by Lorato | Sep 3, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has celebrated the outstanding academic achievement of Thapelo Motsetse (29), who graduated with a BSc in Mathematical Science summa cum laude and was recognised as the Overall Top Achiever among BSc undergraduates.
Motsetse’s achievement is the culmination of three consecutive years of academic excellence, having been recognised as a top achiever from 2023 to 2025. For him, the accomplishment represents far more than academic recognition. “It means everything to me,” he said. “It represents three consecutive years of being a top achiever. It shows consistency, growth and dedication.”
Raised in Kutlwanong (Odendaalsrus), in the Free State, Motsetse attended JC Motumi High School. Growing up under the care of a single mother, Lisebonyane Annacleta Motsetse, he says his childhood instilled in him discipline, self-reliance and a strong belief in education. “As a child, I was curious and quiet, always drawn to problem-solving,” he said. “I learned early that education was the one thing that could change my future.”
His natural aptitude for mathematics became evident from an early age. While other subjects demanded considerable effort, mathematics consistently came naturally to him, eventually shaping his decision to pursue it as a career.
His transition to university-level mathematics, however, presented significant challenges. Modules such as Advanced Calculus, Abstract Algebra, and Mathematical Analysis demanded a higher level of critical thinking, while financial pressures compounded the difficulties of undergraduate study. Motsetse credits disciplined study groups, consultations with lecturers, early-morning revision and regular exercise for helping him remain focused.
“Discipline, intensive and early morning studying while exercising and training my body at the gym every day” were central to his routine, he said. “I believe a healthy body supports a healthy mind.”
His experience at SMU also extended beyond academic achievement. As a Statistics Tutor, Motsetse has developed his leadership, communication and mentoring skills while supporting fellow students. He believes tutoring has strengthened his own understanding of mathematics and statistics. “Many students are not bad at mathematics; they just need it explained differently,” he said.
Motsetse’s academic interests span mathematics, statistics, modelling, and programming. With skills in Python, R, Stata and Excel, he sees the integration of these disciplines as essential to solving complex real-world problems. “Mathematics gives us the theory, statistics gives us the method to interpret data, modelling helps us predict, and programming makes it practical,” he said.
Now pursuing a BSc Honours in Statistics at SMU, Motsetse has already achieved distinctions in Probability Theory, Sampling Theory, Biostatistics, Multivariate Analysis and Categorical Data Analysis. His postgraduate ambitions include developing expertise in machine learning and statistical inference in preparation for a career in data science and statistical research.
Ultimately, Motsetse hopes to use his expertise to address economic and health challenges while inspiring young people from communities such as Kutlwanong to pursue demanding academic careers. “I want to contribute to a South Africa where numeracy and statistical literacy are improved, and where we use data not just for profit, but to uplift communities, create jobs and solve real problems.”
Through academic excellence, research potential and a commitment to mentorship, Motsetse’s journey reflects SMU’s contribution to developing skilled mathematical scientists equipped to advance innovation, evidence-based decision-making and healthcare and societal development in South Africa and beyond.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Sep 3, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has strengthened its commitment to community health education by equipping young learners with knowledge to make informed decisions about substance use during a Drug and Substance Abuse Campaign at Tsitsing Primary School in Rustenburg, North West.
Held in strategic collaboration with the Office of Kgosana Koketso Rakhudu – Kgotla Ya Rakhudu Tsitsing, the campaign targeted Grade 6 and 7 learners under the theme, “Empowering Young Minds, Choosing a Better Future”. The initiative carried the clear message: “Say No Today and Choose Life Forever.”
The campaign sought to raise awareness of the physical, psychological and social consequences of substance abuse while encouraging learners to protect their health, education and future aspirations. It was facilitated by a multidisciplinary team comprising Paballo Maledu, Community Health Interventions Manager at the Office of Kgosana Koketso Rakhudu; Dr Evah Molapisi, Physiotherapy Lecturer at SMU; and Lebogang Lefine, Lecturer and Occupational Therapist at SMU.
Dr Molapisi stressed the importance of engaging young people before harmful behaviours become established. “Early intervention is critical when addressing substance abuse among young people. By engaging learners while they are still developing their identities, values and decision-making skills, we have an opportunity to equip them with knowledge that can influence the choices they make throughout their lives,” she said.
She added that health sciences professionals have a responsibility to take health education beyond the university and clinical environment and directly into communities.
The programme addressed the risks associated with substances including alcohol, cigarettes, cannabis, vapes, hubbly bubbly and other drugs. Learners were encouraged to consider how substance use could affect their everyday functioning, relationships, education and participation in recreational activities.
Lefine said empowering learners with accurate information was essential to building healthier communities. “Young people need to understand that their choices today can have a lasting impact on their health, education, relationships and future aspirations,” she said. “Through this programme, we wanted to create an environment where learners could ask questions, understand the consequences of substance use and recognise that they have the power to make healthier choices.”
The occupational therapy component focused on how substance use can interfere with learners’ participation in meaningful daily activities, social interaction, education and recreation. The physiotherapy component highlighted the potential impact on physical function, including breathing, cardiovascular fitness, coordination, balance, reaction time, energy levels and recovery after physical activity.
Learners were encouraged to reflect on activities they enjoy, including soccer, netball, running, dancing, cycling, swimming and playing with friends. The message was direct: “Your body is your greatest tool for movement, play and sport. Protect it.”
The partnership demonstrates the value of taking SMU’s health sciences expertise into communities to address health challenges through education and prevention. By engaging learners at an early stage, the initiative supports the development of an informed and resilient generation capable of making healthier choices.
Through community engagement initiatives such as this campaign, SMU continues to advance its mission of transforming health services through excellence and innovation while contributing to the health and wellbeing of the communities it serves.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Aug 26, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) reaffirmed its position as a leading institution for health sciences research and innovation as it hosted the 2026 SMU Research Days from 19 to 21 August under the theme, “Artificial Intelligence Frontiers and Technology in Health Sciences: Transforming Science, Healthcare and Education.”
The three-day programme brought together researchers, academics, undergraduate and postgraduate students, postdoctoral research fellows and independent researchers to showcase work addressing critical challenges in science, healthcare and education. The event reflected SMU’s commitment to using research and innovation to advance knowledge and contribute meaningful solutions to society.
Officially opening the programme, Professor Douglas Maleka, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic and Research, highlighted the central role of research and innovation in advancing SMU’s academic mandate and strengthening its contribution to society.
A key highlight was the keynote address by Professor Joshua Oluwole Olowoyo, an environmental health scientist specialising in environmental toxicology, exposure assessment and human health risk assessment. His presentation, “Navigating the New Frontier: Artificial Intelligence Utilisation, Ethics, and Competency in Science and Health Sciences,” examined the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence in science and healthcare.
Prof Olowoyo stressed that the adoption of AI must be matched by appropriate competencies, ethical safeguards and responsible use. His message aligned closely with the Research Days theme, demonstrating how emerging technologies can support scientific discovery, healthcare delivery and education when implemented with rigour and accountability.
Research presentations spanned Medicine, Health Care Sciences, Pharmacy, Dentistry, and Science and Technology, showcasing the breadth of scholarship within SMU. The diversity of projects demonstrated the university’s contribution to research addressing both local and global health challenges while providing opportunities for emerging researchers to develop and share their work.
The programme culminated in the SMU Research Days Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony on 21 August at Batter Boys in Montana, Pretoria. Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Dini Mawela joined university leadership, researchers, academics and guests in celebrating the achievements of the research community. Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Honourable Faith Mazibuko, attended as a guest speaker and underscored the importance of research and innovation in strengthening healthcare systems and improving health outcomes.
The evening also recognised the 2026 Research Days winners. Eliyah Sischy won the Poster Presentations category for “Kaposiform Haemangioendothelioma Complicated by Kasabach-Merritt Phenomenon”. Jasmine Ntokozo Sizani took first place among Undergraduate Students for “The Influence and Impact of Job Shadowing and Early Exposure to Student-Led Research”, while Tukiso Magomane Matlakala won the Postgraduate Students category for “Knowledge of South African Audiologists on the Management of Tinnitus”.
Among Postdoctoral Research Fellows, Refilwe Matshitse ranked first for research on the green synthesis of graphene quantum dots and carbon dots with potential antiviral properties against SARS-CoV-2. Candice Van Wyk won the Independent Researchers category for her study on the association between self-reported harmful oral habits and temporomandibular joint disorders among oral hygiene students.
The awards were presented by members of the judging panel and university leadership, including Professor Gloria Selabe, Professor Mapaseka Seheri and Professor Maleka.
The successful conclusion of SMU Research Days 2026 reaffirmed the university’s role in cultivating a vibrant research culture and developing researchers equipped to address complex health challenges. As AI continues to reshape the health sciences, SMU remains committed to advancing excellence, innovation and ethical responsibility in research, education and healthcare.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Aug 26, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) alumna Mushayathoni Bridget Nwovhe has been awarded the DSTI Prof Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Master’s Fellowship, in recognition of her academic excellence, research potential, and contributions to science, innovation, and public engagement.
Nwovhe is among the recipients of the fellowship presented through the South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA), an annual Women’s Month initiative that celebrates outstanding South African women in science, technology and innovation while encouraging the next generation of women and girls to pursue careers in these fields.
Named in honour of the late Professor Keolebogile Shirley Motaung, one of South Africa’s distinguished Black women scientists and academics, the fellowship supports young women pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees. It recognises strong academic performance and research potential.
For Nwovhe, the fellowship represents another milestone in an academic journey defined by multidisciplinary scholarship, perseverance and a commitment to making an impact beyond traditional scientific disciplines.
In 2025, she achieved a rare distinction of completing two postgraduate qualifications in the same year, graduating from SMU in Haematological Pathology and from the University of South Africa (UNISA) in Microbiology.
Her research interests span microbiology, virology, haematological pathology, infectious diseases, maternal and neonatal health, antimicrobial resistance and medical research. Her work has subsequently earned recognition through the 2026 SAWiSA programme.
Nwovhe credits her time at SMU with playing a significant role in the development of her research capabilities. “I also thank the SMU Haematological Pathology Department, Professor Vanessa Moodley, and Dr Abegail Dlova. They trained me for research.”
Her academic trajectory began with strong performance at secondary school, where she completed Grade 12 as one of the top performers in her circuit. That foundation developed into a sustained pursuit of academic excellence and intellectual growth.
Her interests have also extended beyond the health sciences. In 2020, Nwovhe was selected by Masterstart, a collaborative online platform for executives and business professionals, as one of the young people whose leadership values reflected the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela. Through a programme funded by the Clicks Group, she completed a postgraduate course in Artificial Intelligence at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), adding technology and innovation to her multidisciplinary portfolio.
Her commitment to international engagement has similarly broadened her perspective. In 2025, she attended a United Nations conference in Thailand, where she was appointed Global Ambassador of Peace. She also participated as a delegate at the Future Action Summit in Malaysia, engaging with issues linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Nwovhe’s achievements extend into the literary sphere. She is an author and poet who has written five books and co-authored Tapping into Poetry. Her work has appeared in the Sol Plaatje European Union Poetry Anthologies and on various literary platforms, exploring themes including identity, memory, healing, imagination, culture and the human experience.
The fellowship adds to an already distinguished record of recognition. In 2025, Nwovhe was named Sunday World Heroic Woman of the Year in Science, Technology and Innovation, following her receipt of the Sunday World Unsung Hero Award in 2023. Her earlier achievements include the South African Shining Star Award and participation in the Black Women in Sciences Fellowship Programme.
Her progression from an SMU postgraduate student to a multidisciplinary scientist, researcher, author and award recipient reflects the possibilities that emerge when academic excellence is combined with curiosity, innovation and a commitment to broader societal impact.
For SMU, Nwovhe’s achievement also reflects the University’s role in developing health professionals and researchers equipped to contribute meaningfully to science, innovation, and society.
The DSTI Prof Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Master’s Fellowship, therefore, represents more than just another accolade in Nwovhe’s growing portfolio. It marks the continued advancement of a researcher whose work crosses disciplinary boundaries and demonstrates that excellence in science can extend into leadership, literature, public engagement and community impact.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Aug 26, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Professor Elmien Bronkhorst, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Clinical Pharmacy at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has been awarded a C2 researcher rating by the National Research Foundation (NRF), recognising her established record of research productivity and contribution to clinical pharmacy.
The NRF C2 category is reserved for established researchers who have demonstrated sustained recent productivity and are recognised by their peers for the quality and coherence of their research. The assessment also considers a researcher’s ability to conceptualise research problems and apply appropriate methodologies to investigate them.
According to the NRF criteria, C2 applicants are those for whom all reviewers are firmly convinced that they are established researchers. The category also recognises researchers who may have international recognition for the quality and impact of their recent research outputs.
Bronkhorst said the rating was significant in recognising her research journey and the contribution of her work to clinical pharmacy in South Africa. “Receiving the NRF C2 rating is both an honour and a humbling recognition of my research contributions. It affirms the value of sustained scholarship, collaboration, and a commitment to generating evidence that addresses meaningful healthcare challenges. For me, this recognition is not only a reflection of past achievements but also a motivation to continue mentoring emerging researchers and contributing research that can improve patient care and health outcomes,” said Bronkhorst.
Prof Bronkhorst has been based at SMU’s School of Pharmacy since March 2014. Her academic responsibilities include teaching in the Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) and postgraduate Clinical Pharmacy programmes, supervising doctoral, master’s and undergraduate research projects, supporting research funding applications and contributing to statistical analysis.
She holds a PhD in Pharmacy from SMU, awarded between 2016 and 2019. Her doctoral research examined the practice of clinical pharmacy in private and public hospitals in South Africa, including the working environment and education of clinical pharmacists, the functions of specialist pharmacists, and guidelines for implementing clinical pharmacy services.
Her research output has continued to expand, with publications in 2026 addressing areas including dry eye disease management, respiratory tract infections, ischaemic heart disease, drug-related problems in South African hospitals and antibiotic prescribing in primary healthcare.
Her recent research has also examined antimicrobial stewardship, HIV treatment, medication errors, smoking and vaping cessation, insomnia, and the role and implementation of clinical pharmacy services in South Africa.
Prof Bronkhorst said her research is closely linked to improving pharmaceutical care and strengthening clinical pharmacists’ contribution to patient care. “My research focuses on advancing clinical pharmacy practice to improve patient outcomes through the safe, effective, and responsible use of medicines. A particular area of interest is antimicrobial stewardship, including HIV-positive patients, which plays a critical role in preserving the effectiveness of life-saving antibiotics, combating antimicrobial resistance, and ensuring that patients receive the right treatment at the right time. Ultimately, my goal is to generate evidence that supports better clinical decision-making and contributes to safer, higher-quality healthcare,” she explains.
She has also contributed to the development of future pharmacists through postgraduate research supervision. In 2026, students under her supervision have undertaken research into antibiotic dose adjustments, antiretroviral stewardship, medication errors and drug interactions, and the use of second-generation antibiotics in private clinical practice.
Her professional achievements include selection for the Future Professor’s Programme Cohort 2 for 2024–2025 and receiving the SMU Vice-Chancellor Teaching and Learning Award in 2021.
Prof Bronkhorst said the recognition also reflected the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and the development of the next generation of researchers. “One of the most rewarding aspects of academia is contributing to the development of future researchers and enhancing the future of the profession of Clinical Pharmacy. Through student supervision and collaborative research, I aim not only to generate new knowledge but also to cultivate curiosity, a commitment to lifelong learning, and a commitment to evidence-based practice. Investing in young researchers is an investment in the future of healthcare and scientific advancement, and it is highly satisfying to see students excel.”
The C2 rating adds a significant research accolade to Prof Bronkhorst’s career spanning clinical practice, teaching, postgraduate supervision, academic leadership and research focused on strengthening pharmaceutical care and patient outcomes in South Africa.
By Tumelo Moila.
by Lorato | Aug 26, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Nondumiso Nkosi, a PhD candidate and Junior Lecturer in Medical Virology at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has been awarded a 2026 South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA) Doctoral Fellowship, recognising her contribution to infectious disease diagnostics and innovation.
Nkosi is among seven emerging and established women researchers recognised through the Professor Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Fellowships for research addressing critical social, economic, environmental and scientific challenges facing South Africa. The awards, celebrated annually during Women’s Month, recognise excellence in science, technology and innovation (ST&I) and aim to inspire more women and girls to pursue careers in these fields.
The fellowships, renamed in honour of the late Professor Shirley Keolebogile Motaung, one of South Africa’s distinguished black women scientists and academics, support young women pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees. The awards recognise academic excellence and research potential while promoting innovation and mentorship.
At SMU, Nkosi’s research focuses on viral hepatitis and HIV, with particular attention to hepatitis B virus diagnostics and the detection of occult hepatitis B infection. She is optimising and validating HepaSure Diagnostics, a novel assay designed to enable rapid, decentralised and cost-effective disease detection, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Her work seeks to address limitations in existing hepatitis B screening approaches while improving access to inclusive diagnostic technologies. Nkosi believes the research could contribute to earlier disease detection, reduce healthcare inequalities and strengthen locally developed biotechnology solutions. She is also a patent holder for the diagnostic assay and has received several innovation and scientific awards.
Reflecting on the fellowship, Nkosi described the recognition as more than a personal achievement. “This accolade does not just belong to me. It belongs to every community, mentor, and family member who paved the path for me to step into the light.”
She credited her family, particularly her mother, for providing the encouragement and resilience that shaped her scientific journey. “They invested their unwavering faith in me when all I had was an ambitious dream,” Nkosi said, describing her family as her “very first research funders”.
The fellowship adds to a series of achievements for Nkosi in 2026, following recognition through the CIPC IP Youth Award: Women Shaping IP, the Innovation Hub’s GAP Medical Awards and the Early-Stage Enactus South Africa National Exposition. She said these achievements were built on years of perseverance and lessons from setbacks.
Nkosi also acknowledged the contributions of the SMU community, including the Department of Virology, the Economic Activation Office (EAO), the Research and Innovation Office, the Technology Transfer Office, supervisors, mentors, and colleagues.
Her message to aspiring scientists is centred on perseverance, learning and confidence. “Your background does not define your limits. Your resilience matters. Your voice matters. Never be afraid to take up space in science.”
For SMU, Nkosi’s achievement reflects the university’s commitment to excellence, innovation and research that contributes to health and well-being. Her work demonstrates the institution’s broader role in developing scientific solutions with the potential to move beyond the laboratory and make a meaningful difference in communities.
By Tumelo Moila
