by Lorato | Oct 2, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
At St John’s Old Age Home in Winterveldt, north of Tshwane, the quiet rhythm of daily life was transformed when first-year Nursing and Midwifery students from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) arrived with energy, warmth, and purpose. For two days, the students stepped beyond their lecture halls and into the lives of the elderly, proving that nursing is as much about compassion as it is about clinical skill.
The outreach, guided by the theme “Providing Nursing Care to the Needy Beyond Bedside Nursing”, was led by Clinical Facilitator Marubini Yvonne Rambuwani with the full support of Professor Deliwe Phetlhu, Head of the Nursing Department. Together, they challenged students to see nursing not only as a profession but as a calling rooted in humanity.
From the moment they entered the home, the students brought life into its corridors. They offered basic nursing and comfort care, health assessments, grooming services such as safe nail cutting and oral hygiene, and created spaces of companionship that gave residents a renewed sense of dignity. For many, the greatest gift was not medical intervention, but the presence of young people who listened, laughed, and cared.
“The outreach goes beyond clinical skills—it’s about nurturing compassion, respect, and dignity,” reflected Rambuwani. “Our students showed great commitment, and the residents were truly touched by their kindness.”
For the students, the experience was equally profound. Many were engaging with geriatric nursing for the first time, learning that small acts of care—holding a hand, sharing a conversation, offering a smile—could have an impact as powerful as any procedure.
Level 1 BNAM student Noluyanda Maseko captured the feeling: “Being part of this programme made me realise how much of a difference small acts of care can make. The residents were so grateful, and it made me proud to be training as a nurse who can give back to the community.”
Professor Phetlhu stressed the importance of embedding such experiences into the Nursing curriculum. For her, community engagement is not an add-on, but a cornerstone of SMU’s vision for health sciences education. “This initiative reflects the essence of nursing as a profession rooted in service,” she said. “It helps our students understand that nursing is not just about procedures, but about respecting humanity and improving quality of life.”
What made the outreach especially meaningful was the recognition that St John’s is not merely a care facility, but the permanent home of its residents. Students were not only tending to health needs—they were stepping into lives, affirming dignity, and strengthening bonds between the University and the community.
As the programme closed, the smiles of both students and residents revealed its impact. For the elderly, it was companionship and care. For the students, it was a lesson in humanity that no textbook could provide.
Through initiatives like these, SMU continues to shape a new generation of nurses—professionals equipped with skill, empathy, and a deep commitment to community well-being.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Oct 2, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Dr Mohora Feida Malebatja is a public health lecturer, water and environmental scientist, and a researcher driven by a simple conviction: “Good science must solve real problems.”
Her career began when the Department of Water and Environmental Affairs awarded her a bursary for her undergraduate and postgraduate studies. That investment set her on a path through senior government roles, including Chief Development Expert in Water Boards Oversight and Manager of Water and Sanitation at the municipal level, before she transitioned into academia.
Her decision to pursue public health was inspired by her realisation that effective water and sanitation services are not just about infrastructure—they are about protecting human lives. “Every pipe, every treatment plant, every system we build must serve the ultimate purpose of safeguarding health,” she reflects. This understanding deepened during her years of community engagement on projects such as the upgrading of wastewater treatment plants in North West Province and long-term studies addressing acid mine drainage in Gauteng.
Today, as a lecturer in Environmental and Occupational Health at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), she combines her technical background with her passion for research, teaching, and postgraduate supervision.
But her most significant contribution to date stems from a very personal experience. During her first pregnancy, Dr Malebatja developed unusual cravings for clay soil. Discovering that many women shared this behaviour, known as geophagy, she became curious about its causes and consequences. “At first, I thought it was just me. Then I realised how many women were struggling with the same cravings—and how little we understood about it,” she recalls. That curiosity eventually became the subject of her doctoral research.
Her PhD at SMU examined an environmental health and promotion intervention programme to reduce geophagy among women of childbearing age in the Tshwane District. She found that geophagy, medically defined as a form of pica—the craving and consumption of non-food substances—is widespread among pregnant women across all social groups. While often viewed as a cultural or harmless practice, her research revealed its hidden dangers.
Laboratory analysis of the clay soil consumed by women detected 18 trace elements, including toxic substances such as arsenic and lead. These were linked to serious health risks ranging from iron-deficiency anaemia and fertility complications to organ damage and even cancer. “What shocked me most was how something seen as ‘natural’ or even ‘traditional’ could carry such devastating health risks,” she says. Beyond the chemical threats, the practice of geophagy is linked with the increased risk of maternal, neonatal and childhood morbidities and mortalities, making it a pressing public health concern.
Her intervention programme combined health education, community engagement, and nutritional strategies such as promoting iron-rich foods and supplement adherence. Early results indicated that it not only raised awareness but also encouraged behavioural change, giving women practical tools to replace risky practices with safer alternatives.
Malebatja’s PhD journey was not without challenges—bureaucratic delays, shifting supervisors, and even conducting research while pregnant. Yet she persevered. In spite of all the obstacles she faced, she remained positive and determined. Her persistence paid off, with multiple articles published and a policy brief urging the South African government to integrate geophagy education into antenatal care services.
Looking ahead, she aims to expand her research into environmental hazards, mental health, and climate change, while scaling her intervention programme to reach more communities across South Africa and beyond.
Her message is clear and direct: “Geophagy is not harmless. It poses severe health risks for women and their babies. Communities, healthcare workers, and policymakers must work together to address it through education, early detection, and supportive interventions.”
As she reflects on her journey, she extends deep appreciation to her supervisors, Prof. Mokgatle and Prof. Oguntibeju, the Malebatja family, her husband, and her children for their unwavering support.
Dr Malebatja’s work is a reminder that the most impactful research often begins with lived experience—and that science, at its best, transforms lives.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 2, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The 2025 SMU Internal Leagues have drawn to a close, concluding a season that will be remembered as one of the most significant milestones in student sport at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). For the first time in the university’s history, both football and netball were contested concurrently, creating a spirited atmosphere of participation, competition and community across campus.
On the football pitch, El Madeira FC emerged victorious after a demanding campaign, securing the championship title and a grand prize of R20,000. Azania United finished as runners-up with R5,500, while SMU PSG FC claimed third place and R2,200 in a league of eight teams under SMUSOL for 2025.
Individual talent was also recognised with a series of awards celebrating the league’s standout performers. Morris Phathitshwana was named the top goal scorer with six goals for Azania United FC. Pitsi Maboja of El Madeira FC was crowned goalkeeper of the season, while Xolani Mothubatsi received the defender of the season award. Godern Maleka represented midfield excellence, and Malesela Mogotlane of El Madeira FC was named overall player of the season, receiving both a trophy and a certificate of excellence.
Leadership off the field was equally acknowledged. Gundani Mudau was awarded team manager of the season for Rangers Brothers United FC, while Katlego Malebana of El Madeira FC was honoured as coach of the season. Having spent five years building his squad, Malebana described the achievement as “an emotional moment that has been a long time in the making”.
The 2025 season also marked the launch of the inaugural SMU Netball League, which proved to be an outstanding success. Central Lions claimed the championship and R20,000 in prize money, with NetBurners finishing second (R5,500) and El Madeira’s netball side securing third place (R2,200) in a six-team SMUNET league.
As in football, individual brilliance shone through. Lemukani Makhubela was named top shooter, while Tania Makhura took the defender of the season award, and Thabang Mokwatlo was recognised as centre of the season. The prestigious player of the season title went to Sinesipho Mpofana. Off the court, Nokwanda Zwane of Team 5A and Mpho Nkuna of El Madeira FC were honoured as team manager and coach of the season, respectively.
Central Lions player Malape Michelle admitted the victory was unexpected but encouraged fellow students to pursue sport with determination: “If you are determined to do something, go for it. Don’t doubt yourself. Sport is where we step out of our comfort zones and discover who we are.”
Reflecting on the season, SMU Sports Officer Busi Sijora praised the growth of the leagues, highlighting their role in fostering leadership and unity. “The inclusion of netball has been a huge success and has added a new dimension to our internal leagues. These competitions are not only about winning but about building community, resilience and opportunity.”
Looking ahead, Sijora confirmed that the leagues will return in 2026, beginning in the second academic term and running throughout the semester. Plans are already underway to expand the number of sporting codes, strengthen talent identification and increase opportunities for student participation.
From El Madeira FC’s triumph on the football pitch to Central Lions’ historic netball victory, the 2025 SMU Internal Leagues celebrated far more than athletic success. They embodied teamwork, perseverance and the unifying spirit of sport at SMU.
By Rose Moreki
by Lorato | Oct 2, 2025 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
The Department of Occupational Therapy at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) brought past and present together in a vibrant celebration during Occupational Therapy (OT) Week 2025. Themed “Occupational Therapy: Then and Now – Legacy Day”, the event transformed the department’s OT gym into a space of memory, mentorship, and motivation, where alumni and students gathered to reflect on the profession’s journey and its enduring impact.
Organised in collaboration with the Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa (OTASA), the gathering paid tribute to senior practitioners while guiding the hands and minds of those just beginning their careers. Acting Head of Department, Anna Lesunyane, captured the essence of the day when she remarked, “It is wonderful to see our students engaging with their seniors, learning from their experiences, and reflecting on the rich history of occupational therapy in South Africa. This is how we build a strong, connected OT community.”
The heartbeat of the day came from alumni who returned to their alma mater, each carrying stories that blended personal triumph with professional purpose.
For Samuel Chauke, SMU graduate and current Mr World South Africa (2024–2026), the journey began in 2018 with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree. Today, as a Senior Occupational Therapist at Potchefstroom Hospital, Chauke sees the profession as a force that restores dignity and hope. He spoke with conviction about the transformative role of vocational rehabilitation, reminding students that dedication and passion are the keys to meaningful community change. His words struck a chord, leaving many inspired to carry that same determination forward.
Khanyisile Mabena, another proud SMU alumna, brought her own story of impact. A Miss Gauteng Exclusive finalist and Occupational Therapist at Weskoppies Hospital, Mabena, told students that occupational therapy must be seen as more than a career. “Occupational therapy is not just a profession; it is a calling to make a difference every day,” she said. Her message extended beyond clinical practice, highlighting the profession’s reach into schools, families, and communities.
Adding yet another dimension was alumna Millicent Daoduo, who spoke passionately about collaboration in education. Addressing the theme “The Collaborative Partnership between Teachers and Occupational Therapists in Public Special Schools in South Africa”, she emphasised that teamwork between educators and therapists can create inclusive environments for children with special needs. “When teachers and occupational therapists work together, we create inclusive environments that empower children with special needs. It’s about teamwork, understanding, and ensuring that every child can thrive,” she explained.
Together, these stories formed a powerful narrative of what it means to be an occupational therapist in today’s South Africa: a blend of science and service, of skill and compassion.
For students, the event was not just an academic exercise. It was a rare chance to connect with role models who had once walked the same halls, sat in the same lectures, and now stood before them as leaders in hospitals, schools, and communities. The atmosphere was alive with questions, reflections, and the realisation that they too are part of a growing legacy.
As the day drew to a close, Lesunyane reminded all present that learning is a lifelong journey. “Legacy Day is a reminder that learning never stops. Our alumni are living proof that occupational therapy changes lives, not only for clients but also for practitioners themselves,” she said.
Students left the OT gym with renewed motivation, proud to belong to a profession that blends knowledge with humanity. The event reaffirmed SMU’s commitment to producing therapists who are both clinically excellent and socially responsive. Through initiatives such as OT Week, the Department of Occupational Therapy continues to nurture a legacy of healing, innovation, and transformation—one generation guiding the next.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Sep 23, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
A new era of healthcare education has begun at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). Fifty-six second-year nursing students recently participated in Africa’s first virtual reality (VR)–based assessment, a ground-breaking pilot that redefines how future healthcare professionals are trained. SMU’s initiative demonstrates a bold commitment to innovation, blending technology and education to prepare students for the demands of modern clinical practice.
The Department of Nursing, in partnership with Rekindle Learning and SMU’s Centre for University Teaching and Learning (CUTL), introduced students to a fully immersive VR experience. In a safe, controlled environment, learners applied theoretical knowledge to simulated real-world scenarios. From the first moment, the atmosphere was electric, students engaged actively, made clinical decisions, and honed skills in ways traditional assessments cannot match.
“VR is more than a novel tool; it challenges students to think differently and enhances their confidence as practitioners,” said Thandokazi Ikedinobi, Manager of the eLearning and Instructional Technologies Unit at CUTL. Students embraced the technology with enthusiasm, demonstrating adaptability and eagerness to explore this new dimension of learning.
For the School of Health Care Sciences (SHCS), the programme is a source of pride. Dr Vuyokazi Soga, School Operations Manager, highlighted the significance of being the first African university to implement VR-based assessments. “This pilot is a testament to visionary leadership and a commitment to equipping students for the evolving realities of healthcare,” she noted.
Rekindle Learning’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sally Nhlanhla, echoed the sentiment, emphasising the broader vision: to make VR a mainstream educational tool across Africa. “Partnering with SMU allows us to empower students not just with knowledge, but with the tools to shape the future of healthcare delivery,” she said.
Though currently focused on nursing, the potential of VR assessments extends across disciplines. Feedback from students, lecturers, and administrators will refine the programme and may pave the way for adoption in pharmacy, dentistry, and medicine. If scaled, VR could become a cornerstone of SMU’s teaching model, offering risk-free, engaging, and accelerated learning experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practice.
What sets this achievement apart is not only the technology itself but the culture of support within the Department of Nursing. The presence of the full team during the assessments reflected a dedication to excellence, innovation, and student development. By embracing new teaching methods and standing alongside learners, the department set a benchmark in leadership that inspires both students and colleagues.
This milestone signals more than innovation—it represents a bold statement that African universities can lead in redefining education through technology. For the 56 nursing students who participated, the experience extends beyond the VR headset: it equips them with practical skills, confidence, and a pioneering spirit that will guide their journey as healthcare professionals.
SMU’s VR pilot marks a transformative step in African higher education, showing that when ambition meets technology, learning is limited only by imagination.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Sep 23, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Dr Ntsieni Teresia Dzhugudzha is not only a lecturer and researcher—she is a barrier breaker. Her academic journey tells a story of resilience, purpose, and groundbreaking research in occupational therapy that is already shaping the future of inclusive education and employment in South Africa.
In 2025, she completed her PhD at the University of Pretoria, producing a conceptual framework designed to help learners with mild intellectual disability (MID) transition from school into meaningful work. The framework, created for use by occupational therapists, teachers, and employers, promotes strength-based, individualised approaches to employability and advocates for equitable opportunities in the labour market.
Her doctoral journey, which began in 2019, was not without challenges. She faced delayed site access, employers reluctant to participate, and personal health setbacks that cost her nearly a year. Yet she persevered with determination. “I recognise that success for women in academia often comes with considerable obstacles,” she reflects. “But I learned patience, resilience, and problem-solving along the way.”
Her decision to pursue this research stemmed from concern about the limited employment opportunities available to learners with intellectual disabilities. In South Africa, many young people leave Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSEN) schools between the ages of 18 and 21, only to face unemployment at home. Determined to change this reality, she set out to design practical, inclusive solutions that could transform how society prepares these learners for the workplace.
Her academic promise showed early. Born in the rural village of Mashamba Mukondeni in Venda, she excelled in mathematics at Tshikhuthula Secondary School. After matriculating, she entered MEDUNSA (now SMU) with hopes of studying Medicine through the BSc (Special) programme. When she was not admitted into Medicine, she chose Occupational Therapy, a path that revealed itself as her true calling. Between 2003 and 2006, she completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy with merit awards and soon after entered clinical practice. For nearly a decade, she worked across health facilities, earning recognition such as the Best Allied Health Professional Award at Odi District Hospital in 2014.
Alongside her practice, she pursued further studies and, in 2015, completed a master’s in public health at SMU under the mentorship of Professor Simphiwe Madiba. This experience cemented her passion for research. Her transition into academia began naturally while working at Weskoppies Hospital, where she supervised occupational therapy students from both SMU and the University of Pretoria. Discovering her love for teaching, she joined SMU’s Department of Occupational Therapy in 2017 as a Lecturer. Since then, she has taught across undergraduate levels, supervised postgraduate research, contributed to committees on community engagement and research, and served as an external examiner for universities across the country.
Balancing her academic and personal life has been one of her proudest achievements. A wife and mother of three daughters, she completed her master’s degree while pregnant with twins and working full-time. Her ability to balance teaching, research, and family responsibilities speaks to her determination. In 2025, she published two journal articles from her PhD and presented her findings at national conferences, extending her influence into scholarly and policy spaces.
She credits SMU for providing crucial support during her doctoral journey, including funding, study leave, writing retreats, and research grants. “The institution created the environment I needed to thrive,” she says with gratitude. Looking ahead, she envisions her PhD as the foundation for greater societal impact. She aspires to influence policy, mentor future occupational therapists, and advocate tirelessly for inclusive employment practices.
Her message to aspiring SMU students is inspiring: “A PhD is achievable, but it requires discipline, patience, and resilience. Write consistently, even a paragraph a day. The journey is about growth and impact, not just the qualification.”
For Dzhugudzha, completing her PhD represents more than the culmination of years of effort. It marks the beginning of a broader mission: breaking barriers, transforming lives, and paving the way for inclusive opportunities in education and employment.
By Dimakatso Modise
