by Lorato | Jul 2, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a proud academic achievement, 24-year-old Reneilwe Saul has graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Statistics, marking a significant milestone in her journey from Mafikeng to academic distinction at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). Her outstanding performance not only reflects exceptional scholarly aptitude but also unwavering dedication, faith, and a deep passion for uncovering insights through data.
“Earning summa cum laude is something I’m incredibly proud of,” Saul shared. “It represents not just academic excellence, but also the perseverance and passion I have for statistics. There were challenges along the way, from complex coursework to time management under pressure, but each hurdle strengthened my problem-solving and resilience. Most importantly, it affirmed my belief that when you’re truly invested in a field, the effort is always worth it.”
A former Mathematical Sciences student, Reneilwe’s transition into Honours Statistics allowed her to refine a strong foundation in statistical modelling, inference, and data analysis. She found particular fascination in Biostatistics and Nonparametric Statistical Inference, modules that gave her the opportunity to explore patterns and relationships within complex datasets.
Among her proudest academic accomplishments is her Honours research project, which examined an 11-year decline in journal productivity within a South African oral health publishing house. Employing categorical multivariate time series analysis, she uncovered extinction patterns in specialised fields such as paedodontics and restorative dentistry. The work was later published in the International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (Vol. 13, Issue 6, 2024).
Her computing skills played a crucial role throughout her studies, particularly her proficiency in Python, Excel, and Google Sheets, with additional exposure to SQL and coding through CHPC Summer School training. She applied these tools in rigorous data analysis and visualisation, helping her interpret and communicate complex findings with clarity.
“Statistics has changed the way I think about the world. It has taught me to value evidence over intuition and to quantify uncertainty in decision-making,” she noted. “Being a statistician means being a decision enabler, someone who turns data into knowledge.”
Saul’s ability to translate complex concepts into plain language became especially useful during her research presentations, where she used intuitive visuals and summaries to communicate results to non-technical audiences. Her project conclusions even offered strategic restructuring recommendations for academic publishers, proving the practical impact of her work.
Despite not currently being employed, Reneilwe remains hopeful and enthusiastic about her career prospects. “I’m actively job hunting and excited to apply my skills in sectors like health, education, or finance. I see myself thriving in a consultancy or private sector environment where continuous learning and mentorship are valued.”
She credits her faith and support system for her achievements. “I wouldn’t have done it without God, honestly. He is faithful and He’s God all by Himself,” she expressed with gratitude. “I’m also deeply thankful to the Head of Statistical Science Department, Professor Solly Seeletse, who guided me through the research process with such wisdom and patience. I always joke with him about how many years he has left before retirement, but truly, I hope he inspires many more students as he did me. And to Dr Sam Ntuli, thank you for the support, the ‘therapy sessions’, and for always reminding me to trust God.”
In the meantime, she continues to upskill through webinars, online courses, and staying current with advances in statistical methods and technologies. Her advice to aspiring statisticians? “Start early, ask questions, relate theory to real-world problems, and never give up.”
Reflecting on her journey, Saul says: “My journey as a statistics graduate has been a path of growth, discovery, and empowerment through data.” With her unwavering spirit, intellectual prowess, and faith-driven determination, Saul is poised to make a lasting mark in the world of data and beyond.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | May 7, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has long been a cornerstone of social and economic development, fostering impactful relationships with communities to drive socio-economic progress. Through its commitment to community-based teaching, learning, and research, SMU ensures that students graduate as engaged citizens ready to address real-world challenges. The university’s reciprocal approach to community engagement benefits both students and the broader society, reinforcing its mission to integrate academic excellence with social impact.
Demonstrating this commitment, SMU has recognised Emma Musekene with the prestigious Best Community Engagement Award at the 2024 Vice-Chancellor Excellence Awards. This accolade acknowledges her dedication to bridging the gap between dental education and underserved communities, particularly her work with pensioners at Korwe Multi-Purpose Centre in Ga-Rankuwa.
Under Musekene’s leadership, Bachelor of Dental Therapy and Bachelor of Oral Hygiene students refine their clinical skills while providing essential oral healthcare services. Approximately 200 pensioners benefit from free oral health screenings, personalised hygiene advice, and demonstrations on proper brushing and flossing techniques. The initiative promotes oral health equity and instils a lifelong commitment to community engagement among future dental professionals.
A seasoned oral hygiene Lecturer, Musekene holds multiple qualifications, including a Bachelor of Oral Hygiene, a Bachelor of Administration, an Honours in Developmental Studies, a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health, and a Master’s in Public Health. She is currently pursuing a PhD. Her career shift from a Community Development Officer at the Assistant Director level to oral healthcare was driven by the realisation that oral health is a critical yet often neglected aspect of overall well-being.
“With this award, we celebrate the lives we have touched, the smiles we have restored, and the trust we have built with communities,” says Musekene. “It reaffirms our dedication to making oral healthcare accessible and reminds me why I chose this path—to serve, educate, and uplift those often overlooked.”
Beyond clinical work, Musekene leads multiple outreach initiatives, including mobile dental clinics and school programmes, ensuring vulnerable populations receive essential oral healthcare. “Many people suffer in silence, unaware their pain is preventable,” she says. “Our goal is to bring hope and dignity to those neglected by the healthcare system.”
A defining feature of these outreach efforts is their holistic approach to oral healthcare. “We don’t just conduct screenings; we ensure patients receive referrals within the School of Dentistry for continued care,” she explains. “Our work is not just about treatment—it’s about empowerment, education, and restoring confidence.”
The impact of these initiatives aligns with SMU’s broader mission of integrating education with social responsibility. “We measure success not just through statistics but through transformation—the trust we build and the lives we change,” Musekene emphasised.
One particularly moving experience reinforced the importance of her work. “An elderly woman told us she had never owned a toothbrush. The joy on her face when she received one was unforgettable. That moment underscored the immense gaps in oral healthcare and the power of small gestures.”
Musekene’s initiatives also provide students with invaluable hands-on learning experiences, immersing them in real-world challenges while fostering empathy and compassion. “Our students do not just learn—they experience. They witness firsthand the human impact of their future profession. Faculty members guide them, ensuring they refine their skills while developing a deep commitment to service.”
She strongly advocates for embedding community engagement within academic programmes, urging institutions to see it not just as an academic requirement but as a moral responsibility. “True education extends beyond the classroom. It is about using our knowledge to uplift others. Every institution should integrate community engagement to produce professionals who serve with both knowledge and heart.”
Receiving the Best Community Engagement Award marks a milestone, but for Musekene, it is just the beginning. “This award is for the communities we serve, my students, and the faculty members who guide them,” she reflects. “It reminds us that what we do matters and fuels my dream of a world where preventable oral health issues no longer go unnoticed.”
Her motto, “Your Smile, Our Concern,” encapsulates her unwavering commitment to transforming lives—one smile at a time. As SMU deepens its dedication to community engagement, its impact will resonate for generations, shaping a future where knowledge, compassion, and social responsibility drive meaningful change.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Mar 12, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is rewriting the narrative in South Africa’s dental care arena. With unwavering determination, SMU’s Department of Community Dentistry is spearheading an outreach revolution that not only transforms oral healthcare but also uplifts underserved communities.
In an era where social transformation is paramount, SMU’s innovative Service Learning Programme is a beacon of hope. Fourth-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery, Bachelor of Oral Hygiene, and Bachelor of Dental Theory students have embarked on impactful missions, travelling to places such as Inkululeko Day Care, Salvokop Community Centre, and the Mercy Dental Clinic in Winterveld. Their efforts focus on delivering essential dental treatments—from preventative care and restorations to minor oral surgeries—all aimed at reducing the scourge of oral disease and promoting better hygiene.
The programme, generously sponsored by Haloen, sees students dedicating their time four days a week, attending to roughly 240 patients every month. This hands-on initiative is not just about clinical practice; it is a rigorous academic and civic training ground where theory meets tangible community service. Prior to their placements, students undergo an intensive two-week block that immerses them in the ethos of “Look, Listen and Learn”, equipping them with the tools to engage meaningfully with the communities they serve.
Fourth-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery student, Uzwothe Mudau, recounted her first day at Mercy Dental Clinic as a transformative experience. “On the 11th of February, I had the privilege of managing a day at the clinic. It was eye-opening to see how many patients had never even experienced dental care before,” she explains, underscoring the vital role the programme plays in bridging gaps in awareness and access.
Lecturer and Dentist Dr Regan Lesolang emphasises the critical need for such outreach. “Many patients suffer from advanced dental decay and periodontal disease. By offering essential services and referring complex cases to the SMU Dental Hospital, we are making a real difference,” he states. Meanwhile, Specialist Dr Nokukhanya Makwakwa highlights the programme’s dual focus on education and empathy, especially in alleviating dental anxiety among children through non-pharmacological management and comprehensive oral health talks.
Despite challenges—ranging from resource constraints and intermittent utilities to equipment maintenance—the Department of Community Dentistry remains resolute. Their pioneering approach not only improves access to quality oral healthcare but also instils in students a profound sense of civic responsibility and critical thinking, seamlessly linking academic theory with practical impact.
SMU’s commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and community service continues to shine. By relentlessly pushing boundaries, the Department of Community Dentistry is not merely serving communities—it is transforming lives, one smile at a time.
By Khanyi Nkosi
by Lorato | Feb 3, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) prides itself on shaping future healthcare leaders who embody excellence, compassion, and a commitment to service. Mamonaiwa Hendrica Manyama , a recent graduate of the Bachelor of Dental Therapy programme, is a prime example of these values. Raised in the village of Mohlabaneng in Limpopo, her unwavering dedication to her education and passion for dental health have earned her recognition as the Best Student in Dental Public Health and the prestigious Van Schaik Award. Her journey to academic success, marked by perseverance and a strong sense of community, underscores her bright future in the field of dentistry.
Hailing from Mohlabaneng village in Bolobedu, Limpopo, 21-year-old Manyama was raised by her maternal grandparents, who instilled in her the importance of education. “School was always a priority in my family,” she recalls. From a young age, she was fascinated by people’s teeth, a curiosity that eventually shaped her career path.
After completing her National Senior Certificate in 2021, Manyama enrolled in SMU’s Bachelor of Dental Therapy programme, a rigorous three-year journey from 2022 to 2024. “It was a beautiful yet tough experience,” she reflects. Among the many modules she encountered, Dental Public Health stood out as her favourite. “From my first year, I loved it, and seeing myself succeed in it motivated me to study even harder.” Her dedication was recognised when she was named the best student in Dental Public Health, receiving the prestigious Van Schaik Award. Winning the Best Student in Dental Public Health and receiving the Van Schaik Dental Award are remarkable accomplishments that deserve celebration, particularly at the 2024 Oath-Taking Ceremony.
Balancing schoolwork, clinical practice, and lectures was no easy feat. “The workload increases each year, making it challenging to manage everything,” she shares. However, through time management, self-discipline, and faith, she persevered. Winning the award has further strengthened her confidence and passion for the field. “It is a recognition of my hard work and the importance of the module,” she says. “It encourages me to continue my professional development and strive for excellence.”
For those considering a career in dentistry, Manyama offers words of encouragement: “Go for it. Dentistry is challenging but rewarding. Respecting patients, listening to understand, and valuing their needs are key to making a difference in this field.”
She is also passionate about giving back to her community. “I want to conduct oral health education programmes and partner with organisations that provide treatment to underserved communities,” she explains. Her inspiration stems from a dentist who once visited her secondary school to teach students about oral health. “That visit sparked my interest in dentistry,” she recalls. Today, she is particularly drawn to the rehabilitation aspect of dentistry, which restores both the form and function of patients’ smiles.
Manyama acknowledges the inequalities within South Africa’s healthcare system but remains hopeful. “There are challenges, but efforts are being made to improve healthcare services. My plan is to offer community-based dental services in collaboration with relevant organisations.”
Manyama’s remarkable achievements at SMU serve as a testament to her hard work, determination, and deep-rooted desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. As she steps into the next phase of her career, her vision is clear: to offer vital dental services and education to underserved communities, bridging gaps in healthcare access. Her story exemplifies how SMU nurtures talent and prepares students to lead with integrity, social responsibility, and a commitment to excellence in their fields.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Dec 9, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Choir has again proven its excellence, clinching victory in the Development Category at the esteemed Tshwane Choral Music Association (TCMA) Competition on 30 November 2024. With an impressive score of 148/200, this accomplishment underscores the choir’s dedication, resilience, and remarkable talent.
SMU Choir
“This victory raises the SMU flag high, showcasing our institution as a home of excellence,” says Chairperson Nzuzo Mpondwana. Reflecting on their growth, Mpondwana shares how the choir has evolved from passionate students to a polished, professional ensemble. “This achievement offers hope and reassures us of the choir’s potential to rank among the best.”
The decision to compete in the TCMA Competition was both deliberate and strategic. “The executive committee included it in our action plan for the year (2024),” explains Mpondwana. Under the guidance of their conductor, Tumisho Mampa, the choir selected the TCMA event due to its alignment with the choir’s growth trajectory and its student-friendly nature.
Preparation for the competition was rigorous, requiring immense sacrifices from members. Academic responsibilities were carefully balanced with intensive rehearsals, including overnight practice sessions late into the night. “Despite the challenges, it was worth it,” he says. The conductor’s steadfast support and the unwavering commitment of the choristers were central to their success.
The journey to victory was not without its obstacles. Logistical challenges arose, such as securing entrance tickets and arranging financial support. “The Director of Student Affairs, Tulani Nkuntse, stepped in and provided essential financial support for transportation, food, and other needs,” Mpondwana recounts. This collaboration between university leadership and the choir ensured the smooth participation of all members.
The SMU Choir’s renditions of “Heaven’s Flock” and “Leuba le Tlile” were showstoppers, captivating judges and audiences. The Western piece “Heaven’s Flock” by Ēriks Ešenvalds explores spiritual migration, hope, and transcendence themes. The African piece, “Leuba le Tlile”, composed by the choir’s conductor, Mampa, reflects the devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic, using powerful metaphors to convey loss and resilience.
“These pieces resonate deeply with our journey as a choir and connect us to our audience,” explains Mampa. The heartfelt performances showcased technical skill and conveyed profound emotion, earning the choir its deserved accolades.
The SMU Choir thrives under the strong leadership of its executive committee, which comprises six dedicated members, each a student pursuing a different academic discipline:
- Chairperson: Nzuzo Mpondwana (Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences)
- Secretary General: Akwandokuhle Mthabela (Bachelor of Occupational Therapy)
- Deputy Secretary General: Bonolo Kgomo (Bachelor of Science in Occupation and Environmental Health)
- Treasurer: Nthabiseng Modjadji (Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy)
- Public Relations Officer: Kgaugelo Mohlahlo (Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery)
- Event Organiser: Covenant Ngomana (Master of Pharmacy).
“His leadership has transformed us into a professional choir,” said Mpondwana of conductor Mampa. The unity of the choir is further strengthened by its diversity, with members from different cultural and religious backgrounds coming together in harmony. “We prioritise ubuntu and respect, embracing our differences,” adds Mampa.
The choir’s triumph highlights the complementary role of extracurricular activities in academic life. “Being part of the choir provides an escape from academic stress and enhances mental well-being,” shares Mpondwana. The success story inspires other students at SMU, proving that commitment and teamwork can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Buoyed by this victory, the SMU Choir is now setting its sights on national and international competitions in 2025. “With financial support, we aim to represent SMU on bigger stages,” says Mampa. The choir also plans to host concerts on campus, inviting students and staff to enjoy their harmonies.
“The SMU Choir is a home for all who love music,” says Mpondwana, encouraging students to join during the upcoming recruitment drive. “We maintain high ethical standards and welcome everyone ready to uphold these values.”
The choir expressed heartfelt gratitude to their conductor, Tumisho Mampa, whose guidance and musical expertise have been instrumental. They also thanked Tulani Nkuntse, the Director of Student Affairs, and other stakeholders for their support.
The SMU Choir’s victory at the TCMA Competition is more than just a win; it is a celebration of hard work, resilience, and the transformative power of music. With determination and unity, the choir continues to inspire, leaving a harmonious mark on every stage they grace.
*By Tumelo Moila
