by Lorato | Jan 11, 2026 | All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
Dr Ramokone Maphoto, Senior Pathologist in Virology at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), stands as a key figure in South Africa’s ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS. With a career built on scientific excellence and a commitment to public health, Maphoto is making significant contributions to diagnostics, research, and community empowerment.
Based within SMU’s Department of Virology, Maphoto’s work spans cutting-edge laboratory science and practical healthcare solutions. She currently leads the Clinical Virology Research Unit, a newly established facility dedicated to advancing the understanding of viral infections. The unit’s mandate focuses on diagnostics, treatment, prevention, and innovative research that integrates laboratory findings with clinical application.
“Science is not only about discovery but about making a real impact on people’s lives,” says Maphoto. “At SMU, we’re uniquely positioned to bridge laboratory research and frontline healthcare, especially in addressing HIV/AIDS challenges.”
Her role also extends to academic leadership as an active member of the Departmental Research Committee, where she serves as Deputy Chair on rotation. This involvement allows her to influence the strategic direction of virology research and foster collaboration among researchers and clinicians.
SMU’s Virology Department plays a critical role in South Africa’s health system, providing essential HIV testing and treatment monitoring services to vulnerable communities. Under Maphoto’s guidance, the laboratory operates around the clock, utilising advanced automated HIV testing technologies to increase capacity and deliver timely, accurate results.
“Timely viral load testing is essential for managing treatment effectively,” explains Maphoto. “It helps detect treatment failure early, ensuring patients receive appropriate care to suppress the virus and reduce transmission.”
Beyond the lab, Maphoto is passionate about education and capacity building. She mentors and trains medical registrars, honours, and master’s students, nurturing the next generation of virologists who will continue to strengthen South Africa’s HIV response.
However, Maphoto recognises that the fight against HIV/AIDS is about more than medicine and technology. Stigma remains a significant barrier to care, and she is dedicated to community outreach and education initiatives that challenge misconceptions and encourage people to seek testing and treatment.
“Breaking down stigma is critical,” she asserts. “Education empowers people to make informed decisions and access the healthcare they need without fear or shame.”
Maphoto’s work exemplifies the integration of scientific innovation, public health commitment, and compassionate leadership. Her efforts not only enhance diagnostic services but also shape policy and practice, supporting South Africa’s goal of ending the HIV epidemic.
“At SMU, we believe in health equity as a responsibility,” she says. “I’m proud to contribute to this mission by advancing research and ensuring every patient’s right to quality care is respected.”
In a country grappling with the world’s largest HIV epidemic, access to reliable testing and treatment is more critical than ever. At the heart of this fight is SMU, where science, research, and compassion converge to tackle the HIV/AIDS crisis head-on.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Dec 11, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) hosted its prestigious 2025 Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards at the Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Menlyn, celebrating employees whose commitment, leadership and innovation continue to strengthen the University’s core mission. Held under the theme “Advancing the boundaries of knowledge: Excellence for Impact and Sustainability,” the ceremony brought together academic leaders, administrative and support staff, and external partners to honour individuals shaping the future of the institution.
Delivering her opening address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus, emphasised that excellence is a defining trait of SMU’s evolving identity. “Excellence at SMU is not a destination; it is a culture we build together,” she said. “Every staff member honoured tonight represents our commitment to transforming lives through education, research and service. Their contributions are the backbone of the University’s progress and our impact on society.”
Professor Matsha-Erasmus also highlighted the importance of service-driven leadership in a health sciences institution. “Our work must consistently reflect compassion, accountability and innovation. These award recipients remind us what it means to serve humanity with purpose.”
Dr Nasiphi Moya, the Executive Mayor of the City of Tshwane, a scholar and public policy practitioner, delivered the keynote address. Reflecting on her journey from student activism to municipal leadership, she encouraged staff to position excellence as a daily discipline. “Excellence requires courage,” she told the audience. “It is the willingness to refine your craft even when no one is applauding. Institutions like SMU thrive because individuals choose to show up, do the work and inspire progress.” Dr Moya further commended the University for nurturing a workforce committed to national development. “SMU is not only producing future health professionals; it is cultivating principled leaders who will shape our healthcare system and communities.”
The evening’s honours included awards in administrative support, teaching and learning, leadership, client service and innovation. Among the recipients was Naledi Mathole, Coordinator of the Economic Activation Office, who received the Award for Outstanding Leadership and Professionalism. Under her stewardship, the SMU Enactus team won national recognition for social innovation.
Reflecting on the accolade, Mathole said: “This award is deeply meaningful. Leadership is about service, collaboration and believing in the potential of others. I am grateful to work in an environment where ideas are supported, and innovation is encouraged.” She added that the recognition belongs to her entire team.
“No one succeeds alone. My colleagues and students are the reason our projects thrive. Together, we are proving that SMU can be a leading driver of community-focused innovation.”
Other recipients included Maria Baloyi, honoured for exceptional client service in the School of Medicine; Justice Maleba, celebrated for teamwork in Grounds Maintenance; and Bathabile Ndlovu, recognised for advancing sustainable landscaping and environmental stewardship on campus. Several academic staff members were also acknowledged for teaching excellence, curriculum innovation and research contributions.
As the night progressed, applause echoed through the venue as citations highlighted personal stories of resilience, integrity and passion. Many recipients were described as individuals who “go beyond the call of duty” and “embody the spirit of Ubuntu that defines SMU’s ethos.”
In her closing remarks, Prof Matsha-Erasmus reaffirmed the University’s determination to strengthen its culture of excellence. “Tonight reminds us that excellence is not a privilege for a few but a responsibility shared by all of us,” she said. “The individuals we honoured demonstrate that dedication, empathy and creativity can transform not only our institution but the communities we serve. Their achievements encourage us to push boundaries and pursue knowledge that improves lives.”
She also extended appreciation to the Mayor and partners who continue to support the University’s vision. “Collaboration with government, industry and communities strengthens our impact. We value the City of Tshwane’s continued engagement and commitment to developing a healthier, more knowledgeable society.”
The 2025 Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards concluded with a renewed sense of pride and unity, celebrating the individuals whose work continues to elevate SMU’s standing as a leading health sciences institution. Through their service and innovation, the University moves closer to its goal of transforming healthcare, advancing knowledge and inspiring future generations.
Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Nov 26, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The first Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed under the leadership of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus, has marked a decisive step in strengthening African-led academic partnerships. Fresh from her inauguration earlier in November 2025, Professor Matsha-Erasmus led a senior delegation of SMU deans and directors to Maputo, Mozambique, where an MoU between SMU and Universidade Wutivi (UniTiva) was formally concluded.
The delegation received a warm welcome from UniTiva’s Chancellor, Professor Domingos Tivane, and Rector, Professor Nelson Chacha. Held from 18–19 November, the visit brought together leaders from both institutions to identify strategic areas of collaboration, tour UniTiva’s newly launched Faculty of Health Sciences Simulation Laboratory, and formalise the MoU that will anchor the growing partnership.
Senior SMU representatives—including Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dini Mawela; Dean of the School of Medicine, Professor Risenga Chauke; Dean of the School of Pharmacy, Professor Patrick Demana; and Dean of the School of Health Care Sciences, Professor Douglas Maleka—met with their Mozambican counterparts to chart practical joint initiatives. Discussions focused on internationalising curricula, increasing staff and student mobility, and deepening collaborative research.
In parallel, the Director of SMU’s Skills and Simulation Centre, Dr Lesego Phiri, visited UniTiva’s Simulation Centre, which was designed based on SMU’s model. Director of Student Affairs, Tulani Nkuntse, and Director of Internationalisation, Dr Carlien Jooste, held further engagements centred on student life and intercultural exchange.
Reflecting on how meaningful partnerships are built, Dr Jooste emphasised: “Collaborations should never only be a signature on a piece of paper. The success of a collaboration lies in how schools, academics, and students find common areas of interest and subsequently grow fields of knowledge.”
The MoU was officially signed on 19 November 2025, with the South African High Commission in Mozambique represented by First Secretary: Political, Stanley Netshimboni. Speaking at the ceremony, Netshimboni said: “I am delighted to be here today, as our role is to support initiatives such as this between our two countries.”
The signing ceremony also drew several former Mozambican Ministers of Health who played pivotal roles in establishing UniTiva’s Faculty of Health Sciences. Addressing the gathering, Rector Professor Nelson Chacha underscored the significance of the new partnership: “We expect to create a collaborative movement. We want to make a big difference with this MoU. We want to solve the problems that our two countries are facing in the health sector.”
In her keynote address, Professor Matsha-Erasmus outlined a clear vision for African-led advancement, stating, “I look at what Africa can do for itself. It is time for Africa to solve its own problems. For SMU, the signing of this MoU is the seed of what Africans can achieve when we work together. We commit, in South Africa and at SMU, to honour this partnership. This partnership is mutual and requires respect and shared commitment.”
This latest milestone follows a high-level benchmarking visit by UniTiva to SMU in April 2025. The ongoing momentum—through exchanges, joint planning sessions and now a formal agreement—demonstrates SMU’s commitment to building impactful, sustainable collaborations on the continent. The University continues to prioritise partnerships that deliver measurable value, uphold academic excellence, and expand Africa’s capacity to address its own health challenges.
by Lorato | Nov 20, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a decisive move to tackle the escalating global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital (DGMAH) hosted a high-impact Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) Symposium on Monday, 17 November 2025. The event forms part of global, World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW), observed annually from 18–24 November under the theme: “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.”
AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to standard treatments, rendering common infections increasingly difficult to manage. The consequences extend far beyond clinical settings, threatening food systems, animal health, and the environment. WAAW seeks to raise awareness, strengthen best practice, and mobilise urgent One Health collaboration to curb the spread of drug-resistant pathogens.
The symposium brought together pharmacists, medical practitioners, microbiologists, nurses, and other professionals committed to improving antimicrobial use across the healthcare system. Speakers delivered focused presentations on key stewardship challenges and emerging solutions. Highlights included:
- Global Point Prevalence Survey findings in Outpatient departments, presented by SMU/DGMAH clinical pharmacists Lindiwe Mnukwa, Ama Annor, Tsholofelo Makgale, Pinky Ntuli, and Nombuyiselo Shokane.
- Microbiology susceptibility trends for 2025, presented by Dr Grace Ntlemo, Pathologist / Microbiologist,
- Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) – AMS contributions by Matron Millicent Boshoga, IPC – Assistant Manager Nursing, DGMAH.
- Evidence-based guidance on Ceftazidime–Avibactam provided from Pfizer Pharmaceuticals by Silindokuhle Davidson (Medical Science Liaison Hospital Business Unit).
- Targeted treatment strategies for Clostridoides difficile, presented by Clinical Pharmacist, Tsholofelo Makgale, SMU/DGMAH.
- Resistance patterns in adult intensive care units by Dr Khunou, ICU Medical doctor/ Consultant, DGMAH.
- Infectious disease case studies led by Dr Thandekile Manzini, Infectious Disease Specialist (SMU/DGMAH) & Dr Ntsizi, Internal Medicine medical doctor (SMU/DGMAH) and Fumani Baloyi, Medical student (SMU)
- Updates on Gauteng’s Provincial antimicrobial guidelines delivered by Professor Andries Gous, Clinical Pharmacy Department/AMS Chairperson, SMU/
The event was organised by Professor Andries Gous, Chairperson of the DGMAH AMS Committee, in collaboration with the hospital’s Clinical Pharmacy team, SMU’s Department of Clinical Pharmacy, and Pfizer Pharmaceuticals. Attendees were also provided with campaign materials and patient information leaflets to extend stewardship advocacy beyond the symposium.
Its timing could not have been more relevant. “On clinical rounds, I see how challenging some infections have become to treat. The session on hand hygiene was a real eye-opener—sanitisers are our first line of defence against dangerous pathogens. This symposium has been incredibly informative, and I’m eager to put these lessons into practice every day,” said Emmanuella Owusu, a Master of Pharmacy in Clinical Pharmacy student at SMU.
Professor Gous underscored the urgency: “AMR is not a distant challenge—it is happening now. Every stakeholder, from healthcare providers to environmental managers, has a role to play. Immediate, coordinated action is essential to protect our present and secure our future.”
Alongside the symposium, the Gauteng Department of Health has issued two significant circulars guiding antimicrobial governance. The first, concerning Ceftazidime-Avibactam, formally notifies stakeholders of updates related to the medicine.
The second circular provides detailed directions on the Provincial Antimicrobial Therapeutic Guideline. It instructs pharmacy departments to select antimicrobial options aligned with stock availability, emphasising that the guideline supports—rather than replaces—clinical judgement. Healthcare workers are encouraged to consult infectious disease specialists, microbiologists, or clinical pathologists before making recommendations. Approved in November 2024 and June 2025, the guideline was implemented by institutional committees, supported by provincial stewardship structures.
Together, the symposium and newly issued circulars demonstrate a clear provincial commitment to strengthening antimicrobial stewardship. Gauteng’s health sector is intensifying surveillance, expanding education, and driving coordinated action to safeguard life-saving medicines and protect future generations.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Nov 6, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to produce graduates who excel on global stages — and this time, it’s Physiotherapy alumnus Kenny Darrel Mziyako, who is part of the South Africa U-17 national team’s medical staff at the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup, taking place in Qatar from 3 to 27 November 2025.
The 2025 edition marks a historic moment for the tournament as the 20th FIFA U-17 World Cup, and the first to adopt an annual format with 48 participating teams, a significant expansion from the traditional 24. It also ushers in a new era for youth football, as Qatar will host the competition for five consecutive years (2025–2029). With Germany entering as the defending champions, the stage is set for a highly competitive and globally celebrated event.
For Mziyako, being part of the Amajimbos’ medical team is both a professional milestone and a personal dream come true. “Football has always been my passion,” he reflects. “To serve my country in a world-class tournament like the FIFA U-17 World Cup is an honour. I’m grateful for the foundation SMU gave me — both academically and professionally.”
Born and raised in Luphisi Village near Mbombela, Mpumalanga, Mziyako’s journey has been defined by dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering love for sports medicine. He completed his BSc in Physiotherapy at SMU in 2019, where his interest in sports and rehabilitation began to flourish. He later obtained the FIFA Diploma in Sports Medicine in 2021, a qualification that has strengthened his expertise in managing sports-related injuries and athlete recovery. Currently, he is pursuing an MSc in Physiotherapy (Sports and Rehabilitation) at his alma mater, SMU.
His early career was marked by volunteer experiences with top football teams, including Mamelodi Sundowns Academy and the SMU soccer team during the USSA Games in 2018 and 2019, where he served as Coordinator of the Sports Rehabilitation Unit. After completing his community service at Witbank Hospital in 2020, he secured a permanent post as a Grade 1 Physiotherapist at Ermelo Hospital in 2021.
His daily work includes designing treatment plans, conducting rehabilitation exercises, and monitoring patient recovery — all while mentoring younger physiotherapists and serving as a NEHAWU shop steward.
Beyond hospital work, Mziyako has also collaborated with the Mpumalanga Department of Culture, Sports and Recreation, accompanying provincial teams to the National School Sports Championships and providing injury screening and rehabilitation services to local football clubs in promotional leagues. His growing profile in sports physiotherapy earned him national recognition, leading to his selection as physiotherapist for the COSAFA U-17 Tournament (2024) and AFCON U-17 (2025) — experiences that paved the way for his upcoming FIFA World Cup role.
With a blend of technical skill, teamwork, leadership, and a passion for athlete wellbeing, Mziyako embodies the excellence and community spirit that SMU stands for. As the Amajimbos prepare to face the world’s best young footballers, his presence on the medical bench will not only support South Africa’s quest for success but also showcase the calibre of SMU graduates making a global impact.
“Physiotherapy is not just about healing bodies,” Mziyako concludes. “It’s about helping athletes perform at their best — physically, mentally, and emotionally. I’m proud to carry the SMU flag to Qatar.”
By Tumelo Moila
