by Lorato | Oct 25, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is continually reaffirming its role as a catalyst for societal change. The Nursing Science Department recently commemorated International Mental Health Day with a transformative outreach to the Soshanguve Secure Care Centre (SSCC). By focusing on “Mental Health at Work,” SMU demonstrated its commitment to addressing critical societal challenges, providing support to both vulnerable communities and the professionals who care for them. This initiative attests to SMU’s mission to educate and empower, driving meaningful impact through health-focused solutions.
The visit to the SSCC was not only a symbolic gesture but a critical intervention in an environment where staff face significant emotional and psychological pressures daily, caring for children in conflict with the law. Led by psychiatric nursing lecturer Dikeledi Maphake and fourth-year nursing student Ntsako Makondo, the visit centred on raising awareness of the mental health challenges inherent in such high-pressure workplaces. As Maphake noted: “It was vital for us to come here and create a space for workers to openly discuss their mental health challenges, offering support where it’s needed most.”
This initiative was driven by SMU’s ethos of combining academic excellence with tangible community engagement. Students from the Bachelor of Nursing Science and Art (BNSA) and Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery (BNAM) programmes attended the event, engaging directly with the SSCC staff and the children they care for. The students shared practical strategies for managing stress and mental wellness, promoting a culture of self-care in the workplace.
Moreover, SMU’s engagement extended beyond the staff. The nursing students interacted with the young residents of the SSCC, many of whom struggle with mental health conditions such as oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, and antisocial personality disorder. These conditions are often overlooked, but SMU’s intervention highlighted their significance, particularly in children facing legal and social difficulties. By offering insights into managing these disorders, the students reinforced the importance of mental health care in both personal and professional development.
Fourth-year nursing student Keletso Ngoetjane reflects on the impact of the visit: “The initiative wasn’t just successful; it was transformative. It allowed us to connect on a human level, opening up important conversations about mental health and creating a space of mutual support and understanding.”
This initiative underscores SMU’s broader mission—to produce healthcare professionals who excel in their fields and actively contribute to societal well-being. The event’s success was bolstered by the support of sponsors such as Cardiomed, Old Mutual, Metropolitan, and PEP Store, who provided essential items, including water, soft drinks, comfort packs, and sanitary towels. Nursing Science students further enhanced the sense of care and community by gifting goodie packs to the SSCC staff and children.
For Sister Tshuma, Acting Operational Manager at the SSCC, the visit was deeply appreciated: “We are truly grateful for the mental awareness programme provided. The health education, donations, and overall support have made a lasting impact, and we look forward to a long-term partnership with SMU.”
The event represents more than just a one-off International Mental Health Day celebration. It is part of a sustained effort by SMU to foster long-term collaborations with the SSCC, creating scholarly community engagement opportunities that will benefit staff and children alike. Through these partnerships, SMU is helping to address mental health issues early, potentially preventing behavioural problems and reducing the likelihood of reoffending.
As Dr Mokoena-de Beer of the Nursing Science Department aptly concludes: “Mental health is the cornerstone of a productive life. By prioritising it—whether for ourselves or others—we have the power to transform lives, create healthier communities, and build a brighter future for all.”
In all its endeavours, SMU is a university committed to educating future leaders and actively contributing to solutions for South Africa’s most pressing societal challenges.
by Lorato | Oct 24, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is solidifying its reputation as a forward-thinking institution in higher education, championing leadership development and gender equity. By actively participating in the esteemed Higher Education Resources Services South Africa Academy (HERS-SA), SMU is not only nurturing the next generation of female leaders but also reinforcing its position as a truly supportive and empowering employer.
The recent HERS-SA conference, held in a hybrid format in Cape Town, marked the academy’s 21st annual gathering of women leaders in higher education. The event attracted attendees from across Africa and the United States of America (USA), including directors, heads of departments, managers, and aspiring leaders, all united by the mission to empower women in the sector. SMU proudly nominated two rising stars, Nonhlanhla Sindane, Acting Manager: Organisational Development, and Busisiwe Mbanjwa, Acting Manager: Gender-Based Violence, to represent the university.
Both Sindane and Mbanjwa praised the programme for its exceptional quality, noting that the insights they gained would be invaluable in their roles at SMU. Mbanjwa, an aspiring leader with a passion for human resources (HR), reflected on the global challenges facing higher education institutions, including the increasing demands on academic and administrative staff and the quest for work-life balance. Her participation in HERS-SA solidified her belief in the importance of strategic HR initiatives that prioritise employee well-being, growth, and professional development.
“One of the key takeaways for me is that the challenges we face at SMU are not unique. Institutions worldwide are grappling with similar issues, and the need for HR strategies that support staff and promote continuous growth is paramount,” says Mbanjwa. Her perspective underscores the crucial role of HR in driving institutional success and ensuring that universities remain adaptable to the evolving demands of the sector.
SMU’s commitment to professional development is further highlighted by the involvement of its Senior Director of Human Resources, Odette Ramsingh, a distinguished alumna of the HERS-SA Academy. As a keynote speaker, Ramsingh led a thought-provoking session on succession planning within higher education, urging institutions to focus on creating a credible talent pipeline. “Performance will always distinguish you in the quest for better opportunities,” she advised the audience, emphasising the importance of personal branding in leadership success.
The conference, enriched by contributions from international speakers, vice-chancellors, and prominent figures from the UK, USA, and East Africa, provided a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration on strategies for sustainable higher education. The insights shared extended beyond local concerns, offering a global perspective on women’s experiences in leadership roles.
As SMU continues to send its leaders to platforms like HERS-SA, the university demonstrates its dedication to cultivating a workforce that not only excels in its current environment but is prepared to lead future generations. The participation of women like Sindane, Mbanjwa, and Ramsingh reflects SMU’s broader commitment to gender equity and professional growth.
The conference concluded with a prestigious awards ceremony attended by the Honourable Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Dr Mimmy Martha Gondwe, who lauded the contributions of women in the sector and encouraged others to follow in their footsteps.
For SMU, its involvement in such high-calibre initiatives speaks to its broader strategy of empowering staff and creating opportunities for personal and professional growth. In doing so, SMU not only fosters future leaders but also positions itself as an employer of choice in the competitive landscape of higher education.
by Lorato | Oct 23, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In the dynamic field of healthcare, young professionals are stepping up to shape the future of their respective fields, and graduates from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) are leading the charge. The recent formation of the South African Young Pharmacists’ Association (SAYPA) is a powerful example of this, with many of its executive members being SMU alumni. This trailblazing initiative reflects the outstanding quality of education at SMU and the university’s commitment to nurturing leadership and advocacy beyond the classroom.
SAYPA was born out of a vision to create a unified platform for young pharmacists, allowing them to advocate for their professional development while addressing critical challenges within South Africa’s healthcare system. SAYPA’s focus is on empowering pharmacists to lead with purpose and professionalism, ensuring that the role of pharmacists in medicine dispensing and healthcare delivery is not only recognised but also strengthened.
A key driver behind this vision is the training and leadership experience that SAYPA’s founding members gained during their time at SMU. “SMU equipped us with both a strong academic foundation and essential leadership skills,” says Luyanda Khumalo. He explains that the university’s focus on community health and public engagement instilled in them a deep sense of responsibility to effect meaningful change in the healthcare sector.
For SMU, this achievement is a testament to its legacy of developing healthcare professionals who are equipped with knowledge and prepared to lead and innovate. The university’s holistic approach to education has consistently produced graduates who are making significant strides in various healthcare fields, demonstrating leadership, integrity, and a commitment to public service.
SAYPA’s goals include providing young pharmacists with professional development opportunities, mentorship, and networking platforms. By tackling pressing issues such as unemployment and limited career advancement opportunities, SAYPA aims to empower the next generation of pharmacists to take charge of their careers while improving healthcare outcomes for all South Africans. The association is already engaging with healthcare employers, government agencies, and professional bodies to push for fair recruitment practices and advocate for better employment prospects for young pharmacists.
As SMU continues to shine on the global stage—recently breaking into the Top 10 of the World University Rankings 2025—its alumni are playing a pivotal role in advancing healthcare innovation and policy. SAYPA’s founding members see their involvement in this initiative as an extension of the legacy that SMU has built, one that fosters leadership, advocacy, and social responsibility.
“SMU’s focus on collaboration across healthcare professions gave us a holistic view of how we can contribute to the broader healthcare system,” says Khumalo. “This understanding has helped shape our vision for SAYPA to ensure that pharmacists are at the forefront of healthcare solutions, improving access to medicine and patient care.”
The formation of SAYPA is also an inspiring call to current SMU students, encouraging them to seize leadership opportunities within their fields. The founders believe that young professionals, including students still in training, can profoundly impact the healthcare landscape by being proactive, collaborative, and innovative. SAYPA’s work serves as a beacon for aspiring leaders, showing them that they, too, can be catalysts for change.
The influence of SMU’s alumni-led initiatives like SAYPA cannot be overstated. By offering support for such initiatives, SMU continues to play a vital role in bridging the gap between academic learning and professional practice, ensuring that its graduates are prepared to meet the challenges of the healthcare industry head-on.
“SMU has been instrumental in shaping me as both a pharmacist and a leader,” says Khumalo, reflecting on the association’s journey. “The university provided a world-class education and the mentorship and critical thinking skills necessary to lead in the healthcare sector. I’m proud to be an SMU graduate, and I hope our work at SAYPA inspires current students to dream big and take on leadership roles that drive positive change.”
As SAYPA works to address broader healthcare challenges, including improving access to medication and integrating pharmacists more fully into primary healthcare services, it is clear that SMU’s influence extends far beyond its campus walls. Its graduates are not only shaping the future of healthcare in South Africa, but they are also reinforcing SMU’s reputation as an institution that nurtures leaders—leaders who are committed to making a lasting impact on the world.
by Lorato | Oct 22, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to prove its role in shaping students who become leaders committed to addressing critical societal issues. This time, the spotlight is on SMU alumnus Samuel Chauke, who was recently crowned Mr World South Africa (SA) for 2024-2026. Chauke will represent South Africa at the International Mr World competition in Vietnam from 5-23 November 2024, with a platform focused on promoting mental health awareness for men and advancing the rights of people living with disabilities.
Chauke’s achievement illustrates SMU’s ability to nurture not only exceptional health professionals but also societal leaders passionate about making meaningful changes in their communities. Graduating in 2018 with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy, Chauke has already made significant contributions to the health sector. He currently serves as a Senior Occupational Therapist at Potchefstroom Hospital, where his work in vocational rehabilitation has transformed lives across the North-West Province. His passion for uplifting those often overlooked in society shines through his dual role as a healthcare professional and now as a national ambassador through Mr World SA.
Reflecting on his journey, Chauke credits SMU for instilling in him the values of compassion, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. “SMU taught me that kindness, humility, and striving for greatness coexist,” he says. “The support from my lecturers and peers helped shape me into who I am today.”
But Chauke’s path to success was not without its challenges. As a child growing up in Soshanguve, he had dreams of becoming a police officer or forensic pathologist, only to stumble upon the world of occupational therapy by chance. His university years were marked by personal struggles, including collapsing during final year exams due to exhaustion and a vote of no confidence in his leadership role as class representative. Despite these setbacks, he persevered, driven by his desire to succeed and the encouragement of mentors who saw his potential.
One such mentor reminded him of the heights he could reach, telling him he was not doing enough to unleash his full potential. “That conversation was a turning point,” he recalls, “and it pushed me to aim higher, even when I doubted myself.”
Chauke’s foray into pageantry stems from his experiences as a healthcare provider. Witnessing the stigma faced by people living with disabilities and men struggling with mental health issues, he was inspired to create awareness and advocate for change. “I wanted to show the world that disabilities don’t define individuals. They have potential just like anyone else,” he shares. “As Mr World SA, my mission is to break down these barriers and help shape a society that sees the value in everyone, regardless of their challenges.”
In addition to his work as a healthcare professional and pageant titleholder, Chauke is also passionate about fitness. Having been body-shamed in his youth, he transformed his confidence through fitness and established Showfitsam to inspire others. “Fitness is not just about physical health,” he says. “It’s about mental health too—taking care of yourself so you can be the best version of yourself.”
Chauke’s journey from SMU to the national stage demonstrates the profound impact of student leadership and holistic development fostered by the university. SMU is not just producing professionals; it is cultivating leaders who are committed to addressing some of society’s most pressing issues, from gender-based violence to the mental health crisis. As Chauke embarks on his Mr World journey, he carries with him the lessons learned at SMU—kindness, leadership, and the drive to make a difference.
His story is one of perseverance, passion, and the belief that every person has the potential to inspire change. With his upcoming trip to Vietnam and his platform advocating for men’s mental health and disability rights, Chauke is not just representing South Africa—he is representing the values and vision instilled in him by SMU, a university dedicated to shaping leaders for a better society.
Follow Samuel’s journey:
TikTok: @sfs_19
Instagram: 2908_samuel
Facebook: Samuel Chauke
by Lorato | Oct 22, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a testament to Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University’s (SMU) commitment to shaping South Africa’s health services, Phomelelo Rammutla, at just 20 years old, has earned her Bachelor of Oral Hygiene degree, emerging as one of the university’s youngest graduates of 2024. Her achievement highlights her dedication and the pivotal role SMU plays in developing exceptional health professionals who will strengthen and advance the nation’s healthcare system. Through its focus on academic excellence and comprehensive support, SMU continues to produce graduates equipped to meet the growing needs of South Africa’s health sector.
Rammutla’s interest in oral health began at the young age of six when representatives from Colgate visited her primary school, Mogoshi Primary, in Ga-Matlala. “They gave us pamphlets about teeth brushing guidelines, which I kept until 2021. That small pamphlet ignited my dream of becoming a dental professional, and it constantly reminded me of a future in oral hygiene,” she recalls.
Today, Rammutla works as an Oral Hygienist at Tshepang Medical Centre in Lephalale, where her duties include conducting preventative procedures, such as teeth cleaning and fluoride treatments while educating patients on maintaining good oral hygiene. “My philosophy as an oral hygienist is that every day is an opportunity to save teeth, restore smiles, and bring back confidence to people. It’s also an opportunity to educate others about the link between oral health and general well-being,” she shares.
Her path to success was not without its challenges. In 2020, she applied to SMU after hearing about the university from her peers. “When I discovered SMU had rebranded from the famous Medunsa, I knew it would be the perfect place to fulfil my dreams. I had offers from other institutions, but SMU felt like home,” she explains. The academic staff at SMU, known for their dedication to nurturing the next generation of health professionals, guided her every step of the way, ensuring that she received the education, support, and training necessary to thrive.
However, as a 16-year-old entering university, Rammutla faced challenges adjusting to campus life. “I struggled with forming friendships and fitting in. Some people even said I should go back to high school. But eventually, I adapted and was able to blend in with my classmates,” she notes. Despite these difficulties, and facing financial struggles along the way, including periods without food allowance or settled tuition fees, she remained focused on her studies and graduated with flying colours.
Rammutla’s success also highlights the pivotal role SMU plays in producing graduates who are not only technically skilled but also instilled with the values of professionalism, integrity, and discipline. “SMU taught me that there is a time for fun and a time to focus. The discipline instilled in me by the university will carry me throughout my career. I’m proud to be an SMU alumna, and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity the institution gave me,” she says.
Her journey is further supported by the strong family foundation provided by three generations of women in her life: her mother, Delia Rammutla; her grandmother, Francina Rammutla; and her great-grandmother, Masetsha Kgomo. These women have been her pillars of strength, offering her love, guidance, and encouragement throughout her academic and personal life.
As Rammutla embarks on her professional journey, she continues to inspire others with her determination, resilience, and commitment to making a difference in oral health. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the nurturing environment offered by Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, an institution committed to fostering student success and holistic development.
SMU continues to play a pivotal role in shaping future health professionals like Rammutla, reaffirming its status as a leading institution in the health sciences and a champion of student leadership, growth, and achievement.
by Lorato | Oct 21, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a significant step towards international collaboration, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has undertaken a historic visit to the United States of America, aiming to strengthen ties with institutions dedicated to advancing education and healthcare. This important initiative began in 2023 when SMU was invited by the Department of Higher Education and Training to join then Minister Dr Blade Nzimande in discussions aimed at enhancing partnerships between South Africa’s Historically Disadvantaged Institutions (HDIs) and the United States of America’s (USA) Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
The collaboration between these institutions is especially noteworthy, as HBCUs have a proven track record of educating a significant percentage of black professionals in the USA. According to recent research, HBCUs produce nearly 50% of the country’s black teachers, 70% of black doctors and dentists, and 80% of black lawyers. As an HDI, SMU is keenly focused on expanding its international footprint and exploring mutual benefits with such institutions.
Under the guidance of the Internationalisation Director, Dr Carlien Jooste, the university’s delegation, which included the Dean of the School of Health Care Sciences, Professor Douglas Maleka and Acting Dean of the School of Dentistry, Professor Dini Mawela, initiated this pivotal visit. The SMU team was warmly welcomed by Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee, a renowned institution committed to transforming healthcare and addressing global health challenges. Meharry’s President, Dr James E.K. Hildreth, emphasised the significance of this partnership, stating: “This groundbreaking alliance between two historically black institutions is a testament to our shared dedication to transforming health care and tackling global health challenges.”
During the visit, the SMU team engaged in a series of meetings and presentations at various prestigious institutions. In New York City, they participated in a hybrid seminar titled: “Bridging the Gap: Connecting Global Health and HBCUs” at the Mount Sinai Health System, which included the Icahn School of Medicine and the Arnhold Institute of Global Health. The delegation also visited the CUNY School of Public Health and Touro College of Dental Medicine, and they met with South African officials, including the Deputy Permanent Resident to the UN and the Consul-General of South Africa to the USA. In Nashville, the team continued their discussions at Meharry Medical College and Tennessee State University, another HBCU. They also collaborated with Project C.U.R.E and toured the Tennessee Capital Building, hosted by a City of Nashville Council member.
The visit culminated in the signing of an official Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between SMU and Meharry, with more agreements anticipated soon. Both institutions discussed further collaborations at the school level, ensuring a solid foundation for future initiatives. The Internationalisation Directorate encourages interested staff and students to engage with Dr Carlien Jooste for more information regarding potential collaborations and mobility opportunities with these partner institutions.
This historic visit marks a significant milestone in SMU’s journey toward global engagement and positions the university as a key player in the Internationalisation of higher education in South Africa.
