Empowering smiles and communities: SMU graduate triumphs with excellence in Dental Therapy

by Lorato | Feb 3, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) prides itself on shaping future healthcare leaders who embody excellence, compassion, and a commitment to service. Mamonaiwa Hendrica Manyama , a recent graduate of the Bachelor of Dental Therapy programme, is a prime example of these values. Raised in the village of Mohlabaneng in Limpopo, her unwavering dedication to her education and passion for dental health have earned her recognition as the Best Student in Dental Public Health and the prestigious Van Schaik Award. Her journey to academic success, marked by perseverance and a strong sense of community, underscores her bright future in the field of dentistry.

Hailing from Mohlabaneng village in Bolobedu, Limpopo, 21-year-old Manyama was raised by her maternal grandparents, who instilled in her the importance of education. “School was always a priority in my family,” she recalls. From a young age, she was fascinated by people’s teeth, a curiosity that eventually shaped her career path.

After completing her National Senior Certificate in 2021, Manyama enrolled in SMU’s Bachelor of Dental Therapy programme, a rigorous three-year journey from 2022 to 2024. “It was a beautiful yet tough experience,” she reflects. Among the many modules she encountered, Dental Public Health stood out as her favourite. “From my first year, I loved it, and seeing myself succeed in it motivated me to study even harder.” Her dedication was recognised when she was named the best student in Dental Public Health, receiving the prestigious Van Schaik Award. Winning the Best Student in Dental Public Health and receiving the Van Schaik Dental Award are remarkable accomplishments that deserve celebration, particularly at the 2024 Oath-Taking Ceremony.

Balancing schoolwork, clinical practice, and lectures was no easy feat. “The workload increases each year, making it challenging to manage everything,” she shares. However, through time management, self-discipline, and faith, she persevered. Winning the award has further strengthened her confidence and passion for the field. “It is a recognition of my hard work and the importance of the module,” she says. “It encourages me to continue my professional development and strive for excellence.”

For those considering a career in dentistry, Manyama offers words of encouragement: “Go for it. Dentistry is challenging but rewarding. Respecting patients, listening to understand, and valuing their needs are key to making a difference in this field.”

She is also passionate about giving back to her community. “I want to conduct oral health education programmes and partner with organisations that provide treatment to underserved communities,” she explains. Her inspiration stems from a dentist who once visited her secondary school to teach students about oral health. “That visit sparked my interest in dentistry,” she recalls. Today, she is particularly drawn to the rehabilitation aspect of dentistry, which restores both the form and function of patients’ smiles.

Manyama acknowledges the inequalities within South Africa’s healthcare system but remains hopeful. “There are challenges, but efforts are being made to improve healthcare services. My plan is to offer community-based dental services in collaboration with relevant organisations.”

Manyama’s remarkable achievements at SMU serve as a testament to her hard work, determination, and deep-rooted desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. As she steps into the next phase of her career, her vision is clear: to offer vital dental services and education to underserved communities, bridging gaps in healthcare access. Her story exemplifies how SMU nurtures talent and prepares students to lead with integrity, social responsibility, and a commitment to excellence in their fields.

By Dimakatso Modise

SMU Choir wins Development Category at TCMA Competition

by Lorato | Dec 9, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media

The Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Choir has again proven its excellence, clinching victory in the Development Category at the esteemed Tshwane Choral Music Association (TCMA) Competition on 30 November 2024. With an impressive score of 148/200, this accomplishment underscores the choir’s dedication, resilience, and remarkable talent.

SMU Choir

“This victory raises the SMU flag high, showcasing our institution as a home of excellence,” says Chairperson Nzuzo Mpondwana. Reflecting on their growth, Mpondwana shares how the choir has evolved from passionate students to a polished, professional ensemble. “This achievement offers hope and reassures us of the choir’s potential to rank among the best.”

The decision to compete in the TCMA Competition was both deliberate and strategic. “The executive committee included it in our action plan for the year (2024),” explains Mpondwana. Under the guidance of their conductor, Tumisho Mampa, the choir selected the TCMA event due to its alignment with the choir’s growth trajectory and its student-friendly nature.

Preparation for the competition was rigorous, requiring immense sacrifices from members. Academic responsibilities were carefully balanced with intensive rehearsals, including overnight practice sessions late into the night. “Despite the challenges, it was worth it,” he says. The conductor’s steadfast support and the unwavering commitment of the choristers were central to their success.

The journey to victory was not without its obstacles. Logistical challenges arose, such as securing entrance tickets and arranging financial support. “The Director of Student Affairs, Tulani Nkuntse, stepped in and provided essential financial support for transportation, food, and other needs,” Mpondwana recounts. This collaboration between university leadership and the choir ensured the smooth participation of all members.

The SMU Choir’s renditions of “Heaven’s Flock” and “Leuba le Tlile” were showstoppers, captivating judges and audiences. The Western piece “Heaven’s Flock” by Ēriks Ešenvalds explores spiritual migration, hope, and transcendence themes. The African piece, “Leuba le Tlile”, composed by the choir’s conductor, Mampa, reflects the devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic, using powerful metaphors to convey loss and resilience.

“These pieces resonate deeply with our journey as a choir and connect us to our audience,” explains Mampa. The heartfelt performances showcased technical skill and conveyed profound emotion, earning the choir its deserved accolades.

The SMU Choir thrives under the strong leadership of its executive committee, which comprises six dedicated members, each a student pursuing a different academic discipline:

• Chairperson: Nzuzo Mpondwana (Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences)
• Secretary General: Akwandokuhle Mthabela (Bachelor of Occupational Therapy)
• Deputy Secretary General: Bonolo Kgomo (Bachelor of Science in Occupation and Environmental Health)
• Treasurer: Nthabiseng Modjadji (Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy)
• Public Relations Officer: Kgaugelo Mohlahlo (Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery)
• Event Organiser: Covenant Ngomana (Master of Pharmacy).

“His leadership has transformed us into a professional choir,” said Mpondwana of conductor Mampa. The unity of the choir is further strengthened by its diversity, with members from different cultural and religious backgrounds coming together in harmony. “We prioritise ubuntu and respect, embracing our differences,” adds Mampa.

The choir’s triumph highlights the complementary role of extracurricular activities in academic life. “Being part of the choir provides an escape from academic stress and enhances mental well-being,” shares Mpondwana. The success story inspires other students at SMU, proving that commitment and teamwork can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Buoyed by this victory, the SMU Choir is now setting its sights on national and international competitions in 2025. “With financial support, we aim to represent SMU on bigger stages,” says Mampa. The choir also plans to host concerts on campus, inviting students and staff to enjoy their harmonies.

“The SMU Choir is a home for all who love music,” says Mpondwana, encouraging students to join during the upcoming recruitment drive. “We maintain high ethical standards and welcome everyone ready to uphold these values.”

The choir expressed heartfelt gratitude to their conductor, Tumisho Mampa, whose guidance and musical expertise have been instrumental. They also thanked Tulani Nkuntse, the Director of Student Affairs, and other stakeholders for their support.

The SMU Choir’s victory at the TCMA Competition is more than just a win; it is a celebration of hard work, resilience, and the transformative power of music. With determination and unity, the choir continues to inspire, leaving a harmonious mark on every stage they grace.

*By Tumelo Moila

New SRC President set to lead SMU towards greater student empowerment

by Lorato | Nov 7, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media

In a remarkable turn of events at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Katlego Peter Moshanyane has emerged as the newly elected President of the Student Representative Council (SRC). His ascension to this pivotal role is not just a personal triumph; it embodies the spirit of resilience and determination that characterises the student body at SMU. With a compelling story rooted in defying adversity, Moshanyane is poised to be a transformative force, advocating for the rights and welfare of his fellow students.

Katlego Peter Moshanyane, SMU newly elected President of the Student Representative Council (SRC)

Growing up in the small village of Cokonyane in Taung, his early life was marked by significant loss. The death of his mother when he was just in Grade 3 left a profound void, but it was his grandmother’s unwavering support that steered him through the darkest times. “I have so much respect and love for her because I saw the sacrifices she made for my family and me,” he shares, reflecting the humility and gratitude that define him today.

Moshanyane’s academic journey has not been without challenges. Despite setbacks in his secondary education, including repeating Grade 10, he demonstrated incredible determination. After taking a year off to regroup, he enrolled at SMU, completing his Bachelor of Oral Hygiene in record time. But his ambition did not stop there; he has since embarked on a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme, where he is progressing through his fourth year.

His decision to run for SRC President was driven by his intimate understanding of the struggles faced by students, particularly around financial exclusion and housing instability. “I can’t count how many students I have seen crying because of the challenges in institutions of higher learning,” he reflects, voicing the pain that many students endure. This connection to his peers’ challenges compelled him to step into a leadership role, determined to effect meaningful change.

Moshanyane’s political journey began in 2018 when he sought to become chairperson of the School of Oral Health Sciences, an experience that laid the groundwork for his current success. “I literally voted for myself,” he chuckles, reminiscing about the humble beginnings of his political career. Now, as SRC President, his vision is crystal clear: To amplify the student voice through open dialogues and student body meetings (SBMs), fostering an environment where every issue can be discussed and addressed.

His leadership style is rooted in democracy, characterised by transparency and collaboration with both students and university management. He is fiercely committed to creating stable structures that attract sponsorships, ensuring that financially struggling students receive the support they need. “My vision is to see a stable university that can attract sponsors for students in need,” he asserts, driven by a profound belief that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed.

Moshanyane’s values of respect, authenticity, and bravery underpin his approach to leadership. He strives to cultivate a university culture that recognises and nurtures student potential, addressing pressing issues like funding, financial exclusion, and academic challenges. By working closely with academic staff and support services, he aims to create sustainable solutions that benefit the entire student community.

Beyond academics and leadership, Moshanyane enjoys playing soccer and cherishes life’s simple pleasures, such as laughter and spending quality time with loved ones. His grandmother remains a central source of strength and inspiration, influencing his journey in profound ways. “O e tshwere mo bogaleng mosadi mogolo. Ke mo rata thata, ebile ke motlotlo tota ka ene,” he expresses in Setswana, underscoring his deep love and respect for her.

As Moshanyane steps into his role as SRC President, he brings a wealth of personal experiences and an unwavering commitment to enhancing the student experience at SMU. His message to fellow students is encouraging: “I call on students to prioritise their academic activities since that is the route that will open doors for many. Additionally, prayer is mighty.”

With him at the helm, the future of student leadership at SMU looks brighter than ever. His story is not just one of overcoming adversity; it is a testament to the strength of the SMU community, a place where resilience, dedication, and hope converge to create an environment where every student can thrive.