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
by Lorato | Feb 3, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to nurture future leaders in healthcare, and Motheo Mmola is a shining example of this legacy. Raised in Diepsloot, she grew up in an environment that championed education and perseverance—values that shaped her path into the field of oral health. Determined to make a tangible impact in underserved communities, she set her sights on a career that would bridge the gap in oral health awareness and accessibility.
Enrolling at SMU proved to be a transformative experience. The university provided her with a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of oral healthcare, offering hands-on experience through community outreach programmes. Surrounded by experienced lecturers and a supportive academic environment, Mmola thrived—turning challenges into stepping stones toward excellence.
“The university provided a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of oral health care,” Mmola explains. Throughout her studies, she worked alongside experienced lecturers and gained invaluable hands-on experience through community outreach programmes. Though the workload was demanding, her dedication to the field kept her motivated.
Her passion for oral health and community service was recognised when she was awarded Best Student in Dental Public Health. “This award is not just a personal achievement but a call to continue advocating for better oral health awareness in South Africa,” she says. The recognition reaffirmed her commitment to her studies and the field of public health dentistry.
Receiving the Van Schaik’s Dental Award was another milestone in Mmola’s academic journey. “This award symbolises my perseverance and commitment to excellence in oral health,” she notes. Professionally, it opens new doors and strengthens her credibility as a dedicated oral health professional. It fuels her ambition to continue excelling and making a meaningful contribution to the industry.
Like many students, Mmola faced intense academic pressure, procrastination, and moments of self-doubt. “The rigorous nature of the course required resilience and commitment,” she admits. She successfully balanced theoretical learning with practical application by mastering time management and focusing on her long-term goals. Her ability to adapt and remain disciplined played a significant role in her success.
Winning these awards has reinforced Mmola’s passion for public health dentistry. She now envisions a future where she can contribute to oral health advocacy, policy improvements, and increased accessibility to dental care. “I want to be at the forefront of improving oral health standards in South Africa,” she says. Whether in private practice, community initiatives, or further studies, she aims to be a key player in shaping the future of oral health care.
To those considering a career in oral health or other health fields, Mmola offers invaluable advice: “Stay committed, work hard, and embrace continuous learning. Oral health is a growing field with vast opportunities, and perseverance is key.” She encourages students to seek mentorship, participate in community outreach programmes, and never underestimate the significance of their studies.
Mmola’s ultimate goal is to use her knowledge and achievements to inspire others and contribute to the broader field of dental health in South Africa. She plans to engage in initiatives that promote oral health awareness, particularly in rural and underserved communities. “Through education, outreach programmes, and potential research, I hope to drive positive change and make quality dental care more accessible,” she says.
As she steps into the next phase of her career, Mmola remains committed to advancing oral health advocacy and policy reforms in South Africa. Her accolades, including the Best Student in Dental Public Health award and the Van Schaik’s Dental Award, are not just personal milestones but symbols of her unwavering dedication to the field.
With SMU as the launchpad for her success, Mmola envisions a future where quality dental care is accessible to all, particularly in underserved communities. Whether through private practice, community initiatives, or further studies, she is determined to be a driving force in shaping the future of oral healthcare. “With passion, perseverance, and a commitment to service, I hope to inspire others and create lasting change,” she affirms.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jan 27, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Masego Ngwira, a distinguished alumna of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), is making significant strides in the field of mathematics education. At just 34, she has become a highly respected and influential educator at Hoërskool Akasia, where her passion and dedication are shaping the academic futures of young learners. Ngwira’s remarkable contributions extend beyond the classroom, as she plays a pivotal role in inspiring confidence in her Grade 9 students and transforming their attitudes toward mathematics. Her success is a testament to the calibre of SMU graduates, who continue to make a profound impact in their respective fields and contribute to the advancement of education and future academic excellence.
Beyond the classroom, Ngwira plays a pivotal role in addressing a critical challenge faced by her alma mater—ensuring a steady pipeline of quality mathematics learners. As mathematics is a fundamental requirement for admission to SMU, educators like Ngwira are essential in inspiring and equipping students with the necessary skills to pursue careers in health sciences. Without a solid foundation in mathematics, SMU’s student intake could face significant challenges, potentially limiting the institution’s ability to nurture the next generation of healthcare and science professionals.
Ngwira’s dedication not only contributes to the academic excellence of her students but also strengthens the link between secondary education and higher learning institutions. Her efforts serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of enthusiastic teaching and the profound influence one educator can have on an entire academic community.
Born and raised in Lomanyaneng, a village in Mahikeng, Ngwira attributes her resilience and work ethic to her upbringing. “My village shaped me into the woman I am today, and my parents put the cherry on top by believing in me,” she reflects. Her passion for education began during her university years when she discovered her love for teaching while assisting her peers in physics.
Ngwira’s academic journey is impressive. She matriculated in 2008 from Setumo High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree majoring in Mathematics, Physics, and Statistics from the University of Limpopo (Medunsa Campus) in 2012. She pursued an Honours degree in Statistics in 2013, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education with Unisa in 2018, and a master’s degree in Statistics from SMU in 2021. Currently, she is a PhD candidate at SMU, furthering her commitment to education and statistical research.
Ngwira’s teaching career began in 2014 at Khamane MST Academy in Mpumalanga, where she honed her skills and developed a passion for working with diverse learners. In 2016, she moved to Ntolo Secondary School in Madidi, North West, where she built her expertise in mathematics education. The following year, she joined Itirele-Zenzele Comprehensive School in Diepsloot, further refining her teaching methodologies. In 2020, Ngwira began her tenure at Hoërskool Akasia, where she continues to make a significant impact on her students’ academic journeys.
Her teaching philosophy centres around building confidence and changing learners’ perceptions of mathematics. “I start by building their confidence because I believe in changing the attitude first. One of Ngwira’s notable strategies is helping Grade 9 learners distinguish between Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy, allowing them to make informed decisions about their academic future. She emphasises the importance of rules, using colour-coded notes to highlight key concepts, and encouraging participation in after-school intervention classes. “I am good at diagnosing and analysing my learners, and I also engage with parents to ensure holistic support for each child,” she adds.
Her dedication was recognised in 2021 when she received an award for improving Grade 9 mathematics performance at Hoërskool Akasia. Her data-driven approach, utilising Excel and other assessment tools, has helped identify areas of struggle and improve teaching quality year after year.
Ngwira’s influence extends beyond the classroom. A passionate musician, she has introduced choir programs in all the schools where she has taught. “Music unites, and the competitions we entered, we won,” she says proudly. At her first school, choir participation transformed the behaviour of troublesome learners, positively changing the school’s perception of extracurricular activities.
Ngwira’s commitment to her students is evident in the relationships she builds. “I make it a point that at the end of every year, I know every learner in my grade. I might miss their names, but I can tell you how they behave in class,” she notes. Many of her former students have gone on to pursue higher education, with some encountering her at SMU while registering for their degrees.
Josias Muthis, a former learner from Ntolo Secondary School and current SRC Chairperson for the School of Dentistry at SMU, credits Ngwira for transforming his academic journey. “Teacher Masego Ngwira’s dedication and passion for teaching mathematics opened doors I never imagined possible. During my grade 12 year, she stepped in during a critical shortage of teachers and not only simplified complex concepts but also inspired confidence in my abilities. Beyond the classroom, her genuine interest in my aspirations introduced me to SMU, shaping my career path. Today, as I near the completion of my Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree, I am deeply grateful for her unwavering support and belief in my potential. Educators like her truly have the power to change lives.”
Reflecting on a recent encounter, Ngwira fondly recalls, “At the beginning of this year, when I came to SMU to register for my PhD, I met two of my former learners—one pursuing his honours and another who had already graduated twice, now studying Dentistry and serving in the SRC. It was a moment of immense pride for me, seeing how SMU continues to empower its students to achieve great heights and make a lasting impact. It is truly rewarding to know that the university is shaping not only the future of healthcare professionals but also inspiring leadership and excellence in every field.”
By Tumelo Moila
