by Lorato | Aug 6, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) proudly congratulates Professor Matlou Phineas Mokgotho on his promotion to the rank of Associate Professor in the Department of Physiology. The promotion recognises his sustained excellence in teaching, research, postgraduate supervision, academic leadership and his significant contribution to advancing biomedical sciences.
Professor Mokgotho brings more than two decades of academic and research experience to his role at SMU. His distinguished career has included appointments at the University of the North (UNIN), the University of Limpopo (UL) and Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), where he made significant contributions to teaching, research and academic leadership. Having previously attained the rank of Full Professor and served as Head of the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology at UL, his promotion at SMU reflects his continued commitment to academic excellence and his growing impact on higher education in South Africa.
His research focuses on translational biomedical sciences, with particular emphasis on discovering therapeutic agents from African medicinal plants for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. By combining natural product research with molecular biology, metabolomics, mammalian cell culture, and computational drug discovery, his work seeks to identify bioactive compounds that could help combat diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other non-communicable diseases.
Commenting on his promotion, Professor Mokgotho said: “I am deeply honoured by this recognition from SMU. This promotion reflects not only my personal journey but also the collective efforts of my colleagues, collaborators and postgraduate students who have contributed to our shared research success. I remain committed to advancing biomedical research that addresses Africa’s health challenges while mentoring the next generation of scientists.”
Throughout his academic career, Professor Mokgotho has supervised and co-supervised numerous master’s and doctoral candidates, secured competitive research funding and established national and international research collaborations. His scholarly contributions include a substantial body of peer-reviewed publications and active participation in scientific conferences, reflecting his commitment to expanding scientific knowledge and strengthening research capacity within South Africa.
His promotion also acknowledges his dedication to developing future researchers through postgraduate mentorship and his leadership in fostering an innovative research environment. By integrating cutting-edge scientific techniques with indigenous knowledge systems, his work continues to contribute towards addressing some of the country’s most pressing health challenges while supporting the development of evidence-based healthcare solutions.
As SMU continues to advance its strategic vision of transforming health services through excellence and innovation, the promotion of Professor Mokgotho highlights the University’s investment in academic leadership, impactful research and postgraduate development. His achievements further reinforce SMU’s growing reputation as a leading health sciences university committed to producing research that improves lives and addresses the healthcare needs of South Africa and beyond.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Aug 6, 2026 | All News, SMU Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), through its Campus Health and Counselling Unit, recently hosted the 1000 Men Act for Change Movement, reaffirming its commitment to student wellness and holistic development. Held under the theme, “One Thousand Men. One Movement. One Purpose. Transforming MENtalities,” the initiative brought together students, healthcare professionals and community partners to promote positive masculinity, mental wellbeing and responsible leadership among young men.
The programme began with health screenings and a wellness activation, providing students with free health assessments and information from healthcare organisations and community partners. The initiative encouraged participants to prioritise preventative healthcare while increasing awareness of the support services available both on and off campus. It also created opportunities for students to engage directly with organisations committed to improving health and wellbeing.
The event transitioned into a Men’s Discussion Forum, providing a safe and confidential platform for male students to discuss issues affecting their lives. Conversations focused on mental health, personal development, relationships, responsible decision-making and the importance of seeking support when facing challenges. The discussions reinforced the message that vulnerability, accountability and emotional wellbeing are essential components of positive masculinity.
Opening the programme, Tshidiso Ntshabele, Deputy Director of Campus Health and Counselling at SMU and Chairperson of the South African Association of Campus Health Services, highlighted the importance of redefining masculinity and creating supportive environments where men feel comfortable seeking help.
“The 1000 Men Act for Change Movement is about changing the narrative around what it means to be a man. True strength is demonstrated through responsibility, compassion, accountability and the courage to seek help when it is needed,” said Ntshabele.
He added that universities have a responsibility to equip young men with the skills and confidence to become responsible leaders and active contributors to society. “As a university, we are committed to creating safe spaces where young men can openly discuss their challenges, prioritise their health and become positive role models in their families and communities. Transforming mentalities starts with conversations.”
Chairperson of the Peer Educators, Kamogelo Sadike, encouraged participants to actively engage in the day’s programme, emphasising that open dialogue can help challenge harmful stereotypes and promote healthier relationships. “Many young men carry challenges in silence because they fear being judged. Today’s dialogue reminded us that vulnerability is not weakness—it is the first step towards healing and growth,” said Sadike.
The programme also featured presentations from organisations dedicated to student health and wellbeing. Higher Health shared information on student wellness, while Oziel Mdletshi presented Dads in the Picture, highlighting responsible fatherhood, co-parenting and the lifelong influence fathers have on a child’s development. Additional presentations by representatives from B2.0, Second Chance Recovery, COSUP, DKMS and mental health facilitator Linda Maputla encouraged students to seek support, adopt healthier lifestyles and become agents of positive change within their communities.
The programme concluded with an Oath-Taking Ceremony, where participants pledged to champion wellness, respect, and responsible leadership. The symbolic commitment reflected the movement’s vision of empowering young men to become positive role models on campus and beyond.
Through initiatives such as the 1000 Men Act for Change Movement, SMU continues to advance student-centred education by promoting health, wellbeing and meaningful engagement beyond the classroom. By creating spaces for dialogue, increasing access to support services and empowering students to lead with integrity and compassion, the University is fostering a campus community where every student has the opportunity to thrive academically, socially and personally.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Aug 6, 2026 | All News, SMU Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to strengthen its commitment to employee wellbeing through initiatives that promote holistic health, including financial wellness. The University’s Employee Health and Wellness Office, within the Human Capital and Transformation Department, recently hosted a successful Financial Wellness Day, providing employees with practical knowledge, expert advice and resources to help them make informed financial decisions that support both their immediate needs and long-term financial security.
Coordinated by Employee Wellness Practitioner Balanganani Makhema, with support from his colleague Nthabiseng Themba, the initiative recognised the strong connection between financial wellbeing, mental health, workplace productivity and overall quality of life. By bringing together leading financial institutions and service providers, the University created an accessible platform where employees could receive personalised guidance and improve their financial literacy.
Employees participated in one-on-one consultations and interactive discussions covering a broad range of financial topics, including budgeting, debt management, retirement planning, taxation, investments, insurance, home ownership and financial planning. The sessions equipped staff members with practical tools to make sound financial decisions throughout different stages of their lives while encouraging responsible financial planning for the future.
The event attracted several reputable financial institutions and organisations, including Sanlam, the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Alexander Forbes, Old Mutual, First National Bank (FNB), SA Home Loans and Capitec. Their participation enabled employees to access credible financial information, professional advice and tailored financial solutions in a single setting, reinforcing the value of collaboration between the University and trusted external partners.
Speaking about the initiative’s significance, Makhema said financial wellness extends beyond managing money. “Financial wellness goes beyond managing money; it is about empowering employees to make informed financial decisions that support their present needs and future goals. At SMU, we recognise that financial wellbeing plays a vital role in reducing stress, improving productivity and enhancing overall quality of life. Through Financial Wellness Day, we are committed to connecting our employees with trusted financial experts, practical resources, and valuable information that will help them build a secure financial future. This initiative forms part of our ongoing commitment to promoting a healthy, informed and resilient workforce, and we look forward to expanding these wellness programmes to reach even more employees in the years ahead.”
The Financial Wellness Day was designed to improve financial literacy, provide employees with direct access to financial institutions and service providers, promote responsible financial decision-making and reduce financial stress that can negatively affect mental wellbeing and workplace performance. The interactive format also encouraged meaningful engagement, allowing employees to ask questions specific to their personal financial circumstances while exploring financial products and services that support long-term financial security.
Among those who attended was Legodi Mashiane from the Institutional Advancement unit within the Advancement and Communication Department. He described the event as informative, relevant and empowering. “The event provided employees with an excellent opportunity to engage directly with financial experts and gain practical advice on managing their finances more effectively. Initiatives such as Financial Wellness Day demonstrate the University’s commitment to supporting employees beyond the workplace and encourage staff to participate in future wellness programmes that contribute to both personal and professional growth.”
Looking ahead, Makhema reaffirmed the Employee Health and Wellness Office’s commitment to expanding wellness initiatives across the University. “The Employee Health and Wellness Office remains committed to promoting holistic employee wellbeing. Financial Wellness Day forms part of our broader wellness strategy, and we intend to continue expanding these initiatives by strengthening partnerships with financial institutions and government stakeholders, while introducing more workshops, awareness campaigns and wellness events throughout the year. Our goal is to ensure that every employee has ongoing access to the information and support needed to achieve financial security and overall wellbeing.”
Financial Wellness Day reflects SMU’s people-centred approach to employee wellbeing by recognising that financially informed employees are better equipped to manage life’s challenges, reduce financial stress and remain productive in the workplace. Through initiatives such as these, SMU continues to invest in the wellbeing of its employees while advancing its broader mission of fostering a healthy, informed and resilient university community committed to excellence in education, research and service.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jul 29, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is proud to celebrate the achievements of Dr Inge Kleinhans, Public Health Medicine Specialist, Lecturer and Unit Manager of the Bophelo Unit for Equity, Intelligence and Learning, who has been honoured with the South African Medical Association (SAMA) Young Leader Merit Award. The prestigious award recognises medical practitioners under 35 who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, community service, healthcare advocacy, and a commitment to strengthening South Africa’s health system.
The SAMA Merit Awards acknowledge medical professionals whose contributions have had a meaningful impact on the profession and healthcare more broadly. The Young Leader Merit Award, in particular, celebrates emerging leaders whose work is shaping the future of healthcare through excellence, innovation and service. Dr Kleinhans’ recognition reflects her sustained commitment to public health medicine, research, health systems strengthening and global health equity.
Reflecting on the recognition, Dr Kleinhans described the award as both humbling and significant. “Being recognised for my leadership in public health medicine, research and health systems strengthening, and for my contributions to academia and policy in global health equity, was both humbling and deeply meaningful. Having served in various leadership spaces for over a decade, both in South Africa and internationally, I view this recognition as an affirmation of the importance of sustained commitment to health systems strengthening, public health leadership and mentorship,” she said.
Dr Kleinhans’ journey into medicine was shaped by witnessing both the challenges and strengths of South Africa’s healthcare system while growing up in the Eastern Cape and later Mpumalanga. Those early experiences inspired her commitment to building equitable, responsive and people-centred health systems. Today, her work at SMU and through national and continental health platforms focuses on leadership development, mentorship, research, advocacy, policy engagement and strengthening health and surgical systems.
As Unit Manager of the Bophelo Unit for Equity, Intelligence and Learning, Dr Kleinhans leads multidisciplinary initiatives that advance research, collaboration and capacity development. She is passionate about ensuring that health information systems, governance and data-driven decision-making translate into meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery while preparing the next generation of public health leaders.
Mentorship remains central to her professional purpose. “I believe that mentorship, safe spaces for reflection and deliberate career development are essential to preparing young professionals for healthcare leadership,” she said.
Acknowledging those who have supported her journey, Dr Kleinhans emphasised that the achievement extends beyond individual recognition. “This award reflects not only my individual journey, but also the support of my family, friends, mentors, colleagues and loved ones who have encouraged and sustained me along the way,” she said.
Dr Kleinhans’ achievement reflects SMU’s commitment to developing leaders who advance healthcare through excellence in teaching, research and service. Her recognition by SAMA reinforces the University’s growing contribution to health systems strengthening, public health leadership and innovative research that improves health outcomes in South Africa and beyond, while inspiring future generations of healthcare professionals.
By Tumelo Moila.
by Lorato | Jul 29, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has promoted Professor Bronwin Van Wyk from senior lecturer to Associate Professor (Clinical/Diagnostic) in Medical Physics, recognising his outstanding and sustained contributions to teaching, research, clinical service and international leadership in the specialised field of medical physics.
The promotion acknowledges Professor Van Wyk’s exceptional academic and professional achievements, which continue to strengthen SMU’s reputation as a leading health sciences university committed to excellence in education, research and healthcare innovation. His accomplishments align with the university’s vision of transforming health services through excellence and innovation while enhancing its profile within the higher education sector.
Professor Van Wyk holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Physics and serves as Deputy Director of Medical Physics at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital and SMU. A registered independent medical physicist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa, he brings more than 20 years of clinical, academic and research experience to the profession.
The promotion follows an extensive record of achievement across all areas expected of an associate professor. Professor Van Wyk has led numerous undergraduate and postgraduate modules, supervised and co-supervised multiple master’s and doctoral students, published extensively in accredited scientific journals and demonstrated sustained leadership in both academia and clinical practice.
His research has made significant contributions to nuclear medicine, radiation dosimetry, diagnostic imaging and radiation protection. Among his innovations is the development of computer software for dose quantification in nuclear medicine, designed to support healthcare institutions in low-income countries. He is also supervising pioneering research into novel radiation-protection shielding designs that could improve patient and staff safety.
Beyond the university, Professor Van Wyk has established an impressive international profile. He serves as a Project Scientific Consultant for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), contributing to medical physics projects across Africa. His work has included supporting Tanzania’s Ministry of Health in developing a national action plan for diagnostic radiology and co-authoring influential IAEA publications on academic and clinical training programmes in medical physics.
His leadership extends to the Federation of African Medical Physics Organisations (FAMPO), where he chairs the Education and Training Committee and serves on the Professional Relations Committee of the International Organisation for Medical Physics. He has delivered lectures and presentations at numerous international workshops, conferences, and recently taught on the Global Medical Physics Continuing Education Course organised by the American Association of Medical Physics and FAMPO.
Reflecting on his promotion, Professor Van Wyk said, “I am deeply honoured and humbled by this recognition. It reflects not only my own journey but also the support of my wife, family, colleagues, mentors and students who have contributed to my development. I remain committed to advancing medical physics through teaching, research, clinical excellence and international collaboration, while ensuring that our work ultimately improves patient care.”
Professor Van Wyk’s commitment to developing the next generation of medical physicists is equally noteworthy. Throughout his career, he has trained seventeen clinical medical physicists and continues to advocate for expanding opportunities within the profession. Working with colleagues in the Gauteng Department of Health, he helped spearhead the creation of twelve medical physics posts in the province, strengthening the public healthcare system’s capacity.
His commitment to community engagement is demonstrated through an annual cancer awareness programme in Noordgesig, Johannesburg, where he has organised educational workshops and outreach initiatives to raise awareness and promote early detection.
Professor Van Wyk has also received numerous professional accolades, including the South African Association of Medical Physics Incentive Award, membership of the Golden Key International Honour Society and recognition as Best Junior Lecturer at SMU.
His promotion reflects SMU’s commitment to recognising academic excellence that delivers meaningful impact in teaching, research, healthcare and community engagement. By supporting academics whose work advances knowledge while improving health outcomes locally and internationally, the university continues to strengthen its position as a leading institution dedicated to transforming healthcare through education, innovation and research.
By Tumelo Moila
