by Lorato | Dec 13, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In an era that celebrates narrow specialisation, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) takes immense pride in its alumni who embody versatility and excellence across multiple disciplines. One such alumnus is Vukosi “VJ” Mashele, whose journey from the rural Bonn village outside Tzaneen to international acclaim in media, physics, and life coaching exemplifies SMU’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded leaders who address South Africa’s pressing challenges with innovation and purpose.
Vukosi “VJ” Mashele
Born into a family of educators, Mashele grew up in an environment that instilled intellectual curiosity and empathy. “My mother, a passionate advocate for therapy, taught me the value of open communication and emotional intelligence. My father, a respected community leader, instilled in me the importance of leadership and service,” he reflects. These foundations would later shape a career as diverse as it is impactful.
Drawn to the structured elegance of physics and statistics, Mashele earned his Bachelor of Science degree at SMU. Reflecting on his time at the university, he notes, “Physics taught me dynamic problem-solving, while statistics honed my analytical skills. SMU provided me with a robust academic foundation that transcends traditional boundaries.” This multidisciplinary approach, championed by SMU, laid the groundwork for his ventures into media, academia, and mental health advocacy.
It was at SMU FM, the university’s radio station, that Vukosi discovered his passion for broadcasting. Encouraged by SMU’s Public Relations Officer, Tumelo Moila, he auditioned and began a journey that would connect him to millions of listeners. “SMU FM was where I first realised the power of media to educate and connect communities,” he recalls. His ability to simplify complex concepts for rural audiences has since become a hallmark of his broadcasting style.
Guided by empathy and a desire to make a difference, he pursued certifications in Life Coaching and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). He conducts grief counselling, personal development masterclasses, and mental health initiatives through his organisation. His work has earned him accolades, including the title of Best Motivational Speaker at the South African Social Media Awards (SASMA) in 2022 and recognition for leading the Best Coaching-Anchored Organisation at the Africa Coaching & Consulting Awards in 2023.
A physicist bridging academic and global platforms
Beyond his achievements in mental health and media, Mashele remains a dedicated physicist, serving on the board of the South African Institute of Physics (SAIP). He actively champions the role of physics in education, research, and innovation, highlighting SMU’s emphasis on producing graduates who contribute to critical national and global conversations.
In 2024, he hosted the African Energy Week, facilitating discussions on eradicating energy poverty across the continent. Reflecting on this milestone, he shares, “Standing on such a global stage affirmed my belief in the power of multidimensional education, much of which I attribute to SMU’s holistic approach to learning.”
From winning a Mail & Guardian 200 Young South Africans award to starring in acclaimed South African productions like The Queen, Mashele’s achievements are a testament to his multidimensional talents. Yet, he remains grounded, focusing on impact over accolades.
“My analytical background enhances my creativity,” he says. “Whether I’m developing radio segments, leading conferences, or innovating my men’s grooming brand, I approach each endeavour with the versatility SMU encouraged in me.”
His advice to young professionals is simple yet profound: “Embrace your uniqueness. Your multidimensionality is your strength, not a weakness. Trust your inner voice—it will always guide you towards fulfilling your potential.”
As a proud alumnus, Mashele embodies SMU’s mission to produce leaders who address South Africa’s most pressing challenges. The university remains committed to nurturing trailblazers like Mashele, who redefine boundaries and leave an indelible mark on the world.
*By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Dec 9, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
At Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), success is more than just academic achievement—it reflects the university’s unwavering commitment to developing well-rounded individuals. Between 28 November and 7 December 2024, SMU showcased this ethos with a string of exceptional achievements across sport, choral music, and international staff collaboration. From harmonious melodies to strategic brilliance and powerful athletic displays, the week vividly celebrated talent, passion, and unity.
A symphony of success: The SMU Choir sets the tone
The journey began with the SMU Choir, whose performance at the Tshwane Choral Music Association (TCMA) competition on 30 November captivated audiences and judges alike. Competing in the Development Category, the choir delivered a flawless rendition of Heaven’s Flock to secure first place in the Western Song Category. Their spirited interpretation of Leuba le Tlile earned them second place in the African Piece Category.
These achievements were far more than musical triumphs—they reflected the discipline, teamwork, and cultural excellence that lie at the heart of SMU’s approach to student development. The choir’s harmonious success set the stage for what would become a remarkable week for the university.
Chess brilliance: SMU strategists dominate the board
In the competitive arena of mind and strategy, SMU’s Chess Team emerged as a formidable force at the USSA Chess National Championships, held at the University of Pretoria. Over several intense days, the team’s skill and focus were unmatched. Standout performer Tshegofatso remained unbeaten in the first six rounds, leading the charge for SMU. Meanwhile, the ladies’ team dominated the log standings, inching closer to ultimate victory.
Beyond their competitive success, SMU Chess players also stepped into leadership roles on a national level. At the USSA Chess AGM, Coach Johannes Mabusela was elected Chairperson, while Angela Moshoma secured the position of Secretary—clear evidence of SMU’s influence extending beyond the game itself.
Grace, strength, and determination: SMU’s sporting excellence
From precision on the chessboard to physical excellence on the field, SMU’s athletes proudly carried the university’s banner at multiple national championships.
The SMU Aerobics Team brought their energy and athletic grace to the 2024 USSA Aerobics National Championships in East London. Competing against top-tier talent, they embodied the endurance and dedication that define SMU athletes. At the same time, second-year MBChB student Rameez Ebrahim represented SMU in Cape Town at the USSA Table Tennis Championships, showcasing the balance between academic and sporting commitment.
Not to be outdone, three talented netball players—Nokwanda Zwane, Sinesipho Mpofane, and Relebogile Mpoyana—earned the prestigious opportunity to represent Team Royal Bafokeng at the SA Netball National Championships. Their selection speaks volumes about the calibre of athletes nurtured at SMU and the university’s unwavering support for sporting excellence.
Beyond borders: Staff unite through sport
The spirit of teamwork and collaboration extended beyond student achievements as SMU staff participated in the Southern African University Staff Sport Association (SAUSSA) Games in Zimbabwe. From 1 to 6 December, staff members competed alongside colleagues from across the region, fostering camaraderie and strengthening bonds through sport.
These games highlighted an important truth: sport is not just about competition but unity, collaboration, and shared pride. SMU staff embodied these values, demonstrating the university’s belief in holistic well-being for its entire community.
A legacy of excellence and unity
Whether on stage, on the chessboard, on the court, or across international borders, SMU’s achievements reflect a university dedicated to nurturing talent in all its forms. Students and staff alike showcased resilience, passion, and excellence, proving that success at SMU goes beyond academics.
This week of triumph is a testament to SMU’s commitment to creating a supportive environment where individuals are encouraged to grow holistically, achieve their potential, and inspire others. As the melodies of the choir linger and the echoes of sporting victories resound, SMU stands tall—an institution where talent thrives, champions are made, and excellence is the standard.
by Lorato | Dec 9, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In just a decade since its inception, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has firmly established itself as a beacon of excellence in the context of health sciences education in South Africa. Built upon a foundation of world-class research, cutting-edge medical training, and a commitment to social justice, SMU has consistently elevated the standards of healthcare education in the country, positioning itself as a global leader.
From its roots in the vibrant health sciences sector, SMU has been deeply committed to integrating innovation with its academic rigour, forging a path of excellence that is evident in every facet of the institution’s operations. This dedication is seen not only in the quality of its graduates but also in the research output that resonates on a global scale. This combination of impactful research, academic achievement, and forward-thinking leadership distinguishes SMU as a force in the international academic community.
Shaping tomorrow’s health leaders
A key driver of SMU’s success has been its unwavering focus on producing health professionals who are skilled in their fields and equipped with the critical thinking and leadership abilities necessary to address the challenges of a rapidly evolving global health landscape. This holistic approach to education ensures that SMU graduates are not merely participants in the healthcare field but leaders who shape policy and practice across Africa and beyond.
The university’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its world-class faculty members, who are at the forefront of research in fields such as drug discovery, forensic anthropology, and public health. SMU’s research initiatives have been consistently recognised internationally, with numerous collaborations with leading global institutions. These collaborations not only bolster SMU’s academic standing but also contribute to the development of new treatments and innovations that address some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.
Equally important is SMU’s deep engagement with local communities. The university has developed initiatives that not only respond to South Africa’s healthcare needs but also offer solutions to global health issues. By actively engaging with the communities it serves, SMU demonstrates that excellence in education and research is inseparable from its responsibility to contribute positively to society.
In an era of increasingly complex global health challenges, SMU’s focus on interdisciplinary collaboration ensures that its students are trained to work across borders and understand the complexities of health systems worldwide. Its partnerships with international universities and organisations provide students with opportunities to gain invaluable global perspectives, while its faculty members contribute to international policy discussions on health-related issues.
Innovation at the core of SMU’s teaching and learning
The university’s impact is not limited to academic circles. SMU students and graduates are transforming the healthcare landscape, contributing to clinical practice, research, and public health policy advancements. Many of SMU’s alumni occupy prominent positions within healthcare institutions, government, and international organisations, where they continue to drive innovation and set new benchmarks for the healthcare sector.
SMU’s commitment to developing leaders who are both academically proficient and socially responsible is integral to its philosophy. The university’s ethos is rooted in the belief that education should extend beyond the classroom, empowering students to become advocates for health equity and social justice. This is evident in the numerous community outreach programmes the university runs, where students and staff work to provide healthcare solutions in under-resourced areas. As SMU looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its mission to be at the forefront of health sciences education in South Africa and globally.
In just ten years, SMU has proven to be a university deeply rooted in excellence. Through its unwavering commitment to research, teaching, and community service, the institution has built a competitive, dynamic, and innovative reputation, ensuring that its graduates are equipped to tackle the world’s most urgent health challenges. With an eye on the future and a firm grasp of the present, SMU stands as a true leader in the health sciences, embodying the values of excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.
By Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli
by Lorato | Dec 9, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sibusiso Reuben Kutama’s journey from a modest upbringing in Limpopo to an esteemed role as a Clinical Dietitian at Qatar’s Hamad Medical Corporation highlights resilience, ambition, and world-class training. A proud alumnus of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Kutama credits the institution’s rigorous and holistic dietetics education for equipping him to excel on an international stage. His career not only underscores the global impact of SMU graduates but also illustrates the vital role of nutrition in transforming healthcare worldwide.
Sibusiso Reuben Kutama
Kutama’s story began with a simple yet profound curiosity about the role of nutrition in health. As a young boy growing up in Limpopo, personal health challenges ignited his passion for understanding dietetics. His drive led him to SMU, where the university’s emphasis on producing well-rounded healthcare professionals nurtured his talent.
“My undergraduate studies at SMU laid the foundation for my global career. The comprehensive programme and hands-on training ensured I was equipped with technical skills, empathy, and the ability to adapt to diverse challenges,” Kutama recalls.
After refining his craft at the renowned Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Kutama’s dedication saw him thrive under resource constraints, managing enteral feeds and parenteral nutrition for complex cases. This experience became instrumental in preparing him for his current role in Qatar.
“Working in South Africa taught me to be resourceful and innovative. These skills have been invaluable in Qatar, where I work with patients from diverse cultures and backgrounds,” he says.
At Hamad Medical Corporation, Kutama represents the excellence of SMU graduates as the only South African dietitian in the organisation. Despite challenges such as cultural differences and language barriers, he takes pride in delivering patient-centred care. “Each day presents an opportunity to learn and grow. It’s fulfilling to see how nutrition can transform lives,” he shares.
Kutama’s commitment to research and innovation remains a defining feature of his career. His interest in preventative nutrition—a field with profound implications for global health—drives his work. Recent studies on probiotics and prebiotics have influenced his approach, underscoring his dedication to evidence-based care.
Reflecting on a particularly memorable case from his time in South Africa, Kutama recounts helping a young patient recover from post-surgical complications through a structured nutritional plan. The patient eventually regained his health, completed his education, and moved abroad—a testament to the transformative role of dietetics.
For Kutama, sharing knowledge is as important as acquiring it. He actively encourages SMU students and recent graduates to think globally and embrace opportunities to work in diverse environments.
“Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University’s Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition is globally recognised. My advice is to use this as a springboard to dream big, think creatively, and make a difference wherever you go,” he says.
Kutama’s journey demonstrates the transformative education provided by SMU. As a university dedicated to health sciences, SMU equips its students with the skills, resilience, and mindset to excel globally. From its state-of-the-art facilities to its commitment to fostering research, the institution remains a beacon of academic and professional excellence.
As Kutama continues to make strides in Qatar, his story inspires aspiring healthcare professionals and powerfully illustrates SMU’s ability to produce graduates capable of shaping the future of healthcare.
From Limpopo to Qatar, Kutama’s career epitomises the values of perseverance, innovation, and dedication. His journey underscores the global reach of SMU, a cornerstone in nurturing healthcare leaders who inspire change and improve lives across borders.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Dec 2, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
2024 has been a historic year coinciding with the university’s tenth anniversary. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has achieved remarkable success, solidifying its position on the global academic stage. This milestone year was punctuated by two prestigious recognitions: a significant advancement in the Webometrics global university rankings and an inaugural placement in the country’s top ten universities in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings.
SMU’s notable progress in the Webometrics rankings demonstrates its increasing influence in digital engagement and research visibility, moving up almost 200 spots from 3,058th to 2,869th place globally. Nationally, it is now listed among South Africa’s top eighteen institutions in these rankings, a significant feat for a young university. The Webometrics rankings, which evaluate a university’s digital presence, transparency, and the impact of its research output, have underscored SMU’s commitment to expanding its digital footprint and contributing to research that addresses global health challenges.
Simultaneously, SMU made an impressive debut in the THE World University Rankings, placing it in the top echelon of institutions in South Africa. This inclusion, aligning perfectly with SMU’s core mission of delivering world-class healthcare education, emphasises its dedication to quality teaching, impactful research, and a progressive approach to internationalisation. SMU’s presence in this prestigious ranking highlights its evolution from a young, local university into a globally recognised institution in a sector where academic rigour, innovative research, and community service intersect.
The timing of these achievements reflects a fitting tribute to the visionaries who established SMU as an institution dedicated to shaping the next generation of healthcare leaders. A key contributor to SMU’s recent success is its commitment to community-centred healthcare, as evidenced by projects that promote local engagement and address pressing public health issues. This year, SMU launched several initiatives to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application, enabling students and staff to make real-world impacts in surrounding communities. The institution’s focus on inclusive education and training that resonates with community needs has strengthened its reputation for academic excellence and societal relevance.
As SMU celebrates a decade of academic excellence, its outlook remains forward-focused. Plans for expansion in research capabilities, infrastructure, and partnerships indicate that SMU aims to continue climbing the global ranks and furthering its impact locally and internationally. The strategic positioning and partnerships with global health institutions reflect its ambitious roadmap for the coming years.
In a banner year that has coincided with its 10th anniversary, SMU’s remarkable strides in global rankings and the recognition of its academic community stand as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with dedication and a clear vision. The university’s focus on nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and serving society has paved the way for a future where SMU stands as a beacon of health sciences education and leadership on the continent. As it moves into its next decade, SMU’s commitment to making a global impact remains stronger than ever.
*By Tshimangadzo Mphaphu
