by Lorato | Nov 18, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has, once again, asserted its place on the global stage as one of its brightest stars, Tebogo Sanelo Mitane, has been awarded the prestigious Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals. A Junior Lecturer in the Department of Statistical Sciences, final-year Master’s student, and former ABSA Corporate and Investment Banking Intern, Mitane’s remarkable achievement highlights SMU’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and producing future global leaders. Among nearly 10,000 applicants worldwide, he is one of just 299 individuals selected for the esteemed award, which will support his two-year Master’s in Data Science at Uppsala University, Sweden.
Tebogo Sanelo Mitane
Mitane’s academic journey has been characterised by an unyielding drive to excel. “I’ve always strived to stay ahead of the curve and never get left behind,” he says, reflecting on his passion for numbers and problem-solving. This drive led him to pursue a Bachelor’s in Mathematical Science and an Honours degree in Statistical Science at SMU, where he is currently completing his Master’s thesis on the dynamics of vehicle hijackings in Tshwane, Gauteng. His selection for the Swedish Institute Scholarship clearly recognises his intellectual dedication, resilience, and passion for data science.
Mitane’s work ethic and integrity have shaped his journey, guiding him through his academic achievements and various roles within SMU. As a student tutor, research fellow, and now junior lecturer, he has consistently demonstrated a passion for sharing knowledge. “I believe in the power of hard work and dedication,” he states. “Integrity, humility, and a commitment to continuous learning have been the principles that have guided me, and I aim to pass these on to others.” This mindset has driven his personal success and made him an inspiring figure for his peers at SMU.
The Swedish Institute Scholarship offers Mitane the unique opportunity to gain international exposure at Uppsala University, which is renowned for its strong research and innovation focus. “Sweden’s emphasis on research and innovation is what drew me to apply,” he explains. “Uppsala University offers the perfect programme to deepen my knowledge in data science, particularly machine learning and statistics.” The scholarship will cover his full tuition, provide a monthly stipend, and grant access to professional development opportunities, positioning him to return to South Africa with advanced skills that can address the country’s most pressing issues, particularly in healthcare and education.
Mitane attributes much of his success to the mentorship and unwavering support from the SMU community. He credits Professor Solly Seeletse, the Head of Department, as a key figure in his development, describing him as “a calm and focused leader.” Alongside him, he acknowledges the influence of his supervisor, Mamelang Molaba, as well as other key mentors like Dr Tshepo Ramarumo, Gomolemo Rakale, and Ntumeleng Nkosi, whose guidance has been invaluable. “The support I’ve received from the SMU community has been critical to my success,” he says. “It has helped build my character and solid academic foundation.”
His achievement also reflects SMU’s growing reputation as a hub for developing exceptional talent in the fields of data science and statistical sciences. His passion for learning and problem-solving inspires aspiring data scientists at SMU and beyond. His message to those following in his footsteps is clear: “Believe in yourself and your potential. Do not fear taking risks, exploring new paths, and embracing the unknown. Hard work and dedication can open doors to incredible opportunities.”
As he embarks on this exciting new chapter of his academic journey, he is determined to use the knowledge and skills he gains abroad to contribute to South Africa’s development. “My goal is to bring back the expertise I gain in Sweden and apply it to critical issues like healthcare and education through data-driven solutions,” he says. This commitment to his home country, coupled with his global perspective, reinforces SMU’s mission to produce graduates who are equipped with world-class skills and driven to make meaningful contributions to society.
SMU proudly celebrates Mitane’s achievement and looks forward to his undoubtedly significant impact on data science. His success underscores the university’s role as a leading institution in shaping the future of global professionals equipped to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges.
by Lorato | Nov 18, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
At just 19 years old, Smangele Sithole has achieved a remarkable milestone that sets her apart as one of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University’s (SMU) youngest-ever graduates. Earning a Bachelor of Oral Hygiene (BOH) at the 2024 Autumn graduation, her journey from a bright-eyed teenager in Soweto to a future healthcare leader exemplifies SMU’s dedication to nurturing young, resilient professionals who aim to make a difference in their communities.
Smangele Sithole
Growing up in Soweto, Sithole’s initial dreams were centred around a career in media. However, a personal family experience changed her path dramatically. Witnessing her family struggle with oral health issues ignited a deep curiosity within her. “I wanted to understand what caused the oral health issues in my family and help prevent them for others,” she recalls, describing how this personal experience steered her towards oral hygiene. This newfound passion led her to SMU, where her academic journey was shaped by a commitment to improving oral health care and educating the public about preventative care.
Sithole’s perspective on the role of an Oral Hygienist goes beyond the traditional view of teeth cleaning. “We educate patients about how to take care of their oral health, prevent problems like cavities and gum disease, and improve their overall oral hygiene,” she explains. Through her studies at SMU, she has been equipped with the skills to clean teeth and educate, empower, and inspire those around her to take better care of their oral health.
Her journey, however, was not without its challenges. Transitioning from secondary school to university posed several obstacles for Sithole, who had to adapt quickly to the demands of higher education. “It was tough adapting to university life,” she admits. “I had to become independent, manage my own time, and handle responsibilities that I was not used to. It was hard at first, but I pushed through and eventually found my way.” Her determination to succeed, despite the challenges, reflects the resilience and perseverance that SMU instils in its students, preparing them to face the realities of both academia and professional life.
Reflecting on her academic journey, she credits much of her success to SMU’s environment, which fostered her growth and development as a student and future professional. “Because of SMU, I can now go out there and educate people who are unfamiliar with cavities, tooth decay, and gum diseases. A lot of people think the only way to care for their mouth is just brushing their teeth, but there’s so much more to it,” she says with confidence, ready to take on the world and raise awareness about oral health.
Sithole’s achievement serves as an inspiration to countless students who may face obstacles in their academic journey. Her advice to her peers is simple yet powerful: “Study hard throughout your studies and always put God first. Don’t ever feel ashamed to ask for help.” With her degree in hand and a mission to improve oral health, she is poised to make a significant impact in oral hygiene.
As SMU continues to shine as a beacon of excellence, Sithole’s story exemplifies the university’s commitment to empowering young South Africans to achieve their full potential, overcome adversity, and contribute meaningfully to society. With a bright future ahead, Smangele Sithole is ready to make her mark and, quite literally, brighten many smiles along the way.
by Lorato | Nov 13, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a world where academic excellence is often shaped by resilience and determination, Matlhatsi Ngwepe’s journey is a testament to education’s transformative power. A Junior Lecturer at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Ngwepe recently graduated with a Master of Science in Mathematics, achieving cum laude. This milestone highlights her academic brilliance and the unwavering support of the institution that has nurtured her growth.
Born and raised in Stinkwater, a township near Hammanskraal, modest beginnings characterised her early life. “I met wonderful teachers in my primary and secondary school who encouraged me to work hard,” Ngwepe recalls, crediting those early formative years for instilling in her a passion for learning. Her mother, a steadfast believer in the power of education, ensured that discipline and focus were at the heart of Matlhatsi’s development. “She would say: ‘No school child will get bored in my house when you have books,’” she recalls, encapsulating the drive and dedication that became a constant in her life.
Matlhatsi Ngwepe
However, Ngwepe’s academic journey was not without its obstacles. After matriculating, she faced the harsh reality of limited access to information about university applications and bursaries, forcing her to take a gap year. Yet, rather than be discouraged, she seized the opportunity to explore new avenues and enrolled in an Electrical Engineering course. It was during this period that her true passion for mathematics emerged. She made a pivotal decision to switch her focus to a Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences at SMU, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Ngwepe flourished at SMU, a university committed to fostering excellence in health sciences and beyond. Her academic journey was marked by unwavering commitment and stellar results, culminating in her bachelor’s degree in 2021. Under the guidance of Dr Lateef Jolaoso, her supervisor, and Professor Maggie Aphane, Head of the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, her postgraduate research led to breakthroughs in solving real-life problems using advanced mathematical techniques, particularly in areas like Image Reconstruction. “Research is not easy, but with time, things get better,” she reflects a sentiment highlighting the persistence required to excel in a demanding field.
Her academic success was mirrored in her professional growth as she began her role as a Junior Lecturer in 2022. In this capacity, she found immense satisfaction in mentoring students, guiding them in ways that she herself had been guided. “You learn new things every day from students,” she notes, recognising the value of the diverse perspectives that students from various cultures bring to her classroom. Ngwepe’s mentorship extends beyond the lecture hall. As a member of the Department’s Community Engagement Committee, she actively contributes to initiatives like mathematics competitions and high school outreach programmes, striving to inspire the next generation of mathematicians.
Reflecting on her achievements, she credits her success to a combination of discipline, dedication, and the mentorship she received. Her Master’s cum laude is not just a personal victory but also a validation of the resources and guidance provided by SMU, which has consistently empowered students to push the boundaries of academic and professional excellence. “Obtaining my master’s cum laude boosts my confidence as a lecturer,” she says, knowing that she has reached the pinnacle of academic achievement and is now in a position to help others follow suit.
Ngwepe’s aspirations remain rooted in academia. With plans to pursue a PhD in 2025, she is focused on continuing to push the frontiers of knowledge in Mathematics. “I would like to supervise students in mathematics, help them pursue their goals, and eventually become a professor,” she shares, further underlining her commitment to fostering a legacy of academic excellence and mentorship.
Her journey—from the streets of Stinkwater to the prestigious halls of SMU—illustrates the boundless possibilities that arise from perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of knowledge. Her advice to aspiring students? “Everything is possible when they have discipline, dedication, faith, and motivation. No matter the challenge, it will pass; they just need to remain calm and communicate with their supervisors at all times.”
Ngwepe’s story is proof that success is not defined by one’s circumstances but by the determination to overcome adversity and relentlessly pursue one’s dreams. SMU, with its commitment to nurturing exceptional minds, has proven to be the perfect platform for her growth, and her story will undoubtedly inspire future generations to aim high and never give up.
by Lorato | Nov 13, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Dr Nana Millicent Duduzile Buthelezi, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biology and Environmental Health Sciences at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), exemplifies the university’s spirit of academic excellence and resilience. Recently, she achieved a remarkable milestone by earning her second PhD, this time in Botany, following her first PhD in Horticultural Science. Buthelezi’s dedication to environmental sustainability and plant science underscores her commitment to addressing global challenges through research and education. Her achievements reflect SMU’s mission to advance knowledge and solutions for a sustainable world.
Dr Nana Millicent Duduzile Buthelezi
Growing up in Hluhluwe and later Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, her path was shaped by her family, faith, and the mentorship of a high school teacher, Rejoice Muhle Manyathi, who inspired her love for education. As the youngest of seven siblings and having lost her parents early in life, she relied on her siblings’ support, finding strength in her faith to pursue her goals. “I have always found comfort and strength in my faith in the Lord,” Buthelezi reflects, crediting her upbringing with instilling the resilience that would define her academic journey.
Her academic excellence has been consistent, including achieving a master’s degree cum laude and completing two PhDs within the minimum required time. She attributes her accomplishments to her competitive spirit and unwavering dedication. As a researcher, she is driven by a commitment to continual growth, with a vision to become a professor in the next five years—a testament to her ambition and SMU’s supportive environment for career advancement.
In her role at SMU, Buthelezi teaches and coordinates Environmental Management and Toxicology III, engaging students in vital subjects like Fundamentals of Environmental Health Science and Foodborne and Human Parasitic Diseases. Beyond lecturing, she supervises postgraduate students and serves on various committees, fostering a positive academic culture that inspires her students to excel. Her approach to teaching and research reflects SMU’s values, encouraging students to pursue excellence, resilience, and passion in their own journeys.
Buthelezi’s research focuses on sustainable environmental practices, particularly in plant and water management. Her background in Horticultural Science has equipped her with expertise in Green Technology, such as Biotechnology and Green Post-harvest Technology, which she applies to sustainable plant cultivation. Her knowledge of Botany has further expanded her work into Green Nanotechnology, where she develops eco-friendly methods for wastewater treatment. “My aim is to ensure that environmental sustainability is achieved without creating new problems,” she explains, highlighting her commitment to impactful, responsible research.
One of her current projects investigates green-synthesised nanoparticles for purifying wastewater, a solution with potential applications in industrial water supply, river flow maintenance, and agricultural irrigation. Her research also explores the biostimulant-enriched synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) to enhance medicinal plant bioactive compounds, promising innovations that align with global efforts to combat climate change and environmental degradation. Through these initiatives, Buthelezi positions SMU as a leader in sustainable environmental solutions.
While her research accomplishments are numerous, she recognises the challenges of mastering advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in the lab and field. She continues to enhance her proficiency in AI applications, such as machine vision and robotic process automation, to push her research to new heights and further support SMU’s scientific impact.
Looking to the future, she is determined to deepen her research on environmental sustainability, integrating sustainable practices with medicinal plant research. She aims to establish a recognised research niche, attain a National Research Foundation (NRF) rating, and fulfil her goal of becoming a professor within five years. She believes interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial to addressing modern scientific challenges, aligning with SMU’s vision for impactful, globally connected research.
Buthelezi has collaborated with local and international universities throughout her career, including the University of Limpopo, the University of Zululand, and Texas A&M University. These partnerships have enriched her research and contributed to numerous publications in both Horticultural Science and Botany, enhancing SMU’s reputation in environmental and plant sciences.
Her approach to scientific research is marked by adaptability, critical thinking, and a keen understanding of emerging technologies such as Green Nanotechnology. As an educational and research leader, she remains at the forefront of her field, using her expertise to inspire her students and contribute to a sustainable future. Her journey stands as a testament to the power of persistence, faith, and lifelong learning, embodying the core values of SMU and its dedication to fostering transformative, impactful research.
Through her teaching, research, and enduring commitment to sustainable practices, Buthelezi continues to pave the way for the next generation of scientists, ensuring her legacy of academic excellence and environmental stewardship will inspire for years to come.
by Lorato | Nov 13, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Dr Gladness Nteboheng Lion is an outstanding example of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)’s commitment to fostering pioneering research and academic excellence in South Africa. Born in the small village of Maboloka near Brits, North West Province, Lion’s journey is one of resilience, community-mindedness, and groundbreaking achievements in environmental health and zoology. Through her distinguished work, she has advanced her field and embodies SMU’s mission to address pressing health challenges that impact communities across South Africa.
Dr Gladness Nteboheng Lion
Lion’s early years were marked by a dedication to education and community values instilled by her family. Raised as the eldest of three children, she was influenced by her father’s principles of home, school, and church and by her mother’s career as a nurse and midwife. These early experiences set the foundation for her future in science and community health. Her academic journey began at Edward Lion Primary School in Maboloka and continued at Rabboni Christian Private School, where she completed her matriculation in 2003. Following this, she pursued a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biological Sciences at Walter Sisulu University and an Honours degree in Biology from the University of Limpopo’s Medunsa Campus.
In 2017, Lion’s research career took a defining turn as she embarked on a PhD in Zoology at SMU, with a groundbreaking focus on the environmental health implications of trace metal exposure for obese women living near industrial areas in Pretoria. Her thesis, titled: “Trace metals, health status and relationship with reproductive hormones (estradiol and progesterone) of obese females living around industrial areas in Pretoria, South Africa”, explored the crucial links between environmental pollution and reproductive health—an area previously unexamined in South Africa. Her work provided a novel understanding of health risks posed by trace metal pollutants and highlighted the significance of SMU’s research on issues directly affecting the well-being of local communities.
Reflecting on her research, Lion says: “My study was inspired by my upbringing in an industrial and agricultural area, where I saw firsthand the health challenges affecting women, particularly in relation to obesity, diabetes, and reproductive health issues. Driven by my mother’s background in healthcare, I sought to understand how environmental factors might contribute to these concerns to enhance the quality of life for women in my community.” Through her findings, she emphasises the need for greater awareness and monitoring of environmental pollutants in industrial zones, underscoring SMU’s role in advancing research that prioritises public health and equity.
Balancing her work as a lecturer in SMU’s Department of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Lion has committed over a decade to advancing environmental health and toxicology studies. She has been instrumental in developing and reviewing curricula for programmes in Environmental Management and Toxicology at SMU, supervised numerous postgraduate students, co-authored thirteen influential research articles, and collaborated with national and international institutions. Her work has cemented SMU’s position as a key player in addressing environmental health issues with direct societal impact.
Lion’s research is particularly notable for its findings on the connections between trace metal pollutants and hormonal imbalances, which may link to conditions like menstrual disorders, infertility, cancer, and hormone-dependent diseases such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Her research calls for policy changes and increased pollution monitoring to protect vulnerable populations, advancing SMU’s role as an environmental health research leader.
Looking forward, she is determined to expand her research to other communities and explore further the intricate relationships between environmental pollutants and human health. Her passion for education, evidenced by her dedication to student success and community impact, speaks to her unwavering commitment to SMU’s mission and field. Through her work, Lion exemplifies SMU’s values and continues to inspire the next generation of scientists, making strides toward a healthier, more informed South Africa.
In Lion, SMU celebrates a researcher whose work contributes to academic advancement and embodies the university’s drive to tackle critical health challenges and empower communities through knowledge and action.
by Lorato | Nov 13, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Jo-Anne Mahlobo’s journey to becoming the youngest graduate at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) in the 2024 Spring Graduation Ceremony is nothing short of extraordinary. At just 22, this dynamic young woman earned her Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences and embodies the spirit of resilience, determination, and ambition that defines SMU’s exceptional academic community.
Jo-Anne Mahlobo
Raised in the heart of Pretoria, Mahlobo’s upbringing was shaped by a blend of humble beginnings and immense family support. Her parents, navigating their own growth while raising four children, instilled in her the values of hard work and perseverance. “We had a humble beginning, but as my parents grew, so did our family and our lives,” she reflects, underscoring the tenacity that would come to define her educational journey.
Her academic trajectory at SMU began in 2020 when she enrolled in a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematical Sciences, majoring in mathematics and statistics. Although the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic altered her original plans to pursue Nuclear Engineering in China, Mahlobo’s passion for the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) field remained steadfast. “Mathematical Sciences still allowed me to stay within the STEM space, which has always been where my heart is,” she says, adding that the decision to pursue a degree in a field predominantly male and underrepresented by black women fuels her desire to change the narrative and inspire others.
Mahlobo’s academic journey, however, was not without its challenges. In the midst of her studies, she was diagnosed with severe depression and had to navigate the complexities of mental health while continuing her degree. She remembers writing exams from a hospital bed during her recovery. Yet, her unwavering faith, combined with her inner strength and the support of loved ones, helped her persevere. “Nothing is too big or too small for God,” Mahlobo says, drawing strength from her faith during her most difficult moments.
Her story is a testament to the holistic support system that SMU offers its students. It’s a university where not only academic excellence but also the well-being of students is a priority. Mahlobo’s academic journey, though marked by personal trials, exemplifies the nurturing environment at SMU that empowers students to overcome adversity and excel in their chosen fields.
Her commitment to her studies paid off when she graduated as SMU’s youngest graduate in the Spring 2024 cohort, a moment of triumph that allowed her to celebrate both personal and academic milestones. “It is lovely to have achieved my degree early; I think it allows me ample time to further my studies, explore different career fields, and just overall take advantage of the time graduating a bit earlier has given me,” she shares.
Beyond her degree, Mahlobo is already making her mark as a qualified make-up artist and digital content creator. She plans to pursue her international makeup accreditation while continuing her data engineering studies. “The statistics and computer science parts of my degree allow me to pursue a career in data analytics, and I hope to move into data engineering,” she explains, demonstrating how she intends to use her knowledge to break new ground in the digital space.
Mahlobo’s story highlights the importance of academic rigour and the incredible resilience of SMU’s students. It is an inspiring reminder that success is not just about overcoming personal struggles but also about the way a university community comes together to support its students, fostering growth that goes beyond the classroom
As she steps into the next phase of her career, she carries with her a profound sense of purpose: to inspire future generations, particularly young women in STEM, to believe in their potential. “I want others to know that anything you set your heart to is possible, through God and hard work,” she says, quoting her father’s advice, “I have never seen a tombstone that reads: ‘So and so died of hard work’. Hard work won’t kill you but will set you up for a good life.”
Mahlobo’s triumph is her own and a reflection of SMU’s commitment to shaping tomorrow’s leaders. As she continues her journey, she will undoubtedly pave the way for countless others, proving that anything is possible with faith, resilience, and the right support.
