The School of Oral Health Sciences at SMU celebrated the Class of 2022 who finally completed their training in the field of Dentistry, Oral Hygiene and Dental therapy on 29 June 2023. In addition, there was the unveiling of a plaque also known as the “Wall of Fame” where the names of the top achievers in the module Ethical Practice Management will be engraved.

The class of 2022 took an Oath in their respective professions pledging among other pledges to strive at all times to make a difference in the lives of the communities they will be serving.

This Oath taking ceremony was a testament to the fact that SMU continues to produce globally competitive and competent graduates in line with the institutional mission to maintain excellence in teaching, learning, innovative research, and community engagement. Twenty-nine students in total took their oath on the day, which included students who completed qualifications in Bachelor of Oral Hygiene (3), Bachelor of Dental Therapy (5), and Bachelor of Dental Surgery (21).

The top achievers in the BDS final year received awards during the ceremony. Dr Mpakeng Lebepe was awarded the best overall final year student in BDS in the module ethical practice management while Dr Lesley Molepo was awarded the best student in Community Dentistry, and the best final year student in Operative Dentistry. Dr Molepo received awards for being the top achiever in Endodontics by doing the highest number of most complex cases in endodontics reflected through clinical evaluation, showing understanding and practical implications of modern and contemporary clinical management nominated. She was nominated by her supervisors for these awards. Dr Shaazmeen Hoosen was awarded a prize for being the best 4th-year student in Dental Radiology – clinical. Dr Yumna Karodia was awarded for best all-around student – leadership, clinical, and academic in her final year. Dr Princess Mushiane was awarded for the student who showed an understanding of infection control practice and treated her patients with the utmost care, courtesy, and professionalism.

Dr Magda Verwoerd was awarded a prize for the student who demonstrated professional clinical attendance, best portfolio score, and underlying principles as reflected through clinical session evaluations during the final year. “Our Journey does not end here. This ceremony marks the beginning of a new phase in our journey of life. As we step into the world as dental professionals, let us remember the core values that brought us to this point – integrity, empathy, and excellence” proclaimed the Class Representatives.

The current Acting Dean in Oral Health Sciences, Prof Dini Mawela expressed her joy that the School had achieved this milestone as she wished the students well on their new paths in life. She also encouraged the graduates to join the SMU alumni and the Convocation.