by Lorato | Jul 9, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and The Innovation Hub Management Company (TIHMC) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will strengthen innovation, entrepreneurship and healthcare technology development within South Africa’s township economy.
The three-year agreement establishes the physical presence of The Innovation Hub’s eKasiLab Ga-Rankuwa programme within the SMU ecosystem, creating a collaborative platform that connects academia, industry and government to accelerate enterprise development, skills training and the commercialisation of healthcare, medical and biotechnology innovations.
The partnership will leverage shared facilities, research and development resources, and innovation networks to transform research outcomes into practical solutions that address both healthcare and broader societal challenges. The initiative will be jointly overseen by Ms Naledi Mathole who currently oversees activities at SMU’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (CfERI), and TIHMC Manager for Partnerships, Mpho Mbonani.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mathole described the agreement as a strategic step towards strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship within the university and surrounding communities.
“The MoU establishes a strategic partnership between Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University and The Innovation Hub Management Company to strengthen innovation, entrepreneurship, skills development and the commercialisation of solutions that address healthcare and societal challenges,” she said.
Mathole added that the collaboration would provide students and staff with enhanced access to innovation programmes, mentorship opportunities, industry networks and incubation support.
“The partnership will support the development of student and staff start-ups, the commercialisation of research and intellectual property, and greater access to innovation ecosystems through investors and industry partners,” she said.
Professor Dini Mawela, SMU Acting Vice Chancellor, said the agreement aligns with the university’s vision of becoming an entrepreneurial institution that equips graduates with practical skills alongside academic excellence.
“We want all activities at SMU to point towards being an entrepreneurial university so that our students graduate with tangible, practical skills,” said Mawela. “Our students are discovering incredible things, and through initiatives such as innovation hackathons and programming competitions, we are encouraging them to transform creative ideas into solutions that can make a meaningful impact in society.”
A key objective of the partnership is to stimulate socio-economic development in Ga-Rankuwa, Mabopane and surrounding communities by creating pathways for local innovation and sustainable business growth.
TIHMC Area Innovation Manager for Township Economic Revitalisation, Buti Makama, highlighted the importance of building a self-sustaining healthcare innovation ecosystem that reduces reliance on imported interventions.
“SMU is producing the scientists, while we provide access to laboratories, capital and business expertise. Together, we are building an ecosystem that can develop local healthcare solutions and strengthen South Africa’s innovation capacity,” he said.
Acting Executive for Township Economy Revitalisation at The Innovation Hub, Kgaugelo Tsoka, said the partnership would expand opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators.
“By bringing together the strengths of SMU and eKasiLab, we are creating opportunities for young people, innovators and entrepreneurs to access the skills, support and networks they need to transform ideas into sustainable businesses and impactful solutions,” said Tsoka.
The agreement also promotes joint intellectual property development, strengthens compliance with data privacy requirements under the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act, and creates opportunities for new revenue streams through innovation and commercialisation.
As South Africa commemorates 50 years since the 1976 Youth Day uprisings, the partnership reflects SMU’s ongoing commitment to transforming health services through excellence and innovation. By empowering future scientists, entrepreneurs and healthcare leaders, the university continues to advance solutions that improve lives, strengthen communities and contribute to the country’s long-term development.
By Rose Moreki
by Lorato | Jul 9, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) reaffirmed its commitment to developing socially accountable and resilient healthcare professionals by hosting the I LEAD Panel Discussion Programme recently at the University’s New Auditorium. Held under the theme, Leading Together, Building Resilient Minds, Collaborative Teams, and Future Healthcare Leaders, the event brought together accomplished alumni, students, academics and healthcare professionals for an afternoon of meaningful dialogue on leadership and professional development.
The programme highlighted SMU’s dedication to producing graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also equipped with the leadership skills, emotional intelligence and collaborative mindset needed to navigate increasingly complex healthcare environments.
Welcoming attendees, Professor Honey Mabuza, Head of the Department of Professionalism, Medical Ethics and Clinical Integrated Programmes (POME) in the School of Medicine, emphasised the importance of nurturing healthcare professionals who lead with integrity and compassion.
“Technical competence alone is no longer sufficient in today’s healthcare landscape. We must develop professionals who can lead ethically, work collaboratively and respond effectively to the challenges facing our health systems,” she said.
Dr Nokufa Mnguni, POME 2 Coordinator, provided an overview of the programme and encouraged students to embrace opportunities for mentorship and continuous learning.
“Leadership is not developed overnight. It is cultivated through curiosity, meaningful engagement and the willingness to learn from those who have walked the path before you,” she said.
The highlight of the event was an engaging panel discussion facilitated by Dr Brenda Kubheka-Chauke, featuring four distinguished SMU alumni whose careers span various sectors of the healthcare industry. The panel comprised Dr Stan Moloabi, Principal Officer of the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS); Dr Inge Kleinhans, Public Health Medicine Specialist at SMU; Major General Dr Nsizwa Skosana, Deputy Surgeon General of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF); and Dr Molapane Chueu, Public Health Medicine Specialist at the Auditor-General of South Africa.
Drawing from their professional journeys, the panellists shared valuable lessons on resilience, ethical leadership and lifelong learning. They stressed that effective leadership extends beyond positions of authority and is rooted in accountability, empathy and a commitment to serving communities.
“The healthcare sector needs leaders who can work across disciplines and build partnerships that improve patient outcomes and strengthen health systems,” one panellist remarked.
One of the programme’s most impactful moments came during the interactive question-and-answer session, where students sought advice on career development, overcoming adversity and maintaining well-being in demanding professional environments. The panellists responded candidly, encouraging students to remain resilient, seek mentorship and continuously develop both their clinical and interpersonal skills.
Representing the student body, second-year MBChB POME Student Leader Mogau Matlanyane expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with accomplished alumni.
“Hearing the experiences of these professionals has broadened our understanding of leadership and inspired us to pursue excellence in every aspect of our future careers,” he said.
The programme also acknowledged the valuable partnership with GEMS, whose support reinforced the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in advancing healthcare education and leadership development.
Certificates were presented to student leaders in recognition of their commitment to academic excellence, peer support and responsible leadership within the University community.
As the event concluded, attendees continued networking over refreshments in an atmosphere of optimism and inspiration. The I LEAD Panel Discussion Programme served as a powerful reminder that leadership is shaped through mentorship, shared experiences and collaboration. By connecting students with accomplished alumni and industry leaders, SMU continues to strengthen its mission of developing visionary healthcare professionals who are prepared to lead meaningful change in South Africa’s healthcare sector and beyond.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jul 9, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
A delegation of MBChB students from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has returned inspired after attending the 53rd Surgical Research Society of Southern Africa (SRSSA) Conference, hosted by the University of the Witwatersrand’s Department of Surgery.
The delegation comprised third-, fourth- and fifth-year medical students who attended through the support of the School of Medicine Deanery Office under the leadership of Professor Risenga Chauke. Their participation reflects SMU’s commitment to developing future clinician-scientists, researchers and healthcare leaders.
The annual SRSSA Conference is one of Southern Africa’s premier academic surgical gatherings, bringing together surgeons, researchers, clinician-scientists and medical students to present and discuss original surgical research. This year’s scientific programme covered trauma, gastrointestinal, vascular, paediatric, breast, hepatopancreatobiliary and orthopaedic surgery, among other specialities, while providing a dedicated platform for medical student research presentations.
Representing SMU were fifth-year students Vumbhoni Mahlaule and Tshepiso Maredi, fourth-year students Albert Sebulela and Thapelo Mthimunye, and third-year student Thabiso Seerane.
The students had the opportunity to learn from internationally respected experts, including Professor Zach Koto, President of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa; Professor Thifhelimbilu Luvhengo, President of the SRSSA; Professor Tom Varghese from the United States; Professor Craig McBride from Australia; Dr Daryll Baker from the United Kingdom; and Professor Rachel Hargest from the United Kingdom.
Addressing delegates, Professor McBride encouraged aspiring surgeons to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, saying, “We’ve not gotten this far to only get this far.” Professor Luvhengo welcomed the strong participation of medical students, describing them as the future of surgery.
Dr Mthembu also commended SMU’s representation, saying: “The future of Surgery at SMU is in the correct trajectory. It was heartwarming to see SMU Medical Students from 3rd year, 4th year and 5th year of study participating in the scientific programme of the Surgical Research Society.”
Adding to the University’s achievements, SMU-trained general surgeon Dr W. Vosloo received an award for his presentation on the patient profile and socioeconomic impact of chronic venous disease at a tertiary hospital in Gauteng, highlighting the quality and impact of SMU alumni in surgical research.
For the students, the conference provided invaluable exposure to cutting-edge research and evidence-based surgical practice.
Fifth-year student and School of Medicine SRC Chairperson Vumbhoni Mahlaule said, “The conference serves as an inspiration of what I aspire to become: an exceptional clinician surgeon with a strong passion for research and academia. The future of surgery is safeguarded by research and evidence-based medicine.”
Fourth-year student Albert Sebulela said the conference reinforced that research remains the cornerstone of surgical practice and strengthened his aspiration to make a meaningful contribution through surgery and research.
Reflecting on the experience, fourth-year student Thapelo Mthimunye said the conference broadened his understanding of surgical innovation and reinforced the importance of integrating research, leadership and lifelong learning into clinical medicine.
Third-year student Thabiso Seerane said the conference strengthened his ambition to become a surgeon who combines clinical excellence with research and academic leadership, adding that he left inspired by surgeons who continue to seek better answers while investing in the next generation.
The conference reaffirmed that the future of surgery depends on innovation, collaboration and evidence-based medicine. Through continued support from the School of Medicine Deanery, SMU remains committed to producing graduates who are not only skilled clinicians but also researchers, academics and healthcare leaders dedicated to improving patient care in South Africa and beyond.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jul 2, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) alumna and accomplished audiologist, speech therapist and entrepreneur Amogelang Emerlda Bunu has been named among the Top 24 finalists in the Miss South Africa 2026 competition, adding another milestone to a career defined by academic excellence, healthcare advocacy and community service.
The 27-year-old from Mabopane, Gauteng, is a graduate of SMU, where she completed both her Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology in 2019 and a Master of Audiology in 2024. She currently serves as a speech therapist, audiologist, entrepreneur and part-time clinical educator at the University of the Witwatersrand, while also leading her own private practice, Bunu Speech Therapy and Audiology, which focuses on improving access to communication and hearing healthcare across underserved communities.
Bunu’s selection among the country’s leading pageant finalists reflects not only her professional achievements but also her commitment to improving the lives of children through early intervention, communication health and inclusive development. Through the Miss South Africa Organisation’s Empower Youth Africa (EYA) framework, she is championing her advocacy initiative, Communication, Access and Safety Through Playground, which promotes safe play spaces alongside mandatory communication and hearing screenings in schools.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to communicate, learn and thrive,” said Bunu. “I believe that play is far more than recreation. It supports cognitive, emotional and social development, while early hearing and communication screening allows children to receive the support they need before challenges become lifelong barriers. My goal is to ensure that every child, regardless of where they live, has access to quality communication, healthcare and safe environments that nurture their potential.”
Her advocacy is informed by years of clinical practice in both the public and private healthcare sectors. Before establishing her private practice, Bunu worked at Heidelberg Hospital, where she provided comprehensive speech therapy and audiology services and later served as Acting Head of Department. Today, her practice delivers screening, assessment and treatment services while conducting community outreach programmes at schools, churches and other community organisations.
Alongside her healthcare career, Bunu has distinguished herself as a martial artist. A former Junior World Karate Champion, she has represented South Africa internationally and continues to compete while balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship and academia. She credits karate with instilling the discipline and resilience that have shaped both her professional and personal journey.
Reflecting on her journey, Bunu said her education at SMU laid the foundation for her success.
“My years at SMU equipped me with the knowledge, clinical skills and confidence to serve communities with compassion and excellence. The university challenged me to become a healthcare professional who not only treats patients but also advocates for meaningful change. I am proud to carry those values into every aspect of my work and this Miss South Africa journey,” she said.
Voting for the Miss South Africa 2026 finalists is currently open and closes on 6 July 2026, with supporters able to cast their votes through the Miss South Africa website or mobile application.
Bunu’s achievement once again showcases the calibre of SMU graduates who continue to make meaningful contributions beyond the healthcare sector. By combining academic excellence with leadership, advocacy and service, she embodies the university’s mission of transforming lives through education, innovation and community engagement while inspiring a new generation of health professionals to create lasting social impact.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jul 2, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has strengthened its position as a leader in health research and innovation by hosting the inaugural Longevity Science Forum Africa 2026, bringing together leading scientists, policymakers, healthcare professionals, innovators, traditional leaders and researchers to explore how healthy ageing can transform Africa’s future.
Held recently under the theme, “Advancing Economic Power Through Integrated Health Resilience,” the two-day forum combined an in-person programme at the SMU campus with a virtual platform that enabled participation from experts and delegates across Africa and beyond.
Convened by Brenda Ramokopelwa, Chief Executive Officer of Afrolongevity and TAFFD’s, the forum created a multidisciplinary platform for discussions on longevity science, predictive healthcare, Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), policy development and innovation aimed at increasing healthy life expectancy while strengthening Africa’s economic resilience.
Welcoming delegates, SMU Director of Research and Innovation, Professor Mapaseka Lucy Seheri, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to producing research that responds to Africa’s health priorities.
“Hosting the inaugural Longevity Science Forum Africa reflects SMU’s commitment to research excellence and innovation that addresses Africa’s healthcare challenges. Healthy longevity is not simply about extending life expectancy—it is about ensuring people live healthier, more productive and dignified lives. Through partnerships such as these, we continue to advance research that transforms communities and contributes to sustainable development,” said Professor Seheri.
The scientific programme featured internationally renowned experts who examined the biology of ageing, healthy longevity medicine and the growing importance of preventative healthcare. Presentations explored cutting-edge research on cellular rejuvenation, predictive medicine and evidence-based interventions that can improve healthspan while reducing the burden of chronic disease.
Delegates also examined the economic value of healthy ageing, with discussions highlighting how increasing healthy life expectancy can enhance workforce productivity, reduce healthcare costs and stimulate sustainable economic growth across African countries.
A major focus of the forum was translating scientific discoveries into practical healthcare solutions. Researchers emphasised stronger collaboration between universities, healthcare systems and industry to accelerate the implementation of innovations that improve quality of life for African communities.
The forum further celebrated the role of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in advancing modern medicine. Experts explored how African medicinal knowledge and indigenous herbal medicine can complement scientific research, contribute to disease prevention and support future pharmaceutical discoveries while preserving cultural heritage.
Recognising the importance of nurturing future scientific leaders, the programme showcased presentations by emerging researchers, including winners of the SMU 2026 Hackathon, who demonstrated innovative health technologies and solutions developed to address pressing healthcare challenges.
Traditional leaders also joined policymakers and academics in discussions on indigenous leadership, land stewardship, medical tourism and Africa’s growing health economy, underscoring the value of integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific research.
Forum Convenor Brenda Ramokopelwa described the gathering as a landmark moment for African science.
“Africa possesses world-class scientific talent, rich indigenous knowledge and innovative communities capable of shaping the future of healthy longevity. The conversations held during this forum demonstrate that by working together across disciplines and sectors, we can create African solutions that improve health outcomes, stimulate economic growth and position the continent as a leader in longevity science,” she said.
The forum concluded with a collective commitment to strengthen partnerships, promote interdisciplinary research and develop a continental roadmap for healthy longevity and integrated health resilience. By hosting the inaugural Longevity Science Forum Africa, SMU reaffirmed its role as a leading African health sciences university advancing research, innovation and community impact in pursuit of healthier, more resilient societies.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jul 2, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and the Royal Bafokeng Nation have strengthened their shared commitment to improving healthcare access, advancing medical education and empowering communities through the renewal of their longstanding Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).
The renewed partnership reinforces a strategic collaboration focused on expanding quality healthcare services, strengthening clinical training opportunities for future healthcare professionals and deepening community engagement initiatives that respond to the evolving health needs of communities served by the Royal Bafokeng Nation. It also aligns with SMU’s mission of transforming health services through excellence, innovation and socially accountable healthcare education.
The renewal discussions were led by the Dean of the SMU School of Medicine, Professor Risenga Chauke, and the Acting Managing Director of the Royal Bafokeng Nation, Mr Obakeng Petwe. The meeting reaffirmed both institutions’ shared vision of building healthier communities through sustainable partnerships that combine education, service delivery and community development.
Discussions centred on practical strategies to extend healthcare services to underserved communities while ensuring that SMU medical students receive high-quality clinical training in real-world healthcare environments. Both institutions agreed that strengthening academic-healthcare partnerships is essential for producing competent healthcare professionals capable of addressing South Africa’s growing healthcare challenges.
Professor Chauke said the renewed agreement reflects SMU’s unwavering commitment to developing healthcare professionals who are equipped to serve communities with compassion, competence and professionalism.
“This partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to improving the health and well-being of communities through collaborative action. By combining our expertise and resources, we are not only expanding access to quality healthcare services but also creating meaningful learning opportunities for our students. Community-centred healthcare remains at the heart of our mission, and this renewed agreement strengthens our ability to make a lasting impact.”
A key priority identified during the discussions was the expansion of primary healthcare services by bringing essential healthcare closer to communities. Both parties agreed that improving access to preventative healthcare, early diagnosis and primary care services is fundamental to reducing health inequalities, improving patient outcomes and strengthening community health over the long term.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of meaningful community engagement that places patients at the centre of healthcare delivery. Future collaboration will include career exhibitions designed to inspire learners to pursue careers in the health sciences, public health awareness campaigns promoting disease prevention and healthy lifestyles, and community-based screening programmes that support the early detection and management of common health conditions.
Recognising the shortage of healthcare professionals in many rural and underserved areas, SMU and the Royal Bafokeng Nation will also explore opportunities to expand specialised medical services into communities where access remains limited. This approach will not only improve healthcare equity but also expose students to diverse clinical environments that strengthen their practical skills, professional confidence and understanding of community healthcare.
The discussions further underscored the importance of maintaining existing and securing additional Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) accreditation for clinical training platforms. Expanding accredited training sites will ensure compliance with national healthcare education standards, strengthen clinical supervision and create additional placement opportunities for SMU students.
Mr Petwe said the Royal Bafokeng Nation values its longstanding relationship with SMU and remains committed to initiatives that create lasting benefits for local communities.
“Our partnership with Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University is founded on a shared responsibility to improve the quality of life of our communities. Renewing this agreement enables us to strengthen healthcare services, invest in the development of future healthcare professionals and ensure that our people continue to benefit from accessible, quality healthcare. Together, we are building a sustainable model of community healthcare that will serve future generations.”
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to renew the Memorandum of Agreement and continue strengthening collaboration in healthcare delivery, medical education and community engagement. As SMU continues to build strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, the university remains steadfast in its mission of advancing healthcare, producing highly skilled health professionals and driving sustainable solutions that improve the health and well-being of communities across South Africa.
By Dimakatso Modise
