by Lorato | Sep 16, 2026 | All News, Alumni, Research, SMU Media, Student Media
The School of Science and Technology (SST) at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has strengthened its research agenda with the inaugural SST Research Days 2026, held from 10 to 11 September 2026.
The two-day programme brought together academic staff, researchers, postgraduate students and research collaborators to showcase research, exchange knowledge and identify opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. It also provided emerging researchers with a platform to receive constructive feedback and strengthen the quality and relevance of their work.
Opening the programme, Professor Larry Obi, Dean of SST, said the Research Days represented an important step in building a stronger research culture within the School. “This inaugural Research Days programme marks an important moment in the development of research within the School of Science and Technology. It provides our researchers and postgraduate students with an opportunity to share their findings, engage critically with colleagues and contribute to a stronger culture of scholarly excellence,” said Prof Obi.
The programme featured oral and poster presentations spanning Biology and Environmental Sciences, Computer Science and Information Technology, Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, Physics and Statistical Sciences.
The breadth of research demonstrated the School’s multidisciplinary approach to addressing scientific, technological and societal challenges. Presentations explored topics including blockchain applications in electoral systems, the insecticidal properties of Euphorbia tirucalli, pomegranate juice fermentation, electronic healthcare records for campus clinics and the photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine 6G.
Other research examined trace metal composition in Eichhornia crassipes, machine-learning approaches to cybersecurity and anomaly detection, biomedical shape-memory alloys, nanoferrites, healthcare simulation analytics, workload optimisation in rural clinics and the chemical profiling of water pollutants.
The programme also highlighted the Electron Microscopy Unit, giving participants insight into its facilities and its contribution to experimental research and postgraduate training. The presentation underscored the role of advanced scientific infrastructure in supporting research, innovation and skills development at SMU.
The Research Days extended beyond the university through contributions from researchers and industry professionals. Dr Ndivhuwo Shumbula, a research scientist at Mintek, shared insights into nanotechnology and advanced materials, including applications in disease diagnostics, tissue engineering, water monitoring, catalysis and renewable energy.
Dr Shumbula also discussed NanoBand™, an advanced wound-dressing technology undergoing preclinical trials, illustrating how scientific research can progress from laboratory investigation towards solutions with potential societal and healthcare applications.
“Research becomes truly meaningful when scientific knowledge is translated into solutions that improve lives. Platforms such as the SST Research Days are essential because they encourage researchers to think beyond publication and consider the wider impact of their discoveries,” she said.
Neo Moloi, a biotechnology and fermentation professional, entrepreneur and business leader, also shared industry perspectives. His contribution explored the relationship between scientific research, entrepreneurship and commercialisation, including opportunities within biotechnology and medicinal mushroom mycelium fermentation.
“Emerging researchers must be encouraged to see science not only as an academic discipline, but also as a foundation for innovation, enterprise development and economic participation. Strong partnerships between universities and industry can help turn research outcomes into practical opportunities,” said Moloi.
The programme concluded with a panel discussion and awards for Best Oral Research Presentation and Best Poster Presentation.
The inaugural Research Days reinforce SMU’s commitment to advancing innovative research, strengthening postgraduate development and creating pathways between scientific knowledge and practical application. Through platforms like these, the university continues to build research capacity that contributes to education, healthcare innovation, and broader societal development.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jun 11, 2026 | All News, Alumni, Research, SMU Media, Student Media
The School of Medicine at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to cement its position as a leading centre for medical education, healthcare training and interdisciplinary research, with a growing number of doctoral graduates contributing innovative solutions to some of South Africa’s most pressing health challenges.
Comprising 39 academic and clinical departments, the School of Medicine plays a pivotal role in developing healthcare professionals, advancing scientific knowledge and addressing complex healthcare needs across South Africa and the African continent. Its strength lies in its ability to integrate expertise across disciplines and collaborate across the University’s five Schools, creating an environment where teaching, research and clinical practice intersect to drive meaningful impact.
A significant milestone was achieved recently when five PhD candidates graduated from the School of Medicine, reflecting the institution’s expanding research capacity and commitment to developing highly skilled researchers. The growing number of staff members holding doctoral qualifications further aligns with SMU’s vision of transforming health services through excellence and innovation while strengthening the University’s research profile and academic standing.
“The growth in doctoral graduates demonstrates the School of Medicine’s commitment to producing research that is scientifically rigorous, socially relevant and capable of addressing real-world healthcare challenges,” said a School representative. “Our research agenda is increasingly interdisciplinary, collaborative and focused on improving health outcomes for the communities we serve.”
Among the departments contributing significantly to this success is the Anatomy and Histology Department, which provides foundational anatomical and histological training across numerous health sciences programmes while supporting interdisciplinary research in medical imaging, forensic sciences, dentistry, orthopaedics and biomedical sciences.
Recent doctoral achievements emerging from the Department highlight the breadth and relevance of research being undertaken within the School. Dr Vaughan Perry, who graduated in September 2025, investigated the combined effects of diabetes, chronic alcohol use and antiretroviral therapy on rat bone structure. His findings contribute to a deeper understanding of chronic disease and skeletal health, offering valuable insights into conditions that remain highly prevalent within South African healthcare settings.
Graduating on 13 May 2026, Dr Ruth Kobedi explored cephalometric variation in Black South African adults using conventional lateral cephalograms and cone-beam computed tomography. Her research established population-specific craniofacial standards that can improve orthodontic diagnosis, treatment planning and forensic identification.
“This study demonstrates the importance of developing locally relevant scientific data that reflects the diversity of South African populations,” said Dr Kobedi. “Such research has the potential to improve both healthcare delivery and forensic practice while strengthening collaboration across disciplines.”
Further showcasing the School’s research innovation, Daniële Kristen is set to graduate later this year following her investigation into knee joint morphology in South African populations using computed tomography and geometric morphometric analyses. Her work established population-specific standards with applications in forensic anthropology and orthopaedic implant development, creating opportunities for the future design of anatomically compatible implants tailored to local populations.
These achievements reflect the School of Medicine’s growing stature as a hub of academic excellence, research innovation and postgraduate development. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, impactful research and a commitment to addressing local healthcare needs, SMU continues to advance scientific knowledge while developing the next generation of health professionals and researchers. As the University pursues its vision of transforming health services through excellence and innovation, its contributions to education, research and healthcare remain central to improving lives across South Africa and beyond.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Aug 27, 2025 | All News, Research, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) recently hosted its flagship Research Days 2025, a three-day celebration of discovery, excellence and innovation under the theme “Advancing Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Health.” The event brought together academics, researchers, students and policymakers in a dynamic exchange of ideas aimed at shaping the future of health sciences and developing solutions that matter.
The occasion culminated in a prestigious gala dinner, where exceptional researchers and students were honoured for their groundbreaking contributions. More than an awards ceremony, the evening reflected SMU’s vision: to be a hub of research-driven innovation and a catalyst for transformation across the African continent.
Opening the event, Professor Dini Mawela, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic and Research, emphasised the power of research in driving meaningful change. “Research Days provide an essential platform for showcasing our university’s intellectual prowess and for forging partnerships that drive impactful solutions to the pressing health challenges of our time,” she said. Her words set the tone for an inspiring programme, blending intellectual depth with a shared commitment to improving lives.
Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, highlighted the transformative role of education and research in building resilient societies. “Education is the foundation for empowering women to drive innovation. Tonight, as we gather, we are not merely here to hand over awards but to bear witness to the extraordinary power of science, service and humanity,” she said. She urged researchers to ensure that their work extends beyond laboratories to make tangible impacts in clinics, villages, operating theatres, classrooms and policy spaces. “Research is the bridge between knowledge and societal progress,” she affirmed.
Quoting Ghana’s founding president, Kwame Nkrumah, she added: “We face neither East nor West. We face forward.” This philosophy, she explained, is at the heart of SMU’s ethos— “Boldly African, unapologetically excellent and radically future-facing.” She described the university as a sanctuary of imagination and a crucible of African pride, where the dreams of rural children meet the cutting edge of medical science.
This year’s Research Days attracted over 160 participants daily, both in person and online, with nearly 80 oral and 80 poster presentations across multiple disciplines. From molecular biology and pharmacology to neuroscience, public health and health education, the research showcased SMU’s breadth of expertise. Studies explored subjects such as antimicrobial resistance, genetic characterisation of pathogens, innovative teaching strategies in anatomy and the medicinal potential of indigenous plants. Each presentation reflected a shared vision: research that is globally competitive yet deeply rooted in African relevance.
At the gala dinner, first place in the Poster Presentation category was awarded to Sdady Lucas Kgwete for his research on rotavirus strain characterisation in Pretoria. Second place went to Kabo Masego Moletsane for a study on the anti-inflammatory properties of Drimia sanguinea, while third place was awarded to Oreoluwa Olufunmilayo Priscila Ojobaro for her work on the anti-cancer properties of Schinus molle fruit isolates.
In the Oral Presentation category for undergraduates, Enos Motaka Malatji took first prize for a study on MRI diagnosis of spinal TB and thoracic aneurysm. Among postgraduate students, first prize went to Mahlogonolo Refilwe Motswiane for research on antimicrobial resistance and genome characterisation of A. baumannii, second prize to Senzeni Sandy Hadebe for a morphometric analysis of the thoracodorsal artery, and third prize to Tokologo Prudence Ramothloa for work on Ricinus communis metabolite distribution.
Independent researchers also shone. Dr Tshilidzi Sadiki won first prize for a study on the implication of the updated WHO classifications of CNS tumours on pediatric brain tumours diagnosis: A South African perspective. Daniële Kristen secured second prize for exploring student perspectives on instructional design in anatomy, while Dr Clarissa Marcelle Naidoo received third prize for research into the antibacterial properties of biogenic silver nanoparticles.
Closing the event, Professor Mapaseka Seheri, Director of Research and Innovation, praised the quality and diversity of research. “This year’s Research Days attracted more than 160 participants daily, both physical and online. We had nearly 80 oral presentations and 80 posters. The quality of work underscores the depth of talent and dedication within SMU,” she said. She called on researchers to build on this momentum, reinforcing SMU’s role as a leader in health sciences research, entrepreneurship and knowledge creation.
The 2025 SMU Research Days were not simply an academic gathering—they were a movement. A declaration that Africa’s health future will be shaped by African scholars, innovators and visionaries. As the applause faded and conversations continued, one message echoed clearly: SMU will remain steadfast in its mission to advance health and well-being for all through research that is relevant, impactful and unapologetically African.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jun 6, 2023 | Accolades and Achievements, Research, Student Media
Dr completed his Bachelor of science and honors studies with the University of Limpopo (Medunsa campus). He holds a Master of Science degree in nanoscience from University of Johannesburg and a doctoral degree in chemistry from Rhodes University. He does research in advanced drug delivery systems using metallic nanoparticles as drug carriers and photoactive dyes such as phthalocyanines as target drugs for photodynamic therapy of cancer. He has published in internationally scientific indexed peer reviewed journals amounting to 13 articles to date, with over 120 citations with H-Index of 7 on Google scholar, Scopus and Research Gate.
Dr Matlou has given oral talks at various international conferences and was a visiting student researcher at the Shinshu University, Ueda, Japan in 2016. His many accolades include being listed as one of the 2021 Top 200 Young South Africans, Mail and Guardian, under the Science and Technology category and attending the 2022 71st Lindau Nobel Laureate meeting, Lindau, Germany. Dr Matlou aspires to be a leading scientist/researcher within his specific subject in a near future. His skill set, determination, laser-focus and innovativeness are what sets him apart from the rest.
He recently joined the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University within the school of pharmacy (pharmaceutical sciences department) as a postdoctoral research fellow focusing on development of target drugs conjugated to nanoparticles for effective delivery and efficacy on diseased site. NRF-Y rating is awarded to early career scientists/researchers who held the doctorate for less than five years at the time of application, and who are recognized as having the potential to establish themselves as researchers within a five-year period after evaluation, based on their performance and productivity as researchers.
by Lorato | May 30, 2023 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Research, SMU Media, Student Media
The SMU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Peter Mbati, on the 25 May 2023, hosted representatives from the Anhui Medical University, China, at SMU, where a Letter of Intent was signed between the two institutions. This was meant to explore the possibilities for collaboration and cooperative projects between the two institutions.
Anhui Medical University (AHMU) is one of the earliest institutions of higher education and the first medical university in the Anhui province, China. The University was founded in Shanghai in 1926 as the Southeast Medical University. In 1952, it moved to Hefei and changed its name to Anhui Medical College. It is considered to be a pioneer, incubator and pacesetter of higher medical education and health care in the Anhui province.
AHMU has established extensive cooperation and exchanges with universities in 16 countries and regions across the world. These involve exchange of experts, scholars, students, knowledge and scientific research. Anhui’s engagement with SMU is part of their collaborative efforts which perfectly aligns with the SMUs strategic intent on internationalisation.
In his address, the Education Counselor, Mr. Xudong LI, from the People’s Republic of China South African Embassy indicated that 2023 marks the 25th anniversary of the South Africa-China bilateral relations, cemented by the fact that both countries are partners within BRICS. In this context, this engagement is seen as another way through which the relationship between the two countries could be cemented.
Prof. Gu Jiashan, Chair of the University Council and current University President, further indicated that AHMU has produced world renown health practitioners, has expertise which could of immense benefit to the collaboration, indicating that the opportunities which have become available must be fully explored.
In acknowledging the number of international students at AHMU, Prof Huang Huaxing, AHMU’s Chair of the Council of School of International Education, indicated that the University organizes festivals and cultural events for international students, which exposes Chinese students to other international cultures and vice versa.
In his address, the SMU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Peter Mbati indicated that SMU is the only dedicated health sciences education institution in Southern Africa and has ramped up its research efforts which are driven through the following research units and centres: the Diarrhoeal Pathogens Research Unit, South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre (SAVIC), MeCRU Clinical Research Unit (MeCRU), HPV and STIs Training Centre for Africa, SMU Minimal Invasive Surgery Unit, HIV-1 Resistance and Molecular Lab, Electron Microscope Unit, and the Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incuba_on (CfERI).
In charting the way forward, both institutions expressed appreciation of the fact that they are both unique health sciences institutions with the potential to increase their influence in the health education space internationally.
by Lorato | May 23, 2023 | Accolades and Achievements, Research, Student Media
Prof Hyla Kluyts is the Head of Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University and directs anaesthesia services at the Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital. She is an anaesthesiologist with a passion for understanding and addressing the barriers to accessing safe quality affordable perioperative care in the South African and African context.
Her research interest therefore aligns with the broader agenda of Global Surgery research and its implementation in education, clinical perioperative care, and surgical systems strengthening. Having spent 7 years in a private anaesthesia partnership practice, then returning to the academic sector, she has a fair grasp of the challenges faced in both the private and public healthcare sectors.
International collaboration and engagement have broadened her view of the local situation in the context of global health-care. She completed her doctoral degree in Anaesthesiology at the University of Pretoria on the topic of clinical risk prediction in surgical patients. She is the founder and executive director of a non-profit company and PBO, Safe Surgery SA (SSSA), that promotes the clinical use of perioperative healthcare data and offers research support to the African Perioperative Research Group (APORG). She is a member of the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists Safety & Quality of Practice committee and an honorary life member of the SA Society of Anaesthesiologists.
She is a consultant to the Clinical Services Unit of CareCon-nectHIE, the first non-profit Health Information Exchange in South Africa.
She is married with two daughters.
