by Lorato | Sep 3, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has recognised the research achievements of Professor Tshwafo Elias Motaung, Head of the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, following his attainment of a National Research Foundation (NRF) C2 rating.
The C2 rating places Prof Motaung among established researchers whose recent research outputs demonstrate sustained productivity, coherence and continued engagement with their field. According to the NRF classification, reviewers are “firmly convinced that the applicant is an established researcher”, with the rating recognising researchers who have produced quality work and demonstrated the ability to conceptualise problems and apply appropriate research methods.
Reflecting on the achievement, Prof Motaung said the rating represents an important milestone in his academic and research career. “The NRF C2 rating is a significant milestone for me because it represents recognition of sustained research engagement and productivity over many years. I see it not only as a personal achievement, but also as an acknowledgement of the contribution of my students, research collaborators and colleagues who have been part of this journey.”
Prof Motaung’s academic journey began at Shakhane Secondary School in Makeneng, Qwa-Qwa, where he passed matric with distinction in Mathematics and Natural Sciences. He subsequently obtained a BSc in Chemistry, a BSc Honours, and an MSc from the University of the Free State, followed by a PhD in Chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and a postgraduate diploma in higher education.
His professional career spans more than two decades and includes academic, research and leadership positions. He began his career at the University of the Free State as a tutor of Physics and Chemistry and laboratory assistant before progressing to Assistant Professional Officer and Junior Lecturer. He later served as a Senior Researcher and Research Leader at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in Port Elizabeth.
He subsequently became an Associate Professor and Head of Department at the University of Zululand, later serving as Professor and HOD. Between 2021 and 2024, he was a Senior Professor and head of the Materials Science niche area at the University of South Africa. Since October 2024, he has served as Senior Professor, SMU Senate Representative and HOD at SMU.
Prof Motaung’s research focuses on the preparation and characterisation of polymer blends, composites and nanocomposites, as well as the extraction, preparation and characterisation of cellulose. His work has included research into biomass, nanomaterials, renewable energy, water treatment and sustainable materials.
Speaking about the direction of his research, Prof Motaung said scientific research should ultimately contribute to addressing practical challenges facing society. “My research interests are strongly connected to the need for sustainable solutions. Materials science provides opportunities to transform renewable resources and waste materials into useful products and technologies, particularly in areas such as water treatment, renewable energy and sustainable materials. The objective is to ensure that our research does not remain confined to the laboratory but contributes meaningfully to society.”
His research record includes numerous peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, book chapters and postgraduate supervision. He has supervised or co-supervised students at the Honours, MSc, and PhD levels and has successfully supervised five postdoctoral researchers.
For Prof Motaung, developing the next generation of researchers remains an important part of his academic responsibilities. “Research excellence is also about building people. Supervising postgraduate students and mentoring emerging researchers help us develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence required to sustain the research enterprise. I consider the success of students and young researchers who have worked with me to be an important part of my own academic journey.”
His international research experience includes projects in India, Italy, France and Sweden, supported by organisations including the NRF and CSIR. He has also delivered keynote and invited presentations at international scientific conferences. The C2 rating adds to a career marked by research and innovation awards, including recognition as an Emerging Researcher by the CSIR and as a Productive Researcher at the University of Zululand.
Looking ahead, Prof Motaung said the achievement would encourage him to deepen his research collaborations and continue contributing to the development of research capacity at SMU. “This recognition motivates me to continue pursuing impactful research, strengthen collaborations and create opportunities for postgraduate students and emerging researchers. I am particularly interested in contributing to a research environment at SMU where innovation, collaboration and the development of sustainable solutions are encouraged.”
For SMU, Prof Motaung’s achievement reinforces the university’s commitment to excellence and innovative research. His work contributes to the institution’s broader mission of advancing knowledge while supporting research, education, and innovation in ways that can advance sustainable development and societal wellbeing.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Sep 3, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
What began as a childhood dislike of Mathematics and Science culminated in an outstanding academic achievement for Hermy Madimetja Mantjiu (23), who graduated with a BSc Honours in Statistics (summa cum laude) and received the Dean’s Excellence Awards for Outstanding Performer and Overall Achiever during the 2026 School of Science and Technology’s autumn graduation ceremony at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU).
Mantjiu, originally from Kalkspruit (Ga-Magongoa) in Limpopo and raised in Soshanguve, Block SS Extension 5, known as Jukulyn, credits hard work, discipline, perseverance and the support of his family for shaping his journey. “I did not always enjoy Mathematics and Science. In fact, I hated both subjects at first,” Mantjiu said.
His attitude towards the subjects changed around Grade 11, when he developed a genuine interest in understanding how things work and began challenging himself academically. That turning point ultimately led him towards Statistics and a university career that has seen him progress from student and academic tutor to part-time junior lecturer.
One of the people who played a significant role in developing his passion for Mathematics was his former class teacher, Emmanuel Sekepe. Mantjiu said Sekepe’s enthusiasm for the subject inspired him and continues to influence him in his role as a mentor. “My former class teacher, Mr Emmanuel Sekepe, made me fall in love with Mathematics,” he said. “What makes our relationship even more meaningful is that he is now my mentor.”
His mother, Priscilla Mantjiu, was also a constant source of encouragement, reminding him to practise, remain focused and continue working towards his goals. Mantjiu also acknowledged the support of his late friend Precious Maswanganyi, his former roommate at Arebeng 1 student residence (Pretoria), and his close friend, Sphesihle Moloi, particularly during difficult periods.
“Meeting Hermy in 2022 was a hidden blessing. He became like family—kind-hearted, selfless, and always willing to help others. His academic success is no accident; it reflects his hard work, resilience, and willingness to learn. I saw him struggle with Linear Algebra, but with encouragement, he overcame that fear and excelled. Seeing how far he has come fills me with pride, knowing I played a small part in his journey,” Moloi recalls.
For Mantjiu, achieving summa cum laude represents far more than an academic distinction. “It represents years of hard work, sacrifice, consistency and believing in myself,” he said.
Consistency became particularly important during his transition from high school to university. He described his first year as a major adjustment, requiring him to adapt to different modules, a faster pace of learning and greater independence. His response was to establish a daily study routine. “I made a commitment that I would not finish a day without studying something, even if it were only a small amount,” he said.
His journey was not without moments of doubt. During his second year, Mantjiu considered abandoning his degree, but faith, encouragement, and his determination to continue helped him persevere.
Today, his academic journey extends beyond his own studies. As a junior lecturer in the Department of Statistical Science at SMU, he helps first-year students understand Statistics, an experience he says has strengthened his own knowledge by requiring him to explain complex concepts from different perspectives.
Mantjiu believes Statistics and data analytics can contribute to evidence-based decision-making in healthcare, education, business and government. With skills in R, Power BI, Excel and Python, he hopes to contribute through research, teaching and the practical application of Statistics.
He also wants to inspire young people who may doubt their ability in Mathematics and Science. “Do not decide that you are incapable before you have given yourself a real chance,” he advised. “Practise consistently, ask questions when you do not understand, and do not be afraid of making mistakes.” Mantjiu describes his journey in three words: “Consistency, perseverance and faith.”
His achievement reflects the transformative potential of education and the importance of institutions such as SMU in developing academic excellence, cultivating talent and preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully through education, research and professional practice.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Aug 26, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) alumna Mushayathoni Bridget Nwovhe has been awarded the DSTI Prof Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Master’s Fellowship, in recognition of her academic excellence, research potential, and contributions to science, innovation, and public engagement.
Nwovhe is among the recipients of the fellowship presented through the South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA), an annual Women’s Month initiative that celebrates outstanding South African women in science, technology and innovation while encouraging the next generation of women and girls to pursue careers in these fields.
Named in honour of the late Professor Keolebogile Shirley Motaung, one of South Africa’s distinguished Black women scientists and academics, the fellowship supports young women pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees. It recognises strong academic performance and research potential.
For Nwovhe, the fellowship represents another milestone in an academic journey defined by multidisciplinary scholarship, perseverance and a commitment to making an impact beyond traditional scientific disciplines.
In 2025, she achieved a rare distinction of completing two postgraduate qualifications in the same year, graduating from SMU in Haematological Pathology and from the University of South Africa (UNISA) in Microbiology.
Her research interests span microbiology, virology, haematological pathology, infectious diseases, maternal and neonatal health, antimicrobial resistance and medical research. Her work has subsequently earned recognition through the 2026 SAWiSA programme.
Nwovhe credits her time at SMU with playing a significant role in the development of her research capabilities. “I also thank the SMU Haematological Pathology Department, Professor Vanessa Moodley, and Dr Abegail Dlova. They trained me for research.”
Her academic trajectory began with strong performance at secondary school, where she completed Grade 12 as one of the top performers in her circuit. That foundation developed into a sustained pursuit of academic excellence and intellectual growth.
Her interests have also extended beyond the health sciences. In 2020, Nwovhe was selected by Masterstart, a collaborative online platform for executives and business professionals, as one of the young people whose leadership values reflected the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela. Through a programme funded by the Clicks Group, she completed a postgraduate course in Artificial Intelligence at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), adding technology and innovation to her multidisciplinary portfolio.
Her commitment to international engagement has similarly broadened her perspective. In 2025, she attended a United Nations conference in Thailand, where she was appointed Global Ambassador of Peace. She also participated as a delegate at the Future Action Summit in Malaysia, engaging with issues linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Nwovhe’s achievements extend into the literary sphere. She is an author and poet who has written five books and co-authored Tapping into Poetry. Her work has appeared in the Sol Plaatje European Union Poetry Anthologies and on various literary platforms, exploring themes including identity, memory, healing, imagination, culture and the human experience.
The fellowship adds to an already distinguished record of recognition. In 2025, Nwovhe was named Sunday World Heroic Woman of the Year in Science, Technology and Innovation, following her receipt of the Sunday World Unsung Hero Award in 2023. Her earlier achievements include the South African Shining Star Award and participation in the Black Women in Sciences Fellowship Programme.
Her progression from an SMU postgraduate student to a multidisciplinary scientist, researcher, author and award recipient reflects the possibilities that emerge when academic excellence is combined with curiosity, innovation and a commitment to broader societal impact.
For SMU, Nwovhe’s achievement also reflects the University’s role in developing health professionals and researchers equipped to contribute meaningfully to science, innovation, and society.
The DSTI Prof Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Master’s Fellowship, therefore, represents more than just another accolade in Nwovhe’s growing portfolio. It marks the continued advancement of a researcher whose work crosses disciplinary boundaries and demonstrates that excellence in science can extend into leadership, literature, public engagement and community impact.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Aug 26, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Professor Elmien Bronkhorst, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Clinical Pharmacy at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has been awarded a C2 researcher rating by the National Research Foundation (NRF), recognising her established record of research productivity and contribution to clinical pharmacy.
The NRF C2 category is reserved for established researchers who have demonstrated sustained recent productivity and are recognised by their peers for the quality and coherence of their research. The assessment also considers a researcher’s ability to conceptualise research problems and apply appropriate methodologies to investigate them.
According to the NRF criteria, C2 applicants are those for whom all reviewers are firmly convinced that they are established researchers. The category also recognises researchers who may have international recognition for the quality and impact of their recent research outputs.
Bronkhorst said the rating was significant in recognising her research journey and the contribution of her work to clinical pharmacy in South Africa. “Receiving the NRF C2 rating is both an honour and a humbling recognition of my research contributions. It affirms the value of sustained scholarship, collaboration, and a commitment to generating evidence that addresses meaningful healthcare challenges. For me, this recognition is not only a reflection of past achievements but also a motivation to continue mentoring emerging researchers and contributing research that can improve patient care and health outcomes,” said Bronkhorst.
Prof Bronkhorst has been based at SMU’s School of Pharmacy since March 2014. Her academic responsibilities include teaching in the Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) and postgraduate Clinical Pharmacy programmes, supervising doctoral, master’s and undergraduate research projects, supporting research funding applications and contributing to statistical analysis.
She holds a PhD in Pharmacy from SMU, awarded between 2016 and 2019. Her doctoral research examined the practice of clinical pharmacy in private and public hospitals in South Africa, including the working environment and education of clinical pharmacists, the functions of specialist pharmacists, and guidelines for implementing clinical pharmacy services.
Her research output has continued to expand, with publications in 2026 addressing areas including dry eye disease management, respiratory tract infections, ischaemic heart disease, drug-related problems in South African hospitals and antibiotic prescribing in primary healthcare.
Her recent research has also examined antimicrobial stewardship, HIV treatment, medication errors, smoking and vaping cessation, insomnia, and the role and implementation of clinical pharmacy services in South Africa.
Prof Bronkhorst said her research is closely linked to improving pharmaceutical care and strengthening clinical pharmacists’ contribution to patient care. “My research focuses on advancing clinical pharmacy practice to improve patient outcomes through the safe, effective, and responsible use of medicines. A particular area of interest is antimicrobial stewardship, including HIV-positive patients, which plays a critical role in preserving the effectiveness of life-saving antibiotics, combating antimicrobial resistance, and ensuring that patients receive the right treatment at the right time. Ultimately, my goal is to generate evidence that supports better clinical decision-making and contributes to safer, higher-quality healthcare,” she explains.
She has also contributed to the development of future pharmacists through postgraduate research supervision. In 2026, students under her supervision have undertaken research into antibiotic dose adjustments, antiretroviral stewardship, medication errors and drug interactions, and the use of second-generation antibiotics in private clinical practice.
Her professional achievements include selection for the Future Professor’s Programme Cohort 2 for 2024–2025 and receiving the SMU Vice-Chancellor Teaching and Learning Award in 2021.
Prof Bronkhorst said the recognition also reflected the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and the development of the next generation of researchers. “One of the most rewarding aspects of academia is contributing to the development of future researchers and enhancing the future of the profession of Clinical Pharmacy. Through student supervision and collaborative research, I aim not only to generate new knowledge but also to cultivate curiosity, a commitment to lifelong learning, and a commitment to evidence-based practice. Investing in young researchers is an investment in the future of healthcare and scientific advancement, and it is highly satisfying to see students excel.”
The C2 rating adds a significant research accolade to Prof Bronkhorst’s career spanning clinical practice, teaching, postgraduate supervision, academic leadership and research focused on strengthening pharmaceutical care and patient outcomes in South Africa.
By Tumelo Moila.
by Lorato | Aug 26, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Nondumiso Nkosi, a PhD candidate and Junior Lecturer in Medical Virology at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has been awarded a 2026 South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA) Doctoral Fellowship, recognising her contribution to infectious disease diagnostics and innovation.
Nkosi is among seven emerging and established women researchers recognised through the Professor Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Fellowships for research addressing critical social, economic, environmental and scientific challenges facing South Africa. The awards, celebrated annually during Women’s Month, recognise excellence in science, technology and innovation (ST&I) and aim to inspire more women and girls to pursue careers in these fields.
The fellowships, renamed in honour of the late Professor Shirley Keolebogile Motaung, one of South Africa’s distinguished black women scientists and academics, support young women pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees. The awards recognise academic excellence and research potential while promoting innovation and mentorship.
At SMU, Nkosi’s research focuses on viral hepatitis and HIV, with particular attention to hepatitis B virus diagnostics and the detection of occult hepatitis B infection. She is optimising and validating HepaSure Diagnostics, a novel assay designed to enable rapid, decentralised and cost-effective disease detection, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Her work seeks to address limitations in existing hepatitis B screening approaches while improving access to inclusive diagnostic technologies. Nkosi believes the research could contribute to earlier disease detection, reduce healthcare inequalities and strengthen locally developed biotechnology solutions. She is also a patent holder for the diagnostic assay and has received several innovation and scientific awards.
Reflecting on the fellowship, Nkosi described the recognition as more than a personal achievement. “This accolade does not just belong to me. It belongs to every community, mentor, and family member who paved the path for me to step into the light.”
She credited her family, particularly her mother, for providing the encouragement and resilience that shaped her scientific journey. “They invested their unwavering faith in me when all I had was an ambitious dream,” Nkosi said, describing her family as her “very first research funders”.
The fellowship adds to a series of achievements for Nkosi in 2026, following recognition through the CIPC IP Youth Award: Women Shaping IP, the Innovation Hub’s GAP Medical Awards and the Early-Stage Enactus South Africa National Exposition. She said these achievements were built on years of perseverance and lessons from setbacks.
Nkosi also acknowledged the contributions of the SMU community, including the Department of Virology, the Economic Activation Office (EAO), the Research and Innovation Office, the Technology Transfer Office, supervisors, mentors, and colleagues.
Her message to aspiring scientists is centred on perseverance, learning and confidence. “Your background does not define your limits. Your resilience matters. Your voice matters. Never be afraid to take up space in science.”
For SMU, Nkosi’s achievement reflects the university’s commitment to excellence, innovation and research that contributes to health and well-being. Her work demonstrates the institution’s broader role in developing scientific solutions with the potential to move beyond the laboratory and make a meaningful difference in communities.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Aug 20, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) medical student Thapelo Mthimunye represented the university and South Africa at the prestigious 22nd South American Business Forum (SABF), held recently in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
A fourth-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) student, Mthimunye was selected as one of only 100 delegates from around the world following a competitive selection process that assessed academic excellence, leadership potential, extracurricular achievements and commitment to social impact.
Hosted annually by students of the Instituto Tecnológico de Buenos Aires (ITBA), SABF brings together young leaders, entrepreneurs, academics, innovators and students to engage with contemporary global challenges. This year’s forum, themed “Designed to Desire”, explored how design, innovation, technology, business and leadership can shape human behaviour and society.
For Mthimunye, the forum provided an opportunity to bring a South African and healthcare perspective to an international platform while engaging with delegates from diverse disciplines and backgrounds. “As a medical student, my interest in attending the forum extended beyond healthcare. I recognised that many of today’s global challenges require collaboration across multiple disciplines,” Mthimunye said.
The trip was also a personal milestone, marking his first international journey. Travelling from Johannesburg via Dubai and Rio de Janeiro, he described the experience as both exciting and transformative. His arrival in Buenos Aires exposed him to a different cultural and linguistic environment, where Spanish meant he had to rely on translation apps and other communication methods.
At SABF, Mthimunye participated in keynote sessions, workshops, student presentations, debates and collaborative discussions on innovation, entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability, leadership and the future of society.
The programme challenged delegates to examine how innovation and technology can be applied responsibly to address human needs. Among the discussions was Sintoniza, a prototype that enables deaf people to experience music by converting musical notes into tactile vibrations, demonstrating how human-centred innovation can address barriers experienced by communities.
Mthimunye also participated in a debate on whether patents and copyrights should be prohibited for work primarily produced with AI assistance. He argued for continued intellectual property protection while recognising AI as a tool that can support human creativity, emphasising the need for appropriate legal and ethical frameworks.
The experience reinforced his view that complex challenges, particularly in healthcare, require collaboration across disciplines. “The conference demonstrated that healthcare professionals must work alongside experts from different sectors to develop innovative and sustainable solutions,” he said.
The forum also enabled Mthimunye to establish connections with young leaders from countries including Tanzania, Ghana, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Russia and the United States of America. “Participating in discussions, asking questions, contributing to debates, and sharing my perspectives with delegates from around the world gave me confidence that students from SMU and South Africa can contribute meaningfully to global conversations,” he said.
Mthimunye plans to share his experience with fellow students through report-back sessions, encourage innovation and critical thinking, promote awareness of international opportunities and explore potential collaborative projects through his international network. “Many students possess the potential to compete internationally but may hesitate due to self-doubt or lack of awareness. I hope that sharing my experience will inspire others to believe in themselves and pursue similar opportunities,” he said.
His participation demonstrates SMU’s commitment to student development and internationalisation. Mthimunye expressed appreciation to the Office of Internationalisation, led by Dr Carlien Jootse, and the Student Affairs Department for their support.
His achievement underscores SMU’s role in preparing future healthcare professionals to engage confidently beyond the clinical environment and contribute South African perspectives to global conversations on innovation, leadership and sustainable solutions.
By Dimakatso Modise
