by Lorato | Sep 23, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a world where food security and public health are inseparable, Dr Olawole Emmanuel Aina stands out as a scientist whose work bridges agriculture, environmental safety, and human well-being. His journey to a PhD in Science reflects not only academic excellence but also an unyielding drive to address one of society’s most pressing challenges: how to feed a growing population without compromising health or the environment. “Sustainable agriculture isn’t just about crops; it’s about protecting people and the planet,” says Dr Aina, capturing the philosophy behind his research.
Dr Aina’s academic pathway demonstrates a natural progression of curiosity and commitment. Beginning with a BSc in Biological Sciences, followed by a Master’s in Zoology, he has now culminated his studies with a PhD focused on food safety and agricultural sustainability. His decision to pursue doctoral research, he explains, was motivated by the opportunity to deepen scientific expertise, contribute to global challenges, and inspire the next generation of scientists. “I wanted my research to have a practical impact – to guide farmers and reassure consumers,” he reflects.
At Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Dr Aina investigated the trace metal uptake, nutritional composition, and microbial quality of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and carrots (Daucus carota) grown in soils treated with organic manure and inorganic fertilisers. The choice of these crops was deliberate. As vegetables are widely consumed raw, often without decontamination, they are critical indicators of food safety risks.
The findings were striking. While organic manure improved mineral content, it also carried significant risks. Vegetables grown in soil amended with sewage sludge, for instance, showed potential exposure to non-carcinogenic diseases and harboured higher loads of faecal bacteria than those cultivated with inorganic fertilisers. These insights challenge the popular perception that “organic” automatically means safer or healthier. “Organic does not always mean safe. We must look beyond labels to science,” Dr Aina emphasises.
His research underscores a nuanced truth: sustainability requires balance. He advocates for combining organic and inorganic fertilisers to optimise soil fertility, enhance crop nutrition, and protect consumer health. Beyond farming practice, his recommendations speak directly to policymakers. He urges tighter regulation of organic amendments, mandatory treatment of sewage sludge before agricultural use, and more rigorous inspections of production sites and retail outlets. “Good policy, backed by scientific evidence, is essential for safe food systems,” he insists.
The journey, however, was not without challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed fieldwork and laboratory access, while limited equipment forced him to outsource key analyses. Yet these obstacles reinforced a lesson he now shares with aspiring doctoral students: begin with what you have rather than waiting for perfect conditions. “Perfection is a luxury; progress comes from using what’s available,” he advises.
For Dr Aina, the most rewarding aspect of his PhD journey has been disseminating his findings – not only through peer-reviewed publications but also to farmers and consumers who can apply them directly. “Seeing farmers adopt safer practices makes every challenge worthwhile,” he reflects.
Looking ahead, Dr Aina sees great promise in the future of sustainable agriculture in South Africa and across the continent, provided innovation, policy, investment, and inclusivity align. His next steps remain anchored in higher education, where he intends to continue blending research, teaching, and community engagement.
His message is clear: sustainable farming and safe food production are collective responsibilities. Protecting soil, reducing harmful inputs, and ensuring food safety are interconnected commitments that must be shared by farmers, consumers, scientists, and policymakers alike. “Our soil, our food, our health – they are inseparable. Together, we must protect them,” he concludes.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Sep 23, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The psychiatry wards at Jubilee District Hospital, in Hamaanskraal, came alive with music, colour, and laughter as fourth-year Occupational Therapy (OT) students from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) hosted a vibrant Heritage Month celebration. The event blended cultural pride with therapeutic purpose, reminding everyone present of the profound role occupational therapy plays in supporting mental health.
OT is more than treatment; it is about helping people reclaim meaning in their daily lives despite illness or limitation. At Jubilee Hospital, OT students work alongside mental health care users to build confidence, develop skills, and promote independence. This Heritage Month initiative extended those principles beyond the therapy room. Patients engaged in traditional crafts, songs, and performances, celebrating identity and culture in an inclusive, healing environment.
“Activities like these are essential for our patients,” explains Mmabatho Mosoma, Head of the OT Department at Jubilee Hospital. “They create belonging, reconnect patients to their roots, and offer joy with therapeutic value. Celebrations are not just fun—they are treatment in action.”
The wards were transformed into spaces of creativity and connection. Patients collaborated with students to craft cultural items, share stories, and perform traditional songs. Far from mere entertainment, these activities reduced anxiety, encouraged social interaction, and boosted self-esteem—elements central to psychiatric rehabilitation.
For the students, the event was more than a practical exercise. It was a farewell gift to the patients after seven weeks of training. “This celebration was especially meaningful,” reflects Tshireletso Tshimpa, a fourth-year OT student. “It was our final day, and we wanted to leave something lasting. Engaging in cultural activities allowed us to apply our learning in real life while giving patients an uplifting experience.”
The initiative showcased the heart of occupational therapy—empowerment, inclusion, and patient-centred care. By working directly with mental health care users, students sharpened professional skills in empathy, communication, and therapeutic intervention. Patients, in turn, gained opportunities to express themselves, explore identity, and find dignity through creativity.
Mashudu Madavha, Therapeutics Manager at Jubilee Hospital, praised the event’s impact. “South Africa’s cultural diversity is one of its greatest strengths. When patients feel connected to it, they feel valued. Cultural engagement reduces stress and restores a sense of normalcy, even in psychiatric wards. This initiative shows how therapy and community can merge to promote wellness.”
The celebration also highlighted how occupational therapy extends beyond conventional health care. It integrates the social, emotional, and cultural dimensions of healing, helping patients not only cope but thrive. For SMU, this approach is central to its curriculum, which emphasises real-world engagement and community-centred learning. Students are expected to immerse themselves in the lived realities of the people they serve, using knowledge to meet health needs while advancing social inclusion.
The day closed with shared songs, handcrafted keepsakes, and heartfelt laughter between patients and students. For the patients, it was a rare moment of celebration and belonging. For the students, it was a lesson in the transformative power of compassion and culture.
Through initiatives like this, SMU’s OT students are proving that healing is not only clinical—it is human. By weaving together culture, creativity, and care, they are shaping a future where patients feel seen, valued, and empowered.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Sep 23, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is abuzz as it prepares to welcome the Southern African Universities Staff Sports Association (SAUSSA) Games from 7–13 December 2025. For the first time, SMU will host the region’s premier staff sporting event, bringing together 19 universities from across Southern Africa, including Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The excitement was palpable during the Chairperson’s Meeting at SMU, where delegates from all 20 SAUSSA member universities gathered to finalise preparations. The discussions covered facility inspections, accommodation readiness, security arrangements, and social cohesion strategies, ensuring that the 24th edition will run seamlessly.
SMU has allocated approximately 2,450 beds to host visiting staff athletes and officials, guaranteeing comfort and convenience throughout the week-long festival of sport. Security remains a priority, with law enforcement and local police present to ensure a safe and inclusive environment.
“This meeting set the tone for a historic Games,” said SAUSSA President Simon Makena. “We are confident SMU will rise to the occasion. The preparations and engagement we’ve seen inspire faith that this edition will be exceptional.”
For SMU, the event is more than a competition; it is an opportunity to showcase hospitality, culture, and regional unity. “Hosting this event allows us to bring universities together through sport and foster collaboration beyond borders,” said Caroline Moeletsi, Chairperson of SMU Staff Sports Association (SMUSSA). “With every detail inspected and approved, SMU is ready to deliver an unforgettable experience.”
The Games will feature a rich variety of sporting codes—from athletics, soccer, and netball to volleyball, tennis, tug-of-war, basketball, darts, chess, and the ever-popular Super 8 Pool. Each discipline allows athletes to shine while promoting healthy competition, teamwork, and institutional pride.
Under the theme “Fostering Regional Integration through Sports,” the SAUSSA Games extend beyond medals and trophies. They serve as a platform for cultural exchange, relationship-building, and strengthening ties across the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Athletes and staff alike will experience the vibrancy of the region, forging connections that extend beyond the playing fields.
SMU is pulling out all the stops to ensure participants enjoy top-tier facilities, vibrant cultural showcases, and a warm welcome. The university aims to highlight South Africa’s growing role as a hub for regional sports and cultural events, while promoting wellness, camaraderie, and social cohesion among university employees.
As the countdown begins, anticipation is high. The 24th SAUSSA Games promise a week of exhilaration, unity, and celebration—where athletic excellence meets cultural pride, and regional collaboration takes centre stage. From thrilling competitions to shared experiences across borders, this landmark event is set to leave a lasting impression on all participants. Let the Games begin, and let SMU shine on the regional stage.
By Rose Moreki
by Lorato | Sep 23, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The open-air shelter at Theresa Park Secondary School was buzzing with excitement as Grade 10 learners stepped into a world beyond textbooks. On this sunny day, the Clinical Pharmacy Department at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) transformed the space into a lively science hub, sparking curiosity about careers in Pharmacy and showing students that the field reaches far beyond pills and prescriptions.
Theresa Park Secondary is a young school—just two years old—but it is already making strides in Mathematics and Science. The visit from SMU gave learners more than information; it gave them a vision. Instead of passively listening, they engaged, asked questions, and began to picture themselves as future healthcare professionals.
Leading the session was Justice Luvhimbi, a PhD candidate in SMU’s School of Pharmacy. With energy and conviction, he told learners: “Pharmacy is about more than medicines—it’s about research, problem-solving, and improving lives. The choices you make today will shape the opportunities you can seize tomorrow. Stay curious, work hard, and believe in your potential.” His message was clear: success is built on focus and determination.
The interactive format kept the learners on their toes. Presenters introduced them to Pharmacy’s many branches—hospital and community practice, pharmaceutical research, regulatory affairs, and academia—painting a picture of a career rich with possibilities. The outdoor setting encouraged honest conversations as students asked about study requirements, real-world applications, and the difference pharmacists make in communities.
For the school, this was more than a career talk; it was a milestone. Deputy Principal Judith Nketlepe Maduwe praised the initiative: “Career guidance is essential for our learners. SMU’s visit informs and inspires. It shows our students what is possible when ambition meets education and motivates them to aim high in their studies and their future.”
The learners’ enthusiasm told its own story. Grade 10 student Shalomiele Middleton left with a new perspective: “I now see that Pharmacy is about helping people, doing research, and even teaching. This session has motivated me to work harder in Maths and Science so I can achieve my dreams.”
The outreach reflects SMU’s broader mission: to connect universities with communities and spark ambition in the next generation of scientists and healthcare professionals. By stepping into schools, SMU creates real-world opportunities for learners to see, ask, and dream. These interactions bridge the gap between classroom theory and professional practice, inspiring students to shape futures in health sciences.
For Theresa Park Secondary, hosting SMU’s Pharmacy team underscored its commitment to holistic education. Though still young, the school is laying solid foundations by exposing its learners to meaningful career pathways. For the learners, the day was a glimpse of possibility: a reminder that dedication to Maths and Science today can shape the healthcare solutions of tomorrow.
Through initiatives like this, SMU proves that education is not confined to lecture halls. By blending culture, curiosity, and community engagement, the university is nurturing future pharmacists and scientists who are not only knowledgeable but motivated to make a lasting impact on society.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Sep 17, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
From the dusty footpaths of a rural Limpopo village to the lecture halls of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Dr Mashudu Nemakanga’s story is one of grit, sacrifice, and triumph. Born to a gardener and a domestic worker, he grew up with little material wealth but an abundance of determination. “My upbringing taught me resilience in overcoming challenges associated with poverty,” he reflects.
That resilience became the foundation of a doctoral journey marked by setbacks and breakthroughs. Dr Nemakanga’s PhD was far from smooth. He changed supervisors three times, struggled with inconsistent guidance, and balanced the competing demands of family, a private practice, and research deadlines. The emotional and physical toll was heavy. “Changing supervisors posed several challenges that impacted my progress and emotional well-being,” he admits.
Yet through the turbulence, he discovered independence and discipline. “Pursuing a PhD was a transformative experience, marked by personal and intellectual growth. It was a journey of curiosity and discovery.”
Despite the obstacles, support systems emerged. SMU fully funded his doctoral studies, while his line manager offered flexible working hours to help him concentrate on research. Most importantly, mentors played a decisive role. “The outstanding person who supported me was my supervisor, Professor Mavis Mulaudzi. She gave me hope, courage, and resilience,” he says. He also credits Dr Enos Ramano for detailed feedback, Dr Mable Kekana for her guidance, and Professor Tivani Mashamba-Thompson for ensuring successful completion.
The Occupational Therapy Department at SMU also stood firmly behind him. “They offered unwavering support and understanding through Ubuntu practice,” he recalls. Alongside personal growth, Nemakanga sharpened valuable research skills, from facilitating appreciative inquiry workshops to conducting scoping reviews. But the greatest achievement is the practical impact of his doctoral work.
His programme helps older persons maintain independence and quality of life through daily activities. “These activities are vital for sustaining independence. Occupational therapy programmes can reduce disability and improve geriatric health,” he explains. The programme is now available for clinicians to implement.
Looking back, Nemakanga treasures not only his academic success but also the personal lessons gained. “The PhD journey was transformative, fostering not only my academic skills but also my personal growth. It taught me patience, perseverance, self-discipline, and the importance of passion.” For SMU students aspiring to follow the same path, his advice is direct: “Know your motivation. Be clear about why you want a PhD. Choose wisely. Find a supervisor.”
From humble beginnings to the pinnacle of academia, Nemakanga proves that poverty is not destiny. His journey demonstrates that resilience and determination can turn obstacles into stepping stones. “PhD requires careful preparation,” he advises, “but it can transform you into more than a scholar—it shapes you into a leader ready to change society.”
Nemakanga, a lecturer at SMU and coordinator of undergraduate research and fundamentals of occupational therapy, has completed his PhD despite the challenges it presented. Reflecting on his journey, he said, “I have considered abandoning my PhD, but by the grace of the Lord, the guidance of Prof Mavis Mulaudzi and Dr Enos Ramano rejuvenated my strength to continue. They reminded me that my studies were already at an advanced stage and abandoning them would have been an act of invertebrate.”
His doctoral research focused on developing an occupational therapy programme for elderly people living with HIV/AIDS to support their engagement in activities of daily living. “In my thesis, I created a programme guided by the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework to address the specific needs of elderly patients, encompassing occupation, context, performance patterns, skills, and client factors,” he explained.
The programme, reviewed by experts through three rounds of the Delphi technique, aims to serve as both a proactive prevention strategy and an intervention to reduce disability and promote health and well-being among the elderly living with HIV. Nemakanga also serves as chairperson of the Undergraduate Research Committee within SMU’s School of Healthcare Sciences, continuing to shape the next generation of occupational therapists.
By Dimakatso Modise
