by Lorato | Aug 13, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Final-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) student, Tshepang Lenkoe, has proudly reintroduced Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Dental School to the national stage after winning the prestigious 2025 South African Dental Association (SADA) Young Dentist Publisher Undergraduate Research Award.
Lenkoe, who also serves as a class representative and member of the Dental Student Council, chose dentistry to address the pressing need for accessible oral healthcare in South Africa. Growing up, he witnessed countless individuals suffering from oral health problems without access to a dentist. “I wanted to bring change to my community,” he said. “Dentistry offered me the opportunity to provide a direct service that could transform lives.”
His journey through dental school has been far from easy. Balancing demanding clinical duties with student leadership roles required discipline, effective time management, and resilience. “Helping my peers while excelling academically meant structuring my time meticulously. It’s been challenging physically and mentally, but it has taught me patience and the importance of perseverance,” he reflected.
The award-winning research that earned him national recognition was titled Diagnosis and Management of a Cystic Lesion: The Use of CBCT – A Case Report. His study compared the diagnostic accuracy of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) with conventional radiographic imaging. “SMU Dental School handles many head and neck cystic lesions, serving as a primary referral hospital for Gauteng, Limpopo, and North West. My research highlighted CBCT’s superior diagnostic capabilities, showing reduced chances of misdiagnosis compared to traditional methods,” Lenkoe explained.
His findings also carried a broader message: the urgent need for investment in state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to better serve South Africa’s population. While obtaining biopsy results in time posed challenges, the radiographic reports from CBCT enabled him to make a confident diagnosis and compare it to international literature.
Winning the award was a deeply personal achievement. “It was surreal,” he said. “I wanted to make my family proud and represent black students on a national platform. No SMU dental student had attended SADA or participated in the research competition for five years, and no SMU student had won in seven. This victory showed that we can compete at the highest level.”
The experience at the SADA Congress was both inspiring and affirming. An international keynote by Canadian dual specialist Dr David Chvartszaid reinforced Lenkoe’s passion for academic dentistry, while the encouragement of SMU lecturers and research mentors Dr Idah Mmutlana and Dr Ntombizodwa Zwane kept him motivated during research setbacks.
Looking ahead, Lenkoe aims to specialise in prosthodontics and remain active in academic dentistry to train future professionals. He also intends to continue research to contribute to South Africa’s growing body of dental knowledge. His advice to young dentists is simple yet powerful: “Pursue research. It enhances clinical skills, professional competence, and the quality of patient care.”
Through his dedication, Lenkoe has not only earned a national accolade but also reignited SMU’s presence in the dental research arena—an achievement that may inspire a new generation of South African dental scholars.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jul 31, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Years of dedication and resilience have culminated in a remarkable achievement for Dr Katlego Dikgale, who graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). Hailing from Polokwane, Limpopo, his journey into medicine began early, sparked by frequent childhood visits to healthcare facilities—whether as a patient or observer. “I was drawn to the field through regular exposure to doctors,” he recalls. “Watching them work made me realise how important they are to the wellbeing of communities.”
However, the strongest influence came from his mother, Dr Itani Thelma Dikgale, a Maxillo-Facial and Oral Surgeon and SMU alumna. Accompanying her to work and engaging with her professional environment planted a seed that eventually blossomed into a deep calling.
Graduating cum laude is a moment Katlego describes as both “humbling and motivating.” Achieving distinction in one of the country’s most demanding programmes was no easy feat. He attributes his success to collaborative learning and a structured routine. “We had end-of-rotation discussions with friends to identify knowledge gaps. Talking through cases together made a real difference.”
Yet, the path was not without its challenges. “Pharmacology was particularly tough. As a visual learner, I relied heavily on diagrams and videos to grasp the content.” Staying focused and adapting his learning style helped him overcome hurdles. “Obstacles are part of the race—you just have to keep jumping over them.”
A particularly defining moment came during his final-year rotation in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. “I started the block feeling disheartened, but gradually regained my confidence. Earning my first distinction during that rotation reminded me of my potential.”
Reflecting on his time at SMU, Katlego says the experience helped shape him into a more empathetic and grounded clinician. “Being part of this community taught me to understand the realities of the people we serve. That perspective is priceless.”
As he embarks on his internship at Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, he is eager to sharpen his clinical skills. With a strong interest in the nervous system, he is exploring specialities such as neurosurgery, neurology, and psychiatry.
A guiding philosophy, Amor Fati—the love of fate—has anchored him throughout his journey. “It’s about embracing both the highs and lows because they shape who you become.” To fellow and aspiring medical students, he offers heartfelt advice: “You’re already capable. Stay grounded, do the work, and take it one day at a time. Most importantly, enjoy the process.”
He credits his parents for his success. “Everything I am is everything you taught me. Your example paved the way.” His mother proudly reflects: “I’m incredibly proud. It’s every parent’s dream to see their child succeed. I pray he chooses a speciality he loves and fulfils his heart’s desire. Glory to God and our ancestors.” With clarity, compassion, and commitment, Katlego is not only ready to serve—but to inspire.
By Tumelo Moila
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
