Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has promoted Professor Dineo Tsabedze from Senior Lecturer to Associate Professor (Clinical/Diagnostic) in the Department of Nuclear Medicine, recognising her outstanding contributions to teaching, research, clinical leadership and postgraduate supervision.
The promotion reflects SMU’s commitment to recognising academic excellence that advances healthcare, research and innovation. As Academic and Clinical Head of the Department of Nuclear Medicine at SMU and Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital since July 2024, Professor Tsabedze has established herself as a leader in Nuclear Medicine, cardiovascular research and academic development.
“I am deeply honoured by this promotion,” said Professor Tsabedze. “For me, teaching has always been about empowering others to become confident, ethical healthcare professionals who can make meaningful contributions to society. This recognition strengthens my commitment to advancing Nuclear Medicine, mentoring the next generation of specialists and conducting research that improves patient care across South Africa and the African continent.”
Professor Tsabedze’s academic journey reflects a sustained commitment to excellence. She obtained her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the University of the Witwatersrand in 2023 after completing her Master of Medicine in Nuclear Medicine with distinction and earning a Fellowship of the College of Nuclear Physicians of South Africa. Her medical career began after graduating with an MBChB from the University of Cape Town in 2008.
Her promotion follows a distinguished academic and clinical career spanning more than a decade. Alongside her responsibilities as Academic and Clinical Head of Department, she leads teaching and learning, supervises master’s and doctoral candidates, and provides specialist nuclear medicine services, while contributing to strategic leadership at school and university levels.
Professor Tsabedze has built an internationally recognised research profile focused on cardiovascular medicine, nuclear cardiology and the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve clinical decision-making. With an h-index of nine and approximately 390 citations, she has authored more than 30 peer-reviewed publications in leading international journals, covering cardiac imaging, heart failure, oncology, and precision medicine.
“My research is driven by a simple objective: to generate evidence that improves patient outcomes while ensuring African perspectives contribute meaningfully to global scientific knowledge,” she said. “I believe research and teaching are inseparable because every discovery strengthens how we educate future clinicians.”
Her scholarly achievements extend beyond publications. She has secured competitive research funding, including the prestigious Professor Bongani Mayosi Netcare Clinician Scientist Award, the Discovery Academic Fellowship Award, and the Wits University Chancellor’s Female Academic Leaders Fellowship Grant. She also collaborates with researchers across Africa, Europe and the United States on projects exploring digital health, cardiovascular disease and healthcare analytics.
Professor Tsabedze has supervised and co-supervised numerous master’s students to successful completion while mentoring emerging researchers across several health disciplines. Her educational philosophy emphasises student-centred learning, clinical relevance, ethical practice, and mentorship that develop independent scholars capable of improving healthcare delivery.
In addition to her academic responsibilities, she serves on the SMU Senate, the School of Medicine Board and several professional bodies. She was also a top 10 finalist in Mrs South Africa, using this prestigious platform to amplify her advocacy for health and wellness. Her leadership also extends to community engagement through health awareness campaigns, public education initiatives and advocacy promoting cardiovascular health and cancer awareness.
“This promotion recognises not only academic achievement but also a commitment to excellence in clinical service, innovation and leadership,” Professor Tsabedze said. “I look forward to working with colleagues and students to strengthen Nuclear Medicine education and research while expanding SMU’s contribution to healthcare innovation.”
The promotion reinforces SMU’s vision of transforming health services through excellence and innovation by recognising academics whose teaching, research and clinical leadership develop skilled healthcare professionals and advance knowledge that benefits communities locally, nationally and internationally.
By Tumelo Moila
