by Lorato | Oct 29, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) lecturer Dr Mashudu Nemukula has earned his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biochemistry at the university’s 2026 Spring Graduation Ceremony, marking a major milestone in his academic career and advancing research on diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Dr Nemukula, a lecturer in Clinical Biochemistry and Healthcare Biotechnology in SMU’s Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, investigated the relationship between low-density lipoprotein (LDL) subclasses and the burden of atherosclerosis among black South African patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). His thesis was titled “LDL subclasses and atherosclerosis burden in black South African Type II diabetic patients at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital”.
His research combined a systematic review and meta-analysis, a hospital-based cohort study, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based serum metabolomic and lipidomic profiling. The study sought to improve understanding of lipid abnormalities and the metabolic changes associated with diabetes, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.
The findings highlighted the prevalence of lipid abnormalities among South Africans with hyperglycaemia and identified treatment non-adherence as an independent factor associated with elevated LDL cholesterol. The research also characterised a metabolic signature associated with T2DM among people of black South African ancestry, identifying changes in amino acid, energy and gut microbial metabolism that may inform future precision-medicine approaches.
“Achieving my PhD is more than an academic milestone; it is a testament to perseverance, faith, dedication, and God’s grace throughout my journey. As Philippians 4:13 reminds us, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ This scripture reflects the strength and determination that carried me through the challenges and sacrifices of this journey. I hope this milestone inspires future scientists and contributes to meaningful research that improves healthcare in South Africa,” said Dr Nemukula
The study further examined disruptions in lipoprotein and LDL-cholesterol metabolism in relation to endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammation and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The study used aortic pulse wave velocity to assess vascular stiffness, providing additional insight into cardiovascular risk.
Dr Nemukula’s achievement builds on a career spanning more than a decade in higher education, laboratory demonstration, clinical research and academic administration. He has been a permanent lecturer at SMU since December 2021, where he coordinates undergraduate modules, teaches biochemistry and supervises or co-supervises Honours, master’s and Master of Medicine research projects.
He obtained his MSc in Biochemistry cum laude from SMU in 2019, following undergraduate studies in Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biochemistry-related disciplines at the University of Limpopo and the University of Venda. Between October 2024 and April 2025, he undertook an international research placement at the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology in New Delhi, India, focusing on NMR spectroscopy, metabolomics, and protein-DNA interaction techniques.
During his doctoral candidature, Dr Nemukula published four research articles, with a further manuscript under review, contributing to the growing body of knowledge on metabolic health and cardiovascular disease.
His achievement reflects SMU’s commitment to advancing scientific research, developing skilled health-sciences professionals and supporting evidence-based approaches to healthcare challenges. Through research, teaching, and postgraduate supervision, Dr Nemukula continues to contribute to the university’s academic mission and strengthen knowledge relevant to diabetes and cardiovascular health in South Africa.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 28, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Adverts
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) researcher Dr Tshegofatso Mogase has earned a PhD in Health Sciences (Nutrition and Dietetics), advancing research into the early identification of refeeding syndrome, a potentially life-threatening complication affecting children receiving nutritional treatment for severe acute malnutrition.
Dr Mogase earned her doctorate from SMU on 18 September 2026 through the UK–South Africa Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) Doctoral Training Programme, a cotutelle initiative involving SMU and the University of Stirling in Scotland.
Her research explores how bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA), a bedside method used to assess body composition and hydration, could help healthcare practitioners identify children at risk of refeeding syndrome earlier.
“Early identification of children at risk of refeeding syndrome is essential for strengthening clinical monitoring and supporting safer nutritional rehabilitation. My research sought to explore whether BIVA could provide healthcare practitioners with additional information to support the early assessment of vulnerable children,” said Dr Mogase.
Refeeding syndrome can develop when children with severe acute malnutrition begin receiving nutritional treatment. Early identification and appropriate monitoring are therefore important in supporting safer clinical management. However, Dr Mogase’s research identified inconsistencies in how healthcare settings in sub-Saharan Africa define, recognise and manage the condition.
Her doctoral study adopted a three-phase mixed-methods approach, combining a systematic review of existing African research, five-day clinical monitoring of 64 children in Tshwane hospitals, and interviews with healthcare practitioners.
The findings highlighted gaps in bedside identification, clinical documentation, guidance, laboratory access and communication among healthcare teams.
“These findings point to the need for more consistent approaches to identifying and monitoring refeeding syndrome, particularly in settings where access to laboratory investigations and clear clinical guidance may be limited,” said Dr Mogase.
The clinical findings also indicated that children at risk of refeeding syndrome showed signs of greater fluid retention. Lower BIVA resistance was associated with increased risk, suggesting that the method could provide additional information to support routine clinical assessments. However, further evaluation is needed before its role in clinical practice can be established.
The research proposes a locally relevant risk-assessment and monitoring framework for paediatric wards managing children with severe acute malnutrition. The proposed approach would combine clinical observation with electrolyte testing to strengthen screening and monitoring practices.
“The proposed framework is intended to support a more structured approach to risk assessment and monitoring. BIVA could potentially complement existing clinical assessments, but further research is needed to determine how best to integrate it into routine paediatric care,” she said.
Her doctoral training was supported by the South African Medical Research Council’s Research Capacity Development Initiative and SMU’s University Capacity Development Grant.
Dr Mogase’s work builds on her broader research interests in paediatric clinical nutrition, human physiology, child health and implementation research. As Principal Technical Officer and BSc Honours Postgraduate Coordinator in SMU’s Department of Human Physiology. she contributes not only to the undergraduate programmes but she and leads research training and scientific communication. She teaches and supervises Honours and postgraduate research students and is contributing to the programme’s ongoing curriculum redevelopment. Her cotutelle doctoral training has also informed her work to strengthen the Honours programme’s research component.
Her research has received recognition at regional and institutional research events. At the 13th Tshwane District Health Research Day in September 2026, she secured third place in the Maternal and Child Health category for an oral presentation on developing a risk-assessment and monitoring tool for children with severe acute malnutrition. She also received the Best Oral Presentation award at the South African Medical Research Council Research Capacity Development Regional Grant Holders Conference in October 2025.
Dr Mogase has published research on identifying and managing refeeding syndrome among hospitalised children aged six to 59 months in sub-Saharan Africa. Additional her manuscripts entitled “Barriers to the early identification of refeeding syndrome in hospitalised children with severe acute malnutrition: Perspectives of healthcare practitioners” has been accepted for publication at Frontiers in Paediatrics. .
Reflecting on the significance of her research, she said: “This work highlights the importance of generating evidence that responds to the realities of healthcare practice. Improving the identification and monitoring of refeeding syndrome could help inform clinical decision-making and strengthen nutritional care for children with severe acute malnutrition.”
Her PhD achievement reflects SMU’s commitment to innovative health sciences research that addresses practical healthcare challenges. By investigating approaches to improve the early identification of refeeding syndrome, Dr Mogase’s work contributes evidence that could inform clinical decision-making, strengthen paediatric nutrition care and support improved health outcomes for vulnerable children.
The University of Stirling is scheduled to confer her corresponding graduation on 20 November 2026.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 28, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) PhD candidate Christopher Thapelo Mamaregane has earned recognition for research investigating the potential impact of coal mining on water quality in Limpopo’s Waterberg region, highlighting the university’s contribution to environmental chemistry and public health.
Mamaregane, a doctoral candidate, won 2nd place in the MSc Poster Presentation Award at the 11th Collaboration Symposium, organised by the Head of the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technology at SMU and hosted by the University of Limpopo. The award recognised his research titled “Assessment of the Impact of Coal Mining Activities on Surface Water Quality: A Case Study of the Mokolo River, Waterberg Region, South Africa. For his efforts, he took home a cheque of R1 200.
The research examines whether coal mining activities contribute trace metals to the Mokolo River and assesses the potential health risks for communities using its water. The study involved sampling during the dry and wet seasons, analysing 17 elements and physicochemical properties, and conducting a human health risk assessment. “Honestly, it came as a shock because the presenters from other institutions were very good,” said Mamaregane. “This work took a lot of fieldwork, laboratory analysis and data interpretation, so seeing it recognised by the symposium was very humbling.”
Motivated by his upbringing in Limpopo, Mamaregane wanted to address a local environmental concern through scientific evidence. He explained that the Waterberg’s limited rainfall and high evaporation make the Mokolo River an important resource for domestic and industrial use, increasing the need to understand potential pollution sources.
The findings showed elevated metal concentrations in the Onshoop stream, which originates from the coalfields, but these declined sharply after the stream joined the Mokolo River. The results suggest that dilution reduces metal concentrations entering the river. At the same time, statistical analysis indicates that natural geological processes and surface runoff may be significant sources of metals in the catchment.
However, the health risk assessment identified concerns for rural communities upstream, particularly children, who were found to be more vulnerable to exposure to certain metals, including arsenic, cobalt, cadmium, chromium and lead. The findings indicate that people should not drink the river water without appropriate treatment.
Mamaregane cautioned against drawing definitive conclusions about mining’s overall impact, noting that the research team could not access the mine’s holding dams or effluent discharge points. Financial constraints also presented challenges, as the study relied on the university’s limited resources without external funding.
Dr Molefe, the former supervisor, said the research demonstrated the quality and potential impact of postgraduate scholarship at SMU. He highlighted its originality, technical excellence, reproducibility and significance to the field of chemistry, adding that recognition at the symposium could strengthen collaboration and raise the university’s research profile nationally and internationally.
The study has also been published in Environmental Research, in a special issue focusing on mining, water and climate. Mamaregane said the next phase would involve continued river monitoring, particularly during the dry season, and collaboration with mining stakeholders to investigate pollution sources, including a lead concentration spike identified at Mogol.
He encouraged fellow postgraduate students to participate in research competitions, stressing the importance of presenting credible findings and acknowledging research limitations. “Clean water is everyone’s concern, and the answer is not always simple,” he said. “Continued monitoring and cooperation between researchers, industry and communities are how we protect it.”
Mamaregane’s achievement reflects SMU’s commitment to excellence in teaching, learning, and innovative research, showing how postgraduate research can generate evidence to inform environmental management, protect public health, and support sustainable water use.
According to the HOD, Prof. Motaung, the symposium is designed to nurture talent, empower, and showcase the capabilities of a generation that was previously disadvantaged. For the first time, the event attracted international delegates, marking a significant milestone in its growth and global recognition. Mamaregane’s win of the poster presentation award reflects the quality of research at SMU and highlights the institution’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and developing emerging researchers.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 28, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is celebrating an important academic milestone after Dr Gomolemo Rakale, a Statistics lecturer, graduated with a PhD in Statistics at the university’s 2026 Spring Graduation Ceremony. His achievement highlights SMU’s commitment to academic excellence, innovative research, and developing expertise that can help address South Africa’s healthcare challenges.
Dr Rakale completed his doctoral studies between January 2022 and September 2026. His research, titled Statistical Modelling of Maternal Mortality Trends and the Coping Strategies within South African Maternal Care Delivery, examines an issue of national importance: maternal mortality and the role of statistical analysis in understanding trends within maternal healthcare delivery.
His qualification builds on an academic journey at SMU, where he also obtained an MSc in Statistics in 2020, following a BSc Honours degree in Statistics in 2016 and a BSc in Mathematical Sciences in 2015, majoring in Statistics and Mathematics.
“Completing my PhD in Statistics represents an important milestone in my academic and professional journey,” Dr Rakale said. “My research focuses on maternal mortality trends and coping strategies within South African maternal care delivery, an area where statistical evidence can contribute to a better understanding of healthcare challenges.”
Dr Rakale has served as a Statistics lecturer at SMU since 2017, teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students and contributing to teaching, research and academic administration. His teaching responsibilities include Sampling Theory, Linear Regression, Descriptive Statistics and Inferential Statistics. He also supports student development through mentoring, tutorial supervision and postgraduate research supervision.
His research record includes publications examining the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on maternal mortality in South Africa. In 2026, he co-authored research investigating obstetric haemorrhage-related mortality using confidential enquiry into maternal deaths data. He also contributed to a study documenting the pandemic’s impact on maternal mortality and the implications for Sustainable Development Goal 3.1, which seeks to reduce the global maternal mortality ratio.
These contributions demonstrate the relevance of statistical modelling in examining public health trends and generating evidence to inform discussions about healthcare delivery and maternal health outcomes.
Beyond his academic responsibilities, Dr Rakale contributes to community development by volunteering to teach at the Bethsaida Community Learning Centre in Soshanguve. There, he assists learners preparing to rewrite their matric examinations in Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy. He also provides career guidance and information about bursary opportunities, helping learners explore pathways to further education.
At SMU, he serves as an undergraduate course coordinator and helps coordinate examination timetables in the Department of Statistical Sciences. He also mentors interns, fellows and tutors assigned to the courses he facilitates.
Dr Rakale’s achievement reflects SMU’s broader mission to provide professional education and training while advancing innovative research in support of health and well-being. Through its emphasis on teaching, research, student development and community engagement, the university continues to develop academic expertise that can contribute to South Africa’s scientific knowledge and healthcare priorities.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 28, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
An alumna of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has reached more than 3,000 learners, parents and teachers through a week-long community outreach initiative spanning seven schools across Gauteng, North West and Mpumalanga, demonstrating the impact of alumni-led youth empowerment.
Dr Andile Molokomme, popularly known as Dr Andie, graduated with an MBChB degree from SMU in 2019 and founded Phenomenal Young Persons, a non-profit organisation (NPO) dedicated to youth empowerment, personal development, leadership and entrepreneurship. Founded when she was 17, the organisation has established a global footprint, with a particular focus on disadvantaged schools and township communities.
From 9 to 16 October 2026, Dr Molokomme and her team visited schools to motivate learners, strengthen matriculants ahead of their final examinations and recognise academic achievement. The initiative began at Ntsako Secondary School in Block FF, Soshanguve, where the team witnessed the matric class of 2026 signing their examination pledges. “Today has been nothing short of amazing, witnessing lives being changed and transformed,” said Dr Molokomme.
On the same day, the organisation’s team visited Resolofetse Secondary School and Potchefstroom High School in Potchefstroom, North West, to encourage learners preparing for their final examinations.
The outreach continued on 12 October at Ndzundza Mabhoko Secondary School in Mpumalanga, where the school community was mourning the deaths of two learners, one from natural causes and the other by suicide. The visit allowed matriculants to receive encouragement, emotional and spiritual support during a difficult period. “Thank you for coming to our school for such a time as this. You have been the healing that our hearts yearned for,” said Ntsako Princess, a matriculant at the school.
The team subsequently visited Dirang Kanatla Comprehensive School in Khuma and B.A. Seobe Secondary School in North West. Dr Molokomme adopted Dirang Kanatla Comprehensive School in 2021 while completing her second year of medical internship. The 2026 visit marked the sixth consecutive year of supporting learners and celebrating top academic performers. “It has been the norm for us. We try our best not to enter a school empty-handed. We always endeavour to bring, at the very least, goodie bags for the top-achieving learners as well as Certificates of Excellence,” she said.
Dr Molokomme explained that recognising academic achievement encourages learners to work towards better results and builds aspirations for future success. Dirang Kanatla principal, Michael Mochela, said the partnership had positively influenced the school’s annual matric results. The school improved from 62% in 2020 to 93% in 2024 in the matric final pass rate, proving that the school’s partnership with the NPO is very effective and fruitful.
The initiative concluded at Oakwood Preparatory School in Pretoria, where learners received leadership training and career guidance alongside other participating stakeholders.
Reflecting on the week’s impact, Dr Molokomme said the programme had reached more than 3,000 people, including learners, parents and teachers. She invites the SMU community to support the organisation through volunteering, sponsorships and referrals. “One can sponsor a child’s goodie bag from as little as R30 ($2),” she said. Donations can be made through the organisation’s official website, phenomenalyoungpersons.org.
Dr Molokomme’s work reflects the broader contribution of SMU alumni to education and community development beyond the university. Through initiatives that promote academic achievement, leadership and youth empowerment, alumni help strengthen opportunities for young people and support the development of future generations who can contribute to South Africa’s health, education and social well-being.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 22, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
The MEDUNSA Class of 1996 celebrated three decades of medical excellence, professional achievement and service to communities at a 30th anniversary medical conference and gala dinner held at Irene Dairy Farm in Centurion on 17 October 2026. The milestone brought together alumni to reflect on their professional journeys, honour distinguished former lecturers and strengthen ties with their alma mater, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU).
Organised by Dr Hlombe Makuluma on behalf of the class organising committee, the reunion celebrated the enduring legacy of graduates who began their medical careers three decades ago and have since contributed to healthcare, medical education, research and leadership in South Africa and beyond.
A highlight of the celebrations was the tribute paid to two retired professors, Prof Z. Mtshali, a general surgeon, and Prof R. Golele, an orthopaedic surgeon. The two distinguished academics were recognised for their contributions to medical education, clinical practice and the development of generations of healthcare professionals. Their recognition underscored the lasting influence of educators whose knowledge, mentorship and commitment helped shape the careers of the Class of 1996.
Addressing alumni during the daytime conference, representatives of the university, Mr. Benedict Masenamela, Senior Officer: Alumni Relations, encouraged graduates to maintain meaningful relationships with their alma mater and contribute to its continued development. Alumni were urged to look beyond commemorative gatherings and embrace opportunities to support teaching, research, community engagement and student development.
The message emphasised that alumni relations should be an ongoing partnership through which experienced professionals share their expertise, mentor emerging healthcare practitioners, establish professional networks and create opportunities for future generations of health professionals.
Dr Solly Motlanthe, President of the SMU Alumni Association, highlighted the history of the association and its role in sustaining connections between graduates and the university. He emphasised the importance of alumni unity, encouraging graduates to work together in strengthening their collective voice and supporting the institution that contributed to their professional development.
The Alumni Association provides a platform for graduates to remain connected, build relationships across professional fields and contribute to the university’s broader objectives. The anniversary gathering demonstrated the value of such networks in preserving institutional identity while creating opportunities for collaboration and shared growth.
The gala dinner’s keynote address was delivered by Prof Risenga Frank Chauke, Dean of the School of Medicine at SMU, who reflected on the significance of the class reaching its 30-year milestone. He described the anniversary as an opportunity to consider the journey from graduation to professional maturity and the responsibilities that accompany decades of service.
Prof Chauke noted that thirty years represents the completion of a generation and the beginning of another chapter. Graduates who entered the profession in 1996 have since developed into experienced clinicians, specialists, academics, researchers, public servants and leaders, many of whom have helped train and guide younger healthcare professionals.
Drawing on biblical references, he explained that the age of thirty is associated with maturity, readiness and public service. He highlighted the examples of Joseph, David and Jesus, using these accounts to illustrate that thirty should not be viewed as an endpoint but as a stage at which preparation gives way to greater responsibility and service.
His address reinforced the importance of using professional experience to benefit others, particularly through mentorship, leadership and continued contributions to healthcare.
Mr Rammoelo Ditsoane of the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) also addressed the gathering, expressing the organisation’s support for the initiative. His contribution highlighted the value of partnerships that recognise and support initiatives aimed at strengthening professional relationships and celebrating achievements within the healthcare sector.
The anniversary conference and gala dinner served as both a celebration of past achievements and a call to continued service. For the MEDUNSA Class of 1996, the occasion reaffirmed the bonds formed during their training and the shared responsibility to advance healthcare and support the next generation of medical professionals.
As the graduates reflected on three decades of achievement, the reunion reinforced a central message: the relationship between a university and its alumni should continue long after graduation, sustained by collaboration, mentorship and a commitment to improving the lives of the communities they serve.
By Dimakatso Modise
