Khomotso Motiang, Lecturer in the Department of Radiography at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has been awarded the prestigious International Society of Magnetic Resonance Radiographers and Technologists (ISMRT) Future Leaders Fellowship. This fellowship, an initiative developed in collaboration with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, aims to advance MRI education in Africa and other globally underserved countries, positioning Motiang at the forefront of driving innovations in MRI education. This recognition highlights her exceptional contributions to the field and solidifies SMU’s standing as a leader in health sciences education.
The ISMRT Future Leaders Fellowship is a highly competitive global initiative that supports emerging leaders in the field of MRI. Through this Fellowship, Motiang gains access to cutting-edge MRI resources, mentorship from global experts, and an international platform to drive innovations in patient care and radiographic research. As part of the Fellowship, Motiang is working to establish the ISMRT-South African Division, which will bring together radiographers and educators from across the country to collaborate and share best practices.
“I am deeply honoured by this opportunity,” says Motiang. “The Fellowship equips me with the knowledge and resources to enhance MRI education in South Africa, where access to equipment for student training is often limited. I am committed to empowering the next generation of radiographers and ensuring they have the skills to excel, even with scarce resources.”
Motiang’s commitment to advancing education in radiography is evident not only in her personal achievements but also in the success of her students. In 2024, she supervised a team of final-year students who won the Best Undergraduate Oral Presentation at the university’s Research Days. Her efforts underscore the critical need for improved MRI training infrastructure to equip future health professionals better and enhance patient outcomes.
Joining SMU in 2022, Motiang’s passion for teaching quickly garnered recognition, earning her the 2023 Vice-Chancellor’s Teaching Excellence Award in the Emerging Category. Her academic journey includes presenting at three international conferences and fifteen national events, showcasing her expertise and dedication to professional growth. Her hard work and determination led to her winning the Best Oral Presentations in Forensic Imaging and MRI Tracks at the 2023 Society of Radiographers of South Africa Congress. This recognition opened doors for her to present in Singapore and Hong Kong in 2024, further solidifying her international standing in the field.
Motiang’s journey to global recognition is also a testament to her resilience. Despite the challenges of securing funding for professional development, she persevered, securing sponsorship through the Society of Radiographers of South Africa. Her commitment to growth continues to shape her professional trajectory and the future of radiography in South Africa.
“As we celebrate World Radiography Day on November 8th, I feel an immense sense of pride and responsibility to make a lasting impact in my field,” says Motiang. “This Fellowship is not just a personal achievement but a step toward advocating for the radiography profession and connecting with a global community of innovators.”
Her success highlights the exceptional calibre of scholars at SMU and the university’s ongoing efforts to employ top talent in critical healthcare fields. It reflects SMU’s dedication to fostering diversity and advancing excellence as its distinguished scholars continue to make local and international waves.
