by Lorato | Aug 12, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to affirm its standing as a home to visionary leaders shaping the national higher education agenda. In a resounding recognition of leadership excellence, SMU’s Director: Student Affairs, Tulani Nkuntse, has been elected Deputy Secretary-General of the South African Association of Senior Student Affairs Professionals (SAASSAP) for the 2025–2028 term.
The announcement was made during SAASSAP’s Annual General Meeting and Elective Conference, held on Friday, 8 August 2025, at the University of the Free State. This appointment not only reflects Nkuntse’s exceptional professional stature but also signals SMU’s growing 
influence in strategic national platforms that shape student life and development across South Africa’s universities.
A respected national platform
Founded in 2000, SAASSAP represents the most senior student affairs leaders—Deans, Directors, and Executive Directors across all South African universities. The association’s work is central to advancing holistic student growth, development, and success. It achieves this through policy influence, resource mobilisation, fostering innovation, and strategic stakeholder engagement.
For the next three years, Nkuntse will serve alongside distinguished peers from leading institutions, including:
- Jerome September – President – University of the Witwatersrand
- Dr Irene Mohasoa – Deputy President – Walter Sisulu University
- Dr Bernard Sebake – Secretary-General – Central University of Technology
- Tebogo Ncokazi – Treasurer-General – University of Zululand
- Professor Percy Sepeng – Research & Development Officer – University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Asanda Tele – Media Liaison Officer – University of Fort Hare
- Nonkosi Tyolwana – Projects Coordinator – Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Leadership with purpose
Reflecting on his election, Nkuntse said: “What an honour to be called to serve. I look forward to this challenge with excitement, knowing that collectively as the NEC and its entire SAASSAP membership, we will continue to advocate for better conditions and create spaces for our students to thrive.”
He added: “This is not just a personal achievement, it is an important milestone for SMU, contributing to putting our university on the national map.” Nkuntse’s appointment comes at a time when higher education institutions are called upon to strengthen student development models and foster inclusive, enabling environments. His presence on the SAASSAP National Executive Committee reinforces SMU’s position as an institution whose leaders are not only committed to the success of its own students but also to shaping the future of student affairs nationally.
by Lorato | Aug 7, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
A strategic partnership between Bonitas Medical Fund and Gift of the Givers has brought meaningful relief and renewed hope to students and healthcare staff at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). Through this impactful collaboration, Bonitas awarded four bursaries to academically deserving students and donated essential computer equipment to support the digitisation of SMU’s Campus Health Clinic.
Hosted at SMU, the official handover ceremony highlighted the power of public-private partnerships in advancing access to education and improving campus healthcare services. The initiative forms part of Bonitas’ broader commitment to developing South Africa’s future healthcare professionals while improving operational efficiency in institutional health infrastructure.
Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli, Acting Director: Communication and Marketing, provided context for the initiative: “This handover is the result of a well-considered proposal titled Enhancing Healthcare Services at SMU Campus Clinic. Bonitas responded with vision and leadership, making a direct, measurable impact on our students and staff.”
Delivering the welcome address, SMU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus, expressed appreciation for the partnership. “We are honoured to host Bonitas and their implementation partner, Gift of the Givers, whose unwavering support is helping us advance both academic and healthcare excellence,” said Matsha-Erasmus. “The bursaries awarded today not only relieve financial pressure but affirm that the private sector is willing to invest in the future of our youth. The donation of digital tools for our Campus Health Unit is equally timely, ensuring we remain aligned with global healthcare transformation.”
The donated HP i3 desktops and i5 laptops will assist clinical staff in digitising patient records and improving administrative efficiency at the clinic, which serves a student population of nearly 7,000. This move supports SMU’s ongoing commitment to innovation in healthcare service delivery.
Speaking on behalf of Bonitas, Principal Officer, Lee Callakoppen reaffirmed the fund’s commitment to targeted investment in healthcare and education: “At Bonitas, we believe access to quality healthcare and education should never be compromised by circumstance. These bursaries represent more than financial assistance; they are an investment in South Africa’s future healthcare leaders.”
The four bursary recipients, Raymond Mabulana, Fumani Matimu Baloyi, Thendo Mudua, and Jennifer Emeh, were recognised for their academic potential and resilience in the face of financial challenges. Expressing his appreciation, Mabulana said: “Receiving this bursary has lifted an enormous burden from my shoulders. It will allow me to concentrate fully on my studies and give back to my community in the future.” Baloyi added: “This support is more than just financial, it’s a message of encouragement and belief in our potential. I am deeply thankful to Bonitas and SMU for making this opportunity possible.”
Tulani Nkuntse, Director: Student Affairs, noted the broader impact of the partnership: “This initiative affirms that academic success and student wellness are deeply interconnected. The support received today will tangibly improve student life.” Representing Gift of the Givers, infrastructure lead Nithaam Bawa added: “We’re honoured to support Bonitas in this initiative and walk alongside SMU in empowering its future health sciences workforce.”
This collaboration serves as a model for sector-wide partnerships, uniting healthcare, education, and community service in the pursuit of student success.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Aug 7, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a significant affirmation of his ongoing dedication to public health governance, Dev Mamabolo, Projects Coordinator in the Technology Transfer Office at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has been reappointed to the board of Bertha Gxowa Hospital. He will serve in this capacity until March 2028.
Speaking after the announcement, Mamabolo expressed both gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity to continue contributing. “There were over 5,000 applicants considered, so to be reappointed is not only an honour but also incredibly reassuring,” he said. “It’s exciting to be given another opportunity to serve the people of Gauteng with integrity.”
This marks Mamabolo’s second term on the hospital board, having initially joined in 2023 through a nomination process. His reappointment is intended to ensure continuity and enhance the value brought to the institution. At SMU, his work focuses on driving innovation and research commercialisation — expertise he is keen to apply in the public healthcare space. “Personally, this is a confidence booster. Professionally, it reaffirms that my contributions are recognised by both the hospital and the Gauteng Department of Health & Wellness,” Mamabolo added.
His vision for the upcoming term is to embed innovation within the hospital’s service delivery model. “Digital health technologies such as telemedicine, mobile health applications, and data analytics can significantly enhance care, disease surveillance, and encourage healthy behaviours. Innovation must be part of the boardroom agenda,” he asserted.
Mamabolo acknowledges the demands of balancing his board duties with his role at SMU. “Strategic time management, prioritisation, and a clear understanding of the board’s role are key to succeeding in both spaces,” he said.
He also addressed some of the pressing challenges facing public hospitals, particularly the strain caused by undocumented foreign nationals seeking care.
“While Section 27(1) of the Constitution ensures everyone’s right to access healthcare, we must consider sustainable solutions. As board members, we advise the MEC and can recommend policy directions, such as requiring medical insurance for visitors, similar to international practice.”
Mamabolo sees immense value in strengthening collaboration between academic institutions like SMU and public hospitals. “These partnerships can improve research, education, and the implementation of public health initiatives. SMU’s strength in health sciences should directly support the operational needs of healthcare facilities.”
He has outlined several outcomes he hopes to achieve during his term: improved financial systems, the integration of technology, stronger community engagement, and increased collaboration with industry partners.
On the importance of community involvement, he emphasised: “Community participation enhances accountability and responsiveness. Hospitals must actively involve residents to understand barriers to care and work towards inclusive solutions.”
Looking to the future, Mamabolo believes this role positions him to make broader contributions to healthcare governance. “It provides a front-row seat to the realities of our public health system and an opportunity to shape policy beyond the university context.”
To professionals aspiring to serve in similar roles, his message is clear and encouraging: “The public health sector needs your voice. Your insights can help shape a more equitable and effective healthcare system. Together, we can build a healthier society.”
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Aug 7, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
A wave of passion, purpose, and positivity swept across Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) during a transformative Corporate Wellness Day celebration that brought together students, lecturers, and healthcare professionals in a shared commitment to well-being. Guided by the theme #ReconnectMagenta: Recharge with Passion and Reconnect with Purpose, the event was spearheaded by students enrolled in the Postgraduate Diploma in Occupational Health Nursing, under the mentorship of Dr Sophy Moloko, Senior Lecturer and Acting Head of the Department of Nursing Science at the time of the event, and Lorato Manyeneng, Coordinator of the Occupational Health Nursing programme and lecturer in the same department.
Far more than a scheduled calendar event, the day served as a powerful reminder that aspiring healthcare professionals must prioritise their own well-being as an essential part of their commitment to caring for others.
“We wanted this day to be more than just an event. We aimed to create a meaningful experience that would resonate with students beyond the classroom,” said Moloko. “Wellness is not a luxury — it’s a necessity for every health professional.”
The programme began with a spiritual reflection by student Lesego Matlhare, followed by a safety briefing from fellow student Luthando Mashinini. Katlego Matshika warmly welcomed guests and introduced the speakers and sponsors, while Kealeboga Phiri, Programme Director, and Nomthandazo Nkosi outlined the purpose of the gathering.
“This initiative was created to reconnect us with our passion for care — starting with ourselves,” said Phiri. A compelling lecture series followed, featuring insights from professionals across various sectors. Dr Robert Foromo, Director: Employee Health & Wellness Programme at the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), spoke on achieving a healthy work-life balance.
“Being busy should not mean being burnt out,” he said. “We must build careers that don’t come at the expense of our well-being.”
Dr Obed Mpofu, Head of SMU’s Occupational Health Unit, highlighted that wellness is a daily commitment. “We are not just treating diseases; we are promoting health. That starts with how we live, think, and work every day.”
Delivering the keynote address, Elvis Mokoena, founder of Elvis Koena Konsulting, inspired attendees with a message of purpose and motivation. “You didn’t choose this career by accident. Your presence here means you have a role to play. Reconnect with that purpose and let it fuel your journey.”
Following the lecture session, Lorato Manyeneng delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks to the speakers. “We’re deeply grateful for the wisdom shared today. Your words have planted seeds of growth in SMU staff,” she said.
Dr Lilly Motswasele-Sikwane, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Nursing Science, delivered the closing remarks and applauded the students’ leadership. “Today’s event was more than a success — it was a statement of leadership and purpose.”
The celebration continued outdoors with a dynamic second session, featuring interactive learning. The open space adjacent to the Nursing Department came alive with health screenings, wellness stalls, and fitness activities.
SMU students embraced the opportunity to engage with practical wellness tools applicable to both their personal lives and future professional practice. “Having different stalls and screenings made it feel real — we could see wellness in action,” noted Manyeneng.
What stood out was not only the wealth of information shared but also the spirit of care, connection, and community that defined the event. For many students, it served as a powerful reminder that they are not just studying health sciences — they are preparing to live, embody, and advocate wellness every day.
“Wellness is not a one-time event; it’s a way of life,” concluded Moloko.
“We are proud that our students are carrying that message forward — not only for themselves but for every life they will touch in the future.”
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Aug 7, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In the vibrant corridors of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), one name continues to resonate across leadership circles, academic forums, and clinical settings — Tebogo Sekgarametso, a fifth-year medical student whose passion for medicine, surgical education, and peer empowerment has firmly established him as a notable changemaker.
Sekgarametso’s leadership journey took flight in 2023 with the Medics on Motion organisation, where he initially served as Events Officer and later as Deputy Chairperson. “My earliest goal was to create platforms that equip students with practical skills while strengthening our link to the communities we serve,” he explains. One of his key achievements was organising a burn management workshop, which “provided hands-on experience and opened doors to shadowing opportunities in Plastic Surgery.”
In 2024, his interest in surgery deepened when he joined the Sefako Makgatho University Student Surgical Society (SMUSSS) as Surgical Skills Officer. “We wanted students to practise essential techniques like tendon repair and anaesthesiology in a supportive environment,” says Sekgarametso. Thanks to new collaborations he helped initiate with the Departments of Orthopaedics and Anaesthesiology, these workshops became “not just skill-building exercises but a spark that ignited long-term interest in surgery for many.”
Now in 2025, Sekgarametso serves as Deputy President of SMUSSS, where his leadership continues to shape the society’s vision. “We introduced a research support programme to assist registrars with data collection — a way to involve students meaningfully in ongoing surgical research,” he explains.
His ambitions extend beyond SMU. “Connecting with organisations such as the International Association of Student Surgical Societies (IASSS) and the South African Society of Surgeons in Training (SASSiT) has helped position SMUSSS on the global surgical education map,” he notes. Through his roles on the IASSS Surgical Education Committee and as Academic Coordinator for the IASSS South African Satellite Committee, Sekgarametso collaborates with peers worldwide. “We’re working towards more accessible and standardised surgical education globally.”
His leadership also reaches beyond surgery. To broaden academic focus, he founded The Diagnostic Society, a platform dedicated to internal medicine. “Internal medicine is often underrepresented in student organisations, yet it forms the foundation of clinical decision-making,” he says. “Through electrocardiogram (ECG) workshops and medical talks, we’re equipping future internists with vital skills.”
Sekgarametso’s passion for research is equally evident. “Research gives students a voice in global medical conversations,” he remarks. He led SMU’s student team for the Alligator Study on appendicitis outcomes, co-led the FEMUR Study at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, and currently serves on the RAMPS Study Outreach Team, which investigates lower limb amputations across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Despite a demanding schedule, Sekgarametso remains grounded. “Medicine is as much about leadership and community as it is about science,” he reflects. “Every project I’ve led has been about creating systems that empower others.”
He acknowledges the support behind his success: “None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of my family, friends, and mentors.” He gives special thanks to Dr Nondumiso Makhunga, whom he describes as “a guiding light and mentor during one of the busiest years of my journey.”
Tebogo Sekgarametso is not just a student — he is a leader, teacher, and visionary. SMU proudly counts him among its future healthcare leaders, and the medical community would do well to watch this space.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Aug 7, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) marked a historic milestone with the official launch of the Human Nutrition and Dietetics Alumni Association, a first for the department and a crucial step in fostering stronger connections between past and present students.
The idea for the association took root in December 2024, shortly after the university celebrated its 10th anniversary. The department had hosted a well-received webinar featuring alumni success stories. This virtual gathering ignited a wave of nostalgia and a shared desire to reconnect. “The motivation was simple: creating a space to grow together, learn from one another, and give back to the field,” said Vukosi Msimeki, Chairperson of the association.
The official launch took place recently at SMU during an Academic Day, followed by a Gala Dinner at Avenue on Iris. The theme, “Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence: Past, Present & Future,” honoured the rich legacy of the discipline from its Medunsa origins to its current home at SMU.
The launch brought together former students from the Medunsa, UL-Medunsa Campus, and SMU eras, current students, academic staff, and special guests, including representatives from the National Department of Health (NDoH) and the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). A standout moment was the keynote address by Prof Pauline Monene Nkone Kuzwayo, a former HOD, who reflected on the evolution of dietetics and its essential role in addressing malnutrition in South African communities.
The association’s mission centres on building relationships, supporting professional development, and advancing the dietetics profession through mentorship, research, curriculum collaboration, and community outreach. It plans to offer biweekly CPD webinars, promote academic growth through MSc and PhD enrolment encouragement, and foster strong mentorship ties for emerging professionals.
An elected executive committee—comprising alumni from various graduating classes—was formally introduced during the Gala Dinner. The committee includes Vukosi Msimeki (Class of 2011) as Chairperson, Leepile Mantjane (Class of 2017) as Deputy Chairperson, Thandeka Mhlanga (Class of 2011) as Secretary-General, Adelaide Matheba (Class of 2010) as Deputy Secretary, Dr Suzane Mokone (MSc Class of 2017 & PhD Class of 2022) as Treasurer, and Additional Members Ntsako Mathye (Class of 2008) and Kgomotso Kgatlhanye (Class of 2001). Over the next 12 months, the committee plans to launch a searchable alumni directory, organise networking events, and work closely with the department to ensure the curriculum remains responsive to evolving industry demands.
“In five years, we want this association to be a national leader in professional development, a space for innovation, and a proud pillar of SMU’s legacy,” said Secretary General Thandeka Mhlanga.
For Mhlanga, the association is more than a network—it’s a return to shared roots. “Having a community that still links me to my tertiary institution feels like home,” she reflected.
To learn more or get involved, alumni are encouraged to join the WhatsApp group and watch for updates via social media and official departmental emails.
The SMU Human Nutrition and Dietetics Alumni Association is not just a platform—it’s a movement. One that promises to inspire, connect, and empower for years to come.
By Tumelo Moila
