphere of elegance and generosity, while raising critical funds to support financially constrained students in the health-sciences disciplines.
A vision born of convocation leadership
For Japhta Phala, President of the SMU Convocation, the gala represents far more than a single fundraising event but a powerful act of collective responsibility. “The Convocation was inspired to initiate this fundraising gala because we understand that education remains the most enduring investment in South Africa’s future,” says Phala. “As alumni, we are products of a system that once gave us a chance to realise our dreams and now it is our turn to extend that opportunity to those who come after us.”
Under Phala’s leadership, the Convocation Executive Committee has prioritised rebuilding the bridge between SMU and its alumni network, not only through nostalgic reconnection but through tangible, transformative contribution. The gala is envisioned as an annual anchor event to institutionalise alumni giving and affirm SMU’s standing as a national asset in health sciences education.
Phala emphasises that the event also serves as a symbolic bridge between SMU’s proud legacy and South Africa’s urgent need for more skilled health sciences professionals.
“We hope this initiative will make a measurable difference in the lives of our students — students who are talented, committed, and eager to serve,” he explains. “Beyond financial relief, this is about restoring dignity and hope. It’s about ensuring that a gifted student from a rural or township background doesn’t abandon their dream simply because they can’t afford to continue studying.”
He adds that the gala reflects the broader spirit of SMU itself; a university founded to democratise access to health-sciences education and to transform the health landscape of South Africa.
Alumni and partners: The lifeblood of progress
Phala believes the success of SMU’s mission depends on a collective ecosystem of support where alumni and partners play an active, enduring role.
“Our alumni and partners are vital architects of the university’s future,” he notes. “Their involvement, whether through mentorship, research collaboration, or financial contribution is what keeps the SMU flame burning. They embody the university’s values in the workplace and in society, and their investment today will shape the calibre of healthcare professionals our country produces tomorrow.”
The Convocation Executive Committee echoes this sentiment, calling on alumni from across generations to see themselves not as former students, but as lifelong ambassadors and investors in the institution’s continued excellence.
Beyond the fundraising appeal, the gala will honour outstanding alumni who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in medicine, governance, innovation, and social impact. Through initiatives like this, SMU is positioning itself not only as a centre of academic excellence but also as a hub for national health transformation, driven by its own graduates.
Phala concludes: “The future of SMU — and indeed South Africa’s health sciences system will be written by those who understand that legacy is not what we inherit, but what we build for others to inherit. This gala is our collective commitment to that principle.”
Event: SMU Convocation Fundraising & Alumni Awards Gala Dinner
Theme: SMU NextGen – Investing in South Africa’s Future of Health Sciences
Date: 25 October 2025
Dress Code: Black Tie (Men – Black & White Tuxedos | Women – Elegant Red Gowns)
For Sponsorships/Donations More Information: letsai.mashishi@smu.ac.za
By Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli
by Lorato | Oct 16, 2025 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to shape South Africa’s health sciences landscape, producing visionary professionals, pioneering researchers, and transformative leaders. From government corridors to hospital theatres and corporate boardrooms, SMU alumni advance health sciences, drive innovation, and contribute to socio-economic development across the continent.
To preserve and strengthen this legacy, SMU Convocation invites alumni, partners, and friends to the SMU Convocation Fundraising & Alumni Awards Gala Dinner on 25 October 2025 at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria. The event is more than a celebration — it is a call to action to invest in the next generation of health sciences leaders. Many talented SMU students face financial challenges that threaten their academic and professional aspirations. The Gala Dinner aims to bridge this gap, ensuring no deserving student is left behind. The evening will also honour distinguished alumni whose contributions reflect SMU’s values of Excellence, Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, and Respect.
In preparation for the event, the SMU Convocation Executive Committee (EXCO) held a strategic workshop to plan for the year ahead. The session provided an opportunity to reflect on Convocation’s role in advancing the University’s mission, strengthening alumni relations, and ensuring meaningful participation in institutional development.
Delivering the welcome address, Japhta Phala, President of SMU Convocation, emphasised that Convocation is more than a statutory structure — it is a vibrant community of graduates, academics, and stakeholders united by a shared responsibility to support SMU’s growth. “The Convocation exists to be the voice of alumni, strengthen the bond between graduates and their alma mater, and play a meaningful role in the life of the institution,” he said.
Vice-President Elifolet Bhembe outlined the workshop objectives, which included preparing for the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and finalising plans for the Fundraising Gala Dinner. “We reviewed the SMU Statute and Convocation Constitution to ensure compliance and alignment, developed a detailed checklist for the AGM, and explored ways to enhance Convocation activities and alumni benefits,” he explained.
The workshop focused on governance, accountability, and innovation. By grounding its work in the SMU Statute and Constitution, Convocation reaffirms its commitment to transparency and good governance. The AGM was highlighted not merely as a statutory requirement, but as a democratic platform empowering alumni to influence the University’s direction.
Participants also discussed enhancing alumni engagement through tangible benefits, such as professional networking platforms, mentorship programmes, and opportunities for collaboration in research and community development. “A vibrant alumni community is central to the sustainability and reputation of SMU. When alumni thrive, the University’s name shines brighter — and when the university grows, alumni benefit in return,” the EXCO noted.
The workshop included dedicated Convocation EXCO members: Japhta Phala (President), Elifolet Bhembe (Vice-President), Sello Madibela (Secretary), Jeff Shipalana and Remofilwe Poeng (Additional Members), Dr Zukiswa Gonya (University Council Member), and Letsai Mashishi (Senior Officer: Convocation Administration).
Concluding the session, Phala thanked members for their dedication, emphasising that their work lays the foundation for a more connected alumni community and a stronger institution. “The work we are doing today paves the way for a stronger Convocation, a more engaged alumni network, and a university that continues to shine as a centre of excellence in health sciences education,” he said.
As SMU prepares for the Fundraising & Alumni Awards Gala Dinner, the call is clear — come together as a community, invest in the dreams of future health professionals, and build a lasting legacy of opportunity, excellence, and impact.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Oct 16, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) proudly announces the successful conclusion of the 2025 Student Representative Council (SRC) elections and the constitution of a new cohort of student leaders for the 2025/2026 term.
The elections, held on 18 September 2025, reflected the University’s commitment to democratic values and participatory governance. Following the voting process, all objections were addressed through proper channels, ensuring transparency and fairness. The final results were officially published on 6 October 2025, and the new SRC was formally constituted on 7 October 2025.
Tulani Nkuntse, Director of Student Affairs, congratulated the newly elected council and thanked students for their active participation. “We wish the new SRC well in their term and look forward to their meaningful contribution towards improving the student experience at SMU. They carry the trust and confidence of their peers,” he said.
The SRC serves as a vital governance structure, linking students and University management. The newly elected council is expected to strengthen student representation, enhance communication, and promote initiatives that advance academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement.
The 2025/2026 SRC comprises:
| Name and Surname |
Position |
| Mthokozisi Dlamini |
President General |
| Precious Mogoru |
Deputy President |
| Thato Mongake |
Secretary General |
| Mpiliso Zwane |
Deputy Secretary General |
| Tshepiso Tenacious Mashiloane |
Treasurer General |
| Teboho Edward Mathobisa |
Residence & Safety Officer |
| Siphesihle Mkhwanazi |
Sport and Recreation Officer |
| Vacant |
Projects & Campaigns Officer |
| Rirhandzu Maluleke |
Postgraduate Students’ Officer |
| Morata Mokgadi |
Culture and Religion Officer |
| Ace Junior Netshipale |
School of Dentistry |
| France Baloyi |
School of Health Care Sciences |
| Vumbhoni Mahlaule |
School of Medicine |
| Lesedi Diketane |
School of Pharmacy |
| Caswell Xaba |
School of Science and Technology |
Nkuntse emphasised that the SRC must embody teamwork, accountability, and servant leadership. “Leadership at SMU is not only about representation but also about stewardship — driving initiatives that improve student life and promote academic success,” he said.
This year’s elections marked a significant milestone with a voter turnout of 63.67%, more than double previous years. “Such engagement reflects students’ growing awareness of the importance of participation in governance and their commitment to building a stronger, inclusive student community,” Nkuntse added.
The new council assumes office as the University continues to prioritise student development, wellness, and engagement. In the coming months, the SRC will collaborate with the Department of Student Affairs on programmes aimed at improving residence life, promoting student wellness, expanding recreational opportunities, and supporting entrepreneurship and innovation.
SMU remains committed to nurturing student leadership and empowering young leaders to make a lasting impact within and beyond the University. “We look forward to seeing this council continue the legacy of strong student leadership and contribute to a vibrant, engaged, and inclusive campus environment,” concluded Nkuntse.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Oct 16, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
A South African researcher has made academic history after his pioneering study on metabolic syndrome in menopausal women was published by the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Global Reports (AJOG Global Reports) — the first from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) to achieve this distinction.
Lecturer and postgraduate student, Dr Lawrence Marapo, from SMU’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, led a large-scale investigation examining how menopause influences metabolic syndrome — a cluster of risk factors including obesity, hypertension, and abnormal lipid levels that increase the likelihood of heart disease and diabetes. Conducted at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital (DGMAH) between March 2022 and March 2025, the study assessed 690 South African women, making it one of the most extensive of its kind on the continent.
The research revealed a stark difference between perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Nearly half (47%) of perimenopausal women and over 60% (61.4%) of postmenopausal women were found to have metabolic syndrome — a statistically significant result highlighting menopause as a major turning point for women’s health. “The findings confirm that menopause itself is a moderate-to-high risk factor for metabolic syndrome,” Dr Marapo explained. “Postmenopausal women carry a heavier metabolic burden, underscoring the urgent need for targeted healthcare strategies.”
The study also linked sleep disorders, vasomotor symptoms, and dyslipidaemia to higher metabolic risk, with waist circumference and body mass index (BMI) exceeding global risk thresholds in both groups. These findings mirror global data but offer rare insight into the African population, where research on menopausal metabolic health remains limited.
Dr Marapo’s research has attracted significant international recognition. He recently presented the findings at the FIGO 2025 World Congress and has been invited to present in Rome, Italy, at the International Endocrinology and Metabolic Syndrome Congress in December 2025. His growing reputation has also earned him an invitation to serve as a committee member and presenter at the International Conference on Geriatrics and Gerontology in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, scheduled for May 2026.
While awaiting the formal marking of his research, Marapo has already completed a PhD research protocol in the same field, signalling his ongoing commitment to improving the understanding and management of menopause-related conditions among African women.
“This milestone not only represents a personal achievement but also a victory for SMU and South African science,” said Marapo. “It shows that locally generated research can shape global conversations on women’s health.”
The study was supervised by Prof Lineo Matsela, with contributions from Prof Olakunle Adewunmi Towobola, Dr Muponisi Ezekiel Chabalala, and other SMU academics. It has been praised for its robust methodology, ethical rigour, and its potential to inform clinical interventions that could reduce cardiovascular and metabolic complications in midlife women.
As menopause becomes an increasingly important focus in public health, Marapo’s work sets a new benchmark for African research excellence — confident, data-driven, and globally relevant.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 16, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) postgraduate student Khanyisa Faith Mokgolobotho has once again proven her innovation prowess after leading her team to first place at the prestigious G20 Tourism Hackathon, held recently in Mpumalanga.
Mokgolobotho, a Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences graduate and Director of TechMedConnect, joined six other students from universities across South Africa to form The Catalysts — the team that took home the R175 000 first prize for their visionary concept, Hologram Hub.
Hosted by the Department of Tourism in collaboration with Geekulcha, the Centre for Public Service Innovation, and the Future Leaders Challenge (FLC), the hackathon brought together 48 students from 21 higher education institutions. Their mission: to design Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions that could make tourism more inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready.
Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille launched the initiative earlier in the year, describing it as “a legacy project that unites government, business, and academia to build a tech-savvy tourism sector.” Participants were challenged to create AI-driven innovations under three key themes: Smart Tourism and AI Solutions, Community-Based Tourism and Rural Inclusion, and Heritage and Cultural Tourism Innovation.
Working over two days at the Sabi River Sun Resort, the students received mentorship from industry experts before presenting their final concepts to a panel of judges comprising academics, tourism specialists, and government representatives. Entries were assessed on innovation, feasibility, user experience, impact, and alignment with people-centred principles.
The Catalysts’ winning idea, Hologram Hub, proposes a digital storytelling platform where rural communities can share their culture and heritage using holographic technology. The platform aims to preserve local history, empower small tourism enterprises, and attract visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences. “Our concept gives communities a voice and visibility,” Mokgolobotho explained. “It bridges innovation with identity — showing that technology can celebrate who we are while driving sustainable tourism.”
The second prize went to Map My Biz, which developed an AI-powered map connecting tourists with rural entrepreneurs, while Ubuntu Unlimited secured third place with a virtual reality tourism platform showcasing African heritage sites.
Minister De Lille praised the students’ creativity and commitment, noting that their projects would receive further support for commercialisation. “This year, we challenged young people to think big and showcase their skills to the world,” she said. “We are investing in solutions that are ethical, inclusive, and sustainable. The winning innovations will be accelerated for real-world implementation with support from the Department and our partners.”
The top three teams were also invited to present their solutions before G20 tourism ministers at Skukuza, Kruger National Park, marking a career-defining moment for the young innovators.
For Mokgolobotho, who has previously won five hackathons and now works as a Graduate Software Development Engineer at PyCentric, this victory reaffirms her mission to merge technology and social impact. “Winning is more than a trophy — it’s proof that innovation from African youth can shape global conversations,” she said.
Through determination, collaboration, and creativity, The Catalysts have not only secured national recognition but also spotlighted the potential of South African students to reimagine the future of tourism through technology.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 16, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) FM is undergoing a steady transformation under the stewardship of its newly appointed Assistant Station Coordinator, Mpho Legodi. Tasked with restoring structure and professionalism to the campus radio station, Legodi has laid out a clear daily work plan while continuing to inspire audiences as the host of the late-night Night Flight show.
Legodi’s role as Assistant Station Coordinator is one that demands discipline, creativity, and effective leadership. His daily schedule, running from 08:00 to 17:00, reflects a balance between administrative duties and creative oversight. Each morning begins with a studio check-in, ensuring equipment is functional, followed by presenter roll call and shift management. “It’s important to know who is live and who isn’t—it sets the tone for accountability,” he explains.
By mid-morning, Legodi shifts his attention to social media and content planning, ensuring that the station’s digital presence complements its on-air output. Programming quality checks, administrative tasks such as attendance records, and communication with management form part of his late-morning responsibilities. Afternoons are dedicated to team coaching, outreach, and partnership development, before wrapping up the day with reports and planning for the next broadcast cycle.
For Legodi, key focus areas include presenter management, content oversight, social media coordination, and building partnerships that generate revenue through advertising and campaigns. “With clear daily duties, consistency, and communication, I’ll ensure the station is productive and impactful every day,” he says with conviction.
Beyond administration, Legodi remains a familiar voice to many listeners through the Night Flight show, which has become a hallmark of SMU FM’s programming. Inspired by his love for late-night radio, he sees the slot as a unique space for connection. “It’s a time when people are more reflective, more honest, and often just looking for comfort in music and conversation,” he reflects.
The show’s carefully curated playlist of R&B, Soul, and chill sounds sets the perfect backdrop for reflective evenings. “Music sets the tone; it creates a safe space for people to unwind after a long day. I often mix familiar classics with hidden gems so the listener feels both comfort and discovery,” he explains.
Audience engagement is central to Legodi’s approach. Through WhatsApp, social media, and call-ins, listeners become part of the experience. One piece of feedback has stayed with him: “A listener once told me the show helped them through a really tough period—they tuned in every night and felt less alone. That showed me radio is more than entertainment; it’s companionship.”
Looking ahead, Legodi’s vision is ambitious but deeply rooted in community. He hopes to re-establish SMU FM as the true voice of the campus, known for quality content, strong music programming, and visible engagement through events and collaborations. “I want us to be more than just background radio—I want us to be the voice of SMU, where every student feels at home,” he says.
With his structured approach, creative passion, and commitment to professionalism, Mpho Legodi is not only managing the station—he is charting its flight path into the future.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 16, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In commemoration of World Mental Health Day on 10 October 2025, students enrolled in the Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) hosted a transformative awareness event at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital (DGMAH). Guided by the World Health Organisation (WHO) theme, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” the students identified the need to prioritise workplace readiness in supporting employees’ psychological and emotional well-being during crises. Under the sub-theme “Mental Health Wellness in the Workplace,” the initiative highlighted the urgent importance of promoting emotional well-being among healthcare professionals and the broader community.
Senior Lecturer Dr Andile Mokoena De-Beer opened the event by stressing the power of dialogue in dismantling stigma. “The purpose of today is transformation. It is to begin the vital work of turning our workplaces from environments that can sometimes harm mental health into sanctuaries that actively promote and protect it. Let us use this day not as a mere calendar event, but as a launchpad. Let us learn, engage, and commit to making mental wellness a lived reality for everyone in our professional community,” she said.
Delivering the keynote address, SMU alumna and specialist psychiatrist Dr Lydia Masenya-Maodi echoed the call for compassion, urging attendees to treat workplace mental health as a shared duty. “We often recognise physical injury, but psychological injury is real — and it is caused by unpleasant, harmful words. Control your tongue, watch your words,” she advised.
Observed annually on 10 October, World Mental Health Day serves as a global reminder of the importance of addressing the stigma surrounding mental illness. In South Africa, where mental health challenges are steadily increasing, SMU’s nursing students are turning awareness into meaningful action.
The Department of Nursing Science—the largest within SMU’s School of Health Care Sciences, offering more than 28 modules—integrates this commemoration into its academic programme each year. Mental Health Nursing, a core module accredited by the South African Nursing Council, requires students to undertake community-based research projects. These projects identify vulnerable populations, assess their mental health needs, and align outcomes with the World Health Organisation’s annual theme.
“Our students are trained not only to treat illness but to lead change,” said psychiatric nursing lecturer Dikeledi Maphake, delivering the vote of thanks. “They are the next generation of advocates who understand that healthcare begins with humanity.”
This year’s focus on workplace mental health acknowledged the psychological toll that healthcare environments can impose. The event featured:
• Informative presentations from leading professionals
• Interactive, student-led sessions addressing real-world challenges
• Mental wellness activities aimed at relieving stress
• Resource booths and educational materials to support staff well-being
Participants were encouraged to reflect on their own mental health. “We often care for others while forgetting ourselves,” said Neo Maleka, one of the organisers and student participants. “Today reminds us that our minds deserve care too.”
Sebone Mathole, an enrolled nurse at DGMAH’s psychiatric unit, expressed gratitude: “It was critical to have this event dedicated to us as workers. Our mental health matters just as much as that of our patients. We appreciate this initiative and hope it becomes an annual event. Thank you, SMU.”
Maleka captured the spirit of the day: “Our mission goes beyond textbooks. We want every nurse, doctor, and patient to know they are seen, heard, and supported. Mental health is not an afterthought — it’s a foundation.”
Through this initiative, SMU reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing healthcare professionals who pair skill with compassion — individuals who recognise that mental health is not optional; it’s essential.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 14, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has affirmed its position among the world’s leading higher education institutions in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, marking a defining moment in its transformation into a globally competitive health sciences university.
Ranked within the 1201–1500 band globally and 11th in South Africa, SMU’s consistent upward trajectory signals a university steadily strengthening its academic reputation, global partnerships, and research impact. The 2026 edition of the rankings evaluated 2 192 universities across 120 countries, making SMU’s continued inclusion an emblem of academic endurance and international relevance in an increasingly competitive higher education landscape.
Building a globally competitive health sciences institution
Under the visionary leadership of its Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus, SMU has redefined what it means to be a health sciences university in South Africa. Her strategic focus on excellence, collaboration, and global benchmarking has catalysed measurable growth across key performance pillars: Teaching, Research Environment, Industry Engagement, and International Outlook.
This year, SMU achieved a Teaching score of 26.0 and a Research Quality score of 42.7, underscoring both the calibre of its academic environment and the relevance of its research to societal and scientific advancement. Most notably, the university’s International Outlook score rose to 50.0, reflecting its expanding global footprint and sustained partnerships with institutions and research networks worldwide.
Matsha-Erasmus described the performance as “a reflection of a university that is intentional about transformation through scholarship, excellence and impact.” In an environment where rankings increasingly measure global competitiveness, SMU’s growth is not merely statistical; it symbolises transformation through intentional leadership.
The university demonstrated improvement in almost every category assessed by THE. Its overall score rose from 25.2–30.6 in 2025 to 27.3–32.0 in 2026, while Industry Income increased from 18.3 to 19.2, highlighting stronger engagement between academia and industry. The Research Environment score also advanced to 11.1, a nod to investments in research infrastructure, mentorship, and postgraduate support.
These achievements, though measured numerically, tell a broader story of academic ambition and institutional renewal, one grounded in the belief that health sciences education must drive innovation, equity, and impact beyond national borders.
SMU’s Research Quality pillar remains among its strongest. With a score of 42.7, it reflects the university’s commitment to producing impactful, peer-recognised scholarship that addresses Africa’s most pressing health challenges—from infectious diseases to non-communicable conditions that define the continent’s epidemiological landscape.
The university’s strategic partnerships with global research consortia and its emphasis on evidence-based healthcare innovation continue to position it as a crucial node in the global knowledge ecosystem. “Our mission has always been to ensure that research translates into solutions,” says Matsha-Erasmus. “Each publication, partnership and postgraduate graduate must ultimately contribute to healthier, more equitable societies.”
Benjamin Ntshabele, Institutional Researcher, adds: “At its core, SMU is steadily growing and cementing its place as one of the leading health sciences universities both locally and globally. Beyond its continued progress in teaching and learning, with a stronger and more dynamic learning environment, the university’s biggest strength lies in its expanding International Outlook. This growth reflects meaningful progress in collaboration and in staff and student mobility, laying a solid foundation for building a global reputation and boosting research impact.”
Ntshabele further states: “Research Quality remains a key area of strength, with SMU’s publications and citation impact continuing to make a mark. Industry engagement is gaining momentum, showing stronger partnerships and real-world impact. Meanwhile, the Research Environment is showing steady, positive movement — a clear sign of ongoing investment in research capacity and support.”
A rising star among South African universities
SMU’s performance reflects a story of resilience and renewal. Competing alongside research giant universities, SMU’s steady climb demonstrates that institutional excellence is not defined by age or size, but by strategic focus, data-driven management, and the will to lead.
The university continues to outperform its weight in International Outlook, a metric that measures international staff, students, and research collaboration. Its upward movement in this category signals growing recognition of SMU as a partner of choice for global health research and training collaborations.
The 2026 results are both an achievement and a call to action. SMU’s journey towards becoming a premier African health sciences university is accelerating, driven by its mission to produce world-class health sciences professionals and transformative research.
*By Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli
by Lorato | Oct 9, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) shone brightly on the night of 8 October as it hosted the 2025 Student Affairs Excellence Awards under the glamorous theme, All-White Masquerade. The event was a celebration of students whose passion, leadership, and dedication have elevated the university’s culture of excellence across academics, sports, residence life, and the arts.
Rooted in SMU’s institutional values, the awards were established to recognise and reward students who embody the principle of Excellence—a cornerstone that drives the university’s operations and academic ambitions. This year’s ceremony reaffirmed that SMU’s pursuit of excellence extends far beyond the lecture hall; it encompasses every sphere of campus life, from community engagement to entrepreneurial innovation.
In her keynote address, Vice-Chancellor Professor Thandi Matsha-Erasmus reminded attendees that excellence is not merely an aspiration but a daily practice that defines the SMU community. She emphasised that the university’s mission to develop competent, ethical, and compassionate graduates depends on cultivating a shared commitment to integrity, collaboration, and impact. “Excellence isn’t confined to the classroom,” she said. “It’s reflected in how our students lead, collaborate, and serve their communities.”
The evening highlighted a diverse range of achievements that reflected the vibrant spirit of SMU students. Among the standout honourees was Ndungelo Tsanwami, who received the Sports Physiotherapist of the Year Award for her outstanding contribution to athlete wellbeing and sports performance. The Change Maker of the Year Award went to Nzuzo Mpondwana, a student whose initiatives have driven meaningful transformation and inclusivity on campus.
Student societies also took the spotlight, with SMU Pride Connect and Khulanathi Edu Hub jointly recognised as Societies of the Year for their exceptional engagement and positive influence on student life. In residence life, Tshepo Ntlemeza was commended for outstanding leadership through a community-focused project that earned the title of Outstanding Project Initiative by a House Committee.
Athletic prowess featured prominently in the celebrations. Amogelang Mositse was named Sportsman of the Year, while Tshiamo Sefola took home the title of Sportswoman of the Year. The dynamic SMU Dance Elites received the Team of the Year Award, a recognition of their discipline, creativity, and team spirit. The 4B Residence was crowned Residence of the Year, standing out for fostering an environment of unity, support, and excellence among its members.
The awards also celebrated students who have excelled administratively and entrepreneurially. Thapelo Mthimunye was honoured as Student Administrator of the Year for his dedication to efficient student affairs management, while Amukelani Chauke received the Most Promising Entrepreneur Award for driving social innovation and community upliftment. In recognition of outstanding leadership, Tshililo Sigari was awarded House Committee of the Year, and Mahlorhi Baloyi was named Co-Curricular Leadership Student of the Year for demonstrating integrity and influence beyond academics.
The evening reached its peak when the Vice-Chancellor’s Award, SMU’s highest accolade, was presented to Pharmacy student Mahlorhi Baloyi. Known for her academic excellence and remarkable leadership, Baloyi embodies the essence of SMU’s institutional values—excellence, service, and transformative leadership.
Closing the event, Director of Student Affairs Mr Tulani Nkuntse expressed heartfelt gratitude to students, staff, and partners who continue to shape SMU’s thriving campus community. He praised the recipients for setting new benchmarks of achievement and urged all students to keep striving for excellence in every pursuit.
The 2025 Student Affairs Excellence Awards stood as more than a celebration—it was a testament to SMU’s unwavering commitment to nurturing leaders who will drive innovation, integrity, and impact in South Africa and beyond.
By Dimakatso Modise
