by Lorato | May 20, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has conferred qualifications on a record 1 525 graduates during its 2026 Autumn Graduation Ceremonies, marking the highest number of graduates in the institution’s autumn graduation cycle and reinforcing its growing role in strengthening South Africa’s health sciences sector.
Held over three days at the university’s sports complex, the ceremonies celebrated academic achievement across all five schools of the institution, including the School of Dentistry, School of Health Care Sciences, School of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, and School of Science and Technology. The milestone reflects SMU’s continued commitment to producing healthcare professionals, scientists, researchers and innovators equipped to contribute meaningfully to national development and the advancement of the African continent.
Of the 1 525 graduates, 1 033 (67.7%) received undergraduate qualifications, while 492 (32.3%) graduated with postgraduate qualifications. The postgraduate cohort included 122 Postgraduate Diploma recipients, 188 Honours graduates, 168 Master’s graduates and fourteen doctoral candidates who were awarded Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees.
A deeply emotional moment during the ceremonies was the posthumous conferment of a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing to the late Moroti Elizabeth Mahlangu. The qualification was accepted on her behalf by her daughter, SMU alumna Dr Busi Msikinya, née Mahlangu.
“Receiving this degree on behalf of my mother is both heartbreaking and inspiring,” said Dr Msikinya. “She dedicated her life to nursing, education and uplifting communities through healthcare. This achievement is a reminder that perseverance, sacrifice and purpose can leave a lasting legacy for future generations.”
The graduating class also reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to transformation and widening access to higher education. African graduates constituted 1 444 graduates, representing 94.6% of the cohort, while the class included ten Coloured graduates, 24 Indian graduates and 47 White graduates. Women continued to dominate the graduating cohort, with 1 052 graduates, accounting for 69% of all graduates.
A standout feature of the 2026 Autumn Graduation Ceremonies was the success of SMU’s Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP), which supports students from diverse educational backgrounds in accessing and succeeding in higher education. This year, 153 undergraduate students who entered the University through the programme graduated, highlighting the impact of SMU’s academic support and student development initiatives.
Benedict Masenamela, Senior Officer: Alumni Coordination at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, said the graduation ceremonies reflected the University’s growing impact in transforming lives and strengthening the country’s healthcare and science & technology workforce.
“Every graduate represents a story of resilience, determination and hope. As SMU, we take pride in producing professionals who are not only academically equipped, but who also embody compassion, leadership and a commitment to serving communities across South Africa and the continent,” Masenamela said.
The ceremonies also celebrated academic excellence, with 64 graduates receiving summa cum laude distinctions in recognition of exceptional academic performance. Among them was Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery graduate Trevor Mashabela, who also received the School of Medicine Dean’s Award.
“This achievement represents years of discipline, sacrifice and support from my family, lecturers and peers,” said Mashabela. “SMU gave me the opportunity to grow academically and personally, and I am proud to join a generation of healthcare professionals committed to serving communities with excellence and compassion.”
According to the graduation statistics, the School of Medicine produced the highest number of graduates at 497, followed by the School of Health Care Sciences with 383 graduates and the School of Science and Technology with 366 graduates. The School of Dentistry produced 144 graduates, while the School of Pharmacy conferred qualifications on 135 graduates.
The record-breaking graduation ceremonies reaffirm SMU’s position as a leading institution in health sciences education, research, innovation and community engagement. Through the graduation of professionals across healthcare, science and technology disciplines, the university continues to strengthen South Africa’s healthcare system while advancing socio-economic development and transformation.
SMU congratulated all graduands and their families on this milestone achievement and wished them success as they embark on the next chapter of their academic and professional journeys.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | May 20, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) alumna Dr Jennifer Njenga has been recognised internationally for her leadership in primary healthcare innovation and health systems transformation across four continents, reinforcing the university’s legacy of producing globally impactful health professionals.
Dr Njenga, who graduated with an MBChB from MEDUNSA, now Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University in 2002, before obtaining an MPH from the University of Auckland, a DrPH from Flinders University and a Certificate in Global Healthcare Leaders programme from Harvard Medical School, has built a 24-year career spanning Uganda, South Africa, Namibia, New Zealand, Australia, USA and Canada. Her work has consistently focused on strengthening primary healthcare systems, advancing maternal and child health, and improving equity in underserved communities.
Her previous appointment as Co-Chair of the International Expert Panel for Modernising Alberta’s Primary Care System marked a significant milestone in her career. The panel, convened by Alberta’s Ministry of Health, was tasked with developing strategic recommendations to improve access, integration, and sustainability within primary care.
Speaking on her approach to health systems transformation, Dr Njenga said: “Primary healthcare is the foundation of equitable societies. When we invest in integrated, community-centred systems, we are not only treating illness—we are building resilience for generations.”
She added that her work is driven by a commitment to vulnerable populations. “Whether in rural Uganda, rural Canada, or Indigenous migrant communities in New Zealand, the principles remain the same: dignity, access, and continuity of care must guide every health system decision.”
Dr Njenga is the Founder and CEO of Engage Global Health Ltd and BriJen, through which she leads global digital health equity initiatives, interdisciplinary collaboration, and leadership development programmes. Her work includes strategic partnerships with governments, academic institutions, and community organisations aimed at strengthening health systems and workforce capacity.
Senior Officer: Alumni Coordination at SMU, Benedict Masenamela, praised her achievements, stating: “Dr Njenga exemplifies the university’s vision of transforming health services through excellence and innovation. Her global leadership reflects the calibre of SMU alumni and their ability to influence health policy and practice internationally.”
In previous roles, she served as Manager of Clinical Services at Edmonton West Primary Care Network, Clinical Lead for eReferrals at Alberta Health Services, and Family Physician Liaison for Women and Children’s Health in New Zealand. She also served as the Physician Representative for Refugee Health within Alberta Health Services and was a member of the Alberta Coalition for Refugee Health. She remains actively involved in refugee and Indigenous health initiatives and continues to provide leadership through advisory and governance roles on several health boards, including HIV Edmonton, where she currently serves as Board Chair, and the Canadian Public Health Association, where she is a current Board Director.
Her contributions have earned her several accolades, including the Rosalind Smith Professional Award and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022.
Beyond clinical leadership, Dr Njenga is also a published author and researcher, with work focusing on maternal obesity and healthcare policy. Her leadership continues to influence global conversations on health equity, systems redesign, and community-centred care.
Reflecting on her journey, she said: “My training at SMU laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to service. I remain deeply connected to the values of equity, respect, and Ubuntu that shaped my early professional identity.”
SMU continues to celebrate its alumni who are shaping global health systems, with Dr Njenga standing as a testament to the university’s enduring impact on healthcare leadership and innovation worldwide.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | May 18, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has celebrated an extraordinary international achievement by Master of Pharmacy candidate Mahlorhi Baloyi, who has been ranked among the Top 5 globally for contribution and impact within the prestigious South American Business Forum (SABF) Community.
The recognition places Baloyi among a select group of influential young leaders shaping international conversations on leadership, healthcare, innovation, sustainable development, entrepreneurship, diplomacy, and social justice. Hosted annually in Buenos Aires, Argentina, SABF is regarded as one of the world’s most competitive youth leadership platforms, attracting thousands of applications from exceptional students, academics, innovators, policymakers, and entrepreneurs across the globe.
Selection into the SABF network is based on academic excellence, leadership ability, social impact, innovation, critical thinking, and commitment to sustainable change. Baloyi’s ranking among the Top 5 globally reflects not only his academic strength but also his growing influence within international leadership and policy spaces.
Throughout his engagement with SABF, Baloyi has actively participated in high-level discussions, policy engagements, collaborative initiatives, and strategic debates focused on addressing global challenges. His contribution has enabled him to establish meaningful relationships with international policymakers, healthcare advocates, entrepreneurs, and young leaders from different regions of the world.
Baloyi said the recognition represented far more than personal success. “Being recognised among the Top 5 globally within the SABF Community is an incredible honour. These experiences continue to remind me of the importance of collaboration, leadership, and using our voices to contribute towards meaningful global conversations,” he said.
“I hope this inspires students to believe in the value of their ideas, their potential, and their ability to make an impact beyond borders.”
Beyond his international engagements, Baloyi is currently working towards establishing a global organisation aimed at advancing transformative and innovative healthcare solutions. The initiative seeks to strengthen healthcare accessibility, equity, sustainability, leadership, and health advocacy through international collaboration and systems-focused innovation.
His work aligns closely with SMU’s vision of transforming health services through excellence and innovation while reinforcing the university’s growing reputation as a producer of globally competitive graduates committed to meaningful societal impact.
What distinguishes Baloyi’s journey is his continued commitment to uplifting others despite his rising international profile. Within the university community, he remains involved in mentorship programmes, motivational initiatives, peer coaching, leadership development activities, and student support programmes designed to encourage young people to pursue excellence and global engagement.
SMU said Baloyi’s achievement reflects the institution’s commitment to producing graduates who combine academic excellence with leadership, integrity, innovation, and social responsibility.
The university added that his success demonstrates how South African students can compete successfully within highly competitive international platforms while remaining committed to service, collaboration, and community impact.
Baloyi’s achievement continues to strengthen SMU’s international profile and reinforces the university’s position as a distinctive health sciences institution developing future leaders capable of shaping healthcare, policy, and innovation on a global scale.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | May 14, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Nomusa Sikhakhane, a PhD candidate at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), is placing South African cancer research on the global stage after receiving the prestigious American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Amgen Global Scholars-in-Training Award (GSITA). The honour recognises emerging leaders in oncology and supports early-career researchers across Africa through international collaboration and capacity development.
Sikhakhane was one of only five researchers selected globally for the 2026 GSITA cohort, and the sole recipient from South Africa. The award enabled her to present her research at the AACR Annual Meeting in San Diego, United States, a major international gathering that attracts approximately 22,000 cancer researchers each year. Reflecting on the experience, she said, “Presenting my work on such a global platform was both humbling and empowering. It affirmed the importance of research rooted in our local context but contributing to global scientific advancement.”
Her research focuses on ex vivo drug sensitivity testing in primary cells derived from South African gynaecological cancer patients. This work contributes to precision oncology by identifying treatments that are more effective for specific patient populations. “Our goal is to move towards more personalised cancer treatment strategies that reflect the biological diversity of our population,” she explained. “Too often, African patients are underrepresented in global datasets, which limits the relevance of treatment approaches.”
As part of the GSITA programme, Sikhakhane participated in a scholar visit to the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Centre, where she engaged with leading researchers and explored how scientific discoveries are translated into patient care. She also visited Amgen in Thousand Oaks, gaining insight into the full drug development pipeline. “Seeing the journey from discovery to manufacturing gave me a deeper appreciation of how multidisciplinary collaboration drives innovation in healthcare,” she noted.
Beyond the immediate experience, the GSITA programme offers continued engagement, including participation in the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer International Conference in 2027. This ongoing support aims to strengthen leadership development and foster regional collaboration among African researchers. Sikhakhane emphasised the importance of such initiatives, stating, “Sustained investment in African researchers is critical if we are to address the continent’s unique cancer burden effectively.”
In addition to her doctoral studies, Sikhakhane serves as a laboratory technician and part-time lecturer at SMU, where she teaches across multiple pharmaceutical science disciplines and supervises student research. Her academic journey includes qualifications in biotechnology from the Vaal University of Technology, reflecting a strong foundation in both research and applied science.
She also highlighted the broader significance of global engagement for local researchers. “I strongly encourage emerging scientists to affiliate with international organisations such as the AACR,” she said. “These platforms not only expand collaboration opportunities but also amplify the visibility of African research.”
Sikhakhane’s achievement underscores SMU’s growing role in advancing impactful, globally relevant health research. Through its commitment to excellence in teaching, learning, and innovation, the university continues to develop scientists who are not only contributing to knowledge production but also shaping the future of healthcare in South Africa and beyond.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Apr 15, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University has strengthened its position as a leader in health sciences research after securing a Tier 1 Research Chair under the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI), led by Professor Mathildah Mpata Mokgatle.
The National Research Foundation (NRF) confirmed the award following a rigorous two-phase peer review process, commending both Professor Mokgatle and the institution for successfully addressing the panel’s recommendations. The Chair, focused on sexual and reproductive health through technology-driven solutions and social epidemiology, has now been approved for full Tier 1 funding.
Professor Mokgatle, who serves as Vice-Dean: Research in the School of Health Care Sciences and Head of the Department of Public Health, welcomed the outcome as a significant milestone. “This recognition affirms the strength of our research vision and the collective commitment of the university to addressing critical public health challenges,” she said. “It reflects the importance of evidence-driven, socially responsive research that improves lives.”
The NRF highlighted that the application underwent extensive scrutiny by an independent panel of experts across relevant disciplines. Initially recommended for conditional funding, the proposal was strengthened through revisions aligned with panel feedback, ultimately securing full approval. In its communication, the NRF congratulated SMU and expressed confidence in the institution’s ability to ensure the Chair’s long-term success and sustainability.
At the centre of the Chair is a bold research agenda that integrates digital innovation with public health priorities. “Our work focuses on leveraging technology to improve sexual and reproductive health outcomes, while addressing infectious disease prevention through a social epidemiology lens,” Professor Mokgatle explained. “We are particularly interested in digital equity, ensuring that innovations reach populations across different settings and contexts.”
A key component of this vision is Project STRIDES@SMU, a national and regional hub designed to deliver scalable, implementation-ready solutions in sexual and reproductive health and HIV/STI prevention. “Project STRIDES brings together rigorous evidence, co-creation and advanced digital tools to produce interventions that are not only innovative, but practical and policy-relevant,” she said.
Beyond research, Professor Mokgatle plays a critical leadership role within the university. As Vice-Dean: Research, she is responsible for revitalising research activities, strengthening performance systems and mentoring academic staff. “I work closely with teams across the full research pipeline — from ethics approval and fieldwork to analysis and publication,” she noted. “Building capacity is central to what we do, and mentorship is key to sustaining research excellence.”
Her work also extends into community-based research as Co-Director of the Bafokeng Health and Demographic Surveillance Node in the North West Province. The project examines the impact of mining and migration on health and socio-economic outcomes in peri-mining communities. “Understanding these dynamics allows us to design interventions that are grounded in lived realities,” she said.
For Professor Mokgatle, the SARChI Chair represents more than an academic achievement. “This is about creating platforms for collaboration, training the next generation of researchers, and delivering solutions that make a tangible difference,” she said. “We are building systems that will outlast funding cycles and continue to serve communities.”
The award underscores SMU’s commitment to advancing research excellence, innovation and transformation in health sciences. By securing this prestigious Chair, the university continues to position itself at the forefront of impactful research that addresses South Africa’s most pressing health challenges while contributing to global scientific knowledge.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Apr 15, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has once again demonstrated its leadership in scientific innovation, with Professor Nqobile Mkolo Monate receiving the prestigious Bronze Scientific Achievement Award at the recently held 2025 Scientific Merit Awards hosted by the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC).
Prof Mkolo, an Associate Professor in SMU’s Department of Biology and Environmental Sciences, was recognised for her groundbreaking work in biomedical and omics-driven research, and for her substantial impact on health systems strengthening and innovation across South Africa.
In a formal statement, SAMRC President and CEO Prof Ntobeko Ntusi hailed Prof Mkolo as “an outstanding South African scientist who has contributed to raising the profile of science in South Africa.” The award, which includes a trophy and cash prize, was celebrated at a gala event in Cape Town, attended by leading researchers from across the country.
Prof Mkolo’s research portfolio spans omics technologies, in silico drug discovery, antiviral research, and digital health innovation. Her approach combines laboratory science with computational modelling to deliver practical, scalable solutions to pressing health challenges.
Operating within a historically disadvantaged institution, Prof Mkolo has been instrumental in building research capacity at SMU. She leads multidisciplinary projects, mentors postgraduate and postdoctoral researchers, and collaborates with international institutions to strengthen South Africa’s global research presence.
Reflecting on the award, Prof Mkolo said, “Science thrives when we combine curiosity with collaboration. This recognition is a testament not only to my work but to the dedication of my students and colleagues at SMU.”
Beyond research, her initiatives have helped cultivate the next generation of scientists, particularly in under-resourced academic settings. Through partnerships and mentorship programmes, she has significantly advanced scientific training and innovation at SMU, ensuring that emerging researchers are equipped to tackle complex health problems.
This recognition adds to a growing list of accolades for Prof Mkolo, including multiple institutional awards for research excellence and innovation. It cements her reputation as a leading voice in South Africa’s scientific landscape, highlighting the critical role of high-quality research in addressing national and global health priorities.
SMU, known for its commitment to academic excellence and transformative health sciences education, continues to foster an environment where innovation thrives. The university’s vision of “transforming health services through excellence and innovation” is exemplified through achievements such as Prof Mkolo’s, which strengthen both the institution and the broader South African research community.
By celebrating Prof Mkolo’s success, SMU reaffirms its position as a unique university that not only trains health professionals but also produces world-class research that impacts communities locally and globally. The award underlines SMU’s ongoing commitment to excellence, accountability, and the advancement of knowledge in health sciences, inspiring future generations of scientists to pursue bold and innovative solutions.
By Tumelo Moila
