by Lorato | Feb 13, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Karate Team has once again demonstrated excellence and determination, securing podium finishes at the prestigious FKO-AFRICA Selection Tournament. The competition, held on 25 January 2025 at Leondale Hall in Germiston, served as a crucial qualifier for the 1st World Full Contact Karate Organisation (WFCKO) Tournament, scheduled to take place in Japan in May.
Four outstanding karatekas represented SMU with remarkable performances: Tshiamo Sefolo (1st Place – Women under 50kg) clinched the gold medal, showcasing discipline, focus, and technique. As a second-year BSc Life Science student, her victory not only highlights her athletic prowess but also reflects SMU’s commitment to balancing sports and academics. She will proudly represent Africa at the World Tournament in Japan. Innocent Zikhali (2nd Place – Men under 90kg) fought his way to a silver medal, earning a position as a reserve for the world competition. Oratilwe Sethabela (2nd Place – Women under 54kg) delivered a strong performance, securing silver and a reserve spot for the World Tournament. Ntsako Sono (3rd Place – Women under 59kg) completed the team’s success with a well-earned bronze medal.
The tournament provided an opportunity for top African karatekas to showcase their skills on an international stage. SMU’s team embodied the values of excellence, integrity, and accountability, proving that dedication and rigorous preparation yield remarkable results. The university takes pride in its student-athletes who balance academics and sports with efficiency and student-centredness at the core of their journey.
Leondale Hall in Germiston served as the battleground where top athletes competed fiercely for a chance to represent Africa at the WFCKO Tournament in Japan. This significant event marked another milestone in SMU’s commitment to fostering sporting excellence.
Participation in the tournament was not only about winning medals but also about securing a place at the upcoming WFCKO World Tournament in Japan. The SMU karate team’s success reinforces the university’s dedication to student development, leadership, and respect for diverse talents.
SMU Karate Instructor, Issac “The African Tiger” Mashinini Shihan, expressed his gratitude to the Sports and Recreation department for granting the team access to the sports facilities during the festive season for their preparation. He also commended the karatekas for sacrificing their family time during this period. “Having produced countless champions from SMU, this is only the beginning of the year, true training is yet to begin. This is yet another important year where the SMU flag must be flown high, and the team is poised to meet the challenge,” he stated.
The SMU Karate Team’s remarkable success was made possible through intense training, mentorship, and institutional support. Their achievements highlight the university’s emphasis on effective leadership in sports, guiding students towards global opportunities. The university community celebrates this milestone and extends its best wishes to Tshiamo Sefolo as she embarks on a historic journey to represent both SMU and Africa on the world stage.
SMU takes immense pride in its students’ success and looks forward to more victories that reflect the institution’s values and dedication to holistic student development.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Feb 12, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) reaffirmed its commitment to shaping future healthcare professionals by hosting a comprehensive orientation event for first-year students in the School of Medicine on 10 February 2025. The event provided an in-depth introduction to university life, academic expectations, and the wealth of support services available to ensure student success.
As a leading institution in health sciences, SMU continues to prioritise student development, professional readiness, and academic excellence. The orientation event played a crucial role in equipping new students with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate their medical education journey with confidence.
Student support services: A strong foundation for success
Newcomers to the MBChB, Radiography (B.Rad), and Emergency Medical Care (EMC) programmes were introduced to a variety of academic and psychosocial support services aimed at enhancing their student experience. The Centre for University Teaching and Learning (CUTL) was highlighted as a key support structure, offering mentorship, academic advising, and e-learning assistance to ensure students receive the necessary guidance throughout their studies. Recognising the importance of mental health, SMU has also appointed a clinical psychologist to provide students with professional mental wellness support, while Campus Health Services ensures their general healthcare needs are met.
To assist with academic concerns, students were encouraged to visit the Student Centre in the Clinical Pathology Building and consult their academic facilitators, who are available to provide guidance on coursework and university expectations. Senior students also shared insights on adjusting to university life, offering advice on navigating peer pressure, managing study schedules, and handling the academic rigour of a health sciences degree.
Expert advice and motivation for new students
MBChB Academic Project Leader, Botha Gerder, emphasised the importance of active student engagement and urged students to stay informed about key academic dates, institutional regulations, and available support services. 2025 Guardian Lecturer Mabatho Thulo further encouraged students to remain focused on their academic goals while maintaining a balanced lifestyle, reinforcing the importance of remembering their purpose in joining SMU’s School of Medicine.
Head of Faculty, Professor Honey Mabuza, delivered an inspiring keynote address, offering four essential tips for student success. He advised students to collaborate with their peers to enhance learning experiences and build strong support networks. He encouraged them to embrace vulnerability, seek assistance when faced with challenges, and attach themselves to senior student mentors who can provide valuable guidance. Lastly, he stressed the importance of addressing difficulties head-on, cautioning against withdrawing or avoiding problems.
Mabuza also outlined SMU’s commitment to ensuring students receive career placement support that aligns with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) regulations. Through structured training platforms, students are exposed to practical learning environments that equip them with the necessary skills and experience to transition into professional practice.
The orientation also provided an opportunity for students in the Emergency Medical Care (EMC) programme to gain a deeper understanding of the practical and physical demands of their chosen field. Programme Coordinator, Wisdom Ndhlovu, explained that the EMC programme is built on three foundational aspects: theoretical knowledge, practical application, and simulation-based training. He highlighted the importance of physical fitness, particularly swimming skills, which are required for certain emergency response situations and can pose a challenge for some students.
Adding to the discussion on student support services, Dr Joshua Maliavusa from CUTL introduced a suite of academic support initiatives designed to assist vulnerable students. He explained that mentorship programmes, student tutorship, e-learning support, and student tracking and monitoring systems are in place to help students stay on track with their studies. Additionally, the academic advising programme ensures that students receive timely guidance to navigate their coursework effectively. Maliavusa reassured students that these support structures exist to help them overcome challenges and excel academically.
A bright future at SMU
Closing the event, Matimu Chauke, Chairperson of the School of Medicine, encouraged students to believe in themselves, take their academic journey step by step, and embrace the challenges of medical school. He reminded them that medicine is a demanding yet rewarding career and that success is possible with the right support system, curiosity, and determination.
The SMU School of Medicine Orientation was a resounding success, equipping first-year students with valuable guidance, motivation, and institutional support. With SMU’s exceptional academic programmes, expert faculty, and strong student support services, SMU students are now well-prepared to embark on a transformative educational journey that will position them as future leaders in healthcare.
By Khanyi Nkosi and Musa Msibi
by Lorato | Feb 10, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) set the stage for academic excellence and professional growth as it successfully hosted the 2025 First-Time Entering Students (FTEN) Orientation on 30 and 31 January. Designed to ease the transition into university life, the two-day programme immersed new students in SMU’s vibrant academic and social environment through inspiring addresses by university leaders, an engaging campus tour, and lively entertainment.
Welcoming the new cohort, Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus underscored the significance of this milestone. “Today is not just another day; it is a defining moment. For our first-year students, this marks the beginning of an academic journey that will not only shape your future but also influence the future of health sciences in South Africa and beyond. To the parents and guardians, thank you for entrusting your children to SMU. We are deeply honoured to partner with you in their academic and personal development.”
Matsha-Erasmus further urged students to embrace their journey at SMU with determination, curiosity, and an open heart. She said: “Engage fully in your studies, immerse yourself in campus life, and seize every opportunity to grow academically, socially, and personally. Remember, this is not just a university; it is a community united by a shared purpose—to lead, serve, and transform.”
Following the Vice-Chancellor’s address, students were introduced to essential university services. Mahlatlholle Masha, Acting Chief Financial Officer, provided an overview of financial aid, student services, student debtors, and transport. His presentation ensured that students had a clear understanding of the financial support structures available to them.
Next, Tulani Nkuntse, Director of Student Affairs, took the stage to discuss student life at SMU under the theme: “Where learning meets adventure.” He encouraged students to take advantage of academic and extracurricular opportunities to enrich their university experience.
Student Representative Council (SRC) President, Katlego Peter Moshonyane, delivered a powerful message. He urged students not to let their backgrounds discourage them, stating: “Your background should never discourage you. Study hard and make sure you go far in life – never struggle alone.” He also introduced the SRC executive members, reinforcing the council’s commitment to student support and advocacy.
Adding to the student support system, Alizwa Boco, an MBChB 3 student and FTEN Guardian & General Student Buddy Coordinator, encouraged students to support each other and stay committed to their academic journey. Her message emphasised the importance of mentorship and peer assistance in achieving academic success.
To close the first session, Dr Elize Venter, Director of the Centre for Teaching and Learning, explained the various mentorship sessions and assessments provided by her unit. She assured students that the university has structured support systems to help them succeed academically.
The second session of the orientation commenced with an exciting campus tour. New students had the opportunity to explore SMU and familiarise themselves with key buildings and their functions. The tour aimed to help students easily navigate campus life, ensuring they knew where to access essential services and facilities.
As part of the orientation programme, Campus Health, led by Health Promoter Kelebogile Nonkwelo, facilitated a solemn moment to remember victims of HIV and COVID-19. She led a prayer and a candlelight ceremony, urging students to keep those affected in their thoughts as they embark on their journey in the health sector. This moment served as a reminder of the importance of compassion in healthcare.
In addition to the speeches and entertainment, various sports codes were introduced to students, encouraging them to stay active and engaged in university life beyond academics. This initiative aimed to promote a well-balanced student experience by offering opportunities for physical fitness, teamwork, and social interaction.
The 2025 SMU Orientation successfully introduced first-time entering students to the university’s academic, financial, and social support structures. With inspiring words from university leadership, the support of the SRC, an engaging campus tour, and exposure to different sports codes, new students are well-equipped to begin their studies with confidence. As SMU continues its mission of shaping healthcare leaders, the orientation has set the foundation for a transformative academic journey.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Feb 3, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to nurture future leaders in healthcare, and Motheo Mmola is a shining example of this legacy. Raised in Diepsloot, she grew up in an environment that championed education and perseverance—values that shaped her path into the field of oral health. Determined to make a tangible impact in underserved communities, she set her sights on a career that would bridge the gap in oral health awareness and accessibility.
Enrolling at SMU proved to be a transformative experience. The university provided her with a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of oral healthcare, offering hands-on experience through community outreach programmes. Surrounded by experienced lecturers and a supportive academic environment, Mmola thrived—turning challenges into stepping stones toward excellence.
“The university provided a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of oral health care,” Mmola explains. Throughout her studies, she worked alongside experienced lecturers and gained invaluable hands-on experience through community outreach programmes. Though the workload was demanding, her dedication to the field kept her motivated.
Her passion for oral health and community service was recognised when she was awarded Best Student in Dental Public Health. “This award is not just a personal achievement but a call to continue advocating for better oral health awareness in South Africa,” she says. The recognition reaffirmed her commitment to her studies and the field of public health dentistry.
Receiving the Van Schaik’s Dental Award was another milestone in Mmola’s academic journey. “This award symbolises my perseverance and commitment to excellence in oral health,” she notes. Professionally, it opens new doors and strengthens her credibility as a dedicated oral health professional. It fuels her ambition to continue excelling and making a meaningful contribution to the industry.
Like many students, Mmola faced intense academic pressure, procrastination, and moments of self-doubt. “The rigorous nature of the course required resilience and commitment,” she admits. She successfully balanced theoretical learning with practical application by mastering time management and focusing on her long-term goals. Her ability to adapt and remain disciplined played a significant role in her success.
Winning these awards has reinforced Mmola’s passion for public health dentistry. She now envisions a future where she can contribute to oral health advocacy, policy improvements, and increased accessibility to dental care. “I want to be at the forefront of improving oral health standards in South Africa,” she says. Whether in private practice, community initiatives, or further studies, she aims to be a key player in shaping the future of oral health care.
To those considering a career in oral health or other health fields, Mmola offers invaluable advice: “Stay committed, work hard, and embrace continuous learning. Oral health is a growing field with vast opportunities, and perseverance is key.” She encourages students to seek mentorship, participate in community outreach programmes, and never underestimate the significance of their studies.
Mmola’s ultimate goal is to use her knowledge and achievements to inspire others and contribute to the broader field of dental health in South Africa. She plans to engage in initiatives that promote oral health awareness, particularly in rural and underserved communities. “Through education, outreach programmes, and potential research, I hope to drive positive change and make quality dental care more accessible,” she says.
As she steps into the next phase of her career, Mmola remains committed to advancing oral health advocacy and policy reforms in South Africa. Her accolades, including the Best Student in Dental Public Health award and the Van Schaik’s Dental Award, are not just personal milestones but symbols of her unwavering dedication to the field.
With SMU as the launchpad for her success, Mmola envisions a future where quality dental care is accessible to all, particularly in underserved communities. Whether through private practice, community initiatives, or further studies, she is determined to be a driving force in shaping the future of oral healthcare. “With passion, perseverance, and a commitment to service, I hope to inspire others and create lasting change,” she affirms.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Feb 3, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to make significant strides in addressing the educational challenges faced by high schools in the Tshwane area through its Mathematics and Applied Mathematics Community Engagement Programme. Led by the passionate and visionary Chairperson, Professer Ndlovu, the programme bridges the gap between tertiary institutions and local communities, bringing academic excellence and practical support to underperforming schools.
In an exclusive interview, Ndlovu sheds light on the profound impact the programme has had, not only on learners but also on educators striving to improve the quality of teaching in their schools. Ndlovu explains, “Our department plays a vital role in transforming the teaching profession in the region. By introducing advanced pedagogical techniques and innovative ways to teach challenging mathematical concepts, we empower teachers to better engage their learners. Many of our graduates also take on mentorship roles in high schools, which has proven invaluable for both learners and educators.”
Graduates from SMU’s Mathematics and Applied Mathematics Department often return to local schools as mentors or tutors. Their efforts have led to measurable improvements in learner performance, especially in schools where mathematics pass rates have historically been low. “Their involvement in underperforming schools has resulted in improved learner engagement and matric results,” Ndlovu adds.
The programme has partnered with several schools, including Mapenane Maths Science and ICT School of Specialisation (Ga-Rankuwa), Central High School (Soshanguve), Tswaing High School (Winterveldt), and PHL Moraka (Hammanskraal). These collaborations focus on critical areas such as motivation, recruitment, campaign to pursue Mathematics, career guidance and learner support.
“We work closely with schools to address the unique challenges they face,” says Ndlovu. “This includes offering additional tutoring and providing mentorship to both learners and educators. Our goal is to equip schools with the tools they need to create a culture of academic excellence.”
One key initiative involves SMU lecturers and tutors volunteering their time to teach during weekends, focusing on building foundational knowledge and confidence among learners. This hands-on approach has consistently yielded positive results, with participating schools reporting notable improvements in mathematics pass rates.
One of the participating schools has expressed deep gratitude for SMU’s support, highlighting its positive impact on both learners and the school’s academic performance. “The SMU Mathematics and Applied Mathematics Department has played a crucial role in supporting learners struggling with certain Maths topics, enhancing their understanding and confidence. Their involvement in revision programmes has helped students prepare effectively for exams, leading to a significant improvement in pass rates. Additionally, their career guidance initiatives have encouraged more students to pursue mathematics. Since the partnership began, overall mathematics results at the school have consistently improved,” says Katlego Koloko, Departmental Head for Mathematics at Central High School.
Outreach programmes remain at the heart of the department’s community engagement efforts. These initiatives provide learners from disadvantaged backgrounds with opportunities to excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. “We’re not just improving academic performance,” says Ndlovu. “We’re also inspiring learners to pursue careers in STEM, which can open doors to a brighter future.”
The department’s impact extends beyond classrooms. Collaborations with schools foster a feedback-rich environment, ensuring that university training remains relevant to real-world challenges. This synergy benefits both high school learners and SMU students, who often serve as mentors and tutors.
The programme has produced numerous success stories, with many learners going on to pursue tertiary education in STEM fields. Specific schools, such as Mapenane Maths Science and ICT School of Specialisation, have shown significant improvements in matric results following the department’s interventions.
Looking ahead, the department aims to expand its reach by involving more lecturers and tutors in weekend teaching initiatives and by establishing community-based educational hubs. However, Ndlovu acknowledges that scaling these efforts will require additional resources. “Support from government agencies, private institutions, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) is crucial. Funding can help us pay tutors, provide transportation to distant schools, and supply educational materials,” he explains.
As the programme continues to grow, its impact on the educational landscape in Tshwane becomes increasingly evident. By addressing systemic challenges and fostering a culture of collaboration, the Mathematics and Applied Mathematics Community Engagement Programme at SMU is transforming lives and shaping the future of education in the region.
“Education is the cornerstone of any thriving community,” concludes Ndlovu. “Through our efforts, we hope to inspire not only learners but also educators to reach new heights, creating a ripple effect of positive change across the region.”
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Feb 3, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Keitumetse Serothoane’s exceptional academic journey at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) reached a remarkable pinnacle during the 2024 Oath-Taking Ceremony, where she was honoured with a series of prestigious awards. Recognised as the Best Overall Final-Year Student in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) and Audiology for 2024, Her achievements were nothing short of extraordinary. Alongside this top honour, she earned accolades for Best Final-Year Student in both Theory and Clinical SLP, Clinical Audiology, and Best Undergraduate Research Project. Her impressive academic performance, coupled with her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of individuals facing speech, language, and hearing challenges, highlights Serothoane as a future leader in the healthcare field.
Serothoane’s academic journey has been marked by a deep commitment to improving the lives of individuals with speech, language, and hearing challenges. Her passion for SLP and Audiology grew as she learned about the profound impact these fields can have on individuals, particularly those facing communication and hearing difficulties. Throughout her time at SMU, Serothoane was committed to applying her knowledge both in the classroom and in clinical settings, working tirelessly to develop the skills necessary to make a lasting difference in the lives of those she serves.
During the 2024 Oath-Taking Ceremony, Serothoane’s achievements were formally recognised as she received several prestigious awards, including:
- Best Final-Year Student in Theory Speech-Language Pathology
- Best Final-Year Student in Clinical Speech-Language Pathology
- Best Final-Year Student in Clinical Audiology
- Best Overall Final-Year Student in SLP and Audiology
- Best Undergraduate Research Project
These awards reflect Serothoane’s exceptional academic and clinical performance across a range of subjects, highlighting her excellence in both theoretical understanding and practical application. Her accomplishments underline her ability to integrate complex theoretical knowledge with clinical skills, providing her with a strong foundation to excel in her professional career.
One of her key achievements was her undergraduate research project, titled “The Knowledge of South African Public Sector Otolaryngologists and Audiologists of Cochlear Implant Referral Criteria.” This groundbreaking study explored the knowledge gap between otolaryngologists and audiologists in South Africa regarding cochlear implant referrals. The findings of the research have the potential to significantly improve the referral process, ensuring that patients receive timely and accurate diagnoses and interventions. Serothoane’s research was praised for its thoroughness and relevance to addressing key challenges in the South African healthcare system.
In addition to her academic excellence, Serothoane’s clinical experience has been a vital part of her growth. Throughout her studies, she gained hands-on experience through clinical placements in various healthcare settings, including district hospitals and private practices. Her work in clinical audiology, particularly in diagnosing and fitting hearing aids for patients with hearing loss, allowed her to witness firsthand the impact of her work on patients’ lives. One memorable experience that inspired Serothoane was helping a young child with a severe hearing impairment. After fitting the child with a hearing aid, the parents expressed overwhelming gratitude as they saw their child respond to sounds for the first time. This moment cemented Serothoane’s determination to continue her work in audiology and speech-language pathology.
Her dedication to her field has also been shaped by the mentorship and support she received throughout her time at SMU. Serothoane cites the guidance of faculty members and the encouragement of her peers as key factors in her success. She has always been determined to push herself beyond her limits, seeking opportunities to improve her knowledge and skills. Among those who inspired Serothoane was Avuyile Mpiti, the 2023 Best Overall Student in SLP and Audiology at SMU. Mpiti’s unwavering commitment to excellence served as a beacon of hope for Serothoane, showing her that with determination and hard work, success is achievable.
Reflecting on her journey, Serothoane attributes much of her success to the values instilled in her during her time at SMU. The university’s core values, accountability, effective leadership, efficiency, excellence, integrity, respect, student-centredness, and ubuntu, have shaped Serothoane into the person she is today. These values are fundamental principles that guide her actions every day, both as a student and as a future healthcare professional.
Serothoane is particularly aligned with the university’s value of ubuntu, which speaks to the interconnectedness of all people. She believes that her work in healthcare must embody compassion, empathy, and a commitment to social justice. By embracing ubuntu, she strives to honour the dignity of each individual and to foster a caring and inclusive environment for all her patients.
Looking ahead, she plans to continue her career as a speech-language pathologist and audiologist, with a special focus on paediatric and adult dysphagia (swallowing disorders), as well as hearing aid fitting. She is particularly interested in working with underserved communities, where access to speech and hearing healthcare can be limited. Through her community service internship at a district hospital in Mpumalanga, Serothoane gained valuable experience working in rural areas, which further motivated her to continue contributing to healthcare improvement in these regions.
She is also considering pursuing further studies in specialised areas of audiology, such as cochlear implants and auditory processing disorders. She is keen on staying at the forefront of emerging technologies that can enhance the diagnosis and treatment of communication and hearing disorders. Her long-term goal is to become a leader in the field, contributing to research and policy development that will shape the future of audiology and speech-language pathology in South Africa.
Her advice to her fellow students is both practical and inspiring: “Embrace every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. Stay motivated by your passion for helping others, and never be afraid to ask for guidance when you need it. Success is not a destination, but a journey, and every step along the way is worth celebrating.”
Serothoane’s achievements have not only earned her recognition at SMU but have also set the stage for a promising career in healthcare. As she embarks on the next chapter of her professional journey, she remains committed to making a difference in the lives of individuals with speech, language, and hearing disorders. Her story is one of perseverance, dedication, and passion for helping others, an inspiring example for future generations of healthcare professionals at SMU.
By Dimakatso Modise
