by Lorato | Feb 13, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is redefining healthcare education through its Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice (IPECP) Programme, a transformative initiative that equips final-year students with the collaborative and professional skills needed to thrive in multidisciplinary medical environments. With 360 final-year students from radiography, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, nutrition and dietetics, speech-language and audiology, and medical programmes, the week-long programme provided an immersive experience in team-based patient care, mirroring real-world healthcare settings.
As a leading institution in health sciences, SMU is committed to producing competent, ethical, and team-oriented healthcare professionals. The IPECP programme embodies SMU’s core values—Excellence, Social Responsibility, Integrity, Ubuntu, and Scholarship—ensuring that graduates are not just specialists in their fields but also leaders in patient-centred, collaborative healthcare.
Student leader Samkele Jiyane, the face of the IPECP initiative, applauded the participants for embracing the programme. He encouraged them to consider IPECP as a valuable tool in their journey towards becoming compassionate and skilled healthcare professionals who uphold dignity, humility, and commitment in patient care—principles that align with SMU’s emphasis on Ubuntu and Integrity. “This programme is a game-changer for us as future healthcare professionals. It challenges us to think beyond our individual disciplines and work together for the betterment of patient care,” says Jiyane.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in a series of activities and presentations that highlighted the importance of interprofessional collaboration. Realistic case scenarios enabled students to explore the roles and responsibilities of various healthcare professions, fostering mutual understanding and respect. Workshops on professionalism and key assessments included life-saving practices essential during patient interactions. Students also addressed complex healthcare cases, honing their critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities. Group discussions explored ethical dilemmas such as the right to life, patient versus professional rights, and the intersection of ethics with constitutional principles.
A highlight of the programme was a session on rare disease awareness led by Sr Kate Mills from the South African Haemophilia Foundation (SAHF). She commended the students for their dedication to advancing interprofessional collaborative healthcare practices and emphasised the transformative impact of compassionate, patient-centred care across the health promotion, preventative, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative spectrum. “It is inspiring to see future healthcare leaders embracing the principles of teamwork and ethical patient care. This is the kind of transformation that will change healthcare for the better,” says Mills.
Renowned speakers further enriched the learning experience. Dr Hanlie Pitout, a leading IPECP expert, delivered a compelling presentation on the “Five Ws and H” of interprofessional education and collaborative practice. Nurse specialists Sr Grace Nkgapele and Isabel Benninghof of V&A Private Company shared invaluable insights into patient-centred care, highlighting the repercussions of unprofessional conduct and the importance of accountability in healthcare.
Their message was symbolised by the acronym HEALTH, which resonated strongly with participants and highlighted key principles:
- H – Help patients with excellence.
- E – Act with precision and excellence.
- A – Show love in patient interactions.
- L – Foster trust through genuine care.
- T – Demonstrate humility in service.
- H – Uphold honesty in all professional conduct.
These principles align seamlessly with SMU’s values, serving as a powerful reminder of the ethos that underpins compassionate and professional healthcare.
The programme also emphasised the importance of 12 key assessments in saving lives, effective communication, and functional teamwork within primary healthcare settings. These lessons are especially pertinent in the context of South Africa’s National Health Insurance (NHI) and its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Thokozile Kgongwana, the IPECP Programme Coordinator, highlights its significance in preparing students for professional healthcare practice in under-resourced systems. “This programme has been a resounding success, equipping our students with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in primary healthcare interprofessional teams,” she says. “Interprofessional collaboration is the future of healthcare, and SMU is at the forefront of instilling this mindset in our graduates.”
The IPECP programme is a cornerstone of SMU’s mission to be a leading African university in health sciences, strengthening its role in shaping future healthcare leaders. By the end of the week, participants had developed a deeper understanding of interprofessional dynamics, ethical decision-making, and the critical role of professionalism in patient care.
As SMU continues to champion interprofessional education, the IPECP programme remains a vital platform for fostering collaboration, professionalism, and patient-centred care. This transformative initiative not only prepares students for successful careers but also cements SMU’s impact on the healthcare sector both nationally and globally.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Feb 13, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a landmark achievement that exemplifies academic excellence and innovation, a team of final-year students from the Physiotherapy Department at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has earned the esteemed Best Undergraduate Research Project Award. The accolade was presented during the department’s internal research presentations, an event dedicated to recognising groundbreaking ideas and scholarly rigour among graduating students.
The triumphant team—Phala Tiisetso, Molefe Boitshoko, Ralehlaka Kelebogile, Zander Collins, Chane Seipker, and Vilankulu Simphiwe—addressed a critical issue impacting their peers: stress and its profound effects on physiotherapy students. Guided by Dr Makwena Sibuyi, the Fourth-Year Coordinator and Head of the Paediatric Module, their research, titled Self-Reported Stress Levels Among Final-Year Physiotherapy Students, combined scientific precision with empathy, uncovering valuable insights into mental health challenges in healthcare education.
Motivated by their own experiences and observations, the team sought to explore the unique stressors affecting physiotherapy students during their demanding training. “We have all felt the pressure of clinical rotations, demanding coursework, and the uncertainty of what lies ahead after graduation. This research allowed us to delve deeper into those challenges and contribute meaningful insights to our field,” explains Zander Collins.
The study utilised a descriptive cross-sectional design, surveying 42 final-year physiotherapy students with the Student Stress Inventory (SSI). The findings revealed that stress levels ranged from low (57.14%) to moderate (42.85%). Female students were more prone to stress, often linked to greater emotional reactivity and societal expectations. Additionally, academic and environmental factors emerged as the leading stressors, with coursework, clinical responsibilities, and external pressures being the most prominent triggers. “Our findings show that stress levels among physiotherapy students are slightly lower than reported in similar studies, but this does not diminish the need for proactive mental health interventions,” remarks Phala.
The research not only illuminates the challenges faced by healthcare students but also underscores the urgency of developing targeted support systems. Sibuyi, the team’s mentor, praised their commitment, stating: “This study highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues in higher education, particularly in healthcare disciplines. Their findings pave the way for developing effective strategies to support student well-being.”
To improve student well-being, the team identified several actionable steps. Early identification of stress indicators is crucial, involving the monitoring of academic, physical, and interpersonal stressors to prevent burnout. Building emotional self-efficacy is another essential measure, with universities encouraged to offer stress management workshops and mentorship programmes, particularly for female students. Additionally, support from educators and peers plays a significant role in fostering a supportive environment; lecturers and clinical supervisors can help create a positive learning atmosphere, while peer mentorship strengthens community bonds and reduces isolation.
The team envisions their research as a stepping stone for future investigations. “We recommend extending this research to other health sciences disciplines to understand the broader implications of stress in healthcare education,” suggests Ralehlaka.
The journey was not without its hurdles. From balancing academic demands to navigating administrative approvals, the team displayed remarkable perseverance. Vilankulu reflects: “The process taught us resilience and the importance of collaboration.”
This study serves as a clarion call for stakeholders in education and healthcare to invest in student well-being. “Proactive measures are needed to address student stress and enhance academic performance,” urges Molefe.
The recognition of their work is a testament to the team’s dedication, intellectual curiosity, and resilience. Their success not only celebrates their academic journey but also inspires future cohorts to push boundaries and redefine possibilities in research.
Their award-winning project stands as a shining example of how student-led initiatives can significantly contribute to advancing knowledge and improving the educational experience for healthcare professionals of tomorrow.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Feb 13, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is at the forefront of a revolutionary shift in medical education, equipping future healthcare professionals with the skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex and evolving healthcare landscape. Through its Practice of Medicine (POME) curriculum, the university has embraced Inquiry-Based Learning and Teaching (IBLT)—a dynamic educational model that fosters critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and self-directed learning. This progressive approach sets SMU apart as a leader in medical pedagogy, ensuring that its graduates are not only competent but also innovative and ethically grounded professionals.
Inquiry-based learning: Redefining medical training
SMU’s adoption of IBLT moves away from traditional passive learning models, instead empowering students to take an active role in their education. This method, rooted in the philosophies of John Dewey and Jerome Bruner, encourages problem-solving and analytical thinking from the very first year. Gerda Botha, a medical education expert, emphasises that the success of IBLT hinges on facilitators guiding students rather than merely transferring knowledge, thereby fostering a culture of independent inquiry.
This model progressively shifts students from structured, guided learning to open, self-directed research, ensuring they develop the ability to critically evaluate information and adapt to real-world clinical settings. By the time students reach their third year, they are formulating well-structured research proposals, securing ethics clearance, and producing work suitable for publication—a testament to the curriculum’s emphasis on research excellence. Many SMU students have already had their research published in renowned journals such as the South African Family Practice and the Undergraduate Research in Health Journal.
At SMU, Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) is seamlessly woven into the curriculum, equipping students with the skills needed to critique and apply medical research in clinical settings. Dr Kamelia Nashed and Dr Christian Saidiya, who oversee the integration of research methodologies, highlight how students progress from learning basic epidemiology and study design in their first year to applying EBM principles to real-world patient scenarios by their final years.
According to Nashed, by the second year, students gain a sophisticated understanding of research methodologies, hierarchy of evidence, and proposal development. By the time they transition into their third year, they are expected to independently critically appraise research articles and apply their findings to clinical decision-making—a skillset that will define them as competent and research-savvy medical professionals.
SMU understands that competent medical practice is as much about ethical integrity as it is about clinical skill. Led by Professor Adegoke Adefolalu and Dr Nokufa Mnguni, the university’s ethics curriculum runs as a “golden thread” throughout the entire medical programme. From the first year, students engage with theoretical principles of medical ethics, later applying them in real-world clinical settings such as HIV patient care and service-learning initiatives.
Mnguni highlights how early exposure to real patients and multidisciplinary healthcare teams enhances students’ ethical reasoning, communication skills, and empathy. By embedding ethics into every stage of training, SMU ensures that its graduates uphold the highest moral standards in their medical practice.
Interdisciplinary collaboration: Training holistic healthcare professionals
Recognising the need for collaborative healthcare delivery, SMU places a strong emphasis on Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice (IPECP). Dr Nomsa Mogosetsi and Dr Suzan Nnanile Nyalunga highlight how the first-year medical module introduces students to various medical disciplines, fostering an appreciation for the interconnected nature of healthcare professions.
Through interactive workshops, role-plays, and problem-solving exercises, students engage in discussions around diversity, inclusivity, and healthcare disparities. This immersive learning approach encourages future doctors to understand the social determinants of health and develop cultural competence—an essential skill in South Africa’s diverse healthcare landscape.
SMU ensures that clinical reasoning is at the core of medical training. Dr Angelina Ulzen, an expert in this domain, describes clinical reasoning as the logical thread that ties together all teaching modules, guiding students towards sound diagnosis and management decisions.
By the third year, students are actively contributing to clinical discussions and diagnostic problem-solving, applying their knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathology in real-world healthcare settings. This approach bridges the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that SMU graduates emerge as competent and confident healthcare practitioners.
SMU recognises the importance of One Health, a multidisciplinary approach that connects human, animal, and environmental health. Introduced in the second year and expanded in the third year, this concept encourages students to consider the global impact of climate change, zoonotic diseases, and food security.
Adefolalu notes that by the end of their third year, students present their understanding of One Health concepts in peer-assisted learning sessions, where they propose solutions to pressing public health challenges. These collaborative projects refine students’ problem-solving skills, equipping them with the competence to address future health crises.
SMU’s vision for the future of medical education
The integration of Inquiry-Based Learning, ethical training, and interdisciplinary collaboration into the POME curriculum at SMU is reshaping the landscape of medical education. By fostering critical thinking, research excellence, and hands-on clinical reasoning, the university is ensuring that its graduates are not only skilled practitioners but also leaders in the field of healthcare innovation.
While the effectiveness of IBLT has been widely studied in high-income countries, there is limited research on its impact in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. Given its fully mapped undergraduate health professions curriculum, SMU is uniquely positioned to lead global research efforts on the application of IBLT in LMICs.
By embedding research, ethics, and interdisciplinary training at the core of its medical programme, SMU is not only preparing students to meet the healthcare challenges of today but is also equipping them to shape the future of medicine in Africa and beyond.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Feb 13, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to produce forward-thinking students who are determined to drive innovation and position the university at the forefront of technological advancement. One such student is Khanyisa Mokgolobotho, whose passion for technology and entrepreneurship has led her to spearhead a new tech movement at SMU.
In 2024, Mokgolobotho immersed herself in numerous tech events, including those hosted by Geekulcha, where she connected with a dynamic network of tech enthusiasts, innovative entrepreneurs, and students from various institutions who were actively solving real-world problems, upskilling, and forging industry connections. Witnessing this thriving ecosystem, she recognised the need for SMU to be part of this movement, inspiring her vision to establish a tech society at the university.
Her goal is to empower SMU students with opportunities to participate in hackathons, integrate Work-Integrated Learning (WIL), and compete on national and international platforms, ultimately enhancing their employability and positioning SMU as a key player in the evolving tech landscape.
“I’m excited to share that I have successfully established the society, and it has been officially approved in partnership with Geekulcha,” says Mokgolobotho. “Given that we are in an age where tech is dominating, part of my vision is to make the society inclusive to all students who are interested in technology. We already have a few events coming up as the Geekulcha Student Society (GKSS) chapters exist across universities nationwide.”
Mokgolobotho’s passion for technology and innovation was ignited through her participation in hackathons and datathons, where she witnessed firsthand how technology could be used to solve real-world problems. “Being recognised as the Best Female Student Participant at the CSIR DIRISA Hackathon in 2022 opened doors for me, leading to funding for my studies and exposure to South Africa’s tech ecosystem. Over time, I have grown into an entrepreneur and a tech leader, advocating for more students, especially from health sciences, to embrace technology in their fields.”
Recognising the gap in access to tech opportunities at SMU, Mokgolobotho was determined to bridge this divide. “Establishing GKSS is an opportunity to introduce more students to tech, innovation, and entrepreneurship, ensuring they are equipped for the digital future,” she emphasises.
“Technology is not just a tool; it is a catalyst for change. It plays a crucial role in enhancing research, improving healthcare, and driving economic growth. Students who embrace technology gain a competitive edge, and society benefits from innovations that improve everyday life.”
To align GKSS with Geekulcha’s mission of building a tech talent pipeline, Mokgolobotho outlined a roadmap that includes hosting workshops to upskill students, connecting them with industry professionals for mentorship, encouraging cross-disciplinary projects that integrate tech into health sciences, and establishing internship and WIL opportunities.
In its first year, GKSS at SMU aims to establish a strong foundation by focusing on key strategic goals. With the support of its parent body, Geekulcha, the society will leverage established industry connections and expertise to facilitate key partnerships with tech companies and organisations. These collaborations will create avenues for mentorship, internships, and industry exposure, ensuring members gain valuable hands-on experience. Additionally, all GKSS events, including hackathons and skill-building workshops, will be made possible through its affiliation with Geekulcha, allowing students to engage with a broader network of innovators while maintaining the society’s unique identity and focus on SMU. The society will kick off with an official launch event to raise awareness and attract students from diverse disciplines who are eager to explore technology and innovation. To enhance opportunities for members, GKSS will actively seek partnerships with tech companies and organisations, creating avenues for mentorship, internships, and industry exposure. Additionally, the society will facilitate student participation in hackathons and specialised tech skill-building workshops, equipping them with hands-on experience in software development, data science, and emerging technologies. Beyond technical training, GKSS is committed to fostering a vibrant community of student innovators by encouraging collaboration across different fields, ensuring that technology becomes an integral part of healthcare and other disciplines at SMU.
“By bringing industry leaders to campus, offering hands-on learning experiences, and exposing students to real-world tech challenges, we will ensure that students see technology as a practical tool for problem-solving, not just a theoretical concept,” Mokgolobotho says.
GKSS initiatives aimed at enhancing students’ exposure to the tech industry include tech boot camps in software development, data science, and cybersecurity; entrepreneurship programmes to teach students how to build start-ups; a mentorship programme pairing students with professionals; and industry visits and internships in tech companies.
To ensure a dedicated and skilled team leads GKSS, the executive committee was selected based on experience, leadership potential, and passion. “We chose students who have participated in hackathons, innovation programmes, and entrepreneurship societies to ensure we have a team that can drive impact,” Mokgolobotho explains.
“I adopt a collaborative and impact-driven leadership style. I believe in empowering my team, providing direction, and leading by example,” she adds. By fostering an inclusive culture where all ideas are valued and encouraging teamwork across different disciplines within the School of Science and Technology, she aims to maintain a collaborative and supportive environment within GKSS.
Executive Committee Members:
- Khanyisa Mokgolobotho (Chairperson) – A Software Engineer, former SRC Residence Officer, and an entrepreneur passionate about tech and innovation.
- Thandi Sebola (Deputy Chairperson) – Former SMU Postgraduate Officer and host of the Job4Billion Summit 2024.
- Rosemary Erawemen (Secretary) – Participant in the CHPC 2024 Hackathon and DIRISA 2023, with expertise in data science.
- Rudzani Munyai (Treasurer) – Participated in the CHPC 2024 midyear qualification rounds, bringing fresh perspectives.
- Mpho Mutengwe (Manager: Technology and Innovation) – An experienced hackathon participant with a strong background in problem-solving.
- Oreneile Hlalethwa (Manager: STEM Programmes) – The SMU EDHE Student Leader, fostering entrepreneurial initiatives on campus.
- Noluthando Sibiya (Manager: Community Outreach) – Passionate about community engagement and outreach and participated in the Geekulcha Hackathon.
To ensure students gain exposure to the tech industry, GKSS will organise industry networking sessions, internship opportunities with tech firms, and collaborations with start-ups and incubators. Skill-building workshops and hackathons are also planned, including:
As part of its commitment to equipping students with essential tech skills, GKSS has planned a series of skill-building workshops and hackathons designed to provide hands-on experience and industry-relevant knowledge. The society will host Intro to Programming sessions to introduce beginners to coding fundamentals, ensuring that students from all backgrounds can develop computational thinking skills. AI and Machine Learning boot camps will offer advanced training, allowing participants to explore cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future of healthcare and beyond. Additionally, the Tech and Entrepreneurship Summit will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and aspiring student entrepreneurs to discuss emerging trends, start-up development, and the role of technology in solving real-world challenges. These initiatives will not only enhance technical proficiency but also foster a culture of innovation, preparing students for the evolving digital economy.
“By combining theory with hands-on projects and ensuring that students apply what they learn through real-world case studies, we will prepare them for real-world challenges in tech and innovation,” Mokgolobotho says.
Socially responsible leadership is a core value of GKSS. “Socially responsible leadership means using tech to solve societal problems. GKSS will run initiatives to upskill underprivileged students, host coding workshops in local schools, and drive impactful projects,” Mokgolobotho states.
The society will also engage with the local community through tech outreach programmes, collaborations with non-profits, and projects addressing real community challenges.
Looking ahead, Mokgolobotho envisions GKSS becoming a leading tech society at SMU, producing industry-ready graduates and laying the foundation for a HealthTech Hub at the university. “The aim of Geekulcha is not merely to foster collaboration between departments but to integrate technology throughout the entire university. As SMU serves as a hub for healthcare, our goal is to establish a lasting HealthTech legacy—one that provides students with the essential resources to excel in the tech industry while thriving as healthcare professionals, particularly in the era of the Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR).”
Through her visionary leadership, Mokgolobotho is ensuring that SMU students are not only exposed to technology but are also active participants in shaping South Africa’s digital future.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Feb 13, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a bold move to strengthen its media presence and cultivate the next generation of broadcasting talent, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) recently appointed Themba “Techtonics” Chauke as the new SMU FM Coordinator. With a wealth of experience spanning community, commercial, and public radio, Chauke’s appointment signals SMU’s commitment to recruiting top industry professionals to enhance student-led media and transform SMU FM into a leading campus-based radio station.
Chauke, a seasoned broadcaster with an impressive track record in radio production, content strategy, and media mentorship, brings a vision of innovation, excellence, and collaboration to SMU FM. His appointment aligns with the university’s ongoing efforts to enrich student experiences through dynamic and professional media platforms. Under his leadership, SMU FM is set to become a powerhouse of student broadcasting, offering a training ground for young media professionals while amplifying the voice of SMU’s student community.
A journey through the airwaves: Chauke’s rise in radio
Chauke’s passion for radio was ignited at a young age, fascinated by how presenters connected with audiences. This early interest led him to pursue a degree in Media Studies and Communications at the University of Limpopo, where he refined his craft as a presenter and producer at Radio Turf.
In 2013, he took his first professional step at Malamulele Community Radio (Mala FM), later moving through Choice FM, Energy FM, and Vhembe FM. His breakthrough came at Capricorn FM, a commercial radio station in Limpopo, where he gained exposure to a broader audience and an in-depth understanding of the industry.
“Like many in the industry, my journey required perseverance, long hours, and an unwavering commitment to my craft,” Chauke reflects. His experience spans community, commercial, and public radio, each platform shaping his approach to broadcasting. At Munghana Lonene FM (SABC), he held multiple roles in content production, sound imaging, and music direction, playing a crucial role in shaping the station’s musical identity.
He was also instrumental in conceptualising the theme for the 19th edition of the Xitsonga Music Awards, “Ku rila xinari,” showcasing his influence in creative direction and programming strategy.
“Each station taught me something unique—community radio grounded me in grassroots engagement, commercial radio refined my content packaging, and public radio gave me a broader perspective on audience needs,” Chauke shares.
A new era for SMU FM
In December 2024, Chauke stepped into his new role as SMU FM Coordinator, ready to elevate campus radio and nurture future broadcasting talent. “It was an incredible honour and a humbling moment,” he says. “SMU FM has great potential, and I am excited about shaping it into a thriving student/community media platform.”
His vision for SMU FM is ambitious. He aims to enhance content quality, expand training programmes for presenters and producers, and integrate campus media with broader university activities. Chauke is already engaging with established radio stations to create collaborative training opportunities for students. “Collaboration is key,” he explains. “I’m in talks with other radio stations to develop strategies that will help students gain hands-on industry experience.”
Beyond broadcasting, Chauke envisions a culture of innovation, creativity, and inclusivity at SMU FM. He believes that teamwork and a healthy work environment are essential for success. “A great leader listens, provides guidance, and encourages creative freedom while maintaining a clear direction,” he emphasises. Mentorship is a core pillar of Chauke’s leadership approach. Through workshops, mentorship programmes, and partnerships with industry professionals, he hopes to equip students with real-world experience.
“SMU FM should be a platform that nurtures and develops young media talent,” he asserts. “By exposing students to professional broadcasting techniques and industry trends, we can ensure they graduate with a competitive edge. “Chauke is also focused on enhancing student engagement through interactive programming, live campus discussions, and student-driven content. He believes that radio should reflect the student experience, addressing topics relevant to university life, career development, and social issues. “By covering student-focused topics, hosting engaging campus events, and providing a platform for open discussions, we can make SMU FM a key voice within the university,” he says.
When asked what advice he has for students hoping to break into the radio industry, Chauke offers words of wisdom: “Stay humble. Start where you are. Take advantage of community and campus radio, learn as much as possible, and be patient. Passion, consistency, and a willingness to grow will open doors.”
Chauke acknowledges the mentors and colleagues who have played a significant role in his journey, fuelling his passion for radio and leadership. “Support systems matter, and I am grateful for those who believed in my journey,” he shares. Looking ahead, he hopes to build a legacy of excellence at SMU FM, shaping it into a premier campus radio station that consistently produces top industry talent.
“The SMU community can support us by tuning in, participating in discussions, and contributing ideas. SMU FM is a platform for students, and their involvement is key to its success.”
With his visionary leadership, extensive industry experience, and deep passion for radio, Chauke is poised to transform SMU FM into a powerhouse of student broadcasting.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Feb 13, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to cement its reputation as a powerhouse in health sciences research, tackling some of the world’s most urgent medical challenges. Among its rising scientific minds is Ankonisaho Mahalihali, a dedicated researcher leading the charge against antimicrobial resistance (AMR)—a silent global crisis threatening modern medicine.
Hailing from Tshilamba, Mutale, in Limpopo, Mahalihali’s journey from the University of Venda to SMU is a testament to her relentless pursuit of scientific excellence. Now pursuing a master’s degree in medical microbiology at SMU, her research delves into resistance mechanisms in bacterial pathogens, a crucial area in the fight to preserve the efficacy of life-saving antibiotics.
With SMU’s cutting-edge facilities and a commitment to advancing high-impact medical research, Mahalihali is not just building a career—she is shaping the future of infectious disease control in South Africa and beyond. “In 2024, I joined SMU to pursue a master’s degree in medical microbiology, focusing on resistance mechanisms in bacterial pathogens,” says Mahalihali.
“SMU is a leading institution in health sciences, making it the ideal choice for my academic pursuits. My interest in medical microbiology stemmed from its direct impact on human health, particularly infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance. SMU has nurtured my passion by providing mentorship, access to research platforms, and state-of-the-art laboratories.”
Her research investigates the prevalence, antibiotic resistance, and whole-genome sequencing of Klebsiella pneumoniae, a pathogen linked to multidrug resistance. “My research has identified critical resistance patterns and outbreak dynamics, reinforcing the need for improved surveillance and antibiotic stewardship,” she explains.
“With expert guidance from seasoned academics, I have refined my ability to conduct impactful research that contributes to global efforts in combating antimicrobial resistance. SMU’s Department of Microbiology, journal clubs, and research meetings have provided platforms for scientific discussions, enhancing my analytical and presentation skills. Access to well-equipped laboratories has further strengthened my expertise in molecular microbiology.”
Mahalihali credits Dr Andrew Musyoki as a pivotal mentor in her research journey. “SMU plays a crucial role in addressing antimicrobial resistance through its research-driven approach, collaborations, and emphasis on real-world applications. By equipping students with essential skills and supporting innovative research, the university contributes to global efforts in combating antibiotic resistance and shaping policies to mitigate its impact.”
“Through rigorous training and research exposure at SMU, I gained the expertise needed to excel at the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in Trieste, Italy. My background in bacterial genomics and antimicrobial susceptibility testing has been instrumental in conducting advanced molecular analyses and collaborating with international researchers.”
Reflecting on her recent achievement, she shares, “From Venda in South Africa to Trieste in Italy via the research team at the Department of Microbiological Pathology in SMU, it has been an incredible journey. Thanks to our collaborator, leader of the Bacteriology group at ICGEB, Vittorio Venturi. I am grateful for the support by ICGEB and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI). Klebsiella pneumoniae will know who this rising star is!”
“Global opportunities like the ICGEB Special Programme broaden scientific perspectives, enhance skills, and provide exposure to cutting-edge technologies. This experience strengthens my expertise in antimicrobial resistance, demonstrating SMU’s commitment to nurturing globally competitive researchers.”
Mahalihali aims to share her expertise through mentorship, workshops, and research collaborations. “By engaging in research meetings and knowledge-sharing initiatives, I hope to inspire upcoming researchers and contribute to the advancement of SMU’s research community and South Africa’s health sector.”
Encouraging fellow SMU students, she states: “Remain resilient, proactive, and dedicated to continuous learning. Seek mentorship, engage in research, and embrace opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the field of health sciences.”
Mahalihali aspires to become a leading researcher in healthcare-based research, exploring innovative solutions to public health challenges. “With SMU’s strong research culture, mentorship, and collaborative environment, I am confident in achieving my long-term goal of contributing significantly to scientific advancements in infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance.”
Her selection for the ICGEB fellowship stands out as a pivotal achievement, providing her with invaluable international research exposure and networking opportunities. “SMU’s academic environment fosters a culture of curiosity, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Through access to advanced research techniques and mentorship, I have strengthened my resolve to contribute meaningfully to public health.”
To prospective SMU students interested in microbiology or health sciences, Mahalihali advises: “Remain curious, seek mentorship, and actively participate in research projects. With SMU’s strong academic foundation, networking opportunities, and commitment to excellence, students can build impactful careers in microbiology and health sciences.”
Mahalihali’s journey exemplifies SMU’s commitment to Excellence, Integrity, Ubuntu, and Scholarship. Her dedication to antimicrobial resistance research not only upholds these values but also showcases the university’s mission to advance health sciences for a better future. As she continues to make strides in her field, her work stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and research at SMU.
By Dimakatso Modise
