by Lorato | May 7, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a commendable act of corporate social responsibility, TANC Scrubs recently made a meaningful contribution to the advancement of healthcare education in South Africa. The company donated 120 sets of medical scrubs, valued at R30,000, to Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), demonstrating a strong commitment to supporting the future of the country’s healthcare professionals.
The donation is aimed at students in the School of Medicine, the School of Pharmacy, and the School of Oral Health who are in financial need. These essential uniforms are more than just attire, they represent a step towards educational equity and professional readiness. By easing financial constraints, this initiative enables students to fully concentrate on their clinical training and academic performance, laying a strong foundation for excellence in healthcare delivery.
Craige Dixon, Head of Group Marketing at TANC Scrubs, shares his thoughts on the collaboration: “It’s truly our pleasure to support the students at SMU, and we are proud to play a role in shaping the future of healthcare in South Africa. We are honoured by the university’s appreciation and excited about the possibilities of future collaboration.”
This generous contribution aligns with SMU’s vision of “Transforming health services through excellence in teaching, research and community engagement” and reflects its core values of excellence, integrity, respect, compassion, and accountability. Through this partnership, TANC Scrubs has not only supported individual students but has also contributed to narrowing the resource gap faced by many academic institutions.
The initiative will directly benefit 120 students, equipping them with the practical tools necessary for clinical learning. It is a tangible reinforcement of SMU’s mission to develop socially accountable and competent healthcare professionals who are responsive to the health needs of the nation.
Legodi Mashiane, from the Office of Institutional Advancement at SMU, expresses sincere appreciation for the donation: “The Office of Institutional Advancement at SMU would like to warmly thank the TANC group for their incredibly thoughtful donation of scrubs to students in the School of Medicine, School of Health Care Sciences, and School of Pharmacy.
For many of our students, the path to becoming a healthcare professional comes with financial hurdles, and this donation helps lift some of that weight. TANC’s generosity ensures that our students walk into their clinical environments with confidence, pride, and a strong sense of belonging.
This act of kindness reminds us that our journey is not one we walk alone. It’s support like this that builds hope, inspires excellence, and strengthens the SMU community.”
This donation by TANC Scrubs is a powerful example of how shared values and collaborative action can lead to meaningful change. As SMU continues to live its mission and uphold its values, partnerships like these will be instrumental in building a healthcare system that is inclusive, compassionate, and responsive to the needs of all South Africans.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | May 7, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
At Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), a new wave of innovation is sweeping across the institution. Guided by the university’s core values of excellence, inclusivity, and social responsibility, three rising stars are emerging from the university’s ranks. Supported by the SMU Technology Transfer Office (TTO), they are not just advancing research; they are united in their mission to improve lives and transform healthcare, both in Africa and globally.
These young innovators, Emmanuel Kiyonga, Thabo Lesiba Lekgoathi, and Nondumiso Nkosi, embody SMU’s commitment to fostering excellence and collaboration in health sciences while simultaneously honouring the institution’s values of inclusivity and social impact. Each of them has made a significant contribution to their field, and their discoveries have the potential to change the course of healthcare in ways that align with the university’s broader goals.
28-year-old Ugandan Pharmacist Emmanuel Kiyonga’s breakthrough drug, Raloxifene Hydrochloride Solvate-Hydrate, is already being hailed as a game-changer in breast cancer treatment for postmenopausal women. His work, which focuses on providing a less invasive and more targeted alternative to existing treatments such as chemotherapy and hormone therapy, underscores SMU’s commitment to social responsibility, especially when it comes to addressing pressing global health challenges.
Kiyonga’s journey, which began with a desire to save lives, has already earned him considerable recognition, including R100,000 in prize money and the prestigious title of Studentpreneur 2024 at the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Intervarsity programme. “Kiyonga’s work is a perfect example of how SMU’s values of excellence and social responsibility come together to create impactful innovations,” says Mohlatlego Sebola, who oversees the operationalisation of the TTO at SMU. “His research not only advances science but also addresses a significant gap in women’s healthcare.”
Kiyonga’s work reflects the ethos of SMU: a commitment to producing transformative research that serves society. “Through the support of the TTO, I’ve been able to bring my idea to life,” Kiyonga explains. “I’m proud to contribute to breast cancer treatment, knowing that it could help women live healthier lives.”
PhD candidate Thabo Lesiba Lekgoathi is a prime example of SMU’s emphasis on the fusion of indigenous knowledge and modern scientific innovation. Lekgoathi’s research centres on a medicinal plant, Schinus molle, which has been used in rural communities to treat respiratory ailments. His work, which led to the identification of geranylgeranyl acetate as a powerful inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2, is a testament to the university’s values of inclusivity and innovation.
Lekgoathi’s research, conducted under the mentorship of Dr Vuyisile Thibane and Professor Stanley Gololo from the Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, represents SMU’s focus on socially responsible research that not only draws from local knowledge but also has the potential to address global challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. By blending traditional medicine with modern scientific methods, Lekgoathi is pushing boundaries in the fight against respiratory diseases and viral infections. His work exemplifies SMU’s belief that inclusivity in research leads to richer, more diverse scientific contributions.
“This innovation is about honouring traditional knowledge while moving science forward,” Lekgoathi says. “It’s about making a real difference, and the support I’ve received from SMU has been invaluable.”
Master’s student Nondumiso Nkosi has developed a diagnostic assay for Hepatitis B, aiming to address the significant gaps in testing accessibility, particularly in resource-limited settings. Nkosi’s diagnostic tool, developed in collaboration with Nagoya City University Hospital in Japan, perfectly aligns with SMU’s values of inclusivity and social responsibility. By providing a solution that is tailored to the unique healthcare challenges faced in Africa, Nkosi’s innovation reflects a strong commitment to improving public health in underserved communities.
Nkosi’s research focuses on creating diagnostic solutions that are not only affordable but also accessible, ensuring that individuals in remote or under-resourced areas can receive early detection and treatment for Hepatitis B. “The partnership with Nagoya City University Hospital was crucial in helping me develop a diagnostic tool that is suited to African healthcare needs,” Nkosi explains. “This innovation is about making a lasting impact where it’s needed most.”
Nkosi’s work represents SMU’s core value of social responsibility, demonstrating how innovation can drive positive change. “At SMU, we are encouraged to think about the greater good,” she adds. “This has been a driving force in my work.”
What unites Kiyonga, Lekgoathi, and Nkosi is not just their individual brilliance, but the sense of community and collaboration fostered by SMU. The support of the Technology Transfer Office (TTO), the mentorship they receive, and the university’s focus on interdisciplinary, inclusive research have been critical to their success.
Under the guidance of the TTO, these students are not only advancing their academic work but also positioning themselves to become leaders in the global healthcare and scientific landscapes. Their shared passion for innovation, social impact, and inclusivity reflects SMU’s mission to nurture talent that makes a difference in the world.
As Sebola puts it: “These three individuals embody the spirit of SMU. They are driven by excellence, committed to social responsibility, and united in their goal to improve the health and well-being of others. We are incredibly proud to support their journeys and look forward to seeing how their work continues to evolve.”
As these rising stars continue to make strides in their respective fields, they remain deeply rooted in the values that SMU stands for—excellence, inclusivity, and social responsibility. Their innovative research is not only changing the future of healthcare but also reinforcing SMU’s position as a leader in higher education that champions transformative, impact-driven research.
The work of Kiyonga, Lekgoathi, and Nkosi serves as a powerful reminder that, at SMU, the future of healthcare and science is bright, and it is united in its pursuit of a better, more inclusive world.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Apr 23, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
At the heart of modern innovation, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) stands as an example of transformative education, visionary leadership, and groundbreaking research. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, SMU has carved out a distinguished reputation as a centre of academic excellence with societal impact that not only serves local communities but also reverberates across global health and science landscapes.
SMU’s journey is defined by its relentless pursuit of knowledge and the ambition to impact lives. This journey began with a clear vision: to develop a curriculum that fosters critical thinking, ethical practice, and pioneering research. Today, SMU’s robust academic programmes and state-of-the-art research, teaching, and learning facilities are nurturing a generation of leaders who are redefining what is possible in the realms of health sciences and beyond. Academics and support staff collaborate seamlessly, driving initiatives that have already led to significant breakthroughs in public health, biomedical innovation, and sustainable healthcare solutions.
A key pillar of SMU’s success lies in its dynamic leadership. University administrators, academic mentors, and support teams work in harmony to create an ecosystem where excellence is not just an aspiration but an everyday reality. This collaboration is exemplified by success stories from alumni and current students whose experiences at SMU have shaped their careers and propelled them onto the world stage. From pioneering emergency medicine practises to leading global health projects, SMU graduates carry the institution’s ethos of service and innovation wherever they go.
Integral to SMU’s global impact are the strategic partnerships forged with leading institutions and industry players worldwide. These alliances enhance research opportunities, facilitate cross-border academic exchanges, and open up new avenues for collaborative projects. Through these connections, SMU has positioned itself as a nexus of ideas and innovation—where local talent meets global expertise. By engaging with international partners, the university not only enriches its academic offerings but also ensures that its research addresses the most pressing challenges of our time, from pandemic preparedness to sustainable healthcare delivery.
Equally important is SMU’s commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment that champions diversity and fosters a spirit of community. The university’s programmes are designed to be accessible and transformative, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from its world-class education. This inclusive approach has yielded a vibrant campus culture, one that values intellectual rigour alongside compassion, creativity, and resilience.
In the words of one distinguished alumnus, “SMU instils the confidence to challenge convention and the courage to innovate.” Such testimonials underscore the profound impact that SMU has on shaping careers and, more importantly, on shaping the future of healthcare and science globally. Every lecture, every research project, and every community initiative is a building block in a larger vision—a vision that sees SMU not only as an educational institution but also as a catalyst for meaningful change.
As we look towards the future, SMU continues to push the boundaries of what is possible. With ambitious research projects in the pipeline, innovative teaching methods, and a commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders, SMU remains at the forefront of academic excellence. Its story is one of passion, perseverance, and profound impact—a story that inspires us all to aim higher and dream bigger.
In celebrating SMU’s journey, we are reminded that excellence is not static—it is an evolving force that drives progress and transforms lives. SMU is proof that when talent, vision, and dedication converge, the results are nothing short of extraordinary.
By Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli
by Lorato | Apr 23, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Professor Hannelie Meyer was recognised as the Best-Established Researcher and Best Overall Female Researcher at the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards 2024 for her outstanding contributions to public health pharmacy research. She received this prestigious recognition for her dedication to impactful research, mentorship, and leadership in research. “I am deeply honoured by this recognition,” she says. “It is evidence that dedication and collaboration drive impactful research in public health pharmacy.”
Her journey in academia and research bears testimony to her unwavering commitment to improving public health through evidence-based interventions. As a Full Professor in the Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management (PHPM) in the School of Pharmacy, she also leads the South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre (SAVIC) at SMU. With over 40 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and public health sectors, she has made significant contributions to improving primary healthcare at the national, regional, and global levels.
Meyer’s research focuses on strengthening healthcare services and improving public health, with a particular emphasis on vaccination as a vital pillar of antimicrobial stewardship. This includes building vaccine confidence and promoting the rational use of medicines to ensure patient safety. A National Research Foundation (NRF) Category C2 rated scientist since 2022, she has an impressive body of work, including 184 articles in peer-reviewed journals, 406 national and international conference presentations, and 57 research and academic awards, including several SMU Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards, namely the Distinguished Community Scholar Excellence Award in 2021; Most Established Researcher in the School of Pharmacy Excellence Award in 2018 and 2022; and Best Overall Female Researcher Excellence Award in 2018. Her mentorship has led to the successful completion of 96 postgraduate students, including 7 PhDs.
Her academic leadership has seen her coordinate the Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) programme for nine years, lead the development of the professional Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) in PHPM, and develop training materials for the Higher Certificate in Vaccinology. Her work supports the World Health Organization’s (WHO) goal of ensuring global access to safe, effective, and high-quality medical products, vaccines, and technologies.
Throughout her career, Meyer has benefitted from strong mentorship, which she now pays forward to young and emerging researchers. I was fortunate to have had great mentors, such as Professor Rose Burnett, who introduced me to research on the social aspects of vaccination, and Professor Brian Godman, who helped expand my expertise in drug utilisation research,” she explains. “Now, I strive to provide the same support and guidance to early-career researchers.”
She encourages early-career researchers to seek mentorship, engage in academic collaborations, and take advantage of funding opportunities provided by SMU and external bodies. “Commitment, dedication, hard work and a passion for meaningful research are key to long-term success,” she advises.
Balancing academic excellence with personal responsibilities remains a challenge for many female researchers. Meyer acknowledges the difficulties of securing research funding, managing administrative tasks, and maintaining a work-life balance. “Women in research face unique challenges, but with resilience and support, we can excel in both our professional and personal lives,” she says. Despite these challenges, she has carved a path of success, demonstrating that women can excel in academia and research while fulfilling personal and family roles.
Beyond academia, Meyer’s work has helped shape national, regional and global health policies. She holds three ministerial appointments in South Africa, including chairing the National Immunisation Safety Expert Committee and serving on the National Advisory Group on Immunisation and the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority Board. She also serves on various African Union vaccine safety committees and the WHO Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety.
Her dedication to community engagement was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. She played crucial roles in developing training materials, training healthcare workers, designing vaccine implementation guidelines, and establishing vaccine safety surveillance systems. During the pandemic, it was crucial to ensure that healthcare workers were well-equipped with the knowledge and resources to manage the implementation and safety of the COVID-19 vaccine, she recalls. Her leadership in vaccine risk communication and pharmacovigilance has significantly contributed to strengthening South Africa’s primary healthcare service delivery.
Meyer considers her most significant achievement to be the success of her postgraduate students. “Seeing my students thrive and take on leadership roles is incredibly rewarding,” she reflects. Many of her mentees now hold leadership positions in government and academia, driving positive change in public health and pharmacy. She believes in the power of mentorship, collaboration, and dedication to fostering a new generation of healthcare professionals who will continue her legacy.
Her philosophy is encapsulated in the African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Through her research, mentorship, and leadership, Meyer has undoubtedly made significant strides, and her contributions will undoubtedly resonate for years to come.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Apr 23, 2025
SMU Graduations Home » Search Results for "ienabler" SMU Graduations Graduation Notice Graduation Important Links SMU SPRING GRADUATION CEREMONY, 20 SEPTEMBER 2024 The 2024 spring graduation ceremony to confer Degrees and award Diplomas and Higher...
