by Lorato | Jan 30, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to strengthen its research footprint on the global stage, as two of its distinguished chemistry professors—Professor Tshwafo Motaung and Professor Phumlani Mdluli—take the helm as Guest Editors of a Hot Topic Collection in Springer Nature’s Discover Applied Sciences. The newly launched Collection, Chemistry: Sustainable Materials and Circular Economy: Innovations in Biomass, Water Treatment, and Renewable Energy, is now open for submissions until 31 August 2026.
Both professors bring deep expertise and bold research visions to a platform read by hundreds of thousands of researchers worldwide. Their leadership elevates SMU’s profile while guiding a global discussion on how applied chemistry can deliver real environmental solutions.
Professor Motaung, an expert in organic polymer chemistry, nanocomposites, and waste-stream innovation, emphasised the urgency of the work ahead. “We cannot afford slow science in a fast-changing world,” he said. “Our goal is simple: convert knowledge into innovations that make a measurable difference to people, industries, and the environment.” Known for his commitment to translating scientific and indigenous knowledge into high-impact solutions, he believes Africa has a critical role to play in global sustainability efforts.
Professor Mdluli, whose research focuses on nanomaterials for diagnostics, water treatment, and renewable energy, highlighted the Collection’s emphasis on practical relevance. “This isn’t just about publishing research—it’s about accelerating technologies that can be deployed in real communities,” he explained. “Chemistry has the power to reshape how we use resources, recover waste, and build a circular economy.” He added that integrating molecular modelling into applied research will help scientists design smarter, more efficient materials.
Springer Nature has welcomed the collaboration, noting the important stewardship role played by editors. Yidan Xu, Managing Editor at Discover Applied Sciences, said: “Editors are the guardians of quality. We rely on experts like Professors Tshwafo and Mdluli to uphold rigorous standards and guide impactful research to publication. Their leadership strengthens the trust our authors and readers place in us.”
The Hot Topic Collection arrives at a crucial moment. As nations face mounting pressure from climate change, water scarcity, and energy demand, applied chemistry offers a pathway to scalable, science-driven solutions. The Collection spotlights innovations in biomass utilisation, pollutant degradation, polymer and composite development, catalytic materials, and pilot-scale demonstrations that bridge laboratory discoveries with industry and community application.
By emphasising translational value, the Collection seeks to inspire work that delivers real-world impact. It also contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure).
Discover Applied Sciences—a multidisciplinary open-access journal with more than 4.9 million downloads in 2024—offers rapid processing, with a median submission-to-decision time of just 14 days. Researchers contributing to the Collection will benefit from high visibility and a global readership.
As Motaung concluded, “This is more than a scholarly Collection—it’s a call to action for chemists worldwide.”
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jan 30, 2026 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University has moved from policy to practice with the launch of its first multilingual podcast studio, signalling a decisive commitment to linguistic inclusion. The initiative positions language not as symbolism, but as infrastructure for learning, belonging and transformation.
The studio, unveiled by the SMU Language Policy Committee, marks a milestone in the University’s multilingual journey. Equipped with new podcasting technology, the facility provides a platform to elevate African languages, simplify academic conversations and amplify voices across campus.
The project is anchored in the SMU Language Policy, which treats multilingualism as a strategic asset. The policy recognises that language diversity strengthens teaching and learning, reinforces social cohesion and accelerates institutional change. The podcast studio operationalises these goals, turning strategy into daily practice.
Speaking in the inaugural episode, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic and Research Professor Dini Mawela described multilingualism as central to SMU’s identity and future direction. She stressed that language is not optional, but essential to connection, innovation and relevance in a health sciences university serving a diverse society.
“Multilingualism is a powerful tool for connectivity within our community,” she said, adding that language carries both identity and authority. Her message was reinforced by contributions from Professor Douglas Maleka, Dean of the School of Health Care Sciences, and Professor Patrick Demana, Dean of the School of Pharmacy, who echoed the academic and social value of inclusive communication.
More than a ceremonial launch, the podcast is designed as a working resource. It will host discussions, educational content and cultural storytelling in multiple languages, targeting students, academics, researchers and professional staff. By doing so, it aims to reduce barriers to understanding, promote belonging and model multilingual teaching.
The studio is housed within the Medical Illustrations and Audio Visual Services department and will function as a shared institutional resource. While the Language Policy Committee’s work will take priority, staff, students and contributors will be able to request access through the committee, reinforcing an open ethos.
Podcast hosts are yet to be appointed, as the initiative remains in its stakeholder alignment phase. However, clear criteria have been set. Hosts will be expected to demonstrate bilingual or multilingual ability, familiarity with university life, confidence in public engagement and a commitment to linguistic inclusion. Different series may feature different hosts, aligned to themes such as student life, human resources or research.
Broadcasting is expected to begin once production is finalised, guided by a 2026 content calendar. Current planning proposes weekly episodes, released on Wednesdays at midday. Content will be accessible through the SMU website and YouTube, ensuring reach beyond campus.
Guest selection will prioritise balanced representation, academic relevance and social impact, with preference for contributors able to engage in African languages. Through this approach, the podcast will reflect South Africa’s linguistic reality while advancing academic excellence.
As the committee noted, SMU is no longer speaking about multilingualism. It is giving it a voice and ensuring that voice is heard.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jan 30, 2026 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Gauteng province has taken a step to tighten the bond between government and higher education with the signing of a landmark Umbrella Memorandum of Understanding between the Office of the Premier and the province’s seven publicly funded universities. The agreement signals a shift from consultation to execution, placing research, data and innovation at the centre of provincial decision-making.
The signing ceremony, hosted by the Office of the Premier, brought together Vice-Chancellors, senior academics and Members of the Executive Council responsible for key portfolios including Health, Social Development, Agriculture and rural development, Infrastructure and Cooperative Governance. Premier Panyaza Lesufi led the proceedings, underscoring the urgency of aligning academic expertise with government priorities.
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) featured prominently at the event, represented by Vice-Chancellor Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus, Dr Moreoagae Bertha Randa and Professor Olanrewaju Oladimeji. Their presence reinforced SMU’s role as a specialist health sciences institution positioned to support Gauteng’s transformation agenda.
The MoU launches a structured partnership under the provincial social compact, designed to mobilise all sectors behind shared goals. It reaffirms the Gauteng Provincial Government’s commitment to evidence-based policy, credible data and the ambition to build a globally competitive, data-led city region. Central to the agreement is a call for increased investment in research, innovation, digital governance, integrated data systems and artificial intelligence to improve public service delivery.
Opening remarks from senior officials stressed that the agreement is not symbolic. It is a commitment to joint action, shared accountability and measurable outcomes. Vice-Chancellors from all seven universities outlined their strategic directions, confirmed their support for the province and pledged to align research and teaching capacity with Gauteng’s development needs.
Professor Matsha-Erasmus delivered a focused intervention that positioned SMU as a practical partner in health system strengthening. She highlighted the university’s priorities: producing work-ready health professionals, expanding clinical and public health research that informs policy, and deepening community engagement to improve population health. She emphasised that collaboration is not optional, but central to SMU’s identity and impact.
SMU committed its expertise across five areas: generating health data and evidence, driving innovation in health systems, delivering teaching and skills development, building policy-responsive research partnerships, and expanding community-based public health outreach. The university pledged full institutional support to ensure the MoU delivers tangible benefits.
In his keynote address, Premier Lesufi challenged universities to move faster from ideas to implementation. He reaffirmed the government’s policy priorities, highlighted the irreplaceable role of universities in building smarter public systems, and made it clear that success would be judged by results that improve citizens’ lives.
The MoU was formally signed by the Premier and the Vice-Chancellors of the SMU, Tshwane University of Technology, University of Johannesburg, the University of Pretoria, University of South Africa, University of the Witwatersrand and Vaal University of Technology.
According to the SMU Research and Innovation Director Prof Mapaseka Seheri, the agreement establishes a Joint Working Committee and lays the foundation for coordinated research agendas, efficient resource use and sustained collaboration. It positions Gauteng as a learning province and marks a move towards evidence-driven governance.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jan 21, 2026 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Every day at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), while future doctors, nurses, and scientists fill lecture halls and hospitals, there is another kind of leadership quietly at work. It is found in the hands that scrub, sweep, and sanitise—the hands that uphold the dignity of the campus and the safety of everyone who enters its gates. Among these is Rachel Molly Thongo, Acting Head of Cleaning Services, whose story represents not just her own but the countless women who sustain campus life through care and service.
Born in Soshanguve and raised by a single mother, Thongo’s journey to leadership was shaped by resilience, humility, and purpose. “We were raised with love and respect,” she recalls. These values now underpin her management style, where compassion meets accountability, and every task, no matter how routine, is treated as essential.
Her professional story at SMU began in the campus cafeteria under a private catering provider. When SMU insourced its staff, Thongo joined the university officially, later transitioning to the Cleaning Services Department, a move she once resisted but has since embraced with pride. “At first, I struggled to accept it,” she admits. “But then I realised: without cleaning services, nothing else works.”
Today, as Acting Head of the Department, Thongo oversees scheduling, health and safety compliance, and operations across SMU’s expansive campus. Her leadership ensures that learning spaces, residences, and clinical areas remain clean, hygienic, and ready for the university’s daily life to unfold.
“We uphold SMU’s hygiene standards, and that directly supports its public image as a leading health sciences university,” she explains. “Our work keeps students, staff, and patients safe.” But beyond logistics, Thongo’s leadership is human. She believes in nurturing the people who sustain the university’s spaces. “A thank you, a half-day off—small things matter to people who work hard,” she says. Her approach was affirmed when she was selected by SMU’s Skills Development Office to attend supervisory training at the University of the Witwatersrand. “That made me feel seen,” she reflects softly.
Like many women in operational leadership, Thongo navigates daily challenges, from resource constraints to managing team dynamics. Yet, her loyalty to SMU remains firm. “This institution takes care of its people,” she says. “From study benefits to supporting our families—SMU offers more than a job. It offers dignity.”
Her message to other women in service roles is clear: “What we do matters. Without us, the university wouldn’t function.” Thongo’s story is not only her own. It is a tribute to every woman who arrives before dawn and leaves after dark to ensure that SMU remains a place of healing, learning, and progress. Together, they sustain the university—not with titles or accolades, but through their daily, often unseen, acts of care. At SMU, theirs are the hands that sustain campus. And they deserve to be honoured.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jan 21, 2026 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Innovation, leadership, and purpose converge in the work of Khanyisa Faith Mokgolobotho—a postgraduate student at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) whose vision is reshaping the future of healthcare technology in South Africa. As co-founder of TechMed Connect, a pioneering healthtech startup, she is not just innovating, she’s breaking barriers as a student leader, proving that courage, creativity, and determination can transform both industries and lives.
Mokgolobotho’s journey into technology and entrepreneurship began with a spark of determination and a passion for addressing real-world healthcare challenges. In 2023, she and her co-founder Rosemary Erawemen joined the competitive I’M IN Women’s Ideation Programme, supported by Telkom, JP Morgan, and the Embassy of Ireland. Their healthtech concept, TechMed Connect, was selected among the top 15 nationally, marking a significant milestone that propelled their startup from an idea to a nationally recognised innovation. “This opportunity was a turning point for us,” she reflects. “It gave TechMed Connect the platform and resources to develop a solution that can truly make a difference in healthcare delivery.”
Since then, TechMed Connect has garnered numerous accolades and funding, including victories at the Enactus MTN Innovation Challenge, the Hult Prize South Africa National Showcase, and various hackathons. The app is currently in the testing and compliance phase, moving closer to real-world implementation. Her role as a visionary and problem-solver has earned her recognition beyond the university, proving that young innovators from SMU can compete on the national stage. “Every achievement is a testament to what is possible when passion meets opportunity,” she says.
Her passion for technology was further ignited by her success at the 2022 CSIR DIRISA Datathon, where she was named Best Female Student Participant. This achievement came with a bursary that fully funded her undergraduate and honours studies, allowing her to focus on mastering artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud infrastructure. “My goal is to become a leading AI engineer, developing solutions that can transform healthcare,” Mokgolobotho explains. “SMU has been instrumental in equipping me with the skills and experience I need.”
Her impact is not limited to technology and innovation. She is also a dedicated student leader, having served as the Interim Student Governance Structure Residence Officer in 2023/24. Through this role, she advocated for improved student experiences and demonstrated leadership rooted in empathy and service. “Leadership is not just about titles but about making a tangible impact,” she notes.
As Chairperson of the Geekulcha Student Society at SMU, Mokgolobotho is building a vibrant tech community that aims to position the university as a HealthTech Innovation Hub. Her vision is to foster collaboration between technology and health sciences disciplines, preparing students to drive the future of healthcare innovation. “By bringing students together, we’re building a movement that embraces innovation and drives real change,” she says.
Mokgolobotho’s journey is defined by resilience, faith, and an unwavering commitment to uplift others. “Everything I do is rooted in a desire to build a better future and empower those around me,” she shares. Balancing her honours studies in Computer Science with her work as a Graduate Software Engineer, she exemplifies academic resilience and lifelong learning.
Mokgolobotho is a beacon of possibility, an innovator, a leader, and a young woman whose determination is transforming healthcare and inspiring future generations.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jan 21, 2026 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
At Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), every young woman in a lab coat or scrubs carries more than textbooks and ambition; she carries legacy in the making. From lecture halls to clinical spaces, young women at SMU are building futures that will shape healthcare across South Africa and the continent. Each has a reason for choosing this path, a role model who inspired her, and a vision for the professional—and the woman—she is becoming.
Together, they are more than students. They are future doctors, scientists, and healthcare leaders. Each one: a name worth remembering.
SMU, as South Africa’s leading dedicated health sciences university, is where these women step onto a path of purpose. Here, education is more than lectures; it is a commitment to community, to excellence, and to producing healthcare professionals who will shape the systems of tomorrow.
For Mbali Ndamase, a second-year Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology student, her calling began with the simplest human need: communication. “I’ve seen how communication and hearing disorders can isolate people,” she says. “At SMU, I’m being shaped into a healthcare professional who not only treats but empowers people to reconnect with the world.”
Bonolo Malema, a third-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery student, describes her journey into medicine as both a personal mission and a shared responsibility. “Becoming a doctor isn’t about the title—it’s about healing, about making people’s lives better. SMU gives me the skills, but also the sisterhood and the inspiration to believe I can make a difference.”
Bonolo believes SMU’s women are rewriting the future of medicine. “Here, we’re not just learning how to treat illnesses, we’re learning how to lead.”
Tsakane Pearl Nghonyama, a third-year BSc Mathematical Sciences student, is proof that healthcare’s future depends not only on clinicians but also on data scientists. “At SMU, I don’t have to choose between logic and compassion. I’m training to be both a Data Analyst and a Paediatrician. One saves lives now; the other shapes the systems that will save lives tomorrow.”
Their stories and ambitions reflect SMU’s mission to educate and empower African women who will lead health innovation, drive community care, and transform systems that for too long have left women’s voices unheard. “We are part of a sisterhood here,” says Bonolo. “A sisterhood that believes in service, in leadership, and in changing lives.”
At SMU, these young women’s stories begin—but their impact will be felt far beyond its gates. They are not just studying for degrees. They are preparing for legacies built on service, strength, and the unstoppable power of a woman’s voice in African healthcare. Mark their names. Their futures are just beginning.
By Dimakatso Modise
