by Lorato | Jun 11, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
History has been made at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) as Dr Phumudzo Lloyd Seabe becomes the first-ever PhD graduate from the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. This achievement not only marks a significant academic milestone for the University but also represents a powerful personal journey, rooted in legacy, discipline, and a vision for inclusive technological advancement.
Born and raised in Gogobole, a village in Venda, Limpopo, Seabe was raised in a home shaped by women of strength and conviction. “I was raised in a household led by women of great dignity and discipline,” he says. “My mother’s consistency taught me the power of hard work. My grandmother—sharp-witted and deeply principled—was the compass of our family.”
His grandmother, a retired domestic worker from the South African Air Force Base, had a profound influence on him. As the second of twelve grandchildren, he was always under her watchful eye. Her passing in April 2020, just over a year before he started his PhD, left a significant void. Yet her spirit continued to guide him. “She used to say, ‘Noma kubuhlungu, kodwa kulungile’—Even though it hurts, it is well,” he recalls. “That became my silent prayer during long nights of research and writing.”
In July 2021, Seabe began his PhD journey at SMU with a clear and ambitious research focus: to combine the tools of artificial intelligence (AI), behavioural finance, and traditional investment theory to analyse the highly volatile cryptocurrency market.
His thesis, titled Advancing Cryptocurrency Market Analysis and Investment Strategies: An Integrated Approach Using Machine Learning, Sentiment Analysis, and Factor Investing, presents a comprehensive framework for understanding and forecasting cryptocurrency market behaviour. It integrates advanced deep learning models—including LSTM – Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU), Bi-Directional LSTM, and Temporal Attention Networks—with time series and sentiment data from over 48 million cryptocurrency-related tweets.
Using Natural Language Processing (NLP), he extracted real-time sentiment signals via Valence Aware Dictionary and sEntiment Reasoner (VADER) and RoBERTa, two of the leading sentiment analysis tools. These were integrated into hybrid models enhanced with SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) explainability, allowing for transparency and interpretability of AI forecasts. In addition to technical innovation, Seabe revisited classical finance theories using Fama–MacBeth regressions and cross-sectional portfolio construction. His findings confirmed that even in digital, decentralised markets, traditional predictors like momentum and size continue to offer robust explanatory power.
His work resulted in four publications in DHET-accredited journals, including one paper cited over 140 times and nominated for the 2023 Best Paper Award, with the outcome to be announced in June 2025. These achievements underscore the global academic relevance and impact of his work.
Professor Maggie Aphane, Head of the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, praised this historic moment: “Dr Phumudzo Seabe has set a new record in the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics by becoming the first PhD graduate from Medunsa, University of Limpopo (Medunsa Campus), and SMU. He successfully completed his PhD in an unprecedented timeframe. As Head of Department, it is a privilege for me to witness this achievement during my tenure. This accomplishment reflects my dedication to the university and the nation as a whole. I am committed to fostering the production of more PhD graduates.”
Seabe’s journey was not without sacrifice. Balancing full-time professional responsibilities alongside rigorous academic research required remarkable discipline and focus. “This journey was never just about research,” he says. “It was about honouring the sacrifices of my family, especially my grandmother and mother. Every model I built, every paper I wrote, was an offering to them.”
Now, as he graduates, Seabe continues to work at the intersection of financial intelligence, artificial intelligence, and behavioural insight. His vision is to build data-driven systems that are not only accurate but inclusive—technologies that reflect both innovation and the human condition. Seabe’s success is not only a personal victory but a beacon of possibility for rural communities and aspiring researchers across South Africa. He has not just earned a PhD—he has made history.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jun 11, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The 2025 Comrades Marathon brought not only grit, endurance, and national pride to the streets of KwaZulu-Natal – it also provided an exceptional clinical training platform for final-year physiotherapy students from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). As thousands of runners prepared to take on the gruelling 90 km ultra-marathon, a dedicated team of SMU students rose to the occasion – first at the GEMS Wellness Tent at the Durban the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC), and later, on race day, at the rub tent located at the finish line at People’s Park (Moses Mabhida Stadium) in Durban.
This hands-on experience formed an integral part of the students’ clinical education within the School of Health Care Sciences, offering them a unique opportunity to deliver sports rehabilitation services in real time, under professional supervision. “This experience gave our students the chance to engage with athletes in a live setting, assess physical needs on the spot, and implement appropriate physiotherapy techniques,” said Karabo Raphokwane, Physiotherapy lecturer and clinical coordinator.
In the lead-up to the race, the students provided pre-race care at the GEMS Wellness Tent at ICC. Here, they assisted runners with soft tissue massage, muscle activation, strapping, and stretching to help prepare them both physically and mentally for race day. Samkele Jiyane, a fourth-year physiotherapy student, described the event as “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, perfect for career development and building our professional portfolios. We are grateful to the SMU Physiotherapy Department for granting us this invaluable experience.”
“The students showed great enthusiasm at the Durban ICC,” added Raphokwane. “They took initiative, collaborated effectively with professionals, and interacted confidently with the athletes. It was a solid foundation ahead of the main event.”
On Sunday, 8 June, the students transitioned to the rub tent at People’s Park, where they supported athletes at the finish line. After completing 90 kilometres, runners arrived in urgent need of post-race care, and the SMU students delivered. They provided massage therapy, stretching, and mobility work to fatigued athletes, focusing on relieving cramps, muscular tightness, and general recovery. “Watching our students in action at the rub tent was a proud moment,” said Raphokwane. “They remained calm under pressure, treated every runner with respect and professionalism, and supported one another throughout. This is what genuine clinical learning looks like.”
The experience helped students sharpen their decision-making, enhance communication skills, and gain confidence in managing real patients in a fast-paced environment. In addition to their work at the Comrades, SMU students also participated in the Physiotherapy Student Strapping Competition, hosted by the South African Society of Physiotherapy (SASP). This national competition allowed students to demonstrate their technical proficiency in preventative and therapeutic strapping used in sport.
SMU proudly secured third place – a result that reflects the high standard of education and preparation provided by the University’s Physiotherapy Department. “Taking part in the competition was a bonus,” said Raphokwane. “The students prepared thoroughly and were thrilled to compete alongside their peers from other universities. It was a wonderful celebration of their skills and development.”
The participation of SMU students in Comrades 2025 highlights the University’s commitment to experiential learning, community engagement, and professional readiness. Their contributions in both pre-race and post-race settings showcased not only technical competence but also compassion, discipline, and teamwork. This milestone experience also enabled the students to connect with peers from other institutions, engage with the broader healthcare community, and reflect on the real-world impact of their future profession.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jun 4, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
On 24 May 2025, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) made history by hosting the University Sport South Africa (USSA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the first time since the institution’s establishment in 2014. Held on the university’s vibrant campus, the event welcomed delegates from over 26 universities across the country and underscored SMU’s growing influence in student sport and holistic development.
The USSA AGM is the highest decision-making body in university sport and plays a vital role in shaping national discussions around governance, transformation, inclusion, integrity, and athlete development. SMU’s selection as host reflects the confidence placed in the institution by both the higher education and sporting communities.
Welcoming delegates to the historic gathering, Vice-Chancellor Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus underscored the university’s mission beyond academic excellence, “As a university grounded in the health sciences, our mission extends beyond the classroom and clinic. We are committed to nurturing well-rounded graduates who embody leadership, discipline, and community engagement. Hosting this AGM is not just about sport—it is about nation-building through youth empowerment.”
She also pointed out the alignment between the event and SMU’s core values of excellence, integrity, ubuntu, respect, and accountability. “Our participation in USSA and our contribution to student sport are rooted in our values. We believe in empowering young people holistically, and this event is a reflection of that commitment,” she added.
The AGM followed a series of sporting and academic successes for SMU. At the recent Autumn Graduation Ceremonies, 47 student-athletes received their qualifications, including 12 from the rigorous MBChB programme, highlighting the university’s dedication to both academic and sporting excellence.
“This is a proud moment for all of us,” said SMU Sport Officer Busisiwe Sijora. “We are showing the country that at SMU, we don’t choose between the mind and the body—we develop both. These graduates are living proof that excellence in the classroom and on the field is possible.”
SMU’s leadership in university sport goes beyond event hosting. The university holds strong representation within USSA’s national structures, with staff and students in influential positions helping shape the direction of student sport in South Africa. Senior Sport Officer
Andiswa Zwelibanzi serves as Chairperson of USSA Canoeing, Secretary of USSA E-Sport, and a member of the USSA Transformation and Development Sub-Committee. Sport Officer Busisiwe Sijora is Vice-Chairperson of USSA Football, Secretary of USSA Handball, and a member of the Bidding and Hosting Sub-Committee.
Third-year MBChB student Paballo Moshoma also holds a national leadership role, serving as Secretary for USSA Chess.
“Serving in these national roles is not just about representation,” said Zwelibanzi. “It’s about ensuring that our student-athletes have a voice, that sport becomes more inclusive, and that transformation becomes a lived reality.”
At SMU, sport is not an extracurricular activity—it is central to student life and development. The university views sport as a platform to foster leadership, promote health and wellness, and strengthen social cohesion—objectives closely aligned with its mission of producing competent and compassionate health professionals.
SMU Sport expressed gratitude to USSA leadership, the SMU Sport Council, support staff, and volunteers who made the AGM a resounding success. “This event has been a milestone, but more than that, it’s been a statement,” said Sijora. “SMU is ready to take its place among the leaders in sport and student development. We’re just getting started.”
As SMU continues its evolution into a centre of excellence in health sciences and student life, the successful hosting of the USSA AGM marks not just a first, but a defining chapter in its story—one that positions sport and education as equal pillars in building a healthier, more inclusive South Africa.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jun 4, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
For Zwothe Muthabeni, a proud graduate of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), nursing is not merely a career—it is a profound calling shaped by compassion, discipline, and a relentless dedication to the well-being of others. Her journey, which began in the lecture halls and clinical rotations of SMU, has grown into a remarkable testament to global-minded healthcare, professional excellence, and service-driven leadership.
Now serving as a Theatre Professional Nurse at Sebokeng Hospital since completing her community service in 2023, Muthabeni represents a new generation of South African nurses who are not only clinically skilled but also globally conscious and deeply human-centred in their approach to care.
Muthabeni completed her Bachelor of Nursing degree in 2023, but her connection to SMU remains both profound and personal. “My academic and professional journey started at SMU, and it is here that I discovered not only what it means to be a nurse, but also who I am meant to be in this world,” she reflects.
During her time at SMU, she was immersed in rigorous academic training and enriching clinical placements that laid the foundation for her nursing career. The structured curriculum, coupled with the supportive guidance of committed lecturers, instilled in her the values of excellence and accountability. These values—central to SMU’s ethos—continue to guide her work as she progresses in her studies and international engagements.
Now pursuing a master’s degree in nursing through North-West University, Muthabeni recently returned from an international internship in Hasselt, Belgium—an important milestone in her professional development. “This experience was both exciting and deeply transformative. I worked in surgical and community health settings, engaging with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds, adapting to different healthcare protocols, and collaborating with international professionals,” she says.
Despite being thousands of kilometres from home, Muthabeni felt anchored by the integrity and respect she had cultivated during her training at SMU. “Every time I faced a challenge abroad, I found myself returning to what I learned at SMU—clinical knowledge, critical thinking, and ethical conduct. It gave me the confidence to navigate a foreign healthcare system and still offer quality, compassionate care.”
The internship not only sharpened her clinical skills but also broadened her perspective. She speaks passionately about the importance of cross-cultural communication, humility, and adaptability—qualities she believes every 21st-century healthcare professional should embrace.
“Being abroad reminded me that compassion is a universal language. Whether in Pretoria or Hasselt, what matters most to patients is that they are seen, heard, and treated with dignity. That is what nursing is about,” she says.
Her time in Belgium reaffirmed her commitment to lifelong learning and professional excellence. Exposure to international healthcare systems, interdisciplinary collaboration, and research-driven practice opened her eyes to new possibilities—ones she hopes to bring home to contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s health sector.
“I’m passionate about improving healthcare access and patient outcomes, particularly in underserved communities. My journey is far from over, but every step I take is grounded in the principles I learned at SMU,” she says.
Muthabeni’s story is a living embodiment of the university’s mission to produce graduates who are responsive to societal needs and compassionate in-service delivery. Her journey also reflects SMU’s vision of becoming a leading African university in health sciences, recognised for excellence and social relevance.
To aspiring nurses and current SMU students, Muthabeni offers heartfelt encouragement: “Trust in your training. The environment at SMU is built to shape well-rounded, ethical, and knowledgeable professionals. Say yes to opportunities that stretch you and know that your voice and your skills are needed—not just in South Africa, but around the world.”
Her message is clear: education is a passport to possibility, and when grounded in strong values and a sense of purpose, there is no limit to what SMU graduates can achieve.
Muthabeni carries the SMU flag high, across borders and into a future filled with promise. Her story is not just her own, but one that reflects the enduring spirit of the university and its commitment to shaping change-makers in health sciences.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | May 29, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to shine as a beacon of innovation, excellence, and transformation. This graduation season, we celebrate a historic achievement that perfectly embodies the university’s mission to nurture talent that drives positive change in South Africa and beyond.
Dr Raikane James Seretlo, a PhD graduate in Public Health and a lecturer appointed through the New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP), has made remarkable strides by completing his doctorate in record time—just two years—while simultaneously developing a nationally recognised mobile health (mHealth) innovation that is already making a significant impact in the public health sector.
Seretlo joined SMU in March 2023 through the nGAP initiative. That same month, he enrolled for his PhD in Public Health. By March 2025, he had successfully completed his doctoral degree—an extraordinary feat that sets a new benchmark for academic excellence at SMU.
But his achievements extended well beyond academic requirements. In just two years, Seretlo authored five peer-reviewed journal articles based on his PhD research, presented his work at five major conferences (three national and two international), and co-authored an additional eight peer-reviewed papers through collaboration and community engagement—a total of 13 published works, both locally and internationally.
His academic journey has been underpinned by unwavering discipline, strategic time management, and a deep passion for health equity. “I created a strict study plan, stuck to it, and turned consistency into a lifestyle. I stayed up late, woke up early, and never lost sight of the bigger picture,” he shares.
Motivated by the urgent need to address gaps in healthcare access for queer communities, Seretlo developed Query Wellness Hub, a mobile health application that offers inclusive, stigma-free sexual and reproductive health information tailored to the LGBTQIA+ community.
This copyrighted innovation stems from his Master’s research at SMU, which revealed that public healthcare systems often lack inclusive policies and practices. Seeing a critical need for equitable digital health solutions, he transformed his findings into an accessible, user-focused platform aimed at bridging this gap.
Despite challenges such as limited funding and access to expertise, Seretlo’s perseverance bore fruit. The Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) awarded him R800,000 in seed funding to refine and commercialise the prototype. This achievement not only affirms the national relevance of his innovation but also underscores the power of research-driven development in solving real-world challenges.
“This isn’t just an app; it’s a voice for those often ignored in mainstream healthcare. It’s a step towards dignity, inclusion, and improved health outcomes for queer individuals,” he explains. Seretlo’s story is more than a personal triumph—it is a powerful testament to Black excellence. Born in the rural village of Lephalale, he defied the odds to become a symbol of resilience, brilliance, and community impact.
“Black excellence means pushing beyond the boundaries placed before us. It means creating, excelling, and giving back, regardless of where you come from,” he says. His growing academic legacy includes mentoring four Master’s students at SMU. Three of them will graduate alongside him this May, with one earning a cum laude distinction. The fourth is expected to graduate in September 2025.
Seretlo’s influence extends beyond South Africa’s borders. He was recently nominated by the National Research Foundation (NRF) to represent the country at the 2025 Global Young Scientists Summit in Singapore—a prestigious international gathering of emerging scientific minds. “The summit was a game-changer,” he reflects. “Visiting the Innovation Factory and learning about design thinking, AI integration in healthcare, and academic entrepreneurship showed me how our ideas can evolve into scalable, global solutions.”
Seretlo, the journey has been as spiritual as it has been academic. “It’s a God-led journey,” he affirms. “Everything—from registration to ethical clearance, data collection, publications, and funding—fell into place. I believe I was walking on purpose.”
He credits his success to divine guidance, tireless effort, and the steadfast support of his supervisors, Professor Mathildah Mokgatle and Dr Hanlie Smuts, along with the SMU Technology Transfer Office and the nGAP team. Seretlo’s journey embodies the core values of SMU: innovation, transformation, academic rigour, and social impact. As SMU celebrates his graduation this May, we also honour a legacy in the making—one that reminds us of the transformative power of education, purpose, and community.
By Dimakatso Modise
