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 | Feb 14, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
For the past decade, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has been at the forefront of medical and health sciences research, driving transformational change in healthcare, disease prevention, and scientific innovation. In an era where public health challenges demand urgent solutions, SMU has consistently delivered research with tangible societal impact, addressing issues from cancer diagnostics to environmental health risks, pharmaceutical advancements, and chronic disease management.
As South Africa’s premier institution for health sciences, SMU’s research legacy is not just academic—it is shaping healthcare policies, influencing clinical practices, and improving lives across the nation.
Innovations in pharmaceuticals and public health interventions
In 2024, SMU researchers pioneered a game-changing breakthrough with the development of a child-friendly anti-infective gummy formulation—a revolutionary step in paediatric medicine aimed at improving medication adherence in children. Published in Drug Delivery and Translational Research, this innovation has the potential to reduce treatment resistance and improve health outcomes in underserved communities where adherence to traditional liquid and tablet medications remains a challenge.
Furthering its impact in oncological research, SMU researchers conducted a landmark study on prostate cancer diagnosis, comparing 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT imaging with 99mTc-MAG3 renography. Published in Diagnostics, this research enhances diagnostic precision and treatment strategies, bringing hope to thousands of men suffering from metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer.
SMU’s public health researchers have also tackled health inequalities, particularly within marginalised communities. A 2023 study on mental health and healthcare access for men who have sex with men (MSM), published in the International Journal of Innovative Research and Scientific Studies, identified critical barriers to mental healthcare. The findings have provided evidence-based recommendations for addressing the mental health crisis within this vulnerable group, prompting urgent calls for inclusive healthcare strategies.
Pioneering environmental and epidemiological research
SMU has played a critical role in advancing environmental health research, exposing the devastating impact of pollution on South African communities. In 2020, SMU’s environmental scientists uncovered alarming levels of heavy metal accumulation in freshwater fish species from the uMgeni River. Published in Environmental Pollutants and Bioavailability, this study raised national awareness of environmental contamination, pressing policymakers to tighten water quality regulations and mitigate public health risks.
SMU’s work in infectious disease modelling has also broken new ground. In 2021, a study in the Alexandria Engineering Journal introduced a fractal–fractional order non-linear re-infection model, offering unprecedented insights into epidemic forecasting. This research has become a critical tool for disease control, allowing health experts to predict outbreaks and implement early intervention strategies.
Transforming medical training through research and data-driven insights
SMU does not only conduct research—it ensures that its findings translate into impactful education and medical training. A 2022 study in Pharmacy Practice examined career trajectories of pharmacy graduates, providing groundbreaking insights into the evolving pharmaceutical industry. The findings have shaped SMU’s curriculum development, ensuring students are equipped with skills that align with real-world industry demands.
Similarly, a 2019 study on the mathematical modelling of physiological fluid dynamics, published in Mathematical and Computational Applications, introduced a new method for solving the Boussinesq equation. This research has revolutionised medical simulations and biological system modelling, providing medical students and professionals with enhanced diagnostic tools.
SMU’s dedication to healthcare innovation extends beyond mathematical models and laboratory findings. In 2016, its public health researchers quantified the burden of air pollution on urban communities. Published in Environmental Health Perspectives, the study directly influenced national air quality policies, prompting action to mitigate respiratory illnesses and pollution-related health risks.
A legacy of excellence in health sciences research
SMU’s research achievements extend back a decade, with pioneering work in chronic disease management, neuroscience, and early childhood interventions. A 2015 study in The South African Medical Journal provided critical insights into hypertension in rural communities, influencing targeted healthcare interventions for better disease prevention and management.
In 2014, SMU’s nursing research advanced nurse-led interventions in chronic disease management, underscoring the vital role of nurses in strengthening South Africa’s primary healthcare system. That same year, a study on early childhood language disorders, published in The South African Journal of Communication Disorders, established evidence-based strategies for diagnosing and treating language delays, reinforcing the importance of early intervention in childhood development.
These milestones are not just academic victories—they have influenced national healthcare policies, transformed patient care, and improved medical education.
SMU is not merely a university—it is an institution shaping the future of healthcare. Through groundbreaking medical research, environmental studies, and public health initiatives, the university is solving real-world health challenges and producing globally competitive healthcare professionals.
The institution’s commitment to scientific innovation, research integrity, and community impact has cemented its reputation as a leader in health sciences. With each new study, each breakthrough, and each innovation, SMU is pushing the boundaries of medical science, improving lives, and redefining healthcare in South Africa and beyond.
As the university continues its relentless pursuit of excellence, one thing is clear—SMU’s research is not just changing academic discourse; it is changing the world.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Dec 13, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In the heart of rural Venda, where medical resources are scarce and healthcare challenges profound, Murendeni Magosha, an alumnus of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), is making an indelible impact. As a Radiographer at Tshilidzini Hospital, he is bridging the technological divide and delivering compassionate care that extends far beyond the confines of medical diagnostics. Magosha’s story is a shining example of SMU’s mission to produce healthcare leaders who combine technical excellence with an unwavering dedication to service.
A career driven by faith and service
Murendeni Magosha
Magosha’s journey into radiography was shaped by an early fascination with medical imaging and its profound effect on patient care. A significant influence on his dedication was the late Dr Petrus Masole Ragimana, Pastor and founder of The Living Gospel World Mission. Ragimana, revered as an unsung hero of South Africa, linked faith to action through his doctrine of servant leadership, inspiring countless individuals, including Magosha. His ethos—“To serve God is to serve humanity”—has become a guiding principle in Magosha’s life, influencing his journey from SMU to the heart of underserved communities.
“I chose SMU because it offered a rare combination of robust technical training and a curriculum that emphasised the human side of healthcare,” Magosha recalls. “It wasn’t just about learning the machines; it was about learning how to connect with patients.”
At SMU, Magosha’s training was comprehensive. Through extensive clinical placements, he gained hands-on experience that prepared him for the complexities of real-world healthcare. However, the focus on patient care and interpersonal relationships resonated most with him. “SMU didn’t just teach me how to be a radiographer; it taught me how to care,” he says.
Challenges and triumphs in rural healthcare
Now a seasoned professional, Magosha faces the harsh realities of healthcare in rural communities, where outdated equipment and high patient volumes are the norm. At Tshilidzini Hospital, he works tirelessly to overcome these obstacles with grace and ingenuity, often going beyond his clinical duties to ensure patients receive the care and dignity they deserve.
“The challenges we face here are many,” he admits. “But I see them as opportunities to make a meaningful difference. Every patient deserves the best care, no matter the circumstances.”
Magosha’s work extends beyond diagnostics. He has become a mentor to younger radiographers, leading efforts to optimise patient care and improve workflow. “Healthcare isn’t just about treating illnesses,” he asserts. “It’s about restoring dignity and trust in a community that’s often forgotten.”
Guided by the teachings of his pastor, Magosha approaches his work with a sense of mission that transcends technical proficiency. His faith informs every patient interaction, imbuing his practice with empathy, respect, and a profound commitment to equity in healthcare.
“My faith has been my anchor,” Magosha says. “It helps me maintain perspective, especially on the tough days. When I look at a patient, I see a person—someone’s mother, father, child. It’s my job to treat them with the respect they deserve.”
Magosha’s faith-driven approach to healthcare aligns with SMU’s broader ethos of producing healthcare professionals who are not only skilled but also compassionate and committed to uplifting their communities.
SMU’s role in shaping changemakers
Magosha’s success highlights the unique role that SMU plays in shaping healthcare leaders who are not just clinicians but also advocates for social justice and equity. The university’s focus on community engagement, combined with its rigorous training, produces graduates who excel under pressure while never losing sight of the human element of healthcare.
“The mentorship I received at SMU was crucial,” he reflects. “It wasn’t just about technical expertise—it was about learning to serve with heart. I was taught that healthcare is as much about humanity as it is about technology.”
Magosha’s journey from SMU to the rural hospitals of South Africa exemplifies the transformative power of education, compassion, and faith in healthcare. His work at Tshilidzini Hospital models how healthcare professionals can lead with skill and empathy, transforming the medical landscape and the communities they serve.
As Magosha continues to mentor young radiographers and advocate for improved healthcare access in underserved areas, his legacy grows—not just as an alumnus of SMU but as a beacon of hope and excellence in the fight for healthcare equity.
His story is a powerful reminder of SMU’s enduring mission: to produce professionals who excel in their fields and elevate the lives of those who need it most. Through his work, Magosha is proving that healthcare is about more than just treatment—it’s about transforming lives.
* By Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli
by Lorato | Nov 12, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In the heart of South Africa’s medical landscape, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is shaping world-class professionals driven by medical skills and an enduring commitment to public service. Dr Lawrence Marapo, a distinguished Registrar in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at SMU, embodies this spirit. Known for his blend of clinical excellence and faith-based compassion, Marapo’s journey—from his rural upbringing in Botswana to the forefront of women’s healthcare innovation—highlights the power of resilience, faith, and a relentless pursuit of quality care.
Dr Lawrence Marapo
At just 38, Marapo has carved out a remarkable career, setting a record by completing his Obstetrics and Gynaecology qualifications in just four years. Today, his work is indispensable in advancing women’s health and developing the next generation of healthcare leaders. His life motto, inspired by Dr Zhu Fu Tang, founder of the Chinese Pediatrics Academy of Science—“Selflessness, benevolence, diligence, and congeniality”—reflects his commitment to service. “I am the result of teenage pregnancy; my mother was only 15 when she had me. Knowledge became my defence, and faith my foundation,” he shares, reflecting on the challenges that fuelled his journey.
Marapo’s dual roles as both a Doctor and Pastor enrich his approach to patient care, especially for those facing critical health challenges. “Being a pastor and a gynaecologist allows me to provide comfort and dispel myths for patients in distress,” he says. His research into metabolic syndrome among peri- and postmenopausal women, recently presented at an International Menopause Congress in Melbourne, underscores SMU’s commitment to impactful research and innovative solutions. “My work is inspired by the need to address real issues affecting South African women,” he adds.
His rise began in Mafikeng Provincial Hospital as a Medical Intern, where he soon discovered his calling in obstetrics. “Working in the labour ward during my internship cemented my love for obstetrics. It felt like a calling,” he recalls. Today, under the mentorship of experts like Dr George Mothupi and Professor Lineo Matsela at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, he is refining his skills to champion maternal health standards across Southern Africa. His vision is ambitious: to establish a “safe obstetrics practice committee” that will promote evidence-based care and reduce maternal risks.
As an educator, Marapo is deeply invested in SMU’s future healthcare leaders. In 2023, SMU honoured him as the Best Junior Undergraduate Lecturer—a recognition he treasures. “Mentoring is essential to healthcare’s future,” he says. “Our impact multiplies through the young doctors we train, equipping them with skills and ethical standards to elevate public health.”
An accomplished author, Marapo has written two books, Destiny Map to Prosperity and Favour of God, offering hope to those facing adversity. His academic contributions, including an influential paper on perimortem caesarean sections, underscore his dedication to advancing medical knowledge. “Writing is my way of reaching out, to show that despite challenges, faith and effort can shape a better future,” he says.
As he prepares to embark on a PhD in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, with aspirations to integrate artificial intelligence into maternal care, Marapo’s vision extends far beyond personal achievements. His goals include creating accessible, cost-effective fetal monitoring devices and building a Southern African maternal care committee endorsed by American and European health bodies. For Marapo, it’s about offering cutting-edge, compassionate healthcare to the most underserved communities.
Even outside the hospital, his commitment to balance is evident. As a husband and father, he often sacrifices personal time for his patients. “This is a calling like no other. We push ourselves beyond limits for the health of others,” he says, describing how he missed his own and his child’s birthdays to save a patient’s life.
Marapo’s message to aspiring doctors is simple and profound: “This is doable; apply your mind and leave everything to faith.” His story—a powerful testament to SMU’s role in nurturing talent committed to serving humanity—continues to inspire future generations and redefines what it means to be a healthcare professional in South Africa. Through his dedication, faith, and vision, Marapo exemplifies the calibre of talent that SMU cultivates and the transformative impact of health sciences on the nation.
by Lorato | May 9, 2023
Medicine Latest Research Output: 2022 Home » Search Results for "MEdicine" ACCREDITED JOURNALS Phiri-Ramonganea B and Khinea AA. Role of clinical laboratories in reporting results of transgender individuals on hormonal therapy. Journal of...
