by Lorato | Jan 21, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
As Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) gears up for the 2025 academic year, the past year has been one of remarkable achievements, further solidifying its position as a premier institution in health sciences education. From groundbreaking research by academic staff and accolades earned by students to notable career advancements among alumni, SMU has made significant strides in fostering a transformative environment. These accomplishments reflect SMU’s commitment to excellence and innovation, marking the university as a beacon of academic excellence. Here are ten reasons why SMU is a standout institution in the realm of health sciences:
1. High-Calibre Academic Staff
SMU boasts an accomplished team of academic professionals who bring a wealth of expertise and dedication to teaching, research, and service. Their commitment to fostering the next generation of health leaders is evident in both their professional achievements and unwavering support for students.
2. Innovative Research Initiatives
The university is at the forefront of research in health sciences, focusing on areas that address pressing healthcare needs in South Africa and beyond. Research led by SMU faculty and students is creating meaningful impact, particularly in community health and healthcare access.
3. Student Success and Recognition
SMU students are frequently recognised for their leadership, innovation, and academic achievements. From excelling in national competitions to engaging in social advocacy, our students exemplify the values and aspirations of SMU.
4. Strong Alumni Network
The university’s alumni are making strides in the healthcare sector, both locally and internationally. Their accomplishments and contributions to the field serve as an inspiration to current students and a testament to the quality of education at SMU.
5. Comprehensive Health Sciences Programmes
SMU offers a wide range of programmes that cater to the diverse needs of the health sector. From medicine and nursing to public health and biomedical sciences, our curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for success in today’s healthcare environment.
6. Commitment to Community Health
One of SMU’s core values is service to the community. The university encourages students and staff to participate in outreach initiatives that provide essential healthcare services to under-resourced communities, fostering a culture of compassion and responsibility.
7. Cutting-Edge Facilities and Resources
SMU’s state-of-the-art facilities include advanced laboratories, simulation centres, and a medical library, offering students access to the resources they need to excel in their studies. These facilities support a hands-on learning approach, preparing students for real-world challenges.
8. Focus on Diversity and Inclusion
The university takes pride in fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, welcoming students from a variety of backgrounds. This commitment enriches the learning experience and prepares students to work effectively in diverse healthcare settings.
9. Strategic Industry Partnerships
SMU has cultivated partnerships with leading healthcare providers, research institutions, and industry players. These collaborations provide students with valuable exposure to the healthcare industry through internships, research opportunities, and hands-on experiences.
10. Global Recognition and Rankings
SMU continues to achieve recognition in national and international rankings, reflecting the institution’s commitment to quality education and research. The university’s focus on excellence ensures that graduates are well-respected within the healthcare community.
With these attributes and achievements, SMU remains a distinguished institution, providing students with an education that is not only rigorous but also socially relevant. The university’s forward-thinking approach equips graduates to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare sector, shaping a healthier future for all.
by Lorato | Jan 14, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Frans Teffo has been a vital part of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) for over thirty years. He has dedicated his career to supporting students with financial challenges. As part of the Finance Department under Student Debtors, he has consistently exceeded his official duties to assist students during stressful times.
Frans Teffo
Teffo’s role involves administering student fee accounts, issuing statements, and ensuring the collection of outstanding fees. However, it is his compassionate approach to these responsibilities that sets him apart.
Located in Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria, SMU is one of South Africa’s leading institutions dedicated to health sciences education. Named after the South African political leader and educationist Sefako Makgatho, the university prides itself on producing skilled professionals in fields such as medicine, nursing, oral health, pharmacy, public health, and sciences.
The institution has a rich history, originating as the Medical University of Southern Africa (MEDUNSA). Over time, it evolved into a dynamic and inclusive university, offering top-quality education and training to students from across the country and beyond.
Raised in Ga-Mashashane, Limpopo, in a family of modest means led by a single parent, Teffo understands the struggles of financial hardship. His upbringing shaped his empathy and determination to assist students, especially those navigating the pressures of university life.
“Helping students achieve their goals is what drives me. I enjoy seeing them succeed, no matter the challenges,” Teffo says. His efforts often extend beyond his official duties, offering students advice on financial aid options such as NSFAS and helping them find solutions during registration and other critical periods.
Bongumusa Nkamana, a student who has completed his BSc in Physical Mineral Sciences and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Chemistry, recalls how Teffo guided him during a frustrating registration process. “He helped me with patience and a smile. His humour and kindness made all the difference. Frans is a father to us all,” Nkamana says.
Teffo attributes much of his ability to assist students to the collaborative spirit within the finance department. “The unity among colleagues makes it much easier to help students. I encourage everyone to work together so students feel supported and at home,” he explains.
As an institution, SMU is committed to fostering excellence in teaching, learning, research, and community engagement. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes aimed at addressing the critical skills shortages in the health sector.
With state-of-the-art facilities and a strong emphasis on experiential learning, SMU equips its students with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in their communities. The university also places significant focus on addressing South Africa’s healthcare challenges, making it a vital contributor to the nation’s wellbeing.
Over his 33 years at SMU, Teffo has witnessed countless students overcome financial hurdles and graduate, achieving what once seemed impossible. For him, these moments are the ultimate reward, a testament to the importance of kindness and understanding.
In a world where financial constraints often hinder access to education, Teffo remains a beacon of hope and a reminder that dedication and humanity can make a profound difference. His legacy at SMU will continue to inspire colleagues and students for years.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Dec 13, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) recently hosted a series of momentous events that celebrated not only the achievements of its graduates but also the institution’s legacy of academic excellence and leadership in healthcare. On 11 December 2024, the School of Pharmacy, School of Health Care Sciences, and School of Dentistry held their Oath-Taking Ceremonies, followed by the School of Medicine’s ceremony on 12 December 2024. These events, held during SMU’s 10th anniversary celebrations, marked a significant milestone in the lives of the graduates and the university’s journey of excellence.
Over the past decade, SMU has cemented its position as a leader in health sciences education, producing exceptional healthcare professionals equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding necessary to transform healthcare locally and globally. These ceremonies are more than rites of passage; they symbolise the graduates’ commitment to uphold SMU’s core values of integrity, professionalism, and compassion.
The Oath-Taking Ceremonies also served as an opportunity to honour the remarkable achievements of SMU’s top-performing students. Numerous awards were presented, recognising students who had excelled academically and demonstrated outstanding dedication to their fields of study.
A highlight was the recognition of students who passed their final year with cum laude, a testament to their hard work and academic excellence. The prestigious Bongani Mayosi Prize was also awarded to exemplary students, celebrating their contributions and commitment to the healthcare field. These events showcased an impressive array of top achievers awards, underlining SMU’s commitment to fostering excellence and inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Professor Thuli Madonsela
Professor Thuli Madonsela delivered the keynote address during the School of Medicine’s Oath-Taking Ceremony on 12 December 2024. Her profound words left an indelible mark on the graduates and attendees, as she encouraged them to embody ethical leadership and resilience in their professional journeys.
“Champions do not see falling as a failure,” she reminded the graduates, highlighting the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. She further urged them to: “Let ethical leadership be the way, always lead ethically and inspire others to do the same.” In a particularly poignant moment, she addressed the future doctors directly: “Walk together on this path, but when integrity demands it, be prepared to walk alone.” Her address underscored the importance of leading with purpose, empathy, and a steadfast dedication to improving lives through healthcare.
Professor Vanessa Moodley, Acting Deputy Dean, reflected on the significance of the events: “We extend our sincere gratitude to Professor Thuli Madonsela for being our distinguished guest speaker. Her valuable insights and wisdom have inspired our students and the SMU community.”
The Oath-Taking Ceremonies represent a critical juncture in the lives of SMU graduates, who pledged to uphold the highest standards of healthcare and ethical practice. These solemn oaths are a testament to SMU’s mission to shape skilled, compassionate, and ethically grounded healthcare professionals.
During the ceremonies, Mohamed Masoodah Begum was recognised as the Best Performing Student in Clinical Psychology, exemplifying the academic excellence that SMU nurtures. Her achievement and many others celebrated during the ceremonies reflect the university’s commitment to fostering talent and preparing students to excel in their fields.
As SMU celebrates its 10th anniversary, these events serve as a powerful reminder of its journey and achievements. Over the past decade, the university has stood as a beacon of innovation and excellence in healthcare education, producing leaders who are shaping healthcare systems worldwide. The graduating class of 2024 now join the distinguished ranks of SMU alumni, ready to make meaningful contributions to communities across South Africa and beyond. Their achievements are a testament to the university’s quality education and mentorship, which prepare students to meet the ever-evolving healthcare sector challenges with confidence, expertise, and empathy.
SMU celebrates the graduating class of 2024, whose dedication and hard work have brought them to this pivotal moment. As they step forward into their professional journeys, they carry with them the knowledge and skills acquired at SMU and the values that define this prestigious institution.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Dec 2, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a milestone achievement, Dr Nsizwenye Ntokozo Mkhwanazi of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)’s General Surgery Department made history as the first Black African to receive the coveted Douglas Award from the College of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA).
Dr Nsizwenye Ntokozo Mkhwanazi
Mkhwanazi’s achievement highlights the exceptional calibre of medical training and support at SMU. Under the mentorship of esteemed faculty such as Professor Zack Koto, SMU’s Department of General Surgery continues to nurture world-class surgeons prepared to tackle South Africa’s most pressing healthcare challenges.
Reflecting on his journey, Mkhwanazi credited his accomplishment to the robust learning environment fostered at SMU, stating: “This achievement is not just mine but represents the vision and guidance provided by Professor Koto and others who came before us. The support at SMU made this success possible.” His work, further enhanced by the guidance of Koto and inspired by predecessors like Professor Madiba, stands as a testament to SMU’s commitment to fostering excellence in medical education.
Mkhwanazi’s passion for surgery and his intensive preparation have prepared him for high-stakes, complex medical scenarios. He emphasises the dedication required for surgical mastery, explaining how he turned daily study into a lifelong habit. “It didn’t matter where I was; I made time for my studies,” he shares, acknowledging the unyielding support of his wife, Dr Lee Phala-Mkhwanazi, throughout this rigorous journey.
Currently training in colorectal surgery at Groote Schuur Hospital, he is driven by his desire to bridge healthcare gaps, particularly in oncology. He sees an urgent need for advanced treatments, including precision oncology and minimally invasive surgical methods, to combat the rising rates of colorectal cancer in Africa. “My goal is to make robotic and precision oncology a reality for our communities,” he states, underscoring his commitment to integrating cutting-edge surgical techniques into local practice.
Mkhwanazi’s work exemplifies the transformative impact of SMU’s educational approach. SMU produces skilled surgeons and pioneers solutions to improve healthcare access across South Africa and beyond. With visionary programmes, global partnerships, and a legacy of high-impact medical education, SMU is firmly positioned as a premier institution on the global stage.
The award-winning registrar’s message to future scholars and medical professionals is one of resilience and self-belief: “Daily efforts and the support of family and mentors are essential. Academic success can seem impossible, but it’s within reach with dedication and a relentless work ethic.”
Mkhwanazi’s journey, backed by SMU’s innovative curriculum and distinguished faculty, stands as a powerful testament to the institution’s role in shaping South Africa’s future healthcare leaders.
by Lorato | Dec 2, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
At just 24 years old, Ntshadi Masingita Rose Keorapetse Bokaba exemplifies the exceptional calibre of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) students. Hailing from the village of Mamaku, on the border of the North West Province and Ga-Rankuwa Township, Bokaba’s journey from modest beginnings to her current role as Deputy President of the SMU Student Representative Council (SRC) highlights the university’s commitment to nurturing resilient and ambitious leaders.
Ntshadi Masingita Rose Keorapetse Bokaba
Bokaba’s leadership philosophy, rooted in her unwavering faith and values of humility, integrity, and discipline, reflects SMU’s transformative impact on its students. Guided by the principle in Mark 10:45 – “Even the Son of man did not come to be served but to serve”—she embodies servant leadership, fostering collaboration and championing meaningful change within the university community.
Her role as Deputy President includes enhancing academic support systems, advocating for mental health awareness, and representing student interests in the university council. “Leadership is not about the title but the responsibility to uplift and transform,” Bokaba emphasises. She approaches her work with a transformative vision, blending innovative ideas with sustainable systems to enrich student life and academic success.
Ntshadi’s top priorities underscore her commitment to the overall well-being of SMU students. First, she highlights Enhanced Academic Support, advocating for an increase in tutors and mentors and ensuring they receive fair compensation for their valuable contributions. Second, her focus on mental health advocacy calls for expanded access to mental health professionals, such as psychologists, to address the rising challenges of student mental health crises. Lastly, she champions collaborative systems, promoting seamless coordination across university departments to provide holistic support that combines academic and personal development. “Students who dedicate their time to mentoring others deserve fair recognition. We must protect and support our students at every level,” she declares.
Personalised academic support systems are at the heart of her strategy. She believes every student’s needs are unique and deserve tailored solutions. “Every student is an individual, and our approach must respect their circumstances and aspirations,” she says.
In her capacity as head of the SRC’s disciplinary committee, Bokaba underscores the importance of open communication, accountability, and inclusivity. “Leadership is about creating a space where everyone feels heard, seen, and valued,” she asserts.
She is a staunch advocate for marginalised and underserved communities, ensuring their concerns are prioritised and addressed. Her focus on transparency ensures that all SRC members work collaboratively and ethically to represent the student body’s interests.
Her leadership extends beyond advocacy into actionable collaboration with academic committees, lecturers, and student support services. “Lecturers are often the first point of learning for students; working closely with them is essential,” she shares.
Her strategies include mentorship programs, academic workshops, personalised interventions for struggling students, and fostering collaborative platforms for engagement between students and departments. She also views technology as a key enabler. “Integrating technology into mentorship programs and study workshops will make academic resources more accessible and impactful,” she notes.
Bokaba’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and faith. From navigating setbacks in her dream to study medicine to rising as a leader, her story inspires students to persevere. “My story is one of an underdog who remained steadfast and eventually came out on top,” she reflects with pride.
As a leader, her boldness, strategic thinking, and unwavering dedication to empowering women in leadership are evident. She is working to reintroduce initiatives like the Golden Key, a programme that recognises and rewards academic excellence. “True leadership is about mobilising others to continue the vision long after you have moved on,” she explains.
Her leadership experience includes serving as the Chairperson of the 5B Residence’s House Committee for 2021/2022 and acting as a Class Representative. She has also worked as a mentor and tutor.
She offers timeless advice to future SRC Deputy Presidents: “Never lose sight of your vision and the impact you wish to create. Foster strong relationships with your peers; no leader achieves greatness alone. You are an integral part of the SRC executive. Lead with confidence and integrity.”
Bokaba’s faith, family, and community grounding shapes her leadership style and resilience. Raised in a close-knit Catholic household, her belief in the Holy Trinity forms the cornerstone of her character. From excelling in high school academics and sports to serving as a youth leader in her church, she exemplifies discipline and determination.
Currently a fourth-year medical student, she balances her academic and leadership responsibilities with grace. Reflecting on her journey, she says: “Even when we lose, we come back better. No challenge defines us; it only sharpens us.” Before pursuing medicine, she earned a BSc in Life Sciences, majoring in Biochemistry and Pathophysiology, graduating with cum laude honours.
Bokaba is more than a leader; she is a force for positive change at SMU. Her vision, resilience, and commitment to student welfare leave an indelible mark on the university, paving the way for future leaders to follow.
“I am here not just to lead but to transform, empower, and ensure that every student feels supported and valued. My goal is to challenge the status quo and claim space as a proud female leader,” she concludes.
*By Tumelo Moila
