by Lorato | Dec 13, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
As Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2024, it stands as an academic institution and a cornerstone of South Africa’s healthcare system. The university’s role extends far beyond education; it has become an integral force in shaping both the future of healthcare in the nation and the wider African continent. The impact of SMU—rooted in a rich history of medical training and social justice—remains an enduring force in tackling some of the most pressing health challenges facing the country.
SMU’s journey is deeply entwined with South Africa’s history. Founded in 1976 as the Medical University of South Africa (Medunsa), the institution was established at a time when apartheid policies had left many communities in the country without adequate access to healthcare. Medunsa’s creation was a direct response to this inequality, focusing on training healthcare professionals who would serve in under-resourced and rural areas where healthcare was most needed. At the time, South Africa’s healthcare system was marred by disparities, and Medunsa’s role was pivotal in addressing these inequities. It produced generations of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who were committed to social justice and health equity, giving Medunsa a distinct place in the country’s medical history.
The renaming of the university in 2014 to Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University marked a significant shift in name and purpose. The new name was a tribute to a respected leader of the African National Congress, symbolising a commitment to transformation, inclusivity, and progress. This new chapter emphasised the university’s forward-looking vision and the importance of developing healthcare professionals who could respond to the changing needs of a democratic South Africa. With a focus on integrating modern medical research, clinical practice, and public health advocacy, SMU set out to expand its role from merely an academic institution to a global leader in health science education and research.
The university has since built upon the legacy of Medunsa, consistently striving to improve the quality and reach of its educational offerings. Its faculties and schools continue to lead in medical research, focusing on some of the country’s most critical health issues, such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and maternal health. For example, the university has been at the forefront of clinical research, addressing challenges that uniquely affect South Africans and others in the Global South. This research is scientifically significant and aims at practical solutions to real-world problems.
The university’s alumni have played a substantial role in transforming the South African healthcare landscape. Many SMU graduates trained under the institution’s early commitment to social responsibility now occupy leadership roles in hospitals, clinics, and governmental health agencies across the country. Some have also gained international prominence, working with global organisations to address health crises around the world. These alumni are advocates for reform, pushing for improvements in healthcare delivery, public health policy, and patient care, particularly in underserved communities.
SMU’s emphasis on social responsibility remains at the heart of its mission. The university has long supported community-based health initiatives and outreach programmes, which allow students to engage directly with the communities they will serve. These initiatives, often focused on rural and disadvantaged areas, embody the university’s deep commitment to improving health and well-being across South Africa. Through its work, SMU has demonstrated the power of academic institutions to serve as catalysts for social change.
Looking forward, SMU’s role in shaping South Africa’s healthcare system is poised to grow even more influential. With new international partnerships, expanding research opportunities, and a dedication to cutting-edge technologies, the institution is strengthening its position as a global leader in health sciences. The university is attracting talent from across Africa and the world, further solidifying its place as a key player in addressing the world’s most complex health challenges.
As South Africa continues to tackle the evolving challenges of healthcare provision in the 21st century, SMU stands at the forefront, committed to developing the next generation of healthcare professionals who will shape the future of the country’s health system. With its rich legacy of excellence, social responsibility, and innovation, SMU is a symbol of South Africa’s resilience and dedication to providing equitable, quality healthcare for all.
*By Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli
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
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
South Africa’s healthcare system is a battlefield for resources, resilience, and reform. At the forefront of this fight stands Aluwani Manenzhe, a proud alumna of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), whose work exemplifies the university’s commitment to producing healthcare leaders who leave an indelible mark on society.
Aluwani Manenzhe
Born in Thohoyandou, Limpopo, and raised in a modest community where resources were scarce, Manenzhe’s rise to prominence as the President of the Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa (OTASA) is a story of grit, determination, and an unwavering belief in the power of education. Her journey underscores SMU’s pivotal role in transforming students into agents of change who tackle some of the nation’s most pressing challenges.
Manenzhe grew up as the eldest of four daughters, finding early inspiration in her Catholic education. Guided by a mission to counteract the oppressive Bantu Education system, her schools instilled a belief in education as a tool for empowerment and justice. But life was not without setbacks.
When her initial matric results were insufficient to qualify for university, she boldly decided to repeat the class at a less-resourced school. It was here, amid chalkboards in disrepair and a shortage of books, that she learned one of her most enduring lessons: “Hard work matters more than circumstances,” she recalls.
It was through SMU, however, that her life took a transformative turn. Despite the challenges of transitioning to higher education, Manenzhe flourished in SMU’s inclusive and rigorous environment. The university’s emphasis on excellence and adaptability prepared her to face the complex realities of South Africa’s healthcare landscape.
From student to changemaker
Graduating in 1997 as an occupational therapist, Manenzhe credits SMU for cultivating the leadership qualities she would later deploy on a national stage. She recalls the painstaking insistence of her lecturers on excellence: “They wouldn’t tolerate mediocrity, even in the smallest task. That discipline shaped my entire career.”
Today, Manenzhe’s name is synonymous with transformation in occupational therapy. Under her leadership, OTASA has pushed for increased recognition of the profession, particularly in underserved communities. “Occupational therapy brings hope to lives that challenges would otherwise shatter,” she explains.
Her initiatives include community-based rehabilitation programmes that empower caregivers and advocate for patient autonomy. These programmes have restored dignity and functionality to countless South Africans, from children with cerebral palsy to adults recovering from strokes.
Manenzhe’s story is not merely one of personal triumph but a mirror reflecting SMU’s broader mission: to serve marginalised communities while elevating healthcare standards. She is acutely aware of the disparity in access to rehabilitation services, a challenge that has long plagued South Africa’s healthcare system.
Her leadership in OTASA has resulted in groundbreaking collaborations with policymakers, healthcare funders, and corporate stakeholders. By advocating for the inclusion of rehabilitation in the National Health Insurance framework, Manenzhe is paving the way for occupational therapy to be recognised as a cornerstone of comprehensive healthcare.
Manenzhe’s leadership style—assertive, compassionate, and solution-focused—is a testament to SMU’s unique approach to education. From her first days on campus, she was immersed in a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and challenges. The university’s interdisciplinary programmes and clinical rotations exposed her to the stark realities of South African healthcare while equipping her with the tools to effect meaningful change.
Her presidency of OTASA is only the latest chapter in a career that has spanned both public and private healthcare. From initiating caregiver empowerment programmes in Limpopo to spearheading policy reforms at a national level, she embodies the spirit of SMU: a relentless drive to improve lives.
For current SMU students, Manenzhe offers this advice: “Leadership requires growth and consistency. Build a solid foundation, fail enough to be cautious, and dare enough to know the value of calculated risk.” She also stresses the importance of humility: “Serve those you lead, and they will make you their leader.”
Looking to the future, she envisions SMU playing a central role in healthcare reform through partnerships with its alumni. She urges the university to leverage its research capacity and alumni expertise to shape South Africa’s health policies and community development.
SMU’s enduring impact
Manenzhe’s journey from a determined young girl in Thohoyandou to a nationally recognised leader is a testament to SMU’s impact on its students and society. Her achievements prove that SMU does not merely produce graduates; it produces leaders, innovators, and change agents who transform communities. In a country where healthcare equity remains an elusive goal, the story of Manenzhe offers hope. She is proving that education is the most powerful tool for change when harnessed effectively.
By Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli
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
