by Lorato | Oct 30, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Elegance met purpose at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria as Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) alumni, industry leaders, and partners gathered for the Convocation Fundraising and Alumni Awards Gala Dinner. Themed “Investing in South Africa’s Future of Health Sciences,” the evening celebrated leadership, honoured excellence, and strengthened support for the next generation of healthcare professionals.
The event opened with an inspiring address from the President of Convocation, Japhta Phala, who urged alumni to champion transformative giving. “Each of us carries a piece of SMU’s legacy,” he said. “Tonight is not just about celebrating our achievements — it’s about taking collective responsibility for our students’ future.”
Vice-Chancellor Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus echoed this sentiment, emphasising the University’s dual mission of education and empowerment. “At SMU, we do not only educate; we empower,” she declared. “Our vision is to create healthcare professionals who are competent, compassionate, and capable of leading with integrity.” Highlighting the critical challenge of student funding, she stressed the urgency of alumni engagement. “Behind every struggling student is a dream worth saving,” she said. “Investing in our students is investing in the future of healthcare. No capable student should have their journey cut short due to financial hardship.”
Delivering the keynote address, Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba, a medical doctor and public servant, reinforced SMU’s role in shaping South Africa’s health workforce. “SMU continues to be the heartbeat of health sciences in this country,” she said. “It is here that the seeds of service, compassion, and excellence are planted. The doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and scientists who graduate from SMU are not only skilled — they are change-makers who carry the hope of our nation.” She further called on alumni and stakeholders to rally behind the fundraising initiative, describing it as an investment in both education and equity. “We must ensure that financial barriers never become barriers to healing,” Dr Ramathuba said. “By contributing to this cause, we are not just giving money — we are giving life, dignity, and opportunity.”
Supportive remarks from SMU Chancellor Dr Penny Moumakwa and Council Chair Nontlaza Sizani reinforced alumni unity and stewardship in advancing the University’s mission.
The Gala also featured a red-carpet ‘Legacy Walk’, symbolising SMU’s enduring tradition of excellence, and honoured alumni who have made remarkable contributions to medicine, science, and public service. Beyond glamour, the evening carried a clear purpose: to fund academically deserving yet financially challenged students. Many aspiring healthcare professionals face financial hurdles that threaten to derail their dreams. Through this Convocation-led initiative, SMU continues to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity.
“This Gala is not just a dinner,” Prof Matsha-Erasmus reminded guests. “It is a declaration of hope. Every contribution tonight will echo through hospital wards, research labs, and communities that need care the most.”
Alumni Awards Recipients:
- Young Alumnus Award: Mr Emmanuel Kiyonga and Dr Realeboga Sebitso.
This award recognises young alumni (≤40 years) who have demonstrated proven excellence in their field or career, serving as role models for current and future students.
- Alumni Governance and Leadership Award: Dr Mpho Phalatse, Ms Maria Rambauli, Dr Nomzamo Tutu, Ms Takalani Maumela, Ms Rhulani Thembi Siweya, Dr Lucas Khetani Ndhlovu, Dr Katlego Mothudi and Dr Mangaliso Mahlaba. This award honours alumni who have made exemplary contributions to society, demonstrating ethical leadership and good governance.
- Alumni Academic, Research and Innovation Award: Prof Mojakgomo Motswaledi, Dr Molefe Matima, Prof Paulinah Monene Khuzwayo and Prof Gregory Thabiso Lebona. This award celebrates alumni who have made significant contributions to research, academia, and innovation in health sciences.
- Order of the Champions of Sefako Makgatho: Prof Paulinah Monene Khuzwayo (Gold), Ms Maria Rambauli (Silver), Prof Gregory Thabiso Lebona (Gold), Dr Jeffrey Mabelebele (Bronze). This award is conferred on alumni or former executives for their immense contributions to SMU’s growth and development, actively promoting its mission.
- Alumni Life-Time Achievement Award: Prof Mike Sathekge. This award recognises alumni who have made outstanding contributions to their field and society over the course of their lifetime.
A total of fifteen trophies, fourteen certificates, and five medals were awarded, including a Life-Time Achievement trophy larger than the rest, with certificates signed by the President of Convocation and the Vice-Chancellor across various categories.
As the evening concluded, one message resonated: SMU’s legacy is not only written in its history but in the lives it transforms, shaping a future where education, leadership, and compassion drive South Africa’s healthcare sector forward.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Oct 30, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
From the rural heart of Tzaneen, Mahlorhi Baloyi has emerged as a visionary leader whose journey embodies resilience, excellence, and global impact. Recently, he received the prestigious Vice Chancellor’s Award at the SMU Student Affairs Excellence Awards, cementing his place in the university’s history.
Baloyi’s rise is a story of determination and purpose. From modest beginnings, he has become a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating extraordinary leadership in South Africa and beyond. As Secretary of the SMU Rising Stars, he nurtures talented students, shaping the next generation of leaders. His influence stretches internationally, connecting youth through the global network “Connecting Dreams” and participating in the South American Business Forum, promoting cross-continental dialogue, leadership excellence, and sustainable solutions.
This year marks a new chapter in his academic journey: Baloyi is pursuing a Master’s degree with SMU’s School of Pharmacy. Balancing postgraduate studies with demanding leadership roles, he exemplifies commitment to personal growth and the development of others. “Pursuing my Master’s is not just about advancing my knowledge; it’s about equipping myself to make a meaningful impact in healthcare, locally and globally,” he explains.
His leadership transcends borders. Baloyi has represented Africa at global forums, including the Asia International Model United Nations in Thailand, leadership engagements in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and visits to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, turning aspiration into reality. “Each place I have visited has taught me that the world is vast yet connected. My purpose extends far beyond borders,” he reflects.
The Vice Chancellor’s Award recognises not only academic excellence but also outstanding leadership, influence, and commitment to co-curricular development. On receiving the accolade, Baloyi shared heartfelt gratitude: “This honour fills me with tears of joy. I am deeply thankful to everyone who has supported my journey, especially my parents, who have witnessed me rise to fulfil my potential.”
Key contributors to his success include:
- Dean of the School of Pharmacy, Professor Patrick Demana, inspired him to aim higher.
- Dean of the School of Medicine, Prof. Chauke Risenga, highlighting the importance of safeguarding reputation.
- Group Senior Executive, Strategic Trade at Aspen Pharma Group, Dr Stavros Nicolaou, reminding him that knowledge must translate into action.
Baloyi’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Leadership is not about recognition; it is about impact, service, and the courage to lift others as you climb.” Humility guides him, echoing Bishop Benjamin Dube’s wisdom: “If you humble yourself, he will lift you up.”
With top honours at every stage of his education and now pursuing a Master’s in Pharmacy, Baloyi is more than a high achiever. He is a transformative leader whose vision, determination, and purpose inspire those around him. “I am not merely making history; I am shaping the future,” he declares, embodying the spirit of a true trailblazer.
Baloyi’s journey is a testament to what vision, perseverance, and service can achieve. It demonstrates that leadership and influence are not measured by titles but by the lasting impact one has on others.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Oct 30, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital (DGMAH) Breast Unit, under the expert leadership of Professor Dikeledi Mokone, is recognised as a high-volume centre for breast care. The unit manages approximately 5,000 to 7,000 breast patients annually and diagnoses between 160 and 180 breast cancers each year. With such a large patient load, the hospital faces ongoing challenges in ensuring timely surgical intervention, which is a critical pillar of breast cancer management. Delays in surgery can allow cancer to progress, compromising patient outcomes.
To address these challenges, the Breast Unit coordinated an intensive Breast Cancer Surgery Marathon on 11 October 2025, aimed at reducing surgical backlogs and improving patient access to life-saving procedures. The event was planned and coordinated by Dr Vukosi Maluleke, a consultant general surgeon in the Breast Unit under the leadership of Professor Mokone.
“This initiative was designed to ensure that patients receive timely surgery, which is critical in preventing disease progression,” said Dr Vukosi Maluleke. “On this single day, we were able to operate on 14 patients—a number that would normally take five to six weeks to complete. In doing so, we effectively cleared several weeks from our waiting list.”
The success of the marathon relied on the collaborative effort of a multidisciplinary team. Seventeen nursing staff, five anaesthesiologists, and fourteen surgeons volunteered their time and expertise to ensure a smooth surgical workflow. The anaesthesiology team was led by Professor Hyla Kluyts, Head of the Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU).
Theatre operations were supported by the nursing administration and ward staff, who ensured that patients were safely admitted and optimally prepared for surgery. Five theatres were made fully available and prepared under the guidance of Operation Manager Phindile Mlangeni, whose leadership of the nursing team was instrumental in ensuring the day ran efficiently and safely.
Financial support for the day was generously provided by SMU alumni, including Dr Mongezi Ntulini, Dr Nkosikhona Fredrick Mlimi, and Dr Thegesha Naidoo, who funded meals for all staff participating in the marathon. Their contribution helped sustain staff energy and morale throughout the demanding day.
The leadership of the Breast Unit extends beyond surgery. Professor Dikeledi Mokone, Head of the Breast Surgery Unit, emphasised the importance of teamwork in achieving the day’s success: “This marathon reflects the dedication and commitment of our entire team—from surgeons and anaesthesiologists to nurses, administrative staff, and porters. Every role was essential to ensure our patients received timely and high-quality care.”
Among the patients who benefited from the initiative was Paulina Mpete, who expressed her relief and gratitude: “I was nervous at first, but the team made everything so organised and reassuring. I feel so relieved knowing my surgery is done without months of waiting.”
Other key contributors included Professor Zach Koto, Head of the Department of General Surgery at SMU. The success of the Department of Surgery is owed largely to him as an internationally recognised surgeon and educator who leads from the front. His guidance and support ensured the smooth coordination of surgical services throughout the marathon.
The Breast Cancer Surgery Marathon not only reduced surgical backlogs but also highlighted the value of collaboration, planning, and innovation in healthcare delivery. By combining expertise from the Breast Unit, the Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, and the wider hospital team, DGMAH successfully demonstrated a model for delivering life-saving surgery efficiently, even under high patient demand.
The hospital also expresses its heartfelt gratitude to Project Flamingo, whose generous gifts for patients added a personal touch and comfort to the surgical experience.
This initiative stands as a testament to the hospital’s commitment to patient-centred care and the relentless pursuit of excellence in breast cancer treatment, setting a benchmark for other high-volume surgical units in South Africa and beyond.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Oct 30, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a powerful display of compassion and collaboration, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and the Kids Dental Home Foundation (KDHF) have once again joined forces to transform young lives—one smile at a time. Their 4th Annual Free Dental Surgeries Programme, held on 16 October 2025 at Kilnerpark Day Hospital in Pretoria, delivered life-changing dental care to children who would otherwise have gone without treatment.
Since the launch of the Saving Smiles in Africa initiative in 2022, the partnership has provided 41 free dental surgeries, targeting children suffering from Early Childhood Caries (ECC)—an aggressive dental condition that disproportionately affects those in underserved communities. SMU Oral Health Centre (SMUOHC) and School of Dentistry became an official partner in 2023, contributing clinical expertise, dental students, and a shared commitment to equitable healthcare.
This year’s programme saw seven children receive comprehensive dental surgeries, six of whom were referred directly from the SMUOHC waiting list. Under the supervision of volunteer dentists, clinicians, and final-year dental students, each child received treatment tailored to their needs—from restorative procedures to complex extractions. Every surgery was successful, with post-operative support ensuring that no child was left behind.
“This partnership is proof that when compassion meets collaboration, real change happens,” said Dr Londiwe Sibisi-Maboye, Founder and Director of KDHF and an SMU alumna.
The cumulative impact of the initiative is remarkable. To date, fifteen children from the SMUOHC waiting list have received long-awaited surgical care, reducing the backlog of urgent paediatric dental cases. The total value of these interventions—based on standard treatment costs under general anaesthesia—has reached over R500,000, with this year’s surgeries alone valued at an estimated R250,000. Most importantly, the programme has maintained a 100% success rate since its inception.
Beyond clinical outcomes, the collaboration is nurturing the next generation of dental professionals. SMU students gain invaluable hands-on experience while witnessing the tangible impact of their skills—deepening their understanding of service, empathy, and professional excellence.
To build on this success, several forward-looking steps are being considered:
- Formalising the partnership through an annual Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
- Securing joint funding via grants and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
- Enhancing student involvement through elective or community rotation opportunities.
- Advancing research collaboration using ECC data for publication and innovation.
- Boosting visibility through strategic media and academic engagement.
These measures aim to ensure the programme’s sustainability and expand its reach, paving the way towards its ambitious 10-year goal of performing 1,000 free dental surgeries for children in need across South Africa.
The KDHF extended heartfelt gratitude to SMU and the SMU OHC for their unwavering support and leadership in the fight against childhood dental disease.
“Together, we are restoring not only smiles, but confidence and dignity,” Dr Sibisi-Maboye said. “Our mission is simple: every child deserves the gift of a healthy smile—no matter where they come from.”
Adding to this, Dr Ntsakisi Mukhari-Baloyi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the SMU Oral Health Centre, commended the collaboration’s transformative impact:
“At SMU OHC, we believe that access to quality oral healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. This partnership with KDHF exemplifies our commitment to reaching children who might otherwise fall through the cracks. Each restored smile represents a step towards a healthier, more equitable society.”
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 30, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Adverts
A brilliant young scholar from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Tumiso Matsobane Kekana, is redefining the intersection of Mathematics and Material Science through his pioneering research in Chemical Graph Theory (CGT). His work, which investigates the structural and mechanical properties of complex molecular compounds such as dendrimers and graphene, has attracted both national and international recognition for its scientific precision and potential applications in nanotechnology and materials engineering.
Born on 22 July 1997, Kekana recently graduated cum laude with a Master of Science in Mathematics from SMU. His dissertation, “Computational Analysis of Complex Dendrimer and Graphene Structures via Neighbourhood Multiple Degree-based Topological Indices and M-Polynomials,” advances the mathematical modelling of molecular structures and their behaviours under various conditions.
“Mathematics is not just about numbers—it’s about revealing the patterns that govern our universe,” he explains. “Through Chemical Graph Theory, we can predict the properties of materials before they even exist in a lab. That’s the power of mathematical innovation.”
At the core of Kekana’s study lies the use of Topological Indices (TIs)—numerical descriptors that model molecular structures as graphs. His research introduces neighbourhood multiple degree-based TIs, offering more accurate predictions of graphene’s mechanical properties, such as Young’s Modulus, Poisson’s Ratio, and Shear Modulus. His results confirm the predictive strength of these mathematical tools, marking a step forward in computational chemistry.
Beyond research, Kekana is a full-time lecturer in SMU’s Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, where he teaches Advanced Calculus and Linear Algebra and mentors young mathematicians. Through his involvement in the department’s Community Engagement Committee, he helps organise mathematics competitions and outreach programmes for high school learners, nurturing future problem-solvers.
“Relevance beats cleverness every time,” he reflects. “If our teaching and research don’t connect to real-world challenges, then we’ve missed the purpose of science.”
Kekana’s contributions have been recognised through peer-reviewed publications in international journals such as Frontiers in Applied Mathematics and Statistics and Discrete Mathematics, Algorithms and Applications. His recent paper, co-authored with Dr Kazeem Aremu and Professor Maggie Aphane, presents a new method for computing topological descriptors of graphene using Neighbourhood Multiple M-Polynomials—a breakthrough simplifying complex molecular analysis.
Kekana’s success story began on the dusty streets of Ivory Park. After matriculating from Thuto Ke Maatla Comprehensive School in 2015 with results that initially barred university admission, he spent two years upgrading his marks at Tembisa High ABET School. In 2018, he was finally accepted to study Mathematics at SMU—a dream fuelled by his mentor, Godfrey Tshehla (PhD candidate in Financial Mathematics at Wits), whose passion for mathematics inspired him deeply.
Although he failed his Honours year in 2021, his supervisor, Dr Aremu, refused to let him quit. “He reminded me of my ‘why’,” Kekana recalls. Repeating the programme in 2022, he graduated with distinction.
Yet another obstacle emerged after his Honours degree: university debt barred him from accommodation and registration. Forced back to his two-room shack in Ivory Park, he began his Master’s degree under severe hardship—no electricity, no proper study space, and constant financial strain. To survive, he sold achaar and relied on Hands of Compassion, the SMU feeding scheme. Drawn by the difficult environment, he briefly turned to gambling (dice), even becoming a “knox man” as a means of survival. Despite these challenges, he completed his MSc degree cum laude in record time and published two Q2-ranked journal papers.
Now a PhD student, full-time researcher, and lecturer, Kekana’s journey embodies resilience, passion, and purpose. “Where you start doesn’t define where you can go,” he says. “With perseverance, even dust can give birth to diamonds.”
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 30, 2025 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
In a proud moment for Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Dr Nana Millicent Duduzile Buthelezi has been awarded a Y2 rating by the National Research Foundation (NRF) — a distinction reserved for promising young researchers under 40 who have held a doctorate for fewer than five years and are recognised for their potential to establish themselves as leading academics within the next five years.
The NRF rating is one of South Africa’s most rigorous measures of research excellence, based on international peer review and the quality, originality, and impact of a scholar’s research outputs. For Dr Buthelezi, this recognition is more than a personal achievement — it is a validation of years of dedication to sustainable science and a catalyst for future innovation.
“Receiving recognition from the NRF is a significant milestone in my career, symbolising and validating my academic growth,” she said. “It has increased my visibility and credibility within the academic community, opened doors for collaboration, and encouraged me to pursue impactful, innovative projects.”
Buthelezi’s academic journey is exceptional. Holding two PhDs — one in Horticultural Science and another in Botany — she has focused her research on environmental sustainability, green nanotechnology, and postharvest biology. Her work explores eco-friendly agricultural solutions, including nanofertilisers, biostimulants, and nanocomposite coatings that extend the shelf life of fresh produce while reducing environmental damage.
Her passion for sustainable agriculture was sparked by witnessing the effects of environmental degradation, climate change, and food waste. “My research addresses two pressing global challenges — postharvest losses and environmental decline,” she explained. “By developing green technologies, we can improve crop yields, enhance food security, and protect our planet for future generations.”
At SMU, Buthelezi credits her department and mentors for providing a nurturing environment that has allowed her to thrive. “The support from Prof Piet King, our Head of Department, has been instrumental. SMU has fostered a collaborative culture that promotes interdisciplinary research and innovation,” she said.
The NRF Y-rating underscores Buthelezi’s growing influence in the scientific community. Her research not only strengthens SMU’s standing as a research-intensive institution but also contributes directly to South Africa’s broader mission of sustainable development and food security.
Currently, she is leading projects on green nanotechnology in collaboration with the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and other universities. Her team, which includes MSc and PhD students, is developing environmentally friendly nanomaterials such as zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, and titanium dioxide nanoparticles — innovations that promise to revolutionise modern agriculture.
Beyond her research, Buthelezi is passionate about mentorship. She guides postgraduate students through hands-on training, peer mentorship, and publication in high-impact journals. “The NRF rating has strengthened my commitment to mentoring emerging scholars,” she noted. “Our next generation of scientists must be equipped to think critically, research ethically, and innovate sustainably.”
As for her future, Buthelezi remains ambitious and forward-looking. “This milestone inspires me to push the boundaries of green science further,” she said. “Ultimately, I hope my work leaves a legacy of sustainable agriculture that balances productivity with environmental stewardship.”
With her recognition, Buthelezi joins the growing cohort of SMU researchers placing the university on the map as a leader in health sciences, agricultural innovation, and environmental resilience — a shining example of how world-class research can begin right here at home.
By Tumelo Moila
