by Lorato | Oct 22, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a testament to Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University’s (SMU) commitment to shaping South Africa’s health services, Phomelelo Rammutla, at just 20 years old, has earned her Bachelor of Oral Hygiene degree, emerging as one of the university’s youngest graduates of 2024. Her achievement highlights her dedication and the pivotal role SMU plays in developing exceptional health professionals who will strengthen and advance the nation’s healthcare system. Through its focus on academic excellence and comprehensive support, SMU continues to produce graduates equipped to meet the growing needs of South Africa’s health sector.
Rammutla’s interest in oral health began at the young age of six when representatives from Colgate visited her primary school, Mogoshi Primary, in Ga-Matlala. “They gave us pamphlets about teeth brushing guidelines, which I kept until 2021. That small pamphlet ignited my dream of becoming a dental professional, and it constantly reminded me of a future in oral hygiene,” she recalls.
Today, Rammutla works as an Oral Hygienist at Tshepang Medical Centre in Lephalale, where her duties include conducting preventative procedures, such as teeth cleaning and fluoride treatments while educating patients on maintaining good oral hygiene. “My philosophy as an oral hygienist is that every day is an opportunity to save teeth, restore smiles, and bring back confidence to people. It’s also an opportunity to educate others about the link between oral health and general well-being,” she shares.
Her path to success was not without its challenges. In 2020, she applied to SMU after hearing about the university from her peers. “When I discovered SMU had rebranded from the famous Medunsa, I knew it would be the perfect place to fulfil my dreams. I had offers from other institutions, but SMU felt like home,” she explains. The academic staff at SMU, known for their dedication to nurturing the next generation of health professionals, guided her every step of the way, ensuring that she received the education, support, and training necessary to thrive.
However, as a 16-year-old entering university, Rammutla faced challenges adjusting to campus life. “I struggled with forming friendships and fitting in. Some people even said I should go back to high school. But eventually, I adapted and was able to blend in with my classmates,” she notes. Despite these difficulties, and facing financial struggles along the way, including periods without food allowance or settled tuition fees, she remained focused on her studies and graduated with flying colours.
Rammutla’s success also highlights the pivotal role SMU plays in producing graduates who are not only technically skilled but also instilled with the values of professionalism, integrity, and discipline. “SMU taught me that there is a time for fun and a time to focus. The discipline instilled in me by the university will carry me throughout my career. I’m proud to be an SMU alumna, and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity the institution gave me,” she says.
Her journey is further supported by the strong family foundation provided by three generations of women in her life: her mother, Delia Rammutla; her grandmother, Francina Rammutla; and her great-grandmother, Masetsha Kgomo. These women have been her pillars of strength, offering her love, guidance, and encouragement throughout her academic and personal life.
As Rammutla embarks on her professional journey, she continues to inspire others with her determination, resilience, and commitment to making a difference in oral health. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the nurturing environment offered by Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, an institution committed to fostering student success and holistic development.
SMU continues to play a pivotal role in shaping future health professionals like Rammutla, reaffirming its status as a leading institution in the health sciences and a champion of student leadership, growth, and achievement.
by Lorato | Aug 19, 2024 | All News, SMU Media
The impact of mathematics research on society is significant and far-reaching, resulting in many scientific and technological breakthroughs. Developments in physics, chemistry, computer science, and engineering heavily rely on mathematical principles and models. Without the continuous advancement of mathematical research, the modern technological world would be impossible. Recently, Postdoctoral Research Fellow (PRF), Dr Ahmed Audu joined Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) to develop his career as an academic researcher in mathematical statistics under the supervision of Professor Maggie Aphane, Head of Department: Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. His fellowship is funded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), a Nigerian government agency.
Dr Audu’s educational qualifications entail a Doctor of Philosophy in Statistics (University of Ilorin, Nigeria); Master of Science and Bachelor of Science in Statistics (Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Nigeria); Professional Diploma in Education (Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria); and National Diploma in Statistics (Niger State Polytechnic Zungeru, Nigeria). He is a seasoned academic with extensive work experience as a Senior Lecturer, Lecturer, Assistant Lecturer, and Graduate Assistant at Usmanu Danfodiyo University.
His responsibilities include collaborating with other researchers. He is expected to publish, at least, five articles in the accredited Institute for Scientific Information (ISI) journal and work closely with principal investigators, professors, and other research staff members. This allows him to learn new techniques and approaches from more experienced researchers.
“Mathematical research leads to the development of tools and techniques that can be applied to solve complex real- world problems. These include areas such as weather prediction, cryptography, and virus modelling. The study of mathematics trains individuals to think logically, analyse problems systematically, and develop effective solutions. These skills are invaluable in many aspects of life, from personal finance to complex decision-making,” explains Dr Audu.
Understanding and applying mathematical concepts empowers individuals to engage meaningfully in discussions and initiatives that address global challenges, such as climate change, sustainable development, and data- driven decision-making. Dr Audu’s areas of research interest are mathematical and applied statistics. He specializes in mathematical statistics, sampling theories and survey methods to be specific.
A solid foundation in mathematical statistics is essential for pursuing postgraduate studies in fields like econometrics, biostatistics, machine learning, and operations research. The analytical and quantitative skills developed during the study of mathematical statistics provide a strong foundation for further academic and professional development. His current students at SMU have a mathematics background with little exposure to statistics. As a result, he organised a series of lectures and presentations with them to bridge the missing gaps and he was overwhelmed with the speed of their understanding.
“I am currently supervising some postgraduate students in the department of mathematics in collaboration with some staff members of mathematics and statistics. I am training them in mathematical statistics especially sampling theory and survey methods. This will complement and enhance the existing research programmes at the university. The results of the interactions will also lead to discoveries, publications, and advancements in the field” enlightens Dr Audu.
Dr Audu said Postdoctoral Research Fellow (PRF), experience will lead to mentorship and guidance, development of new skills and techniques, enhanced publication record, networking and collaborations and exposure to diverse research environments. This is what motivated him to join SMU. He said the ranking of SMU among its peers in Africa and globally motivated him. “I am not a mathematician, but a statistician. Nevertheless, statistics is a subset of mathematics. So, I love mathematics. I found it easier to understand its concepts. I see logical thinking and problem-solving skills required in mathematics as an enjoyable mental exercise. The goal of any academician is to attain the apex rank of the career and I’m not an exception. But my focus now is career development through experiences and collaborations,” he concluded.
Newsflash - Meet Dr Ahmed Audu Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics
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Created: 15-08-2024
Updated: 19-08-2024
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by Lorato | Jun 30, 2023 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
The School of Oral Health Sciences at SMU celebrated the Class of 2022 who finally completed their training in the field of Dentistry, Oral Hygiene and Dental therapy on 29 June 2023. In addition, there was the unveiling of a plaque also known as the “Wall of Fame” where the names of the top achievers in the module Ethical Practice Management will be engraved.
The class of 2022 took an Oath in their respective professions pledging among other pledges to strive at all times to make a difference in the lives of the communities they will be serving.
This Oath taking ceremony was a testament to the fact that SMU continues to produce globally competitive and competent graduates in line with the institutional mission to maintain excellence in teaching, learning, innovative research, and community engagement. Twenty-nine students in total took their oath on the day, which included students who completed qualifications in Bachelor of Oral Hygiene (3), Bachelor of Dental Therapy (5), and Bachelor of Dental Surgery (21).
The top achievers in the BDS final year received awards during the ceremony. Dr Mpakeng Lebepe was awarded the best overall final year student in BDS in the module ethical practice management while Dr Lesley Molepo was awarded the best student in Community Dentistry, and the best final year student in Operative Dentistry. Dr Molepo received awards for being the top achiever in Endodontics by doing the highest number of most complex cases in endodontics reflected through clinical evaluation, showing understanding and practical implications of modern and contemporary clinical management nominated. She was nominated by her supervisors for these awards. Dr Shaazmeen Hoosen was awarded a prize for being the best 4th-year student in Dental Radiology – clinical. Dr Yumna Karodia was awarded for best all-around student – leadership, clinical, and academic in her final year. Dr Princess Mushiane was awarded for the student who showed an understanding of infection control practice and treated her patients with the utmost care, courtesy, and professionalism.
Dr Magda Verwoerd was awarded a prize for the student who demonstrated professional clinical attendance, best portfolio score, and underlying principles as reflected through clinical session evaluations during the final year. “Our Journey does not end here. This ceremony marks the beginning of a new phase in our journey of life. As we step into the world as dental professionals, let us remember the core values that brought us to this point – integrity, empathy, and excellence” proclaimed the Class Representatives.
The current Acting Dean in Oral Health Sciences, Prof Dini Mawela expressed her joy that the School had achieved this milestone as she wished the students well on their new paths in life. She also encouraged the graduates to join the SMU alumni and the Convocation.
Newsflash - Oral Health Sciences Oath Taking Ceremony
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Created: 30-06-2023
Updated: 30-06-2023
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