by Lorato | Nov 11, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Postgraduate nursing students from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) have strengthened community healthcare through an integrated mental and occupational health initiative for South African Police Service (SAPS) members, demonstrating the university’s commitment to holistic healthcare education and service to society.
Held recently at the Polisie Rondawel in Hesteapark, Akasia, the event brought together students pursuing postgraduate diplomas in Mental Health Nursing and Occupational Health Nursing. Guided by their lecturers, Dikeledi Maphake and Dr Lorato Manyeneng, the initiative coincided with World Mental Health Day and promoted awareness under the theme “Lived Experiences | Real Voices | Real Change”.
The programme began with a five-kilometre awareness walk, with participants wearing shades of green. Led by programme directors Sabelo Tshabalala and Nokuphila Nhleko, the walk set the tone for a day focused on improving awareness, encouraging early intervention and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.
Mental Health Nursing students delivered presentations on suicide prevention, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. SMU senior lecturer Dr Sophy Moloko also addressed the importance of mental health, highlighting the need to recognise psychological well-being as an essential component of overall health.
The event’s central feature was a combined mental and occupational health screening session, enabling SAPS members to access health information and assessments in one place. Mental health awareness was complemented by practical occupational health services tailored to policing’s physical and psychological demands.
“This collaboration is about treating the whole person,” said Maphake. “You cannot separate a police officer’s mental well-being from their physical health, or from the demanding nature of their work. By bringing these two specialities together, we are demonstrating a model of care that is truly holistic.”
Occupational Health Nursing students conducted baseline health checks under the “Know Your Numbers” initiative, screening participants for blood pressure, pulse, respiration, temperature, blood glucose, cholesterol and body mass index. The screenings included guidance on healthy ranges and how to prevent chronic conditions..
Reflecting on the learning experience, Tintswalo Mtshali said the initiative provided an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting while developing essential professional skills. “Being part of this programme allowed us to put our theoretical knowledge into practice and engage directly with a community whose occupational demands often place them under considerable physical and psychological pressure. We gained valuable experience in health screening, health education and interdisciplinary collaboration, while recognising the importance of delivering compassionate, patient-centred care,” said Mtshali.
Recognising the physical demands of law enforcement, students also educated officers about musculoskeletal disorders, including lower back pain, neck strain, shoulder problems and knee pain. They discussed preventive measures such as correct lifting techniques, ergonomic adjustments, regular breaks and appropriate personal protective equipment.
The programme further included a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) demonstration to equip officers with essential life-saving knowledge. As first responders, SAPS members were guided through the basic steps of checking responsiveness, calling emergency services and performing chest compressions while awaiting assistance.
Additional sessions addressed noise-induced hearing loss, including the importance of hearing protection, and breast cancer awareness. Participants received information about early detection, recognising warning signs and the importance of regular self-examination.
SAPS members welcomed the initiative, particularly the convenience of accessing mental and physical health information and screening services at one venue.
Through this initiative, SMU’s postgraduate nursing students demonstrated how specialised clinical training can translate into meaningful community service. By equipping police officers with practical health knowledge and promoting a holistic approach to well-being, the university continues to advance its mission of excellence in health sciences education, innovative practice and improved health outcomes for the communities it serves.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Nov 11, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has strengthened its commitment to community health and preventive healthcare through its Eat Well, Live Well Campaign, which brought together students from different health science disciplines to promote holistic wellness and healthier lifestyle choices.
Held at SMU, the campaign was organised by third-year Dietetics students in the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics under the theme, “Healthier Choices Today, a Healthier Tomorrow”. More than 200 students attended the event, which featured interactive educational sessions, health screenings and practical demonstrations.
“The campaign was designed to empower our university community to make informed decisions about nutrition and healthy living. We also wanted to demonstrate that promoting wellness requires collaboration across healthcare disciplines,” said Kurhula Mdungwa, Chairperson of the organising committee.
Recognising that wellness extends beyond nutrition, the team adopted an Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice (IPECP) approach, involving the Dental, Environmental Health Sciences, Pharmacy, Nursing, and Speech and Audiology departments, alongside community organisations and university partners.
Third-year Dietetics students conducted anthropometric measurements and provided nutrition education, offering practical guidance on balanced meals, appropriate portion sizes, healthier cooking methods, adequate water intake and physical activity. Participants were also encouraged to limit excessive salt, sugar and fat consumption.
“I have learnt that healthy eating does not have to be expensive or complicated. Making balanced food choices, drinking enough water and staying physically active are practical steps that can contribute to better health over time,” said Tumelo Mokoena, a Pharmacy 2nd-year student.
Other participating departments broadened the discussion on wellness. Dental students highlighted the relationship between oral health and nutrition, while Environmental Health Sciences students demonstrated safe food handling, hygiene and storage practices. Pharmacy students discussed food-medicine interactions, and Nursing students provided basic health screenings and guidance on preventive care and chronic disease management.
The Speech and Audiology Department addressed swallowing difficulties and their implications for nutrition, while the Community-Oriented Substance Use Programme (COSUP) Group facilitated discussions on mental health in recognition of September being Mental Health Awareness Month.
The Green Campus Initiative demonstrated how home gardening could provide affordable access to fresh produce, while DKMS raised awareness about stem cell donation and donor registration. AVBOB supported the campaign by donating fruit for participants.
The partners’ involvement highlighted the importance of addressing health from multiple perspectives. “Every discipline brings valuable knowledge to healthcare. By learning from one another, future professionals can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the needs of individuals and communities,” said Kamogelo Mathakane, media officer of the organising committee.
The campaign also gave students opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting, build leadership and teamwork skills, and engage directly with the university community. Dr Phetla provided guidance and mentorship throughout the initiative’s planning and implementation.
For participating students, the experience reinforced the value of interprofessional learning and demonstrated how collaboration can strengthen health education and preventive care.
Through initiatives such as Eat Well, Live Well, SMU continues to advance health sciences education by equipping students with practical skills, encouraging multidisciplinary collaboration and promoting healthier communities. The campaign affirmed that lasting improvements in wellbeing depend on informed choices, accessible health education and healthcare professionals working together towards a common goal.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Nov 11, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Master of Pharmacy student Mahlorhi Baloyi has strengthened the university’s research profile through his participation in the 15th Annual Conference of the Professional Society for Health Economics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) South Africa Chapter, held recently at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) in Illovo, Johannesburg.
Baloyi presented research examining the potential budgetary impact of implementing a prostate cancer treatment intervention in South Africa’s public healthcare sector. Selected as one of five studies for presentation and discussion, his work contributes to efforts to generate locally relevant evidence to inform healthcare planning, resource allocation and the sustainable delivery of health services.
The conference, held under the theme “Developing Capacity for Health Technology Assessment in South Africa”, brought together researchers, academics, policymakers, healthcare professionals and local and international experts to examine how evidence can guide healthcare priorities. Contributors included representatives from the National Department of Health, the Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office (HERO), medical schemes, academic institutions and the International Network of Agencies for Health Technology Assessment (INAHTA).
For Baloyi, presenting his research at this national gathering marks a significant milestone in his academic career. “Having my research selected for presentation among five studies at a conference of this calibre is a major achievement for me. It motivates me to continue investigating healthcare challenges and generating evidence that can contribute to better-informed decisions in South Africa,” he said.
His study highlights the role of health economics research in assessing the potential financial implications of healthcare interventions. In a system where demand for services competes with limited funding, budget impact analysis can help decision-makers consider affordability, pharmaceutical expenditure and the sustainability of introducing new treatments in the public sector.
“Research must go beyond academic presentation. It should help answer practical questions about affordability, resource allocation and access to treatment. I want my work to contribute evidence that supports responsible healthcare planning and better patient outcomes,” Baloyi said.
The conference also provided opportunities to engage with developments in health technology assessment, economic modelling, costing methodologies and the use of artificial intelligence in evidence analysis. These discussions underscored the importance of building research capacity and strengthening collaboration among universities, government, healthcare funders and other stakeholders.
A notable moment for Baloyi was Mark Brand, president of the ISPOR South Africa Chapter, acknowledging his participation and recognising him as one of the first representatives from SMU to join the society. The acknowledgement highlighted the importance of expanding the university’s representation in professional networks focused on health economics and outcomes research.
Baloyi thanked Professor Moliehi Matlala, his supervisor, and Letlhogonolo Makhele, his co-supervisor, for their guidance and support throughout the study. He also looks forward to building on the connections established at the conference, including opportunities for mentorship, knowledge exchange and potential collaboration with HERO board members and other professionals in the field.
Reflecting on the experience, Baloyi encouraged emerging researchers to remain curious, seek mentorship and share their work with wider scientific communities. He believes that research gains greater value when its findings contribute to meaningful discussions and practical solutions.
Baloyi’s participation reflects SMU’s mission to transform health services through excellence and innovation. By supporting emerging researchers and encouraging evidence-based inquiry, the university helps strengthen South Africa’s capacity for health economics research and develop healthcare professionals equipped to address complex challenges in service delivery, affordability, and equitable access to quality care.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Nov 3, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is celebrating a proud moment as its alumna and Speech Therapist, Audiologist and Clinical Supervisor, Amogelang Emerlda Bunu, advances to the Top 12 of the Miss South Africa 2026 competition. Representing more than her professional achievements, Bunu brings a powerful story of resilience, service and purpose, taking her journey from Mabopane in Gauteng to one of the country’s most prominent national platforms.
Bunu is a clinician in SMU’s Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, where she contributes to professional training and develops future healthcare practitioners through clinical supervision. Beyond her university responsibilities, she is a mother, runs her own practice and remains committed to community development. She also pursues her passion for karate, teaching and coaching learners at Ngaka Maseko High School. She credits the discipline, perseverance and resilience developed through martial arts with shaping how she approaches the different responsibilities in her life.
Her participation in Miss South Africa 2026 is also an opportunity to advance an advocacy campaign closely connected to her professional expertise. Through Empower Youth Africa, Bunu champions Play with Purpose: Communication, Access and Safety Through Playgrounds, an initiative that promotes safe recreational spaces, inclusive sports participation and early communication and hearing screenings for children.
“Through my private practice, we are providing free hearing and communication screenings at early learning centres in Mabopane. I have also built an online presence through TikTok @bunu.sta, where I educate parents on communication developmental milestones and how to use play at home to boost communication and learning outcomes,” said Bunu.
The campaign recognises that access to safe playgrounds and sporting activities extends beyond recreation. These spaces give children opportunities to develop social skills, build confidence, strengthen relationships, and discover their talents. It also advocates for early identification of hearing and communication difficulties through school-based screenings, enabling children who may experience developmental challenges to receive appropriate support.
Drawing on her experience as a speech therapist and audiologist, an athlete and a mother, Bunu believes that play is essential to children’s overall development. Her campaign encourages schools and communities to create environments where every child can participate, communicate, and feel included. As captured in her advocacy message, “Working bodies grow working brains.”
Her journey to the Top 12 reflects the professional commitment, personal discipline, and community engagement she brings to the national competition. From the Top 24 to the Top 12, her progress has generated excitement within the SMU community, which is rallying behind her as she prepares for the Miss South Africa 2026 finale.
Bunu’s achievement reflects SMU’s vision of transforming health services through excellence and innovation. As a dedicated health sciences university, SMU promotes professional education, teaching, learning and innovative research while encouraging its staff and students to contribute meaningfully to society. Through Bunu’s professional work and advocacy, the university’s commitment to health, inclusion, human dignity and community well-being is also reflected beyond the classroom and clinical environment.
As she continues her journey toward the crown, Bunu carries the pride of her university and community, showing how professional expertise can translate into advocacy that creates opportunities for others. From Mabopane to SMU and now the national stage, her story exemplifies purpose-driven leadership and SMU professionals’ contribution to building healthier, more inclusive communities.
The SMU community is encouraged to support Bunu by attending the Miss South Africa 2026 finale and showing its support as she competes for the national title.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Nov 3, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is strengthening South Africa’s cardiovascular research landscape after the National Research Foundation (NRF) awarded a Y2 rating to Associate Professor Lebogang Palesa Mokotedi, an emerging researcher focused on cardiometabolic diseases.
The rating recognises Prof Mokotedi’s research productivity and potential to establish herself as a leading researcher. Her achievement, along with her appointment as an Associate Professor before age 35, highlights her growing contribution to physiological sciences and the development of research capacity in South Africa.
Based in SMU’s Department of Physiology, Prof Mokotedi also holds an honorary research appointment at the Integrated Molecular Physiology Research Initiative (IMPRI) Laboratory within the School of Biomedical Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS). She obtained her PhD in Physiology from WITS and has since developed an independent research programme addressing cardiovascular dysfunction and its implications for human health.
Her research investigates the mechanisms and risk factors underlying cardiometabolic diseases, with a particular interest in how chronic inflammation and metabolic disturbances contribute to cardiovascular disorders such as heart failure and vascular stiffness. She also contributes to research examining maternal cardiovascular health, particularly complications associated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
“Understanding the mechanisms that contribute to cardiometabolic diseases is essential to improving disease prevention, early detection and treatment,” said Prof Mokotedi’s research profile, outlining the central focus of her work.
Through collaborations with clinicians, researchers and healthcare institutions, her work combines experimental and clinical approaches to advance the understanding of cardiovascular disease. These collaborative efforts have contributed to a growing body of research published in internationally recognised peer-reviewed journals.
Prof Mokotedi has also secured competitive research funding, including two consecutive cycles of NRF Thuthuka grants, supporting investigations into the roles of inflammation and dietary factors in cardiometabolic changes associated with chronic inflammatory diseases using animal models of rheumatoid arthritis.
Prof Mokotedi’s contribution to research extends beyond knowledge generation to the training and mentorship of future scientists. She has supervised or co-supervised ten master’s and doctoral students to completion and continues to support the development of emerging researchers. Her academic responsibilities further include undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, curriculum development, and promoting innovative teaching methods that encourage critical thinking and practical application of scientific knowledge.
Prof Mokotedi contributes to scientific leadership through her involvement in both national and international professional bodies. She serves as Deputy Treasurer of the African Association of Physiological Sciences (AAPS) and as an Executive Committee member of the South African Society for Cardiovascular Research (SASCAR). She previously served on the Council of the Physiological Society of Southern Africa (PSSA), supporting initiatives that advance scientific collaboration and research development across South Africa and the African continent.
The NRF Y2 rating marks an important milestone in her academic career and reinforces the value of sustained investment in emerging researchers. It also highlights the importance of collaborative, multidisciplinary research in addressing South Africa’s growing cardiovascular health challenges.
Through academics such as Prof Mokotedi, SMU continues to advance its mission of transforming health services through excellence and innovation. Her achievement demonstrates the university’s contribution to developing research expertise, strengthening postgraduate education and generating scientific knowledge that can inform better healthcare outcomes.
By Tumelo Moila
