by Lorato | Aug 13, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Final-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) student, Tshepang Lenkoe, has proudly reintroduced Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Dental School to the national stage after winning the prestigious 2025 South African Dental Association (SADA) Young Dentist Publisher Undergraduate Research Award.
Lenkoe, who also serves as a class representative and member of the Dental Student Council, chose dentistry to address the pressing need for accessible oral healthcare in South Africa. Growing up, he witnessed countless individuals suffering from oral health problems without access to a dentist. “I wanted to bring change to my community,” he said. “Dentistry offered me the opportunity to provide a direct service that could transform lives.”
His journey through dental school has been far from easy. Balancing demanding clinical duties with student leadership roles required discipline, effective time management, and resilience. “Helping my peers while excelling academically meant structuring my time meticulously. It’s been challenging physically and mentally, but it has taught me patience and the importance of perseverance,” he reflected.
The award-winning research that earned him national recognition was titled Diagnosis and Management of a Cystic Lesion: The Use of CBCT – A Case Report. His study compared the diagnostic accuracy of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) with conventional radiographic imaging. “SMU Dental School handles many head and neck cystic lesions, serving as a primary referral hospital for Gauteng, Limpopo, and North West. My research highlighted CBCT’s superior diagnostic capabilities, showing reduced chances of misdiagnosis compared to traditional methods,” Lenkoe explained.
His findings also carried a broader message: the urgent need for investment in state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to better serve South Africa’s population. While obtaining biopsy results in time posed challenges, the radiographic reports from CBCT enabled him to make a confident diagnosis and compare it to international literature.
Winning the award was a deeply personal achievement. “It was surreal,” he said. “I wanted to make my family proud and represent black students on a national platform. No SMU dental student had attended SADA or participated in the research competition for five years, and no SMU student had won in seven. This victory showed that we can compete at the highest level.”
The experience at the SADA Congress was both inspiring and affirming. An international keynote by Canadian dual specialist Dr David Chvartszaid reinforced Lenkoe’s passion for academic dentistry, while the encouragement of SMU lecturers and research mentors Dr Idah Mmutlana and Dr Ntombizodwa Zwane kept him motivated during research setbacks.
Looking ahead, Lenkoe aims to specialise in prosthodontics and remain active in academic dentistry to train future professionals. He also intends to continue research to contribute to South Africa’s growing body of dental knowledge. His advice to young dentists is simple yet powerful: “Pursue research. It enhances clinical skills, professional competence, and the quality of patient care.”
Through his dedication, Lenkoe has not only earned a national accolade but also reignited SMU’s presence in the dental research arena—an achievement that may inspire a new generation of South African dental scholars.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Aug 12, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to affirm its standing as a home to visionary leaders shaping the national higher education agenda. In a resounding recognition of leadership excellence, SMU’s Director: Student Affairs, Tulani Nkuntse, has been elected Deputy Secretary-General of the South African Association of Senior Student Affairs Professionals (SAASSAP) for the 2025–2028 term.
The announcement was made during SAASSAP’s Annual General Meeting and Elective Conference, held on Friday, 8 August 2025, at the University of the Free State. This appointment not only reflects Nkuntse’s exceptional professional stature but also signals SMU’s growing 
influence in strategic national platforms that shape student life and development across South Africa’s universities.
A respected national platform
Founded in 2000, SAASSAP represents the most senior student affairs leaders—Deans, Directors, and Executive Directors across all South African universities. The association’s work is central to advancing holistic student growth, development, and success. It achieves this through policy influence, resource mobilisation, fostering innovation, and strategic stakeholder engagement.
For the next three years, Nkuntse will serve alongside distinguished peers from leading institutions, including:
- Jerome September – President – University of the Witwatersrand
- Dr Irene Mohasoa – Deputy President – Walter Sisulu University
- Dr Bernard Sebake – Secretary-General – Central University of Technology
- Tebogo Ncokazi – Treasurer-General – University of Zululand
- Professor Percy Sepeng – Research & Development Officer – University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Asanda Tele – Media Liaison Officer – University of Fort Hare
- Nonkosi Tyolwana – Projects Coordinator – Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Leadership with purpose
Reflecting on his election, Nkuntse said: “What an honour to be called to serve. I look forward to this challenge with excitement, knowing that collectively as the NEC and its entire SAASSAP membership, we will continue to advocate for better conditions and create spaces for our students to thrive.”
He added: “This is not just a personal achievement, it is an important milestone for SMU, contributing to putting our university on the national map.” Nkuntse’s appointment comes at a time when higher education institutions are called upon to strengthen student development models and foster inclusive, enabling environments. His presence on the SAASSAP National Executive Committee reinforces SMU’s position as an institution whose leaders are not only committed to the success of its own students but also to shaping the future of student affairs nationally.
by Lorato | Jul 23, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a significant recognition of academic excellence and public health leadership, Siphiwe Khumalo, a graduate of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has been selected as one of only 20 international fellows for the 2025 United Nations Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship. Chosen from more than 2,400 applicants across over 100 countries, her selection by the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) marks a remarkable personal and institutional milestone.
Hailing from Ulundi in KwaZulu-Natal, Khumalo holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy from Tshwane University of Technology and a Master’s in Pharmacy Public Health and Management from SMU — the only South African university offering this specialised qualification.
Speaking ahead of her visit to Geneva, Switzerland, in August, she said: “Coming from a small village, I never imagined I’d stand on a global platform. This isn’t just my achievement — it’s a door opened for many others.”
The Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship offers early-career professionals training in biosecurity diplomacy, multilateral negotiations, and research collaboration. The three-month programme includes online learning, a group research project, and an in-person visit to Geneva during the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) meetings from 11–15 August 2025.
Khumalo’s academic and professional work lies at the intersection of pharmacy, public health, and policy. Her Master’s research explored COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among South African pharmacists. While 74.3% of participants were vaccinated, nearly a third were unwilling to recommend vaccination — a concerning statistic for frontline health professionals.
“We can’t expect healthcare workers to champion vaccines if their own doubts aren’t addressed,” she explained. “My aim was to surface those concerns and offer solutions for future interventions.”
Khumalo is no newcomer to international platforms. She previously served as Regional Secretary for the International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation (IPSF) and was selected as a delegate to the 78th World Health Assembly — though visa delays prevented her attendance. As the only South African fellow in the 2025 cohort, she sees her Geneva visit as a chance to amplify African voices in global health and biosecurity.
Her fellowship project focuses on bridging the Biological Weapons Convention with the WHO Pandemic Agreement, aiming to strengthen global responses to both natural and deliberate biological threats.
Reflecting on her time at SMU, Khumalo credited mentors such as Professor Hannellie Meyer for helping her grow: “SMU empowered me to claim space in public health as a pharmacist. I hope others will be inspired to do the same.”
Looking to the future, Khumalo envisions a career in global health diplomacy, emergency response, and mentorship. “This fellowship isn’t the finish line — it’s a launchpad. I intend to bring others along on this journey of impact and transformation.”
With determination rooted in her background and a vision shaped by global aspirations, Khumalo’s journey highlights both the calibre of SMU graduates and the power of African leadership on the world stage.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jul 23, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has reason to celebrate as Naledi Mathole, its faculty advisor for the Enactus programme, has been crowned South Africa’s Best Faculty Advisor across all 26 public universities. This prestigious national honour recognises Mathole’s exceptional leadership and mentorship in fostering student entrepreneurship and social innovation at SMU.
“It’s humbling to be recognised for something I’m so passionate about,” says Mathole. “This award reflects the dedication and resilience of the students I’ve had the privilege to mentor. It reaffirms the importance of servant leadership and why supporting students as future changemakers matters.”
Mathole’s route into enterprise development began in the laboratory. Trained in molecular diagnostics, she later instructed medical professionals in microsurgical techniques before turning her focus to innovation and entrepreneurship in higher education. Appointed Coordinator of SMU’s Economic Activation Office in July 2024, she now steers campus-wide programmes including Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE), the Student Women Economic Empowerment Programme (SWEEP), and a suite of innovation challenges – among them the Tshwane Higher Education Innovation Challenge – that connect students with industry partners and funding pathways. Her office works closely with incubators, faculty colleagues and national entrepreneurship networks to scale student ventures beyond campus.
The results have been striking. In its first active year with Mathole as Faculty Advisor, SMU Enactus posted a series of national performances: Techmed Connect advanced to the Enactus Early‑Stage Round; BioGlux placed in the Top Six of the Schneider Electric Challenge; and the team reached the Top Fifteen in the MTN Business Challenge. Numerous early qualifications and “small wins” helped energise a fast-growing entrepreneurial ecosystem at the university.
She credits her students’ drive: “The Enactus executive were eager, disciplined and brave enough to try. That collective energy carried us.”
Her advisory philosophy centres on empowerment, reflection and real-world learning. “We normalise failure as part of innovation. Students need safe spaces to try, fail, learn and iterate. Increasingly, my role is that of a connector – linking students with industry experts, interdisciplinary partners and practical platforms,” she explains. Structure and empathy underpin her leadership. “I don’t hand over answers. I ask questions, challenge assumptions and help them find their own voice.”
Looking ahead, Mathole wants Enactus projects to move from competition stages into durable, community-facing enterprises. Two standouts show the promise: Techmed Connect is developing an AI-enabled, multilingual healthcare agent that includes South African Sign Language; BioGlux explores technologies to support patients with medical implants.
Recruitment for a new Enactus executive and wider membership is imminent, and Mathole is urging students from all disciplines to get involved. “Entrepreneurship isn’t just about business models. It’s about solving real problems and creating impact. That’s what we’re here to nurture.”
Ultimately, she hopes her legacy will be a culture shift. “I want students to experience entrepreneurship not only within higher education as a module, but as a lifelong tool for transformation – a journey from learning about innovation to living it.”
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jun 25, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
At the heart of SMU’s research strategy lies a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, knowledge generation, and technology transfer. By fostering innovation and expanding its research capacity, the university aims to play a pivotal role in addressing South Africa’s pressing healthcare challenges — from infectious diseases to mental health and non-communicable conditions.
A prime example of this ambition is the School of Pharmacy’s recent achievement: securing its second provisional patent. Dr Bwalya Witika, a senior lecturer in Pharmaceutics and his postdoctoral fellow, Dr Jean Ngilirabanga, who joined him in 2023, successfully filed a patent titled “Eutectic Compositions”, with the priority date of 9 June 2025. Their work explores novel drug delivery mechanisms by combining compounds to lower melting points, enhancing the efficacy and tolerability of treatments such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This breakthrough reaffirms the school’s growing reputation for pharmaceutical innovation and research excellence.
Eutectic compositions are mixtures of substances that, when combined, melt at a temperature lower than either of the individual components. In pharmaceutical science, this characteristic is highly valuable for improving drug solubility, stability and delivery, two critical challenges in modern medicine. Witika traced the origins of this research back to 2022, inspired by the urgent need for safer pain management alternatives during the global opioid crisis. “NSAIDs weren’t enough, and opioids came with long-term risks. I wondered—what if we enhanced NSAIDs with something like chilli?” he explained, referring to Nonivamide, a compound structurally related to capsaicin.
The research process involved formulating innovative drug combinations that provided synergistic pain relief. Despite the scientific and administrative challenges, the work culminated in a promising invention that could reshape pain treatment approaches. While the research was conducted internally at SMU, Witika confirmed that discussions with potential industry partners are already underway. “For now, it’s been in-house, but the potential for wider collaboration is significant,” he said.
Filing a provisional patent provides legal protection while allowing further refinement of the invention. Witika praised SMU’s Technology Transfer Office (TTO) for its vital support throughout the process. “TTO Liaison Officer Pontsho Mampuru is a superhero, relentless in his commitment. It’s been a pleasure working with TTO,” he added.
This development follows SMU’s historic first patent in 2024: Raloxifene Hydrochloride Hydrate Solvate, a novel compound with the potential to revolutionise treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis and breast cancer. That breakthrough was led by Emmanuel Kiyonga, a master’s graduate in the School of Pharmacy, and marked the beginning of a new era of innovation for the university.
Together, these patents underscore SMU’s transformation into a research-intensive health sciences institution committed to addressing global health challenges through science and invention. Witika and Ngilirabanga are optimistic about the future of their research. They believe their eutectic formulation could make a major impact on drug development, particularly in the field of pain management. Further patent filings and commercialisation efforts are already underway. “This is just the beginning,” said Witika. “We’re at the forefront of something meaningful. It’s vital that inventors maintain a connection to their work—we must ensure that identity is preserved in the products we create.”
For Witika, the success is both professional and deeply personal. “Even though this is my second patent, the feeling is just as incredible. You’re reminded that you’re contributing something small but significant.” His advice to fellow academics? “Go for it. Don’t hold back.”
For Ngilirabanga, this has been a great success. “I am immensely proud of this achievement, and I am excited about the future. This is my first patent, the first of many. To my fellow academics, keep pushing. Let’s make SMU proud,” said Ngilirabanga.
Looking ahead, they hope that this achievement—along with future innovations—will encourage university leadership to recognise and support the vital role of research in shaping a better world. “These are small steps,” he said, “but they’re paving the way for greater impact on science, patients, and future scholars.”
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jun 25, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
In a momentous achievement for Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Professor Deliwe Rene Phetlhu, Head of the Department of Nursing Sciences, has been awarded the prestigious National Research Foundation (NRF)’s u’Good Grant to the value of R9.1 million. Her successful proposal, selected from over 200 global submissions, is one of only 22 awarded internationally and will fund a groundbreaking project titled “Youth Mental Health in the Era of Climate Change.”
Speaking on the announcement, Professor Phetlhu expressed her elation. “I was overjoyed, particularly because I will be working with young academics, some of whom have never worked on major grants before. Being selected among the top 22 worldwide is a significant honour.”
The three-year project (2025–2027) aims to develop a culturally responsive intervention to enhance the psychological resilience and well-being of young people in South Africa, Ghana, and Tanzania. The research will be grounded in the relational well-being (RWB) theory and principles of Ubuntu, integrating culture, socio-economic contexts, and environmental stressors into its approach.
“Personally, this award affirms my commitment to impactful research,” said Phetlhu. “Professionally, it highlights the critical role nurses can play in emerging areas of health sciences. As the first line of defence in healthcare, nurses are uniquely positioned to lead research that transcends traditional boundaries.”
The project will begin by investigating youth awareness, cultural narratives, and environmental anxieties linked to climate change, before developing and piloting a targeted intervention. Innovative methodologies such as photovoice and vignettes will be employed to capture lived experiences, while technologies like RedCap will ensure secure data handling.
Funding allocation reflects the project’s community-driven ethos. Equipment such as laptops, cameras, and audio recorders will be acquired early on, but the bulk of resources are earmarked for operational costs, particularly youth engagement and travel. Administrative support across the three countries is also a key consideration.
Each project year has clear milestones:
- 2025: Understanding youth climate awareness and mental health practices across three African contexts.
- 2026: Development of an integrated, culturally grounded intervention framework.
- 2027: Implementation of a scalable model for African youth mental health resilience, potentially redefining wellbeing from a continental perspective.
“This research is urgent,” Phetlhu explains. “Globally, climate change is a daily conversation, but in Africa, the link to mental health—especially among youth—is often overlooked. From funeral queues to community gatherings, I’ve asked people their thoughts, and the lack of awareness is concerning.”
The project is proudly transdisciplinary, involving youth-centred NGOs, sociologists, environmentalists, and educational psychologists from South Africa, Ghana, and Tanzania. SMU will host the lead PhD student and two master’s candidates in later stages, while early-career researchers from the institution are included as co-investigators.
The long-term goal is to influence youth mental health policy and practice. “Mental health is becoming a global pandemic. The next generation will carry the heaviest burden of climate change, and they must be equipped with resilience and leadership skills,” Phetlhu said.
She has already initiated engagement with government and sector stakeholders. “I don’t want them to only hear about the project at the end. Their involvement from the start is essential for sustainability.”
Prof Phetlhu also extended gratitude to the SMU Grants Office. “Ms Winnie Motsatsi was phenomenal, supporting me through every step, arranging a reviewer, and accommodating my schedule. I couldn’t have done it without her.”
To fellow researchers at SMU, Phetlhu had a message of inspiration: “Take a risk. Even if it doesn’t work the first time, it’s worth trying. Surround yourself with people who share your work ethic. It might just happen.”
As the project is currently underway, Phetlhu hopes to ignite a continental dialogue on youth wellbeing and climate resilience. “Africa’s future depends on it. Let us prepare our youth to carry the baton with strength and purpose.”
By Tumelo Moila
