by Lorato | Apr 9, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a world where health challenges are increasingly complex and interwoven with social, technological and economic shifts, the need for agile, principled, and visionary healthcare professionals has never been greater. Rising to this challenge is Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)—a university whose impact is not only seen in lecture halls or clinical labs, but in the lives its alumni touch across South Africa and far beyond.
The true measure of a university lies not only in the qualifications it confers but in the calibre of the individuals it sends into the world. SMU’s contribution to healthcare, both nationally and globally, can be traced through the profound influence of its alumni—many of whom occupy key leadership roles, drive medical innovation, and deliver services to communities that have historically been underserved. They are healthcare professionals, scientists, administrators, policymakers and thought leaders. Together, they represent a living, evolving embodiment of SMU’s mission.
From the bustling corridors of Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, where alumnus Dr Fhatuwani Godfrey Mbara leads as Chief Executive Officer, to the fast-paced world of emergency and maritime medicine championed by Dr Realeboga Sebitso, SMU graduates continue to take up space in critical sectors. Their work extends into private healthcare, too, as seen in the inspiring journey of Drs Innocent and Dikeledi Chauke, who have built a healthcare legacy rooted in excellence and service.
Beyond borders, SMU-trained professionals are making waves across the continent and in global health arenas. One such example is Elizabeth Itotia, a trailblazer who became Kenya’s first female nuclear pharmacist—her pioneering work revolutionising cancer care in her country. Whether identifying new virus variants, developing niche specialisations, or strengthening health systems in resource-limited settings, SMU alumni are increasingly recognised not just as participants in healthcare conversations, but as leaders shaping the global agenda.
But these achievements are not accidental. They are the outcome of a university culture deeply committed to excellence, equity and service. SMU’s curriculum is not only aligned with the demands of modern healthcare—it is embedded in the realities of South African society. Students are trained not just to treat illness, but to understand the systems and structures that produce health inequalities. They are taught to think critically, act ethically, and serve selflessly.
This ethos extends far beyond the academic. At SMU, leadership is nurtured through community engagement, student governance, entrepreneurship, and research. As a result, graduates emerge not only as competent professionals but as compassionate changemakers—individuals ready to lead, adapt and innovate in whichever space they find themselves.
Crucially, SMU alumni carry with them a sense of responsibility. Whether practising in urban hospitals or rural clinics, engaging in public service, or contributing to cutting-edge research, their work is underpinned by a shared value: to serve. And in doing so, they reaffirm SMU’s founding commitment—to improve the health and quality of life of all people, particularly those most in need.
The impact of SMU is, therefore, not confined to its campus. It travels through every patient healed, every system improved, and every life touched by one of its graduates. It is a living legacy, renewed each year as new cohorts enter the profession and old ones rise to new heights.
As SMU looks to the future, its alumni remain its greatest ambassadors—proof that a university rooted in service, excellence, and transformation can indeed shape the world. Their journeys are not only testimonies of personal success but also affirmations of the institution that moulded them. In their hands, the future of healthcare is not only possible—it is already unfolding.
By Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli
by Lorato | Apr 9, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sanyu Kiyonga, a distinguished pharmacy graduate from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has been recognised for her outstanding academic performance, securing the Academic Excellence Award for Best Portfolio in Hospital Pharmacy Practice-Based Learning with an impressive 81% mark during the School of Pharmacy Oath Taking Ceremony 2024. This prestigious achievement underscores her dedication to the field of pharmacy and her commitment to improving healthcare services.
Kiyonga, who pursued her studies at SMU from 2021 to 2024, has demonstrated an unwavering passion for pharmacy, driven by her profound desire to treat patients and contribute to the advancement of medical care. Having grown up in Uganda, where healthcare infrastructure faces considerable challenges, she developed a deep-seated resolve to make a tangible impact in the field. Her experiential learning journey in hospital pharmacy has solidified her expertise and positioned her as a rising leader in pharmaceutical care.
Reflecting on her achievement, Kiyonga expressed gratitude for the opportunity to refine her skills in a hospital setting. “This recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the support I have received from my lecturers, mentors, and peers at SMU. I am deeply passionate about making a difference in patient care, and this award motivates me to keep striving for excellence,” she says.
The Best Portfolio award highlights Kiyonga’s ability to integrate academic knowledge with practical application, a crucial skill in the evolving landscape of healthcare. Her work in hospital pharmacy practice-based learning involved medication management, patient counselling, and collaborative healthcare interventions, all of which are essential in optimising treatment outcomes.
Kiyonga credits her success to the mentorship she received from her lecturer, Jackson Mahlaba, as well as guidance from the hospital manager and other professionals in the field. “I actively sought feedback and dedicated time to refine my portfolio, which ultimately contributed to this achievement,” she notes.
A crucial component of Kiyonga’s education was her experiential learning in hospital pharmacy, which provided her with hands-on experience in inventory management, patient counselling, and teamwork. This exposure reinforced her understanding of pharmacists’ vital role in patient care. “One of the most impactful experiences for me was working alongside other healthcare professionals who were willing to assist and teach me,” she says. “It taught me the importance of patient-centred care and effective communication, both of which are essential skills in pharmacy.”
Success is rarely achieved alone, and Kiyonga acknowledges the unwavering support she received from her family, friends, and academic mentors. She emphasises that time management and seeking help were crucial in overcoming obstacles throughout her academic journey. “Having a strong support system kept me motivated, especially during challenging times,” she says. “I learned the importance of balancing academics with personal well-being and seeking guidance whenever I needed it.”
The culmination of her pharmacy studies was marked by the symbolic oath-taking ceremony, a defining moment in Kiyonga’s journey. “Taking the oath was incredibly significant, as it reaffirmed my commitment to ethical practice and the well-being of my patients,” she shared.
Looking ahead, Kiyonga aspires to contribute meaningfully to the pharmacy profession by leveraging her knowledge and skills to improve patient outcomes. “My goal is to expand my expertise and become a trusted healthcare professional, positively impacting patients’ lives,” she says.
“I am grateful for the support I have received from the School of Pharmacy and SMU. This journey has reinforced my commitment to patient care and professional growth,” she concludes.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Apr 1, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a groundbreaking achievement, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Master’s student Nondumiso Nkosi has developed a pioneering diagnostic assay for Hepatitis B, addressing a critical need in regions where the disease is endemic. This innovation has earned her recognition as a rising star in the intellectual property (IP) landscape.
Nkosi’s journey into innovation and entrepreneurship began with her attendance at the Bio Africa Convention in 2023, where her project was selected for presentation and won the runner-up award. “This recognition was an eye-opener, making me realise the magnitude and potential impact of my work,” she reflects.
Her diagnostic assay aims to bridge the gap in accessible and efficient Hepatitis B diagnosis, particularly in resource-limited settings. “Current diagnostic methods are often inaccessible or inadequate, making early detection and effective management difficult,” Nkosi explains. My innovation provides a more accessible and efficient solution tailored to the African healthcare landscape.
The collaboration with the Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine at Nagoya City University Hospital in Japan served as a foundational base for the innovation. “This partnership enabled the development of a diagnostic tool tailored to the unique healthcare challenges in Africa,” Nkosi notes.
With the unwavering support of her supervisor, Dr Omphile Simani, Nkosi’s innovation holds significant potential for the early detection and management of Hepatitis, contributing substantially to public health solutions. “Dr Simani saw the potential in my vision and encouraged me every step of the way,” Nkosi acknowledges.
The SMU Technology Transfer Office (TTO) has been instrumental in supporting Nkosi’s innovation, providing guidance on intellectual property protection and commercialisation. “We are working with Nkosi and Simani to identify potential industry partners to commercialise the assay,” says Mohlatlego Sebola, who is responsible for establishing and operationalising the TTO.
Nkosi’s achievement is a testament to the university’s commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship. As SMU Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus notes: “Our commitment at SMU is clear: we nurture innovation, excellence, and community service. Nkosi’s innovation is a shining example of this commitment.”
The impact of Nkosi’s innovation extends beyond the academic realm. Hepatitis B is a major global health challenge, ranking as the seventh leading cause of death worldwide. Millions of people, particularly in Africa, suffer from chronic HBV infections, leading to severe liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.
Nkosi’s diagnostic assay has the potential to save countless lives by providing an accessible and efficient diagnostic solution. Her innovation serves as a beacon of hope for those affected by Hepatitis B, and her story is a testament to the power of dedication, innovation, and collaboration in driving positive change.
As Nkosi continues to break barriers in biomedical innovation, she remains committed to her vision of improving public health outcomes. Her pioneering diagnostic assay for Hepatitis B is a groundbreaking achievement that has the potential to revolutionise public health outcomes.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Mar 26, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) recently hosted a distinguished delegation of education leaders, marking a significant step towards strengthening academic collaborations and advancing student academic success initiatives. The visit brought together William “Bill” Moses, Managing Director of the Education Program at The Kresge Foundation, Innocent Nkata, Chief Executive Officer of the South African Institute for Distance Education (SAIDE), and Ashton Maherry, Programme Specialist at SAIDE.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by Dr Elize Venter, Director of the Centre for University Teaching and Learning (CUTL), who highlighted the importance of strategic engagements in enhancing SMU’s academic standing. “Hosting such esteemed funders of student academic success provides us with invaluable insights and opportunities to elevate our teaching and learning practices,” said Venter.
A key highlight of the visit was a luncheon meeting with Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus. The discussions focused on potential collaborations between SMU, The Kresge Foundation, and SAIDE, with the aim of developing initiatives that support student success and institutional growth.
Matsha-Erasmus expressed her enthusiasm for the engagement, stating, “Partnerships with forward-thinking organisations like The Kresge Foundation and SAIDE are crucial for driving impactful change in higher education. These discussions open doors for innovative projects that will benefit both our students and academic staff.”
To provide the delegation with a deeper understanding of SMU’s current landscape, they were presented with an “SMU at a Glance” overview. The presentation detailed the university’s academic focus, institutional needs, and the various programmes in place to enhance student learning and research.
Dr Jeffrey Mabelebele, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic and Research, played a pivotal role in these discussions, sharing insights into SMU’s commitment to research excellence and student support. “Our institution is dedicated to fostering a research-driven academic environment that equips students with the skills necessary to thrive in the evolving global landscape,” said Mabelebele.
As part of their visit, the delegation was given an immersive campus tour led by SMU Kresge-funded data analytics, Sewela Tshegofatso and Mabeba Onalerena, SRC Deputy President, Ntshadi Bokaba, and the SRC Secretary General, Fhulufhelo Ntsieni. This team of students guided the guests through key areas of the university, offering them valuable insights into the student experience and providing a firsthand look at student life, campus facilities, and academic support structures. Visited places on campus included the Anatomy Museum, Skills Centre, student residences, and campus health. At the close of the visit, the SMU choir graced the occasion, and Venter presented the delegates with tokens of appreciation.
Reflecting on the visit, the delegation expressed their appreciation for SMU’s commitment to academic excellence and student development. Bill Moses praised the university’s initiatives, stating, “SMU’s dedication to creating an inclusive and high-quality learning environment is truly commendable. The commitment of its leadership and faculty to student success is evident, and we look forward to exploring avenues of support that align with our mission to enhance educational outcomes.”
Innocent Nkata echoed these sentiments, adding, “The proactive approach taken by SMU in addressing educational challenges aligns with SAIDE’s objectives. This engagement has opened up new possibilities for collaboration, and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Ashton Maherry also expressed optimism about future collaborations, saying, “It is inspiring to witness the passion and dedication of SMU’s leadership towards student success. There is a clear alignment between our goals, and I am confident that our partnership will yield impactful outcomes.”
Dr Joshua Maliavusa, Manager of Student Academic Support at CUTL, emphasised the university’s commitment to ensuring students receive the necessary resources to excel academically. “Our student support initiatives are designed to provide tailored academic assistance and create an environment that enables learners to reach their full potential,” he said.
The visit not only strengthened SMU’s relationships with global education partners but also laid the groundwork for meaningful collaborations that will shape the university’s future. The discussions held during the visit are expected to lead to actionable strategies that support student learning, institutional innovation, and academic development.
As SMU continues to grow as a leading institution in health sciences education, partnerships with organisations such as The Kresge Foundation and SAIDE will play a crucial role in advancing its mission. The university remains committed to fostering an environment that enables students to thrive and contribute to the broader fields of health sciences and research.
With this visit marking the beginning of new collaborative efforts, SMU is poised to further enhance its academic and research capabilities, ultimately benefiting both its students and the wider education sector.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Mar 26, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) remains a hub for academic and professional excellence, producing leaders who make significant contributions to the healthcare sector. One such leader is Professor Lineo Matsela, an esteemed Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, who has recently been inaugurated as the President of the South African Menopause Society (SAMS). Her election to this prestigious position is a landmark achievement, not only for her but also for the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at SMU.
Reflecting on her appointment, Matsela expressed both pride and gratitude. “I feel honoured and humbled at the same time to have been elected to this position,” she says. With a strong interest in endocrinology, she credits her mentor, Professor Thibedi Ephraim Mokgokong, for nurturing her passion for the field. She also acknowledges the wealth of knowledge she has gained from South African women regarding menopause, culture, and tradition. “I bow my head in respect for the black South African women who have enriched me with knowledge about menopause, culture, and tradition,” she states.
Matsela highlights how menopause is viewed differently across cultures. “For the longest time, it was believed that black women don’t suffer from hot flushes and night sweats during both the peri and postmenopausal periods,” she explains. However, her research has shown that while symptoms exist, societal attitudes and traditional roles shape women’s experiences of menopause.
According to Matsela, many South African women regard menopause positively, as it signifies an elevation in societal status. “Postmenopausal women take care of critically ill patients in the village; they prepare meals for boys at initiation schools, and traditional birth attendants are chosen from among them,” she notes. However, she also points out the challenges, particularly surrounding sexuality. “Postmenopausal women are not supposed to engage in sexual activity. The belief is that cessation of menstruation, which has the cleansing power, is gone; hence the woman is predisposed to ill-health,” she explains. This misconception leads to the denial of sexual rights for women, while men may engage in extramarital or polygamous relationships.
As President of SAMS, Matsela has set ambitious goals, including forming a Pan-African Society of Menopause to integrate societies across Sub-Saharan Africa. Education and awareness are key priorities for her tenure. “We plan to have community meetings for laywomen, church leaders, and traditional leaders,” she says. She also emphasises the importance of equipping healthcare providers with adequate knowledge. “Healthcare professionals are taught about menopause as part of their training. Those in practice will attend webinars and community outreach programmes,” she adds.
Matsela identified major gaps in healthcare for menopausal women, particularly in terms of treatment accessibility. “Menopausal hormone therapy, which is the gold standard of treatment, is not readily available. Often, the medication is not available in public hospitals, and women must purchase it from pharmacies. Many cannot afford it,” she laments. She also highlights the emergence of new non-hormonal drugs such as neurokinin antagonists, which provide alternative treatment options for women who do not qualify for menopausal hormone therapy.
The SAMS Congress, held from 21-22 February 2025, covered a wide range of topics, including perimenopause, cardiovascular health, osteoporosis, HIV complications, and new pharmaceutical advancements. “The target audience included general practitioners, specialists in obstetrics and gynaecology, physiotherapists, and nursing staff. “ All these professionals play a role in caring for menopausal women,” Matsela says.
She stresses the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to menopause. “The postmenopausal period is not just about cessation of menstruation. It affects the brain, cardiovascular system, musculoskeletal system, and genitourinary system. Women need a holistic healthcare approach,” she states. However, one of the main challenges remains the lack of awareness and access to treatment. “Some women come for treatment of their symptoms, only to find that the hospitals have run out of medication,” she notes.
One of Matsela’s key messages is to reassure women that menopause is not the end of life. “Women spend one-third of their lives after menopause. Good health education and screening of health-related issues are essential,” she says. She encourages women to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, including weight management, good nutrition, reducing alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking.
She firmly believes that knowledge is the key to navigating menopause successfully. Menopause is a journey that all women experience. The earlier they learn about it, the better prepared they will be. Studies show that women with adequate knowledge are in a better position to manage menopausal symptoms than those with no knowledge,” she argues. Her leadership at SAMS is set to drive change in menopausal healthcare and awareness, ensuring that South African women receive the support and treatment they need during this critical stage of life.
Matsela’s inauguration as President of the South African Menopause Society not only brings pride to SMU but also reinforces the institution’s reputation as a hub for academic and professional excellence.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Mar 26, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has joined forces with the Aurum Institute, the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), and international partner Johns Hopkins University to revolutionise health research in South Africa. This innovative partnership brings together leading experts in health sciences research, public health, data science, and implementation science to address the complex health challenges facing the country and the African continent.
Professor Mathildah Mokgatle, SMU representative, Head of Public Health, Co-director, and Chair of the BAMMISHO Steering Committee, expressed her enthusiasm about the node’s potential impact. Our vision is to develop a world-class Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) that generates high-quality evidence to inform policy and practice locally, nationally, and globally. This initiative is built on long-standing relationships with the Royal Bafokeng Nation, local government, and industry stakeholders,” she says.
By combining their strengths and expertise, these partners aim to establish a robust health research ecosystem that drives innovation, translation, and impact. The collaboration is dedicated to developing and implementing evidence-based solutions to pressing health issues, ultimately improving health outcomes in South Africa and beyond.
A pioneering initiative under this collaboration, the BAMMISHO (Bafokeng Health & Demographic Surveillance Node) project, has been launched under the leadership of the AWISE (Aurum-Wits-Sefako Makgatho) Consortium. This initiative aims to address the health and socio-economic challenges faced by peri-mining communities in the Royal Bafokeng Nation (RBN) of the Bojanala District, North West Province.
BAMMISHO emerged as a winner in a national competitive grant award led by the South African Population Research Infrastructure Network (SAPRIN). The initiative was spearheaded by SMU Alumnus Professor Geoffrey Setswe, who identified key collaborators from The Aurum Institute, Wits, and SMU. Johns Hopkins University contributes additional global research expertise to the project.
The BAMMISHO Node will focus on understanding the impact of mining and migration on health and socio-economic outcomes in the 29 villages that make up the RBN. The consortium’s research agenda includes critical areas such as HIV prevention, sexual and reproductive health, climate change resilience, and the economic impacts of disease and migration.
Setswe highlighted the project’s alignment with existing SAPRIN nodes, ensuring a seamless integration of research methodologies and data management systems. “Our team has successfully enrolled over 70,000 participants in research projects valued at more than $12 million. With BAMMISHO, we aim to make a significant contribution to South Africa’s broader health research landscape,” he explains.
As the Director of Community Engagement, Mokgatle is responsible for fostering collaboration between researchers and the community. She emphasises the importance of direct involvement from local leaders. “The chiefs of all 29 villages were invited to a community engagement meeting during their end-of-year 2024 Lekgotla to discuss the implementation of BAMMISHO. We are proud to have the full support of His Majesty King Leruo Molotlegi and the Royal Bafokeng Administration,” she states.
A key strength of the BAMMISHO Node is its access to robust research infrastructure. The Aurum Rustenburg CRS will serve as the operational hub, equipped with clinical facilities, laboratories, and advanced data management capabilities. Researchers will collect data from 114,000 individuals using digital tools compatible with SAPRIN’s existing network, ensuring consistency and efficiency.
The initiative has been designed with sustainability in mind. While initial funding is provided through SAPRIN, the consortium is actively seeking additional resources through research grants and collaborations with industry stakeholders. Mokgatle reiterates the team’s commitment, stating: “We see the BAMMISHO Node as a lifelong legacy that will continuously monitor and improve the health and well-being of the Royal Bafokeng Nation for generations to come.”
The formal launch of BAMMISHO in November 2024 was marked by a large community ceremony attended by SMU leadership, local government representatives, and national media. With comprehensive plans and risk mitigation strategies in place, the project has commenced smoothly and is well-positioned to deliver meaningful insights into the health dynamics of peri-mining communities.
Reflecting on the journey that led to BAMMISHO’s creation, Setswe and Mokgatle express their deep sense of purpose in giving back to their community. “As proud Bafokeng and SMU (MEDUNSA) alumni, we felt a strong responsibility to develop a project that would put SMU on the map while serving the people who raised us. BAMMISHO is our way of expressing gratitude to the ‘People of the Dew’—our home, our heritage,” they conclude.
The BAMMISHO Node is poised to become a vital contributor to SAPRIN and a globally recognised centre for health and demographic research. With its solid foundation, dedicated team, and community-driven approach, the project promises to be a transformative force in addressing the pressing health challenges of the Royal Bafokeng Nation and beyond.
By Tumelo Moila
