by Lorato | Mar 19, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to strengthen its position as one of South Africa’s leading health sciences institutions as applications for the 2026 academic year surged to 89,384 prospective students competing for just 1,265 first-year undergraduate spaces.
The overwhelming response reflects the growing demand for specialised health sciences education and underscores SMU’s reputation for academic excellence, innovative research, and a vibrant student experience. As a dedicated health sciences university, SMU remains committed to transforming health services through excellence and innovation while preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals to serve communities locally and nationally.
According to the university’s approved enrolment plan, SMU aims to accommodate 7,596 students in 2026, including 5,641 undergraduate students and 1,955 postgraduate students. Among the postgraduate cohort are 1,307 master’s candidates and 202 doctoral students, reinforcing the university’s expanding role in developing advanced health sciences expertise.
Student Recruitment Officer Ntsheu Collins Mangena said the unprecedented number of applications signals strong public confidence in the university’s programmes and its mission to transform healthcare through education.
“Receiving nearly 90,000 applications for the 2026 intake is both encouraging and humbling,” said Mangena. “It demonstrates the trust that learners, parents and educators place in SMU as a specialised institution dedicated to training future healthcare professionals. Our goal is to attract top achievers in Mathematics and Science while strengthening relationships with teachers and career guidance counsellors across the country.”
Several programmes remain highly competitive due to national shortages of skilled healthcare professionals.
- Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery: 15,058 applications for 60 spaces
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB): 12,758 applications for 155 spaces, plus 50 Extended Curriculum Programme places
- Bachelor of Pharmacy: 11,977 applications for 71 spaces
- Diagnostic Radiography: 8,297 applications for 30 spaces
School of Health Sciences programmes have also recorded strong interest. Physiotherapy attracted 4,898 applications for 60 spaces, while Occupational Therapy received 3,358 applications for 40 places.
Meanwhile, the School of Science and Technology continues to contribute to the multidisciplinary health sciences ecosystem by offering programmes in Life Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Environmental Biology, and Microbiology and Immunology. The school will enrol 476 students across its programmes, strengthening the scientific foundation that supports healthcare innovation.
Mangena explained that SMU’s recruitment strategy has become increasingly proactive, combining school outreach, national exhibitions and regional partnerships to reach talented learners earlier in their academic journeys.
“Student recruitment is no longer passive. We actively engage learners, parents and educators through school visits, exhibitions, and information sessions so that talented students understand both the opportunities and the application process at SMU.”
The university’s 2026 Schools Liaison and Student Recruitment Plan focuses on expanding SMU’s visibility across South Africa while building a stronger regional pipeline of students. Key initiatives include monthly school visits in Gauteng, participation in major national career exhibitions, and targeted information sessions in provinces such as Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State and the Eastern Cape.
The recruitment strategy also extends beyond South Africa’s borders, with outreach planned in neighbouring countries such as Mozambique and Zambia to strengthen the university’s presence in the Southern African region.
Parents and educators are also central to the recruitment strategy. Through engagement with School Governing Bodies and education associations, the university aims to ensure that families understand programme offerings, admission requirements, and career opportunities within the health sciences.
These initiatives are supported by strategic partnerships with organisations such as the Moses Kotane Local Municipality, the Limpopo Institute of Mathematics and Science Academy, SAICA, and Future SA STEM, which help promote science, technology and healthcare careers among high-performing learners.
Guided by values that include excellence, integrity, accountability, respect, student-centred learning and Ubuntu, SMU continues to position itself as a transformative institution that responds directly to the country’s healthcare workforce needs.
As the university prepares to welcome the 2026 intake, its growing application numbers reflect more than popularity—they signal SMU’s expanding impact on health sciences education, research innovation, and community-focused healthcare across South Africa and the region.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Nov 6, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Radiography students received an inspiring show of support from CardaXes, a company at the forefront of Cardiology, Neuro Intervention, Radiology, and Peripheral Vascular technology. The visit formed part of CardaXes’s ongoing drive to strengthen healthcare education and patient care through training, mentorship, and practical support.
CardaXes representatives visited the Radiography Department to donate lead markers—essential tools for clinical practice—and to motivate students preparing for their final examinations. The gesture, complete with gifts and words of encouragement, highlighted the private healthcare sector’s recognition of young professionals entering the field.
“Our purpose goes beyond technology,” said Marlene Birkholtz, Sales Representative at CardaXes. “We’re committed to supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals. By donating lead markers and engaging with students, we hope to boost their confidence as they approach their exams and future careers. Investing in students today ensures better healthcare tomorrow.”
The department welcomed the contribution with heartfelt appreciation. Portia Tebogo Baloyi, part-time lecturer and clinical tutor, described the donation as both practical and symbolic. “These lead markers represent more than equipment—they’re an investment in our students’ training. CardaXes went further by meeting them personally, offering encouragement and reminding them that their efforts are valued. It lifted morale at a crucial time.”
Lead markers are vital in radiography, helping practitioners ensure accuracy and uphold professional standards in imaging. For students, access to such tools sharpens their technical skills and builds clinical confidence—an essential foundation for their professional growth.
“This partnership reflects our belief in education and mentorship,” Birkholtz added. “We hope our contribution inspires students to keep striving for excellence and assures them that the healthcare industry stands behind them.”
Students were equally moved by the visit. Bachelor of Diagnostic Radiography first year student Bophelo Seroma remarked, “It wasn’t just about the gifts—it was about being seen and supported. Having professionals take time to motivate us before exams renewed our confidence and drive.”
Collaborations like this reinforce SMU’s mission to produce skilled, compassionate healthcare practitioners ready to meet real-world challenges. Partnerships with industry leaders such as CardaXes bridge the gap between classroom learning and clinical application, exposing students to the expectations and values of the healthcare environment.
Baloyi emphasised the importance of such engagements: “When companies invest in our students, they invest in the future of healthcare. CardaXes’s visit was inspiring, educational, and deeply appreciated. It strengthened our commitment to preparing graduates who are competent, confident, and compassionate.”
The SMU Radiography Department expressed sincere gratitude to CardaXes for their generosity and commitment to student development. The company’s contribution not only equipped students with essential tools but also reinforced the value of collaboration, innovation, and shared purpose in advancing healthcare education.
As SMU continues to build partnerships that empower its students, the encouragement and resources from CardaXes will remain a powerful reminder that the future of healthcare is built through shared effort and genuine investment in people.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Sep 17, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The Department of Radiography at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has made 2025 a landmark year for community engagement, blending academic rigour with meaningful service. With projects spanning health awareness campaigns, career outreach, student wellness, and industry collaboration, the department has positioned itself as a leader in socially responsive education.
Clarity and confidence drive the message. As lecturer, Tebogo Baloyi, explains: “Education does not stop at the classroom door. Our mission is to ensure that students graduate not only with technical expertise, but also with a sense of purpose and responsibility to the communities they will serve.”
Among the year’s highlights was the department’s participation in the Gauteng Health Radiography Career Expo and school outreach visits to Raymond Mhlaba School. These events aimed to demystify radiography and inspire learners to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). By directly engaging with young audiences, students themselves became ambassadors for the profession, gaining confidence while motivating the next generation.
Health awareness was another central theme. The Breast Cancer Awareness campaign, a testament to the department’s ongoing commitment, together with the World Radiography Day initiative led by the Radiography Student Organisation, brings life-saving knowledge to underserved communities. Held annually in October, these events shine a spotlight on the indispensable yet often overlooked role of radiographers — working behind the scenes to enable accurate diagnoses and effective treatment.
The department also placed strong emphasis on student well-being and belonging. The innovative B RAD I Coffee Date, held recently, created a safe space for first-year students to connect, reflect, and share challenges. Ice-breakers, storytelling sessions, and mentorship activities turned a simple coffee gathering into a powerful intervention for mental health and academic adjustment. One student, Bophelo Seroma, described it as “the first time I felt truly seen and supported at university.”
Support extended beyond conversation. In collaboration with the School of the Kingdom Ministry, the department distributed 12 grocery hampers to financially vulnerable students. Such gestures, though modest, have a tangible impact on retention, concentration, and morale. “You cannot expect a student to excel academically when they are hungry,” Baloyi noted. “Our responsibility is holistic: mind, body, and spirit.”
In terms of professional development, the department’s partnership with industry leaders stood out. A Contrast Media Workshop, delivered with GE Healthcare and TecMed, gave third-year Bachelor of Diagnostic Radiography students rare hands-on exposure to advanced imaging technologies and patient safety protocols. Similarly, Siemens Healthineers sponsored the Beauty of Radiography workshop, where both staff and students explored emerging innovations such as artificial intelligence in imaging. These collaborations bridged theory and practice, aligning curriculum with the rapidly evolving demands of healthcare.
The department measures success not only by participation numbers but also by transformation. Feedback from final year students Neo Makgota and Allison Pepler reveals greater confidence, improved clinical skills, and a stronger sense of belonging. Community partners, too, have praised the department’s consistent presence and professionalism.
Looking ahead, the department plans to expand industry partnerships, increase outreach frequency, and introduce specialised workshops in interventional radiology and AI applications. Baloyi sums it up best: “Every initiative we launch is designed to answer a single question: how can we make radiography education more relevant, impactful, and humane?”
In 2025, the Department of Radiography has shown that great writing advice also applies to great teaching: clarity signals confidence, relevance beats cleverness, and one strong intervention can transform everything.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Aug 13, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Final-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) student, Tshepang Lenkoe, has proudly reintroduced Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Dental School to the national stage after winning the prestigious 2025 South African Dental Association (SADA) Young Dentist Publisher Undergraduate Research Award.
Lenkoe, who also serves as a class representative and member of the Dental Student Council, chose dentistry to address the pressing need for accessible oral healthcare in South Africa. Growing up, he witnessed countless individuals suffering from oral health problems without access to a dentist. “I wanted to bring change to my community,” he said. “Dentistry offered me the opportunity to provide a direct service that could transform lives.”
His journey through dental school has been far from easy. Balancing demanding clinical duties with student leadership roles required discipline, effective time management, and resilience. “Helping my peers while excelling academically meant structuring my time meticulously. It’s been challenging physically and mentally, but it has taught me patience and the importance of perseverance,” he reflected.
The award-winning research that earned him national recognition was titled Diagnosis and Management of a Cystic Lesion: The Use of CBCT – A Case Report. His study compared the diagnostic accuracy of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) with conventional radiographic imaging. “SMU Dental School handles many head and neck cystic lesions, serving as a primary referral hospital for Gauteng, Limpopo, and North West. My research highlighted CBCT’s superior diagnostic capabilities, showing reduced chances of misdiagnosis compared to traditional methods,” Lenkoe explained.
His findings also carried a broader message: the urgent need for investment in state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to better serve South Africa’s population. While obtaining biopsy results in time posed challenges, the radiographic reports from CBCT enabled him to make a confident diagnosis and compare it to international literature.
Winning the award was a deeply personal achievement. “It was surreal,” he said. “I wanted to make my family proud and represent black students on a national platform. No SMU dental student had attended SADA or participated in the research competition for five years, and no SMU student had won in seven. This victory showed that we can compete at the highest level.”
The experience at the SADA Congress was both inspiring and affirming. An international keynote by Canadian dual specialist Dr David Chvartszaid reinforced Lenkoe’s passion for academic dentistry, while the encouragement of SMU lecturers and research mentors Dr Idah Mmutlana and Dr Ntombizodwa Zwane kept him motivated during research setbacks.
Looking ahead, Lenkoe aims to specialise in prosthodontics and remain active in academic dentistry to train future professionals. He also intends to continue research to contribute to South Africa’s growing body of dental knowledge. His advice to young dentists is simple yet powerful: “Pursue research. It enhances clinical skills, professional competence, and the quality of patient care.”
Through his dedication, Lenkoe has not only earned a national accolade but also reignited SMU’s presence in the dental research arena—an achievement that may inspire a new generation of South African dental scholars.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jul 31, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Years of dedication and resilience have culminated in a remarkable achievement for Dr Katlego Dikgale, who graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). Hailing from Polokwane, Limpopo, his journey into medicine began early, sparked by frequent childhood visits to healthcare facilities—whether as a patient or observer. “I was drawn to the field through regular exposure to doctors,” he recalls. “Watching them work made me realise how important they are to the wellbeing of communities.”
However, the strongest influence came from his mother, Dr Itani Thelma Dikgale, a Maxillo-Facial and Oral Surgeon and SMU alumna. Accompanying her to work and engaging with her professional environment planted a seed that eventually blossomed into a deep calling.
Graduating cum laude is a moment Katlego describes as both “humbling and motivating.” Achieving distinction in one of the country’s most demanding programmes was no easy feat. He attributes his success to collaborative learning and a structured routine. “We had end-of-rotation discussions with friends to identify knowledge gaps. Talking through cases together made a real difference.”
Yet, the path was not without its challenges. “Pharmacology was particularly tough. As a visual learner, I relied heavily on diagrams and videos to grasp the content.” Staying focused and adapting his learning style helped him overcome hurdles. “Obstacles are part of the race—you just have to keep jumping over them.”
A particularly defining moment came during his final-year rotation in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. “I started the block feeling disheartened, but gradually regained my confidence. Earning my first distinction during that rotation reminded me of my potential.”
Reflecting on his time at SMU, Katlego says the experience helped shape him into a more empathetic and grounded clinician. “Being part of this community taught me to understand the realities of the people we serve. That perspective is priceless.”
As he embarks on his internship at Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, he is eager to sharpen his clinical skills. With a strong interest in the nervous system, he is exploring specialities such as neurosurgery, neurology, and psychiatry.
A guiding philosophy, Amor Fati—the love of fate—has anchored him throughout his journey. “It’s about embracing both the highs and lows because they shape who you become.” To fellow and aspiring medical students, he offers heartfelt advice: “You’re already capable. Stay grounded, do the work, and take it one day at a time. Most importantly, enjoy the process.”
He credits his parents for his success. “Everything I am is everything you taught me. Your example paved the way.” His mother proudly reflects: “I’m incredibly proud. It’s every parent’s dream to see their child succeed. I pray he chooses a speciality he loves and fulfils his heart’s desire. Glory to God and our ancestors.” With clarity, compassion, and commitment, Katlego is not only ready to serve—but to inspire.
By Tumelo Moila
