by Lorato | Oct 15, 2026 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is advancing scientific innovation through the work of Dr Walter Bonke Mahlangu, who recently graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Chemistry at the university’s Annual Spring Graduation Ceremony. His research explores using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the synthesis and application of organometallic compounds, with potential benefits for chemical research, industrial processes, and materials development.
Titled Developing an artificial intelligence predictive model for synthesis and application of organometallic compounds, the study addresses a longstanding challenge in chemistry: the time, resources and chemical waste associated with traditional trial-and-error approaches to developing and optimising chemical reactions.
Organometallic compounds, which contain covalent bonds between metal and carbon atoms, play an important role in organic synthesis, materials science and industrial chemistry. Mahlangu investigated how machine learning and deep learning could improve their identification, classification and design by predicting chemical structures and reaction characteristics from molecular data.
“Artificial intelligence offers an opportunity to rethink how chemists approach complex synthesis problems. By using predictive models to analyse molecular structures and identify patterns, we can work towards more efficient research processes and reduce reliance on trial-and-error experimentation,” explains Dr Mahlangu.
The research was conducted in three phases, combining molecular fingerprints with machine learning algorithms, including Random Forest, K-Nearest Neighbours, Support Vector Classification and Multi-layer Perceptron neural networks. The first phase developed a model to identify metal–carbon bonds, achieving an F1-score of 0.85 and an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) of 0.837, demonstrating its ability to distinguish relevant molecular structures.
In the second phase, Mahlangu applied clustering techniques to classify organometallic reactions into six to eight major categories. Different algorithms performed well in identifying broad reaction groups, while hierarchical clustering proved more effective at distinguishing subtle differences between related reactions. These findings could support more systematic organisation and analysis of complex chemical reactions.
The final phase focused on predicting reaction yields and catalyst structures. While the models performed strongly when predicting certain intrinsic molecular properties, forecasting reaction yields remained challenging because these depend on multiple experimental factors. However, a deep learning model achieved a peak accuracy of 85.7% in predicting catalyst and reagent structural features, demonstrating potential for automated screening and chemical design.
Mahlangu’s research reflects the value of combining established scientific disciplines with emerging technologies. “The findings highlight the importance of selecting appropriate molecular descriptors and machine learning architectures for specific chemical problems. Although challenges remain, particularly in predicting reaction yields, the results provide a foundation for further research into AI-assisted catalyst design,” he shares.
His doctoral achievement builds on previous research, including published work on analysing bisphenols in canned foods and machine learning-based classification of organometallic reactions. He also helps develop future scientists through his work as a principal lecturer at Eduvos and by supervising and co-supervising undergraduate and postgraduate research at SMU.
Dr Mahlangu’s graduation highlights the growing importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing complex scientific challenges. By integrating computational methods and chemistry, his work helps explore more efficient, data-driven approaches to chemical synthesis and catalyst discovery.
SMU continues to advance academic excellence through postgraduate education, innovative research and scientific capacity development. Mahlangu’s achievement reflects the university’s commitment to excellence and innovation, supporting researchers whose work expands scientific knowledge and explores solutions to emerging challenges.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Oct 15, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) celebrated outstanding student leadership, sporting achievement, innovation and community service at its fourth annual Student Affairs Excellence Awards, recognising the students and structures that contribute to a vibrant campus community.
The 2026 awards acknowledged achievements across student governance, residence life, sport, entrepreneurship and co-curricular activities, reinforcing the university’s commitment to holistic student development and excellence beyond the classroom.
Vumbhoni Mahlaule received the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Student Leader of the Year, accompanied by a prize of R10,000. Mahlaule also received the School Council Chairperson of the Year award, recognising his contribution to student leadership. Thato Mongake was named SRC Member of the Year and received R2,500, while Arebeng 1 won Residence of the Year and also earned R2,500.
Reflecting on the significance of the recognition, Mahlaule said: “Receiving the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Student Leader of the Year is a significant milestone in my leadership journey. It reminds me that leadership is not simply about holding a position, but about representing others, taking responsibility and working towards positive change. This recognition motivates me to continue serving the student community with integrity, dedication and purpose.”
The awards also recognised excellence in student governance and administration. SUCA was named Political Structure of the Year, the SMU Student Surgical Society (SMUSSS) received the Club and Society/Structure of the Year award, and Albert Sebulela was named Student Administrator of the Year. Madeira received the House Committee of the Year award.
Sporting achievements featured prominently, with Avela Mncwabeni named Sportsman of the Year and Tshiamo Sefolo receiving Sportswoman of the Year. Freddy Kunene was recognised as Most Versatile Sportsman of the Year, while Tsebo Lerotholi received Sports Physiotherapist of the Year. Rugby was named Sport Team/Club of the Year.
Mncwabeni said: “Receiving this award is an important recognition of the dedication and discipline required to pursue sporting excellence. Sport teaches valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance and commitment, which extend beyond the field. I am grateful for the opportunity to represent SMU and hope to continue making the university proud.”
In entrepreneurship and community engagement, Nkululo Mtwa received the Most Promising Entrepreneur/Social Innovator award, Thato Phasha was named Change Maker of the Year, and Phuthi Kola received the Champion of Service award. Pule Washa received a Special Recognition Award. Students were also acknowledged through full and half colours, while the SRC received collective recognition.
Event organiser Samuel Masilela said: “The Student Affairs Excellence Awards celebrate the students and student structures that go beyond their academic responsibilities to make a meaningful contribution to university life. Their achievements demonstrate leadership, commitment, accountability and a willingness to serve others. Through these awards, we aim to inspire more students to participate actively in campus life and continue striving for excellence in everything they do.”
Through the annual awards, SMU continues to promote student participation, leadership and service as essential elements of university life. By recognising achievement beyond academic performance, the university supports the development of responsible, collaborative and well-rounded graduates equipped to contribute meaningfully to society and the health sector.
By Tumelo Moila.
by Lorato | Oct 15, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has reaffirmed its commitment to student-centred leadership and constructive engagement following an introductory meeting between its executive management and the newly elected 2027 Student Representative Council (SRC). The meeting laid the groundwork for collaboration, strengthened communication, and identified key priorities affecting the student community.
The engagement gave incoming student leaders an opportunity to raise concerns, highlight areas needing attention, and discuss ways to improve the university experience. SRC members welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with management and committed themselves to working collaboratively to ensure that student needs remain central to institutional dialogue.
Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof Dini Mawela welcomed the incoming representatives and assured them of management’s willingness to work with the SRC to address student matters. She encouraged the student leaders to view their tenure as an opportunity for personal development, leadership growth and empowerment, urging them to approach their responsibilities with a commitment to learning, collaboration and constructive engagement.
Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation Prof Douglas Maleka echoed this message, encouraging the SRC members to use their tenure to strengthen their leadership capabilities and gain experience that would benefit them beyond university. Drawing on his experience as a former SRC member, he highlighted the value of student representation in developing leadership skills and preparing young people for future responsibilities.
The executive management delegation also included Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic and Community Engagement Dr Alufheli Edgar Nesamvuni; Acting Executive Director: Human Capital and Transformation Prof Mala Singh; Acting Registrar Sello Simon Mokoena; Acting Chief Financial Officer Mahlatholle Masha; and Acting Executive Director of Student Affairs Tulani Nkuntse.
To prepare the incoming council for its responsibilities, Deputy Director of Student Affairs Themba Khumalo confirmed that the university would arrange a formal induction programme. The programme will familiarise SRC members with their respective roles, university policies, procedures and governance structures, equipping them to represent their constituencies effectively and engage management on matters affecting students.
Speaking on behalf of the incoming student leadership, Deputy President General Tiyani Chantell Mangena described the meeting as fruitful. She thanked them for the opportunity to interact directly with university leadership and emphasised the importance of maintaining constructive working relationships to ensure student concerns are heard and addressed.
Led by President General Onismus Mamokwa Maelane, the 2027 SRC comprises representatives across leadership, student affairs and academic portfolios. The executive committee includes Mangena, Secretary General Ntsakelo Manganyi, Deputy Secretary General Itumeleng Techron Marule and Treasurer General Sedume Palesa Makgoale.
Other portfolio representatives are Kgwadi Manamela (Culture, Religion and Gender), Letlhogonolo Ndukule (Residence and Safety), Maite Prudence Seabi (Sport and Recreation), and Philasande Radebe (Projects and Campaigns). Academic representation includes Nkosinathi Michael Nkabinde (School of Medicine), Ace Junior Netshipale (School of Dentistry), Linda Tshepo Alfred Maputla (School of Health Care Sciences), Confidence Malebese Chego (School of Sciences and Technology) and Mihlali Ngcebetsha (School of Pharmacy). Zinhle Felicia Mahlangu will serve as Postgraduate Officer.
The engagement underscored the importance of open communication, accountability and cooperation between university management and student leadership. Through meaningful consultation and informed representation, the SRC will play an important role in conveying student concerns and contributing to discussions on academic life, campus facilities and student welfare.
As the incoming council prepares to serve the university community in 2027, SMU remains committed to fostering an inclusive, student-centred environment that supports academic excellence, leadership development and institutional progress. The partnership between management and the SRC will be important in advancing the university’s mission of excellence in health sciences education, innovative research and service to society.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Oct 15, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has strengthened its efforts to prevent and respond to gender-based violence (GBV) by bringing together government departments, civil society organisations and service providers to improve awareness, access to support services and collective action against violence and abuse.
The university recently hosted its Annual GBV Awareness and Support Campaign, allowing students and employees to engage directly with organisations offering counselling, legal assistance, reporting mechanisms, and other forms of support. The campaign also highlighted the importance of addressing the underlying social attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate GBV.
Participating organisations included the Commission for Gender Equality, the National Prosecuting Authority, the Department of Social Development, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, Katekani Community Projects, and Akakosha Men’s Forum, among other stakeholders. Their participation reinforced the importance of collaboration in ensuring that individuals know where to seek assistance and how to access available services.
SMU GBV Office Manager Busisiwe Mbanjwa said the campaign aimed to extend support beyond the University by strengthening partnerships with organisations serving surrounding communities. While the University’s internal services primarily support students and employees, she noted that GBV affects families and communities beyond campus boundaries.
“The University does not operate in isolation. While our internal services are primarily for students and employees, we recognise that GBV affects families and communities beyond our campus,” Mbanjwa said. She added that partnerships enable the University to connect individuals with appropriate services, including those who may not qualify for assistance through its internal structures.
Mbanjwa emphasised that sustainable progress requires addressing the causes of violence rather than responding only after incidents occur. “If we do not address the root causes of GBV, we will continue responding to incidents without achieving lasting change. We need to understand the factors that contribute to violence, challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours, promote accountability and ensure that those affected can access the necessary support,” she said.
Medicine student Lungile Khanyile highlighted the importance of sustained awareness among young people. She stressed that education alone does not make individuals or communities immune to GBV, and that students have a responsibility to challenge harmful behaviour, share information about available services and promote safer communities.
Representing the National Department of Social Development, GBV Command Centre Manager Carol Tladi outlined the national telephone-based counselling and referral service, which connects people experiencing abuse with appropriate support organisations in their communities.
“If anyone is experiencing GBV or any abuse of your human rights, you can call the command centre. We will either give you counselling over the phone, and then we can also link you with other services that can help you within your community where you are,” Tladi said. She encouraged those affected to seek assistance, emphasising: “People don’t have to struggle. People don’t have to suffer in silence.”
The campaign reinforced the need for sustained cooperation between higher education institutions, government and civil society to strengthen prevention, improve referrals and promote accountability. Through initiatives such as this, SMU advances its commitment to respect, integrity and student-centred support while contributing to safer campus and community environments.
By Gabisile Sibeko
by Lorato | Oct 15, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), through its School of Dentistry, brought essential dental services and oral health education to Tsitsing Village in Rustenburg during a two-day community outreach initiative on 8 and 9 October 2026. In partnership with the Office of Kgosana Dr Koketso Rakhudu Goodwill, the initiative expanded access to oral healthcare and gave students practical, community-based learning experiences.
Held at Kgotla ya Rakhudu, the office of Kgosana, the outreach focused on preventive care, oral health awareness and collaboration between the University and traditional leadership. Residents received oral screenings, dental restorations, extractions, and fluoride treatments, along with guidance on maintaining good oral hygiene, preventing dental problems, and seeking professional care when needed.
Kgosana Dr Koketso Rakhudu Goodwill, the traditional leader of Tsitsing in the Royal Bafokeng Nation, said the initiative aligned with his commitment to bringing essential services closer to residents. The partnership gave the community a platform to access dental services in a familiar setting and engage directly with healthcare professionals and students.
Dr Phenyo Matebesi, a practising dentist, SMU alumnus and manager of Matebesi Dental Services in Rustenburg, emphasised the importance of connecting university training with community needs. He said health sciences institutions had a responsibility to extend their contribution beyond the university environment and prepare graduates to serve society effectively.
“Our responsibility as a health sciences institution extends beyond the boundaries of the University. Through initiatives such as this, we have an opportunity to work alongside communities, promote health and provide our students with meaningful learning experiences that develop their professional competence, social awareness and sense of responsibility,” said Matebesi.
The outreach also enabled students to apply their academic knowledge and clinical skills in a community setting. By interacting directly with residents, they gained insight into local oral health needs and the barriers that can affect access to dental services. The experience reinforced the importance of patient-centred care, early intervention and preventive approaches in improving oral health outcomes.
Dr Grace Phalwane, a lecturer and dentist in the School of Dentistry’s Department of Community Dentistry, highlighted the educational value of community engagement. She said outreach initiatives allow students to put their training into practice, understand the needs of the communities they serve and recognise their responsibilities as future healthcare professionals. Such experiences strengthen the link between theoretical learning, clinical practice and social accountability.
The collaboration demonstrated how partnerships between academic institutions and traditional leadership can help address community health priorities. By hosting the programme at Kgotla ya Rakhudu, the partners created an accessible space for dental treatment, health education and engagement with residents.
For SMU, the initiative reflects its commitment to excellence in health sciences education and to developing competent, compassionate, and socially accountable healthcare professionals. Through community-based learning and partnerships that respond to local needs, the University continues to connect teaching and learning with service delivery, contributing to improved oral health awareness and healthier communities.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Oct 15, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) medical student Thabiso Trinity Seerane has represented the university at the 5th African Interprofessional Education Network (AfrIPEN) Conference 2026, contributing to international discussions on interprofessional education and collaborative healthcare through research presentations, student leadership and workshop facilitation.
Held recently at the University of the Western Cape’s Faculty of Community and Health Sciences in Bellville, the conference brought together students, academics, researchers and health professions educators under the theme, “African Wisdom, Global Relevance: Reclaiming Interprofessional Futures”.
A third-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) student, Seerane attended as Deputy Chairperson of SMU Faces of Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice (IPECP) and Project Director of AfrIPENsils, the student wing of the AfrIPEN.
One highlight was his first conference presentation, delivered alongside fellow student Phološo Nyalungu. Titled “Beyond Borders and Professions: An African-Led Global Interprofessional Education for Collaborative Practice”, the presentation reflected on the IPE Global Event hosted by AfrIPENsils in 2025 and explored opportunities for healthcare students to advance meaningful interprofessional learning across professional, national and educational boundaries.
As the only undergraduate student presenter at the conference, Seerane shared his work with experienced academics, researchers and health professions educators, demonstrating the value of including student perspectives in shaping the future of healthcare education. “Although I still have much to learn, my experiences and ideas also have a place in these conversations,” said Seerane, reflecting on the significance of presenting at an international academic forum.
His contribution extended beyond research presentations to the student-led workshop, “Bridging Borders Through Hybrid IPE”, which brought together participants through online and in-person collaboration. As a facilitator, Seerane guided discussions exploring how understanding different healthcare professions, cultures and national contexts could strengthen teamwork and improve patient care.
The discussions reinforced the importance of listening, mutual respect and recognising the distinct contributions of different healthcare professionals. They also highlighted that effective collaboration requires more than an understanding of professional roles; it demands an appreciation of the experiences and perspectives that inform clinical practice.
For Seerane, the conference was also a significant personal milestone. Coming from a rural background in Limpopo, he described representing SMU in an international academic space as a reminder of the opportunities created when students are encouraged to participate, lead and share their ideas. Engagements with established leaders in IPECP further broadened his understanding of the evolving field and the importance of meaningful student involvement in healthcare education. “I walked into that conference as an undergraduate medical student. I left reminded that I may still have a lot to learn, but I also have something to contribute,” he said.
The experience strengthened his conviction that leadership is rooted in service and collaboration, principles he intends to carry into his future medical practice. He emphasised that healthcare quality depends not only on individual expertise but also on effective communication and professionals’ ability to work together to improve patient outcomes.
Seerane expressed gratitude to SMU, its IPECP Unit, the AfrIPEN Executive Committee, the AfrIPENsils team and the conference organisers for supporting student participation in interprofessional education.
Beyond his involvement in interprofessional education, Seerane contributes to medical education, research, academic development and student leadership through a range of roles. He serves as Surgical Anatomy Officer of the SMU Student Surgical Society (SMUSSS), Events Officer of The Diagnostic Society (TDS), and SMU Research and Writing Lead for Collaboration for Research ADvancement and National Evidence-based medicine (CRANE). He also tutors at the Centre for University Teaching and Learning (CUTL), co-founded and serves as Vice-President of the Interprofessional Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA), and works as an Academic Consultant with BridgeOne by Gradesmatch. Additionally, as Secretary-General of Residence 5B, he advances student representation and academic development, reflecting a commitment to leadership and service that extends beyond healthcare education.
His contribution reflects SMU’s commitment to excellence in health sciences education, innovative learning and student-centred development. By creating opportunities for students to engage in research, leadership and international academic collaboration, the university continues to support emerging healthcare professionals equipped to contribute to a more collaborative, responsive and patient-centred healthcare system.
By Tumelo Moila
