by Lorato | Nov 6, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), a prestigious institution known for producing leaders in healthcare, celebrates yet another remarkable achievement with one of its own: Pitso Matji, a third-year Occupational Therapy (OT) student, has been elected as the Chairperson of the Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa – Students (OTASA-S). With his term set to continue until December 2025, Matji’s leadership promises to bring fresh insights, unity, and a focus on pressing issues to OT students across the country’s universities. His election highlights the calibre of SMU students who are consistently at the forefront of their fields, driving change and innovation.
Pitso Matji, SMU third-year Occupational Therapy (OT) student
As Chairperson, he aims to unite OT students from South Africa’s eight universities that offer OT programmes, encouraging collaboration on vital issues such as mental health, youth substance abuse, and the internationalisation of the OT profession. In addition, he plans to foster active participation in key events like OT Week and World Federation of Occupational Therapy Day. “This role is about mobilising OT students nationwide, helping them understand the value of OTASA membership, and broadening their perspectives through international dialogues,” Matji explains. His vision underscores SMU’s focus on community engagement, professional leadership, and impactful healthcare solutions.
His journey to this influential position began with a nomination from SMU OTASA Facilitator Refiloe Mohotlhoane, who recognised his dedication to the profession and his commitment to establishing a strong OTASA presence at SMU. “Matjie was elected due to his enthusiasm and unwavering dedication, which have demonstrated his capability to lead OT students across South Africa,” Mohotlhoane says. His election exemplifies SMU’s strength in nurturing leaders who actively engage in their communities of practice and contribute meaningfully to national health dialogues.
In his new role, Matji is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all voices are heard. “In my leadership, I will not be selective because all SMU OT students have shown enormous support since my election,” he shares. “I am fortunate to have friends and colleagues by my side, offering encouragement and motivation at every step.” His past leadership experiences, including his roles as a high school Representative Council of Learners (RCL) member and Class Representative at SMU, have equipped him with the skills to represent diverse backgrounds with fairness and respect.
Matjie’s ambitious plans for OTASA-S include engaging first-year OT students in orientation, fostering an understanding of OT’s national and international contexts, and creating a support network to raise awareness about students’ mental health and substance abuse challenges. To realise these objectives, he intends to work closely with his executive committee (EXCO) to ensure effective communication and collaborative planning for all OTASA-S initiatives.
Through his leadership, Matjie exemplifies the values of excellence, compassion, and innovation that SMU strives to instil in its students.
As he takes on this prestigious role, he is setting a standard for future healthcare leaders at SMU, working towards a more united, inclusive, and supportive OT community. His story speaks to the exceptional training and values fostered at SMU, a university dedicated to empowering students who make a difference in the world of health sciences.
by Lorato | Nov 4, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a remarkable display of academic prowess, Mudzunga Ratshilingano, a Bachelor of Science (Life Sciences) graduate from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has been honoured with the prestigious Dean’s Merit Award from the School of Science and Technology during the recent Autumn Graduation Ceremony. This esteemed accolade recognises students who exhibit exceptional academic achievements, further highlighting SMU’s commitment to fostering excellence in its graduates.
Mudzunga Ratshilingano scoops Deans Merit Award for Academic Excellence
Receiving the Dean’s Merit Award brings numerous advantages, including enhanced credibility, increased opportunities for scholarships, and recognition by employers and academic institutions. For Ratshilingano, this award is a testament to her hard work, discipline, and dedication to her studies. “The award serves as a motivation to continue striving for excellence in everything I do. It was a surprise, as I always focus on my goals without expecting recognition,” she shares.
A series of significant achievements have marked Ratshilingano’s academic journey. She previously received accolades as the top achiever in her degree programme in 2022 and was again recognised as the top achiever in her second-year studies in 2023. Graduating in 2024 with cum laude, her success illustrates the quality education and support offered by SMU, which equips students with the necessary skills to excel in their fields.
Throughout her degree, Ratshilingano engaged with modules such as physiology, biology, and biochemistry, which deepened her understanding of the human body and the complex interplay of microorganisms and chemical processes. “My degree has empowered me to write research papers and conduct scientific inquiries,” she explains, reflecting on her educational experience.
She also credits her success to the invaluable teamwork skills gained during practical sessions and her unwavering faith. “My trust in God gives me the strength and courage to overcome challenges, including academic burnout. I found taking breaks and engaging in hobbies essential to maintain balance,” she adds.
To fellow students grappling with academic pressures, she encourages regular attendance at lectures to enhance their understanding of the material. “If possible, engage actively in your studies and don’t hesitate to seek help,” she advises, embodying the spirit of support and perseverance fostered within the SMU community.
Ratshilingano’s triumph highlights her individual capabilities and reflects the enriching educational environment at SMU, where students are inspired to excel academically and personally. As she embarks on her next chapter, she is a shining example for her peers, demonstrating that success is within reach with dedication and hard work.
by Lorato | Nov 4, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Boitumelo Tenda Nkuatsana, a fourth-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) student at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), embodies the spirit of resilience and innovation. Battling health challenges from a young age, Nkuatsana’s passion for medicine is matched only by her entrepreneurial spirit, making her a shining example of the remarkable opportunities at SMU.
Cardiac abnormality fuels SMU student, Boitumelo Tenda Nkuatsana, to rise from patient to medical pioneer
Born with a cardiac abnormality known as ventricular septal defect with aortic valve insufficiency, her childhood was marked by frequent hospital visits. However, these experiences also ignited her passion for medicine. “I spent my whole childhood in and out of the hospital, surrounded by medical staff whom I shadowed and volunteered with at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital and other local clinics,” she recalls. “Medicine is all I have ever known, and I fell in love with it the first time I heard the clicking sound of my new heartbeat at five, following my heart surgery.”
Nkuatsana chose to study at SMU after receiving a personal invitation from Driene Schoeman of the Practice of Medicine (POME), who highlighted the university’s practical and patient-focused approach to learning. “Her words rang true, and I have loved every moment at SMU, even through the tough times,” she affirms.
Despite her health struggles, she has successfully launched her own business, QUICK & SIMPLE WITH BOITY, catering specifically to the needs of her fellow students. Her entrepreneurial journey began with a simple need; a moment of hunger led her to seize an opportunity. “I once had just a 5L container of achaar and a loaf of bread, and my residence mates kept eating my achaar. I realised I could make money from it. The spirit of entrepreneurship runs in my blood,” she explains. Today, her business adapts to seasonal demands, offering everything from achaar and bread to drinks during exam season.
Her business not only allows her to thrive but also enables her to contribute to her family in Dobsonville, Soweto. Balancing her academic commitments with her entrepreneurial pursuits, Nkuatsana acknowledges the challenges of her chaotic schedule but credits the support of her friends for helping her manage stock and deliveries. “My earnings fluctuate based on my academic schedule, but I’m grateful for the assistance I receive,” she says.
With a vision for her future, she aspires to achieve financial independence, aiming to cover her final year expenses, which include the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) registration and other graduation costs. Her long-term goal is to see her achaar on retail shelves and to establish a business centre for fellow traders.
“Successful entrepreneurship requires effective communication, quality assurance, and the ability to manage risks and customer expectations. You must be goal-driven and adaptable, as customer feedback can significantly impact your reputation,” she advises.
Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Nkuatsana also serves as the Chairperson of SMU Medics on Motion and is an active member of the SMU choir. A talented poet and songwriter, she previously performed with the Soweto Marimba Youth League, showcasing her versatility and creativity.
“Let your hunger be the reason you start, and let it fuel your perseverance. Patience is vital in business,” she concludes, embodying the tenacity that defines not only her journey but also the ethos of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University—a place where students are empowered to dream, innovate, and succeed against all odds.
by Lorato | Oct 31, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) recently held a powerful two-day mini-conference, titled “Optimisation in Practical Scenarios,” which captivated attendees and shed new light on how mathematical optimisation is transforming fields from healthcare to finance. Funded by the Centre of Excellence in Mathematical and Statistical Sciences (CoE-MaSS), this event brought together leading researchers and enthusiastic postgraduate students eager to apply advanced mathematics to real-world challenges.
Dean of the School of Science and Technology, Professor Lawrence Obi, opened the conference with a message underscoring the transformative power of optimisation. “Optimisation is at the heart of solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Conferences like these are crucial for advancing both theory and practice,” he said, encouraging staff and students to engage actively with local and international mathematical societies.
The conference featured diverse presentations from distinguished speakers and promising students. Keynote speaker Dr Chinedu Izuchukwu from the University of the Witwatersrand captivated the audience with his work on applying projection-type algorithms to lung cancer models. Dr Izuchukwu’s research presented a unique lens for examining cancer spread and treatment through mathematical modelling. He noted: “This model provides a new lens through which we can study the spread and treatment of cancer,” illustrating the practical applications of mathematical optimisation in complex biological systems.
The first day continued with notable contributions from academics, including Dr Olawale Kazeem Oyewale of Tshwane University of Technology, who discussed fixed-point techniques in variational inequalities, sparking engaging debates among attendees on the practical applications of these methods in optimisation.
PhD student presentations reinforced the conference’s focus on practical optimisation. Muhammad Shafii Abubakar presented innovative resource allocation models, and Vongani Ndlovu explored multi-objective optimisation techniques, exemplifying the department’s commitment to fostering research that addresses real-world issues. Other students, such as Rose Maluleka and Sindi Mnguni, focused on industrial and financial applications, demonstrating the far-reaching impacts of their studies.
On the second day, Department Head Professor Maggie Aphane highlighted the significance of this research, remarking: “The work we do here in mathematical optimisation has the potential to impact fields from economics to engineering.” Her words resonated with the department’s mission to push the boundaries of knowledge and broaden the applications of mathematical science.
Among the most intriguing talks was Dr Aremu Kazeem’s exploration of machine learning and graph topological indices in drug design, presenting an inspiring convergence of mathematics, computer science, and healthcare. His work underscores the role of mathematical optimisation in the medical field, with implications for developing more effective treatments. “Optimisation in drug design is critical to developing more effective treatments, and mathematics plays a key role in that process,” Kazeem stated, highlighting the potential of interdisciplinary approaches.
Further contributions included Dr Rosinah Mukhodobwane’s analysis of financial mathematics and optimisation in investment strategies, which sparked considerable interest among students. Her emphasis on the importance of understanding risk and sustainability in finance provided a valuable perspective on the real-world implications of financial optimisation.
The conference’s impact was especially felt in the presentations of young researchers like Lehlogonolo Mokaba, who discussed fixed-point theory applications, and PhD students such as Lloyd Phumudzo, who applied optimisation techniques to analyse cryptocurrency returns—a field gaining relevance in emerging industries.
Research Chairperson Dr Claude Moutsinga concluded the conference by encouraging students to pursue resilience and creativity in their academic endeavours. His mentorship left a strong impression, fostering a collaborative and vibrant research community within the department.
The Mini-Conference on Optimisation in Practical Scenarios is a testament to SMU’s dedication to advancing research that meets real-world needs. Through events like these, SMU is strengthening its position as a mathematical sciences leader and fostering a collaborative academic environment that equips students and researchers to tackle global challenges. The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics continues to exemplify SMU’s mission of shaping future leaders and innovators, reflecting the university’s commitment to impactful, interdisciplinary learning and research that extends far beyond the classroom.
by Lorato | Oct 31, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a significant boost to Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University’s (SMU) efforts to enhance student welfare, educational resources, and regional unity, the Institutional Advancement Office, led by Legodi Mashiane, has secured a R450,000 sponsorship from Standard Bank. This generous contribution will fund multiple initiatives aligned with SMU’s mission, including student support, digital upgrades, and academic recognition programs. This partnership reinforces SMU’s dedication to providing quality education and tangible support for students’ livelihoods.
The Institutional Advancement Office, led by Legodi Mashiane, has secured a R450,000 sponsorship from Standard Bank to support students and drive excellence.
The funded initiatives include the Harambee Fund, which directly supports financially struggling students, ensuring they have access to essentials like food parcels and sanitary products. “The Harambee Fund allows us to address basic needs, so students can focus on their studies without worrying about their next meal or other essentials,” says Mashiane. This effort reflects SMU’s commitment to the well-being of its students, reinforcing the university’s reputation as a nurturing and inclusive institution.
Another notable beneficiary of the sponsorship is the Skills Centre, where funding will be directed toward much-needed technological upgrades. “With Standard Bank’s support, we can update the centre with smart devices and digital platforms that make learning more interactive and practical,” Mashiane explains. These upgrades will equip students with relevant, in-demand skills, better preparing them for the competitive job market. By modernising its learning environments, SMU ensures that students are not only academically prepared but also technologically adept and job-ready.
The partnership also bolsters the Vice-Chancellor’s Staff-Academic Excellence Awards, an annual event that honours staff who have made outstanding contributions to academic and research excellence. The support from Standard Bank will elevate this event, allowing SMU to recognise its employees’ hard work and dedication on a grander scale. “Acknowledging our staff’s achievements motivates them to keep striving for excellence,” says Mashiane, highlighting how this recognition contributes to a culture of academic rigour and dedication at SMU.
Further underscoring SMU’s leadership in promoting regional unity, a portion of the sponsorship will be allocated to SMU Student Affairs (SMUSSA) efforts in hosting the Southern African Universities Staff Sports Association (SAUSSA) Tournament in December. The tournament will unite universities across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region to celebrate teamwork, networking, and healthy competition. “The SAUSSA Tournament allows us to strengthen our relationships with universities across the region, fostering collaboration and mutual support,” Mashiane notes.
This partnership with Standard Bank exemplifies SMU’s proactive approach to forming collaborations that drive real, long-lasting benefits for students, faculty, and the broader university community. Mashiane expresses optimism for the future: “Our goal is to build partnerships that support SMU’s growth in the long term. This sponsorship opens the door to further collaborations that will continue to enhance our students’ lives and elevate SMU’s standing.”
Through initiatives like the Harambee Fund, Skills Centre digitalisation, and academic excellence awards, SMU is showing its dedication to cultivating an environment that cares for its students’ holistic needs while investing in their future success.
by Lorato | Oct 30, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) proudly stands as a bastion of academic excellence in health sciences, led by luminaries like Professor Anna Catherina Oettlé. A Full Professor in the Anatomy and Histology Department, Oettlé has garnered significant recognition for her pioneering work in 3D imaging and forensic anthropology. Her recent C2 rating from the National Research Foundation (NRF) marks her as a leading force in medical research, underscoring SMU’s reputation as a centre for high-calibre academic and scientific contributions.
Oettlé’s career, spanning both clinical practice and academic research, has been a journey driven by a commitment to advancing anatomical knowledge. Her formative years as a medical doctor, coupled with her distinction-earning MSc in Anatomy from the University of Pretoria, established her expertise. This unique background has allowed her to approach research with a critical perspective rooted in clinical application. “Anatomy isn’t merely descriptive; understanding anatomical variations is essential for patient management and clinical accuracy,” she explains, highlighting the foundational value of her work for both academics and practitioners.
Among Oettlé’s many contributions is her work in 3D imaging, which has deepened the understanding of structural variation in the human body. From studies on dental structures and bone microstructure to detailed measurements of skeletal features like the pelvis, femur, and mandible, her research has advanced knowledge in clinical diagnostics, orthodontics, and forensic anthropology. Her age-phase classification system based on sternal rib ends, cited over 130 times, is widely used in biological profiling. Her research into the midline lingual canal has transformed dental approaches, while her findings on structural changes in the posterior mandible are making waves in both orthodontics and dentistry.
Notably, Oettlé’s work has become instrumental in forensic science, where her research aids in the reconstruction of biological profiles and facial features—tools essential for identifying unknown victims in criminal cases. “My research provides South African standards that serve as resources for clinicians in patient management and for forensic scientists in solving cases,” she notes, emphasising the societal impact of her work beyond academia.
Oettlé’s career is also marked by her dedication to collaboration, both locally and internationally. Partnering with engineers has proven essential for data acquisition, while connections with leading French researchers from institutions such as the University of Bordeaux have broadened her work’s reach. “Collaborating with engineers has been particularly rewarding,” she says, “as they bring expertise in mathematical modelling, which has enriched my research output.” Her collaborative efforts amplify not only her personal research but also SMU’s reputation as a globally connected academic institution.
Beyond her contributions to research, Oettlé is deeply invested in mentorship, guiding numerous postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows toward becoming independent researchers and educators. “The most rewarding part of mentorship is seeing people grow and develop into independent researchers and teachers,” she shares. Known for her supportive yet rigorous guidance, Oettlé’s mentorship style champions SMU’s mission to foster the next generation of scientific leaders and innovators.
Looking ahead, Oettlé remains committed to advancing her research in 3D imaging and biological profiling. With technology in the field evolving rapidly, she aims to keep SMU at the cutting edge of these advancements. She is currently applying for funding to acquire new scanning equipment and hopes to further expand her collaborations with engineers to refine 3D measurement techniques. “I hope to stay at the forefront of these developments,” she says, envisioning a future where SMU is recognised as a leader in forensic and clinical research innovations.
For students fortunate enough to work with Oettlé, the opportunity to learn under such an esteemed scholar provides a gateway to practical, high-impact research experience. Engaging with her cutting-edge projects, students gain insights into research methodologies that bridge theoretical learning with real-world applications. Oettlé’s commitment to research and academic excellence reinforces SMU’s position as a premier institution in health sciences, inspiring a culture of inquiry, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge that continues to benefit students and the broader medical community alike.
