Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) prides itself on shaping future healthcare leaders who embody excellence, compassion, and a commitment to service. Mamonaiwa Hendrica Manyama , a recent graduate of the Bachelor of Dental Therapy programme, is a prime example of these values. Raised in the village of Mohlabaneng in Limpopo, her unwavering dedication to her education and passion for dental health have earned her recognition as the Best Student in Dental Public Health and the prestigious Van Schaik Award. Her journey to academic success, marked by perseverance and a strong sense of community, underscores her bright future in the field of dentistry.
Hailing from Mohlabaneng village in Bolobedu, Limpopo, 21-year-old Manyama was raised by her maternal grandparents, who instilled in her the importance of education. “School was always a priority in my family,” she recalls. From a young age, she was fascinated by people’s teeth, a curiosity that eventually shaped her career path.
After completing her National Senior Certificate in 2021, Manyama enrolled in SMU’s Bachelor of Dental Therapy programme, a rigorous three-year journey from 2022 to 2024. “It was a beautiful yet tough experience,” she reflects. Among the many modules she encountered, Dental Public Health stood out as her favourite. “From my first year, I loved it, and seeing myself succeed in it motivated me to study even harder.” Her dedication was recognised when she was named the best student in Dental Public Health, receiving the prestigious Van Schaik Award. Winning the Best Student in Dental Public Health and receiving the Van Schaik Dental Award are remarkable accomplishments that deserve celebration, particularly at the 2024 Oath-Taking Ceremony.
Balancing schoolwork, clinical practice, and lectures was no easy feat. “The workload increases each year, making it challenging to manage everything,” she shares. However, through time management, self-discipline, and faith, she persevered. Winning the award has further strengthened her confidence and passion for the field. “It is a recognition of my hard work and the importance of the module,” she says. “It encourages me to continue my professional development and strive for excellence.”
For those considering a career in dentistry, Manyama offers words of encouragement: “Go for it. Dentistry is challenging but rewarding. Respecting patients, listening to understand, and valuing their needs are key to making a difference in this field.”
She is also passionate about giving back to her community. “I want to conduct oral health education programmes and partner with organisations that provide treatment to underserved communities,” she explains. Her inspiration stems from a dentist who once visited her secondary school to teach students about oral health. “That visit sparked my interest in dentistry,” she recalls. Today, she is particularly drawn to the rehabilitation aspect of dentistry, which restores both the form and function of patients’ smiles.
Manyama acknowledges the inequalities within South Africa’s healthcare system but remains hopeful. “There are challenges, but efforts are being made to improve healthcare services. My plan is to offer community-based dental services in collaboration with relevant organisations.”
Manyama’s remarkable achievements at SMU serve as a testament to her hard work, determination, and deep-rooted desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. As she steps into the next phase of her career, her vision is clear: to offer vital dental services and education to underserved communities, bridging gaps in healthcare access. Her story exemplifies how SMU nurtures talent and prepares students to lead with integrity, social responsibility, and a commitment to excellence in their fields.
By Dimakatso Modise
