by Lorato | Jun 3, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to assert its growing global footprint, as MBChB IV student Freddy Kunene returns from a transformative international experience at the Asia World Model United Nations (AWMUN), held in Seoul, South Korea. His participation marks a significant milestone not only in his personal academic journey but also in SMU’s broader mission to produce globally engaged health sciences graduates capable of shaping international dialogue.
Kunene was selected through a competitive process that considered both academic excellence and leadership capacity, making him one of only two South Africans in the programme and the sole representative from SMU. Supported by the School of Medicine, the Student Affairs Directorate, and the Internationalisation Directorate, his selection reflects SMU’s commitment to expanding access to high-impact global learning opportunities.
Organised by the International Global Network (IGN), AWMUN brings together young leaders aged 15 to 25 from across the world to simulate United Nations councils and debate urgent global challenges such as disease outbreaks, climate change, and international development. The programme is designed to strengthen diplomacy, public speaking, negotiation, and cross-cultural collaboration skills in future global leaders.
Reflecting on the experience, Kunene described it as a defining moment in his academic and personal development.
“AWMUN is a global programme that brings together student leaders from across the world to engage in dialogue on pressing global issues, including disease outbreaks, climate change, and other challenges affecting humanity. I was fortunate to be selected to participate in this programme, an opportunity made possible through the support of the Office of the School of Medicine Deanery under the leadership of Prof Chauke, the Office of Student Affairs under Mr Nkuntse, and the Office of Internationalisation under Dr Jooste,” he said.
At just 20 years old, Kunene experienced international travel for the first time, navigating unfamiliar environments while representing both South Africa and SMU on a global stage. The experience, he said, pushed him far beyond his comfort zone and reshaped his confidence.
“This experience was truly life-changing. It pushed me far beyond my comfort zone — navigating new languages, unfamiliar food, and an entirely different environment. Even the memory of my first flight still stands out as a moment of both excitement and disbelief. Through it all, I learned, adapted, and grew,” he added.
Beyond formal debates, Kunene highlighted the value of building international networks with fellow delegates, noting that these connections will continue to influence his academic and leadership journey.
One of the most memorable highlights came during the closing gala dinner, where he received recognition for best dressed after proudly wearing IsiXhosa traditional attire. The choice, he said, was intentional and deeply symbolic.
“For the event, I carefully selected IsiXhosa traditional attire after reflecting on South Africa’s rich cultural diversity and asking myself which outfit would stand out while honouring my identity. Wearing it made me feel confident and deeply connected to my roots,” he explained.
He added that the moment carried broader significance. “Standing on that stage meant more than recognition — it symbolised a dream realised. It felt like I was carrying the hopes of my ancestors, proving that our voices belong in global spaces too.”
Kunene’s achievement reinforces SMU’s vision of transforming health services through excellence and innovation, while strengthening its institutional values of leadership, excellence, and ubuntu. His journey demonstrates how SMU continues to empower students to transcend local boundaries and engage meaningfully in global academic and professional spaces.
As SMU advances its mission of producing socially responsive and globally competitive health professionals, stories such as Kunene’s affirm that its students are not only participants in global conversations — they are active contributors shaping them.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jun 3, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is celebrating a significant achievement following the appointment of its Department of Intensive Care secretary and SMU women’s football team coach, Dorah Thorisa Mashigo, as Head Coach of Team SA Women’s Football for the upcoming Confederation of Universities and Colleges Sports Association (CUCSA) Games.
The tournament will take place in Gaborone, Botswana, from 28 June to 6 July 2026 and will be hosted by the Botswana Tertiary Student Sport Association (BOTESSA). The regional competition will bring together tertiary student-athletes from across Southern Africa.
Affectionately known as Coach Dee, Mashigo’s appointment marks a proud moment for both the university and South African university sport. It reflects SMU’s commitment to developing excellence in leadership, sport and student development. Her selection to lead the national women’s university football team highlights the growing influence of SMU in nurturing talented professionals who excel both on and off the field.
For Mashigo, the appointment was met with a mixture of excitement and responsibility. “At first, I felt scared because coaching a national team is very different from coaching a club or university team. You work with players from different backgrounds, and expectations are much higher,” she said. “At the same time, I felt very honoured and grateful to be trusted with this role. It is a big step in my coaching journey, and I do not take it lightly.”
Born and raised in Ga-Rankuwa, Mashigo’s football journey began on the dusty fields of her community. What started as a childhood passion evolved into a lifelong commitment to the sport. She recalls beginning not as a coach, but as a young football enthusiast determined to pursue her dreams despite limited resources. “I didn’t start as a coach. I started as a young girl with a dream, worn-out boots and a deep love for football,” she reflected.
Football became a powerful teacher, instilling discipline, resilience, teamwork and perseverance. Her coaching career began while she was playing for Juventus FC, where she assisted with training sessions under Coach Fana Makhudu. Those early experiences ignited a passion for coaching that would ultimately shape her future.
Over the years, Mashigo has built an impressive coaching portfolio. She guided the SMU men’s staff football team to success at the South African University Sports Association (SAUSSA) Games, obtained both CAF D and CAF C Coaching Licences, and led Titans FC Women’s Team to promotion to the SAFA Tshwane Women’s Regional League. She currently serves as Head Coach of the SMU Ladies Football Team while also fulfilling administrative responsibilities within the university.
Reflecting on her journey, Mashigo credited SMU for supporting her development as both a coach and a leader. “My experience at SMU has played a significant role in my growth as a coach and leader. Working with student-athletes from diverse backgrounds has strengthened my leadership, communication and athlete development skills,” she said.
As she prepares for the CUCSA Games, Mashigo remains focused on building a united and competitive team capable of representing South Africa with distinction. “I hope this appointment not only contributes to my own growth but also inspires other women who aspire to pursue leadership roles within football,” she said.
Her appointment embodies SMU’s values of excellence, leadership and empowerment. As Team SA prepares for Botswana, the university proudly celebrates one of its own whose journey demonstrates how talent, perseverance and opportunity can produce leaders capable of making an impact on the international stage.
By Rose Moreki
by Lorato | May 28, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has strengthened its position as a continental leader in health sciences education following a landmark clinical benchmarking session with Botswana’s private institution, Boitekanelo College.
Hosted at SMU and led by acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Dini Mawela, the engagement operationalised the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between SMU and Boitekanelo College in September 2025. The visit marked a major step towards expanding African-led healthcare education partnerships across the SADC region.
Leading the Botswana delegation was Dr Tiro Mampane, SMU alumnus and founder and president of Boitekanelo College, who graduated from the university’s School of Medicine in 2003. Returning to his alma mater more than two decades later, Dr Mampane arrived with an ambitious vision to establish a school of dentistry in Botswana inspired by the SMU model.
“Of course, the journey has been very difficult but fulfilling because obviously I’m very passionate about it. It’s really close to my heart,” said Dr Mampane. “When I was here, I didn’t just learn medicine. I also saw what was going on in SMU. And basically, I want to replicate SMU in Botswana.”
Dr Mampane emphasised that health sciences programmes remain critical in addressing unemployment and strengthening healthcare delivery across the region. “Health programmes… the advantage about them is that currently, the sought-after employment rate with them is very high compared to other programmes,” he said.
The visit was coordinated through SMU’s Internationalisation Directorate under the leadership of Dr Carlien Jooste, who highlighted the university’s commitment to active and mutually beneficial African partnerships.
“My department advocates for partnerships that are mutually beneficial and active, which means that we do not enter into partnerships without evidence of collaboration already taking place,” Dr Jooste explained.
She added that the benchmarking visit followed extensive engagements in Gaborone earlier this year, where SMU academics and leadership interacted with Boitekanelo College and other institutions in Botswana. Those discussions showcased the strength of SMU’s dentistry programmes and inspired the current collaboration.
Importantly, Dr Jooste described the partnership as part of a wider shift toward African-centred academic development. “For years, universities in the Global South were dictated to by the Global North on how to internationalise,” she said. “Partnerships with SADC and other African countries now allow us to develop mutually beneficial partnerships on our terms.”
Boitekanelo College plans to implement the project through a phased academic rollout beginning with Oral Hygiene, progressing to Dental Therapy, and eventually introducing a full Dentistry degree programme. Dr Jooste stressed that benchmarking should promote adaptation rather than duplication.
“Benchmarking is not a copy-and-paste exercise,” she noted. “It is a learning exercise that allows you to take and implement what works for your programme and institution.”
The partnership framework also includes student clinical rotations, staff exchanges, collaborative teaching opportunities, and joint research initiatives aimed at strengthening healthcare systems across borders.
Following tours of the SMU Dental Hospital, the Botswana delegation acknowledged the scale of investment required to establish a world-class dental programme. However, the engagement reinforced confidence in the partnership’s long-term impact.
As discussions expanded into future regional community dentistry projects and collaborative healthcare initiatives, the benchmarking session reaffirmed SMU’s growing reputation as a premier African institution advancing excellence, innovation, and transformation in health sciences education.
By Rose Moreki
by Lorato | May 28, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
From a small village situated 10 kilometres west of Makhado, formerly known as Louis Trichardt, in Limpopo, to the forefront of organised medicine in South Africa, Dr Tshilidzi Sadiki continues to embody the values of excellence, leadership, and service that define Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU).
The accomplished neurosurgeon, academic, and healthcare advocate has recently been elected President of the South African Medical Association Trade Union (SAMATU), marking another significant milestone in a career dedicated to advancing healthcare delivery and advocating for medical professionals across the country.
Dr Sadiki completed his MBChB at SMU, then known as Medunsa, where his passion for medicine and leadership first began to flourish. Over the years, he has built an impressive career in neurosurgery, becoming widely respected for his expertise in complex cranial and spinal procedures, as well as his compassionate and patient-centred approach to care.
Currently serving as a Specialist Neurosurgeon, Acting Head of Clinical Unit for Neuro-Oncology at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital (DGMAH), and lecturer in the Department of Neurological Surgery at SMU, Dr Sadiki has consistently balanced clinical excellence with academic leadership and healthcare advocacy.
His professional journey reflects a longstanding commitment to academic achievement and public service. During his student years, he served as Deputy Secretary of the Student Representative Council in 2009/2010 and was selected as part of the prestigious Abe Bailey Scholars Programme in 2008. These early leadership roles laid the foundation for his continued influence within the healthcare sector.
Dr Sadiki’s academic credentials include a Fellowship in Neurosurgery from the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa and a Master of Medicine in Neurosurgery from SMU. He also serves as an examiner for the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa and has participated in numerous international endoscopic skull base surgery courses. In 2025, he was selected for the prestigious WFNS-AESCULAP Adult Neurosurgery Fellowship in Germany at Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, further cementing his standing as one of South Africa’s highly trained neurosurgical specialists.
Despite opportunities beyond the public healthcare system, Dr Sadiki has remained committed to serving economically marginalised communities through the public sector. At a time when South Africa’s healthcare system continues to face immense pressures, his dedication to providing specialised neurosurgical services at DGMAH reflects a deep commitment to equitable healthcare access.
His election as SAMATU President follows four years of service as the union’s second Deputy President from September 2022 to May 2026. Established in 1996 in accordance with the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995, SAMATU represents more than 8 000 medical practitioners across South Africa and advocates for the rights, empowerment, and professional interests of doctors.
Over recent years, the union has emerged as a key stakeholder in healthcare policy discussions, engaging extensively with the National Department of Health on critical reforms affecting healthcare practitioners and service delivery nationwide.
Dr Sadiki succeeds fellow SMU alumnus Dr Langanani Mbodi, continuing a growing legacy of SMU-trained healthcare professionals assuming influential leadership positions within national healthcare organisations.
Reacting to his election, Dr Sadiki described the appointment as both an honour and a significant responsibility. “It is a profound honour to serve as President of SAMATU. I accept this responsibility with humility and a firm commitment to advancing the interests of healthcare practitioners while strengthening healthcare delivery for all South Africans,” he said.
“Our healthcare professionals continue to face immense pressures within the public and private sectors. SAMATU must remain a united and credible voice that advocates for fair working conditions, professional development, and healthcare systems that allow doctors to deliver the highest standard of patient care.”
Beyond clinical practice and union leadership, Dr Sadiki has also contributed extensively to neurosurgical research and postgraduate supervision, with scholarly publications focusing on neurosurgical conditions and patient outcomes in South Africa.
Reflecting on the role played by SMU in shaping his leadership journey, he acknowledged the institution’s enduring influence on his professional and personal development. “SMU laid the foundation for my professional and personal growth. The university instilled values of excellence, accountability, integrity, and service to humanity. I remain proud to be part of an institution that continues to produce healthcare professionals who lead with competence and compassion,” he said.
Dr Sadiki’s election further strengthens SMU’s reputation as a leading producer of healthcare leaders committed to transforming health services through excellence, innovation, ethical leadership, and community-centred care. Through its continued investment in specialist training, teaching and learning, innovative research, and public healthcare advancement, SMU continues to shape healthcare systems and improve lives in South Africa and beyond.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | May 27, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) came alive with colour, music, and cultural pride as students, staff, alumni, diplomats, and international guests gathered to commemorate Africa Day under the theme, “Celebrating Africa’s Resilience and Innovation.”
SMU strengthens global ties on Africa Day
The day-long celebration transformed the campus into a vibrant showcase of African unity, academic collaboration, and cultural exchange, reinforcing SMU’s vision of developing globally connected healthcare professionals grounded in African excellence and innovation.
Proceedings began at the University Library with a live countdown marking the official opening of SMU’s new International Information Corner — a strategic hub designed by the Internationalisation Directorate and Library and Information Services to connect students and researchers with global academic resources while strengthening international partnerships.
The launch attracted several distinguished diplomats and representatives, including Hassene Hellal, Deputy Ambassador Algerian Embassy; Dr Ming Guo, Second Secretary Chinese Embassy; Dr Jingquan Chen, Minister Counsellor Chinese Embassy; Lucy Musau, Education Attache Kenyan High Commission; Aurélien Leynet, Science and Technology Attache French Embassy; and Dr Francis Chishala, Firs Secretary Education Zambian High Commission. Delegates expressed appreciation at seeing their national flags proudly displayed within the new space, symbolising SMU’s growing international footprint and commitment to fostering global academic relationships.
Dr Rirhanzu Mhinga, Director of Library and Information Services, described the launch as a defining milestone for the university. “The launch of the International Information Corner on Africa Day is deeply symbolic,” said Dr Mhinga. “We are creating a dedicated hub that empowers our researchers, staff, and students with seamless access to global insights, ensuring that our local academic community is equipped to address global health and societal challenges.”
Celebrations later moved to the campus amphitheatre, where SMU alumnus and founder of Boitekanelo College, Dr Tiro Mampane, delivered a keynote public lecture titled, “Time to Be BOLD.” Reflecting on his years as a student at SMU, Dr Mampane shared fond memories of campus life while encouraging students to pursue their ambitions fearlessly.
“Staying at Residence 4B remains a long-lasting memory for me,” he said warmly before challenging students to embrace resilience and leadership. “Students should take the big bet and be bold, and today, start where you are with what you have, and be resilient in pursuit of your dreams. Let us be the generation that finally unlocks everything Africa’s always meant to be.”
SMU’s Internationalisation Directorate also invited Boitekanelo College’s Traditional Dance Group to perform at the Africa Day Celebrations. Their energetic Setswana performances electrified the amphitheatre and highlighted the spirit of continental unity and cultural pride.
Delivering her remarks, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic and Research, Prof Dini Mawela, emphasised the importance of positioning African scholarship within the global academic landscape. “To bring the global to the local means to elevate our African narratives and research findings to the international stage while drawing international knowledge to improve our communities,” said Prof Mawela.
Vice-Dean of the School of Science and Technology, Prof Stanley Gololo, praised the university for investing in initiatives that strengthen academic excellence and international collaboration, while also encouraging students to reflect on broader societal challenges facing the continent.
The celebrations continued with a spirited campus march led by the SMU drummies and cheerleaders from the main gate to the student cafeteria, symbolising 63 years of African liberation and leadership. At the student cafeteria, the campus was transformed into a bustling cultural marketplace where food vendors served traditional dishes from across the continent, creating a shared experience through cuisine, music, and conversation.
One of the most anticipated highlights was the inter-residence cultural showcase. According to Dr Carlien Jooste, Director of Internationalisation at SMU, residences randomly selected African countries and spent weeks researching their assigned nation’s traditions, attire, music, and cultural identity. Some residences were also hosted by the specific country’s High Commission in Pretoria and could thus give a more authentic representation of the culture. “At SMU, our Africa Day Celebrations not only celebrate who we are, but also offer our local students the opportunity to learn about another African Culture,” said Dr Jooste.
The showcase featured performances by celebrated artist Shandesh and SMU performer Nzuzo, whose heartfelt tribute to Nelson Mandela moved many in attendance.
After a closely contested inter-residence competition, Arebeng 2 Residence, representing Zambia, claimed first place with a synchronised dance and theatrical performance that captivated the audience. Accepting the trophy on behalf of the residence, first-year medical student Lindokuhle Sambo said the experience had broadened their understanding of the continent. “Before Africa Day, I knew very little about Zambia,” she said.
“The research process and support we received from the High Commission of Zambia helped us understand the culture deeply, and it made us proud to represent the country in such a meaningful way. “Second place was awarded to 1B Residence, while Third place went to Madeira Residence.
The celebration reflected SMU’s commitment to academic excellence, Ubuntu, cultural pride, and global engagement. Through initiatives promoting international understanding, collaboration and student-centred learning, the university continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading African institution in health sciences, shaping future healthcare leaders for the continent and beyond.
By Rose Moreki
by Lorato | May 27, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
A groundbreaking cancer research study by Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University academic Dr Mmei Cheryl Motshudi is positioning African medicinal plant research at the forefront of innovative cancer treatment discovery, following her graduation with a PhD in Botany during the university’s recent autumn graduation ceremony.
Dr Motshudi, a lecturer in the Department of Biology and Environmental Sciences, completed her doctoral research titled Integration of multi-omics approaches with in silico analysis for novel therapeutic target discovery: Focus on neuroblastomas as a model. Her study explored new therapeutic strategies for neuroblastoma, an aggressive paediatric cancer that remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among children worldwide.
Conducted through collaborative partnerships with institutions including Rhodes University, Inqaba Biotechnologies and Universitas Tadulako, the research combined transcriptomics, plant metabolomics, computational modelling, and laboratory validation to identify plant-derived compounds with anti-neuroblastoma potential.
The study focused on medicinal plants such as Acorus calamus and Lippia javanica, both recognised for their traditional medicinal value. Dr Motshudi’s findings revealed promising therapeutic compounds capable of targeting stress-adaptive signalling and redox metabolism pathways linked to tumour survival and treatment resistance.
Among the compounds identified, Amino(1H-indol-2-yl) acetic acid emerged as the strongest lead candidate due to its significant anti-neuroblastoma activity and stable molecular interactions with key therapeutic targets.
Reflecting on the achievement, Dr Motshudi said the completion of her doctorate represented years of dedication and a commitment to advancing scientific innovation rooted in African biodiversity.
“This research demonstrates the potential of integrating advanced multi-omics technologies with indigenous medicinal plant knowledge to address critical global health challenges,” she said.
“I remain passionate about contributing towards translational cancer research that can ultimately improve treatment outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income settings where survival rates remain poor.”
She added that the multidisciplinary nature of the study strengthened both her scientific expertise and leadership capabilities.
“The study allowed me to collaborate with leading academic and research institutions locally and internationally. It reinforced the importance of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence in addressing complex diseases such as neuroblastoma,” said Dr Motshudi.
Her doctoral study received funding support from the National Research Foundation through the DSI-NRF Full Cost of Study funding programme, as well as the prestigious Sibusiso Bengu Development Grant.
Beyond her research achievements, Dr Motshudi has spent nearly five years lecturing within the Bachelor of Science Extended Curriculum Programme at SMU, where she teaches Biology and mentors students enrolled in the MBIB000: Introduction to Life Science Studies module. Her responsibilities include curriculum support, practical supervision, academic administration, and student consultations aimed at strengthening scientific learning and academic success.
She has also contributed extensively to community engagement and science outreach initiatives, including environmental awareness programmes, science demonstrations for school learners, and postgraduate student mentorship.
Dr Motshudi has authored and co-authored several peer-reviewed scientific publications spanning metabolomics, medicinal plants, virology, environmental biology, and cancer research, further establishing her growing contribution to biological and biomedical sciences.
Her achievement reflects SMU’s continued commitment to research excellence, innovation, and the advancement of health and scientific knowledge. Through pioneering scientific discovery, academic development, and transformative health sciences education, the university continues to strengthen its position as a leading institution dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes and advancing impactful research for communities in South Africa and beyond.
By Tumelo Moila
