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
by Lorato | Jun 25, 2025 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
What began as a childhood curiosity in the township of Ezinketheni has flourished into a mission-driven scientific pursuit, led by Malibongwe Ngcobo, a young researcher determined to transform healthcare through innovation in haematology. A story rooted in personal loss, faith, and academic excellence, Ngcobo’s journey reflects the spirit of resilience and visionary thinking cultivated at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). With every blood sample he analyses, he brings a deeply personal commitment to excellence, redefining what it means to lead with both compassion and scientific rigour in South Africa’s evolving healthcare landscape.
After the passing of his biological mother, Ngcobo moved to Ezinketheni, Pietermaritzburg, at the age of four and was lovingly raised by his aunt and her husband, whom he honours as his parents. As the only young male in a household of girl cousins, he grew up grounded in respect, humility, and dignity.
“My foster parents instilled in me the foundational qualities of manhood, especially respect for women and others,” he shared. “My mother made sure I attended church every Sunday. Her faith in God laid the foundation for my own spiritual life, which still guides me today.”
Education was a pillar of his upbringing. His mother constantly reminded him that talent alone was insufficient—academic qualifications were the key to credibility. A cousin who regularly taught him beyond the school curriculum sparked his love for learning.
His ambition to pursue science was solidified in high school after a teacher remarked that he had the makings of a scientist. But it was the loss of his mother—who died from a haematological condition—that gave him a deep, personal motivation. “I didn’t understand what had happened to her. That drove me to learn more and help others who might face the same fate.”
In his third year at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Ngcobo encountered a haematology module that changed everything. “It answered questions I’d carried for years. When I learnt UKZN didn’t offer an Honours programme in Haematology, I searched for other institutions and found SMU.”
At SMU, he discovered an academically rigorous and supportive environment. “The Department of Haematological Pathology, from the secretary to the Head of Department, offered professionalism and encouragement,” he said.
For his Honours research, Ngcobo analysed 384 haematology requisition forms to assess their completeness and accuracy. The findings were striking. “Not a single form was fully completed. Even minor omissions, like missing clinician contact details, can delay critical communication and affect patient care.”
Though the data collection process was demanding, Ngcobo attributes his growth to the programme and the guidance of his supervisor, Professor Vanessa Moodley. “I learned to persevere and think critically under pressure. Professor Moodley encouraged me to view challenges creatively and holistically.”
Now serving as an Intern Biological Scientist at the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) at SMU, Ngcobo sees this role as a crucial step towards his goal of pursuing a PhD in Haematology. He aims to contribute innovative, evidence-based solutions that enhance diagnostics and patient care.
He is deeply committed to ethical laboratory practice and raising awareness about haematological conditions. “Every blood sample represents a life. Errors—especially during the pre-analytical phase—are unacceptable. Our role as lab professionals is critical.”
Ngcobo overcame challenges such as procrastination and self-doubt through daily discipline and the unwavering support of his department. “I began by reading just five pages a day. That small step built consistency. Believing in myself and knowing support was available made a huge difference.”
To aspiring haematologists, his message is clear: “Haematology is demanding. Opportunities are scarce. To thrive, you must be exceptional, focused, and ready to exceed expectations.”
Ngcobo’s story is not just about academic success—it is a narrative of transformation, fuelled by purpose and empathy. As he continues to build his career in haematology, he remains committed to bridging the gap between complex science and patient-centred care, ensuring that every breakthrough brings tangible benefits to those who need it most.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jun 25, 2025 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
In a proud moment for Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Dr Karmishtha Maharaj was conferred with a PhD in Pharmacy during the university’s recent autumn graduation ceremony. Her achievement is not only a personal milestone but a significant contribution to advancing pharmacovigilance within the private healthcare sector, particularly in the context of HIV treatment in South Africa.
Now 39 years old, Dr Maharaj is currently based at Ampath Laboratories in Centurion, where she serves as a Pharmacogenomics Specialist. Her professional journey with Ampath spans over 13 years, beginning in 2011 as a Phlebotomy Facilitator. Originally from Newcastle in KwaZulu-Natal, Maharaj’s career has been deeply shaped by her upbringing in a close-knit family and an enduring desire to bridge patient care and pharmaceutical science.
“My interest in medicine began early,” she reflects. “From weekends volunteering at a private hospital to shadowing my uncle at his pharmacy, I was always drawn to helping others. I first trained as a nurse and later transitioned into pharmacy, blending the clinical and pharmaceutical sides of patient care.”
Maharaj’s doctoral research, conducted through SMU’s School of Pharmacy, focused on the use of routine laboratory tests as early indicators of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in patients on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART). Her study, conducted at a major private HIV treatment practice in Pretoria, sought to address a critical gap in South Africa’s pharmacovigilance data, particularly within the under-researched private healthcare sector.
She strongly believes laboratory-based monitoring should become a standard in ADR surveillance. “It enables early detection of toxicity before symptoms appear, allowing timely interventions. This approach not only improves patient safety and adherence but fills major gaps in traditional pharmacovigilance, especially when managing complex cases involving multiple medications.”
Despite the private sector being relatively well-equipped, with access to electronic health records and accredited laboratories, Maharaj points out that systemic challenges remain. “There’s no coordinated pharmacovigilance framework in private care. Proactive monitoring is still underutilised, and pharmacogenomics testing is limited due to cost and lack of awareness.”
Her study reviewed 267 patient files from a private HIV clinic in Pretoria. Elevated creatinine and liver enzymes served as early warning signs of renal and hepatic toxicity. She observed that patients on concomitant medications had heightened risks, and that ART changes were most commonly associated with drugs like efavirenz and lopinavir.
“My research offers valuable insights that can contribute to national health policy,” she says. “It provides a model for integrating lab data into national pharmacovigilance frameworks, updating HIV treatment guidelines, and improving surveillance beyond clinician reporting.”
She is also eager to expand the research to public health settings and rural areas. “We need to ensure the research represents the broader HIV population. Exploring regional differences and building scalable, risk-based models could strengthen provincial and national responses to HIV care.”
Looking ahead, Maharaj envisions several research paths, including prospective studies, cost-effectiveness analysis of lab-based surveillance, and the feasibility of implementing pharmacogenomic testing and therapeutic drug monitoring locally.
She also hopes to see her findings incorporated into national medical training and treatment guidelines. “Empowering healthcare providers with these tools through education would support a more predictive, personalised approach to care.”
Completing a PhD while working full-time was no small feat. “It required planning, discipline, and self-care. My support system—family, mentors, friends—was essential. There were moments of doubt and setbacks, but also incredible breakthroughs that reminded me why this work matters.”
Now that she has earned her PhD, Maharaj plans to continue blending academic research with public engagement. “I want to raise awareness around drug safety and help integrate personalised medicine into routine care.”
She hopes her legacy is one of improved patient safety and inspired future researchers. “For young women from underrepresented backgrounds, I say: believe in your potential. Your voice matters, and your journey can change lives.”
Summing up her journey, Maharaj shares, “The rewarding challenge of pioneering new paths. As Elizabeth Blackwell said, ‘It is not easy to be a pioneer – but oh, it is fascinating!’”
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jun 25, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
From the quiet neighbourhood of Leondale in Germiston to the cutting-edge laboratories of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Boikanyo Mokgwabona’s path is a compelling narrative of curiosity turned conviction. Rooted in family values, inspired by a nurturing grandmother, and shaped by a university environment that fostered both intellect and integrity, Mokgwabona has steadily transformed his early fascination with science into a purposeful pursuit of biomedical research. His story is one of growth, grit, and a relentless commitment to making a meaningful impact through science.
Raised in a close-knit family by both parents, alongside an older brother and a younger sister, Mokgwabona’s formative years were defined by encouragement, stability, and the gentle strength of his late grandmother. With his parents often working late and his brother occupied with football training, he spent many afternoons under the care of his grandparents.
“From early on, my grandmother played a pivotal role in encouraging me academically,” he reflects. “She instilled in me the drive to always do my best. Her words still echo in my mind, reminding me to push beyond what I think I’m capable of.”
Though he didn’t initially have a defined career goal in science, Mokgwabona was always drawn to the subject. With the unwavering support of his family, he had the freedom to explore his academic interests and define his own path.
“I was fortunate to be raised by parents who supported my decisions,” he says. “They gave me the autonomy to choose my academic direction, and that made all the difference.”
His decision to apply to SMU came unexpectedly, sparked by a suggestion from his aunt. At the time, he knew little about the university, but the opportunity felt right.
“When I enrolled in the BSc programme, I saw it as a chance to find clarity about my purpose,” he recalls. “I didn’t know exactly where it would lead, but I believed that by the end of it, I would have direction.”
As his undergraduate studies progressed, Mokgwabona discovered a strong passion for biochemistry. A conversation with Dr Vuyisile S. Thibane—who later became his Honours supervisor—helped him map out a clear research focus and inspired him to continue with postgraduate studies.
“My experience at SMU was truly transformative,” he says. “The environment encouraged both personal and academic growth. It helped me develop confidence and competence.”
For his Honours project, Mokgwabona investigated the “Efficacy of herbal-herbal plant interactions in reducing polycystic ovarian syndrome-induced inflammatory response.” The research, while demanding, provided a vital learning curve in working independently in a laboratory setting.
“One of the biggest lessons was learning to take ownership of my work,” he explains. “Mistakes are inevitable, but what matters is recognising them, correcting them, and having the humility to seek help when needed.”
His time in the laboratory also strengthened his interpersonal skills—working closely with peers, supporting colleagues, and learning from experienced researchers.
“Lab work taught me the value of teamwork, patience, and adaptability. Those experiences prepared me for what lies ahead,” he says.
Looking to the future, Mokgwabona plans to pursue a master’s degree with a research focus on neurodegenerative diseases, hoping to make a real difference in the lives of those affected by chronic illness.
“I want my work to have a tangible impact,” he says. “Especially in improving the lives of people living with long-term conditions.”
In the next five years, he aspires to publish in peer-reviewed journals and transition into industrial or clinical research roles, where he can continue to innovate and contribute to meaningful scientific advancement.
To fellow students, Mokgwabona offers a message of encouragement: “Always strive for growth. Stay curious, be open to learning from those around you, and let your journey shape you into the person you are meant to become.”
By Dimakatso Modise
