by Lorato | Dec 2, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Professor Mathilda Mokgatle, a distinguished academic at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has further elevated the university’s academic standing by earning the esteemed National Research Foundation (NRF) C2 rating. This recognition solidifies her reputation as a leading researcher whose impactful contributions to public health exemplify SMU’s role in fostering innovation and excellence in health sciences education.
Professor Mathilda Mokgatle
Reflecting on her inspiring journey from Phokeng, a rural mining village in Rustenburg, Mokgatle shares insights into her path to success. “I was born in Phokeng, where I received my basic education. In high school, I discovered a passion for physical science and mathematics, which sparked my interest in healthcare sciences,” she explained. Mokgatle’s pursuit of academic excellence began with a degree in Diagnostic Radiography at Medunsa in 1989, where her curiosity about technology and radiation physics aligned with her desire to contribute meaningfully to health service delivery.
Her early career in the medical imaging industry was dynamic and inspiring, spanning private and public health roles. However, her thirst for knowledge and desire to address deeper societal challenges led her to transition into public health. “After obtaining a Master of Public Health from Medunsa in 2001, I shifted my focus to disease prevention and control, health systems management, and health promotion,” she shares.
A multifaceted career in public health
Mokgatle’s career is a testament to her versatility and dedication. Her research journey began in earnest with her PhD from the University of Johannesburg, where she investigated the well-being of orphans in child-headed households using a grounded theory approach. This work established her research focus on adolescent sexual health, orphans, and vulnerable children.
Her portfolio spans HIV prevention, behaviour modification, and health programme evaluation. “I’ve had the privilege to consult for the Department of Health and Education, developing national policies such as the National Health Promotion Policy and the Fertility Option for people living with HIV,” she explains.
She has also secured major grants, including funding from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for evaluating home-based care programmes, from the Flemish Interuniversity Council- University Development Co-operation (VLIR/UOS) for interdisciplinary research into sexually transmitted infections, and the University of Michigan, the Preconception and safe Abortion grant. “These opportunities allowed me to address real-world challenges and ensure my work impacts public health policy and practice,” she adds.
Obtaining the NRF C2 rating is a significant milestone in Mokgatle’s illustrious career. “This recognition affirms my role as an established researcher with a coherent body of quality work. It is especially gratifying to know that my peers acknowledge the impact of my contributions,” she reflects.
Her versatility across the five core fields of public health—occupational and environmental health, epidemiology, biostatistics, social and behavioural sciences, and health systems management—has been instrumental in achieving this recognition.
“The rating motivates me to continue developing innovative research frameworks and engaging in impactful collaborations, such as my ongoing work in the acquisition of a South African Population Research Infrastructure Network / South African Medical Research Council (SAPRIN / SAMRC) project to implement a Health and Demographic Surveillance System in the North West Province,” she says.
Mokgatle’s influence extends beyond research. As the Head of the Department of Public Health since 2018, she has supervised eight PhD candidates and over 83 masters’ while authoring 88 peer-reviewed publications. “Training students for the healthcare workforce and seeing them thrive in their careers is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work,” she shares.
She is also a member of the data monitoring board at the Centre for the AIDS Programme Research in South Africa, a member of the South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, a member of the Ministerial Advisory Committee for COVID-19, and a collaborator with international organisations like the Nottingham Trent University, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University and Fred Hutch HIV Trial Network.
Despite her extensive achievements, Mokgatle remains focused on the future. “I plan to expand research on the social epidemiology of sexual and reproductive health across population groups and strengthen the health system. I am particularly excited about the digital health promotion interventions that are being launched to upscale coverage of health promotion, behaviour change, and infectious disease infection,” she notes.
When asked about advice for aspiring researchers, she emphasises self-determination, resilience, and adaptability. “The key is to remain curious, maximise the power of partnerships and collaboration, and prioritise impactful research that addresses societal needs.”
“Today, I am someone who thrives on challenges, values lifelong learning, and enjoys building meaningful connections,” she says. “This NRF C2 rating is not just a recognition of my past work but a springboard for future endeavours in advancing public health.”
*By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Dec 2, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
2024 has been a historic year coinciding with the university’s tenth anniversary. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) has achieved remarkable success, solidifying its position on the global academic stage. This milestone year was punctuated by two prestigious recognitions: a significant advancement in the Webometrics global university rankings and an inaugural placement in the country’s top ten universities in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings.
SMU’s notable progress in the Webometrics rankings demonstrates its increasing influence in digital engagement and research visibility, moving up almost 200 spots from 3,058th to 2,869th place globally. Nationally, it is now listed among South Africa’s top eighteen institutions in these rankings, a significant feat for a young university. The Webometrics rankings, which evaluate a university’s digital presence, transparency, and the impact of its research output, have underscored SMU’s commitment to expanding its digital footprint and contributing to research that addresses global health challenges.
Simultaneously, SMU made an impressive debut in the THE World University Rankings, placing it in the top echelon of institutions in South Africa. This inclusion, aligning perfectly with SMU’s core mission of delivering world-class healthcare education, emphasises its dedication to quality teaching, impactful research, and a progressive approach to internationalisation. SMU’s presence in this prestigious ranking highlights its evolution from a young, local university into a globally recognised institution in a sector where academic rigour, innovative research, and community service intersect.
The timing of these achievements reflects a fitting tribute to the visionaries who established SMU as an institution dedicated to shaping the next generation of healthcare leaders. A key contributor to SMU’s recent success is its commitment to community-centred healthcare, as evidenced by projects that promote local engagement and address pressing public health issues. This year, SMU launched several initiatives to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application, enabling students and staff to make real-world impacts in surrounding communities. The institution’s focus on inclusive education and training that resonates with community needs has strengthened its reputation for academic excellence and societal relevance.
As SMU celebrates a decade of academic excellence, its outlook remains forward-focused. Plans for expansion in research capabilities, infrastructure, and partnerships indicate that SMU aims to continue climbing the global ranks and furthering its impact locally and internationally. The strategic positioning and partnerships with global health institutions reflect its ambitious roadmap for the coming years.
In a banner year that has coincided with its 10th anniversary, SMU’s remarkable strides in global rankings and the recognition of its academic community stand as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with dedication and a clear vision. The university’s focus on nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and serving society has paved the way for a future where SMU stands as a beacon of health sciences education and leadership on the continent. As it moves into its next decade, SMU’s commitment to making a global impact remains stronger than ever.
*By Tshimangadzo Mphaphu
by Lorato | Nov 27, 2024 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a resounding affirmation of its growing stature as a leader in academic excellence and innovation, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) celebrates the remarkable achievement of Emmanuel Mukisa Kiyonga, who emerged as the overall winner of the 2024 EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity Awards.
Emmanuel Mukisa Kiyonga, emerged as the overall winner of the 2024 EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity Awards
The EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity Awards is an annual competition organised by the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) initiative in South Africa. The awards aim to identify, celebrate, and support the brightest entrepreneurial talents from South Africa’s 26 public universities. It provides student entrepreneurs, or “studentpreneurs,” with a platform to showcase their ideas and ventures to investors, mentors, and industry leaders. Over the years, the competition has grown into a prestigious platform that plays a pivotal role in supporting and catalysing innovation across the South African higher education landscape.
Kiyonga’s groundbreaking research and entrepreneurial vision have placed him—and SMU—on a national pedestal, showcasing the institution’s ability to nurture world-class talent. His victory is not just a personal achievement but also a reflection of the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation. The success of students like Kiyonga highlights SMU’s increasing influence as a hub for cutting-edge research and development within the health sciences sector.
Kiyonga’s path to victory began during his Master’s studies when he pivoted his research focus. Initially working on an antimalarial drug, he recognised the urgent need for better treatments for both postmenopausal osteoporosis and breast cancer. He set out to find a solution by working on Raloxifene Hydrochloride Solvate Hydrate, a drug with potential to treat both conditions. However, the drug faced the challenge of poor bioavailability, limiting its effectiveness to only 2%. Undeterred, Kiyonga and his team developed a novel technique to enhance its bioavailability. This breakthrough innovation was eventually patented, marking a milestone in his journey as an entrepreneur and researcher. This shift in focus was not just an academic decision but also a reflection of Kiyonga’s deep understanding of the global health landscape and his drive to make a tangible difference in addressing unmet medical needs.
This breakthrough is particularly significant given the high level of competition from other universities, each showcasing a range of innovative ideas spanning various sectors, from technology to agriculture. Kiyonga’s work stands out because of its direct application in addressing two major global health crises, thus exemplifying SMU’s mission to not only develop scientific theories but also provide practical, world-changing solutions.
Kiyonga’s journey exemplifies the depth of talent and innovation thriving at SMU. The university’s investment in its students—through cutting-edge laboratories, world-class mentorship, and unparalleled institutional support—has enabled him to redefine boundaries in pharmaceutical research. SMU’s commitment to creating a nurturing academic environment has allowed Kiyonga to develop a solution that could potentially impact millions of lives globally. From his supervisors, Dr Madan Poka and Dr Bwalya Witika, to the unwavering backing of SMU’s Technology Transfer Office and Directorate of Research, Kiyonga credits his success to the collaborative ecosystem fostered at SMU. These elements of support highlight the university’s broader strategy to integrate entrepreneurship into the academic experience, creating a conducive environment for research and commercialisation.
“SMU has been both a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformation,” says Kiyonga. “The mentorship I received and the resources available allowed me to push boundaries and turn my ideas into tangible, impactful innovations.”
His patented drug, which significantly improves the bioavailability of Raloxifene Hydrochloride, represents a milestone not only for his career but also for SMU. This achievement marks the university’s first patent—a historic breakthrough that solidifies its position as a globally competitive academic and research institution. The fact that this is SMU’s first patent underscores the university’s growing recognition in the global scientific community. It signals a new era where SMU’s contributions to research and innovation are moving beyond academia into real-world applications, reinforcing its place in the competitive landscape of global health sciences.
“The victory underscores the quality of education and mentorship at SMU,” Kiyonga explains. “It shows that SMU is a leader in nurturing talent and fostering groundbreaking discoveries.”
As Kiyonga envisions a future filled with innovation and impact, he remains committed to addressing pressing global health challenges. His immediate goal is to commercialise his patented drug, ensuring it reaches those in need. Beyond this, he plans to establish a state-of-the-art laboratory to mentor aspiring innovators and develop cutting-edge healthcare solutions. Kiyonga’s long-term vision extends beyond the commercialisation of his research. He aims to build a sustainable pipeline of healthcare solutions by fostering an ecosystem of innovation where young scientists and researchers can collaborate and create life-changing therapies. His ambition reflects SMU’s commitment to equipping its students with the skills and knowledge to lead impactful industries worldwide.
“This is just the beginning,” he declares. “I aim to drive innovation at scale, creating formulations and technologies that reduce disease burdens and improve quality of life worldwide.”
His advice to fellow SMU students and young innovators is simple yet powerful: pursue your ideas with passion and resilience. “There is no such thing as a small idea. What seems insignificant could be the breakthrough the world is waiting for. Seek mentorship, embrace challenges, and trust in your ability to make a difference.”
Kiyonga’s groundbreaking victory highlights SMU’s emergence as a premier institution for research, education, and innovation. The university’s rapid evolution into a centre of excellence in health sciences is a testament to its visionary leadership, strategic investments in research infrastructure, and commitment to fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship among its students.
With students like Kiyonga paving the way, SMU continues to redefine what it means to be a truly competitive academic institution. Among the 26 universities in South Africa who competed in the awards, SMU stands at the forefront of innovation, carving out its place as a leader in academic excellence and research breakthroughs. This recognition in the EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity Awards positions SMU as a frontrunner not only in South Africa but on the global stage as well. SMU’s ability to integrate research and entrepreneurship reflects its broader strategy of fostering innovation at every level of the university.
This award is a testament to the university’s ability to nurture exceptional talent, catalyse groundbreaking ideas, and drive impactful change. Kiyonga’s achievement not only showcases the calibre of SMU’s students but also solidifies its position as a premier institution that is shaping the future of health sciences and beyond. SMU’s reputation as a world-class institution is built upon the success stories of students like Kiyonga, whose research holds the potential to change lives across the globe. This victory reinforces the university’s role in shaping the future of health science and innovation, further solidifying its leadership in this critical sector.
*By Tshimagadzo Mphaphuli
by Lorato | Nov 25, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
As Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) marks its 10th anniversary in 2024, the institution pauses to reflect on a transformative journey that began long before its renaming, evolving from the Medical University of South Africa (Medunsa) into a premier institution for health sciences. The milestone brings into sharp focus the university’s role in shaping South Africa’s healthcare sector and the countless contributions its alumni have made to society, health innovation, and leadership.
Founded as Medunsa in 1976, the institution was dedicated to training healthcare professionals, with an initial focus on serving underserved communities. Medunsa quickly became a critical pillar in the South African healthcare landscape, especially during the apartheid era, producing doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals who would go on to serve in regions of the country where healthcare was scarce. The university’s commitment to medical training that prioritised access and equity laid a foundation of social responsibility, one that continues to define SMU today.
In 2014, Medunsa was officially reconstituted as SMU, in honour of Sefako Makgatho, a respected anti-apartheid leader and former president of the African National Congress. The renaming signalled a new chapter, symbolising a dedication to healthcare and the ideals of transformation and inclusivity. The shift was part of a broader strategy to reposition the institution as a world-class health sciences university, reinforcing its commitment to producing healthcare professionals equipped to meet the needs of a democratic South Africa and an interconnected world.
Over the past decade, SMU has built on Medunsa’s legacy, expanding its academic offerings and enhancing research initiatives. It has become renowned for producing health practitioners who excel in various fields of health sciences and research. The university’s dedicated schools have pushed boundaries in clinical research and innovation, often addressing health challenges specific to South Africa, such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and maternal health. Today, SMU graduates are skilled practitioners and leaders in politics, policy-making and health advocacy, shaping the framework of the nation’s healthcare system.
Among SMU’s distinguished alumni are individuals whose contributions have profoundly impacted both local and global health landscapes. Alumni occupy leadership positions in hospitals, NGOs, and government agencies, where they are instrumental in driving healthcare reform, advancing medical technology, and improving patient care standards. SMU’s alumni network underscores the university’s role as a training ground for excellence and leadership, from esteemed clinicians and surgeons to public health experts and healthcare administrators.
As SMU celebrates this pivotal anniversary, it continues to innovate and adapt to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare sector. Recent achievements include increased international collaborations, new investments in cutting-edge facilities, and a growing focus on interdisciplinary research to address global health issues. Furthermore, the university’s commitment to social responsibility remains unwavering. SMU’s ongoing outreach programmes and community health initiatives testify to its dedication to improving lives, especially within disadvantaged communities.
Looking ahead, SMU is set to expand its influence further, aspiring to attract students and scholars from across Africa and beyond. It remains a beacon of academic excellence and a driver of social progress in South Africa, committed to equipping future healthcare professionals with the skills and compassion needed to tackle the complex health challenges of the 21st century.
As 2024 draws to a close, SMU’s 10th anniversary reminds of how far the university has come and affirms its place as a cornerstone of health sciences in South Africa. With a legacy rooted in resilience, transformation, and excellence, SMU stands poised to continue shaping the future of healthcare for decades to come.
*By Tshimagadzo Mphaphuli
by Lorato | Nov 25, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a landmark appointment that exemplifies Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University’s (SMU) commitment to fostering diversity in critical skill areas, Dr Dineo Tsabedze was appointed to head the Department of Nuclear Medicine, a field traditionally dominated by men. As both the Academic and Clinical Head of Nuclear Medicine at SMU and Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital (DGMAH), Tsabedze symbolises SMU’s vision of inclusive leadership by women in pivotal healthcare roles, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing top talent.
Dr Dineo Tsabedze
With an impressive academic background, including a PhD and a Master of Medicine in Nuclear Medicine (Cum Laude) from the University of the Witwatersrand, Tsabedze brings a blend of clinical expertise, academic rigour, and compassionate leadership to her new position. Her contributions to nuclear medicine and her groundbreaking research—marked by 26 published papers, international conference presentations, and multiple awards—showcase her expertise and underscore her impact in a field often led by men.
Tsabedze’s leadership philosophy, based on kindness, humility, and inclusivity, creates a supportive atmosphere in the department. Her approach ensures that each member has a voice, from the administrative staff to radiopharmacists and radiographers. “When people feel valued, they naturally align with the department’s goals,” she explains, embodying a collaborative leadership style that is both inspiring and effective. Her inclusive approach resonates deeply with SMU’s vision to cultivate an environment where diverse talents thrive, especially in high-impact fields.
Her plans to elevate the Nuclear Medicine Department span across patient care, education, and research. She has initiated operational changes, including a review of standard procedures to cut waiting times and revisions to imaging protocols for more efficient patient-centred care.
Tsabedze is equally focused on enhancing the academic and research output within the department. She has set a minimum publication standard, ensuring that her team contributes meaningfully to the field’s knowledge base. By encouraging interdepartmental research collaborations and hosting weekly seminars and journal clubs, she creates a culture of continuous learning and professional growth, positioning SMU as a key player in nuclear medicine advancements.
A champion of new technologies, Tsabedze is leading her department towards precision medicine, focusing on disease-specific treatments and patient-tailored therapies. Her vision includes harnessing artificial intelligence to improve diagnostic imaging and personalised treatment, setting a progressive course that aligns with SMU’s goals for pioneering healthcare innovation.
Tsabedze’s role is a milestone in SMU’s journey towards fostering female leadership in critical fields. Through her achievements, SMU is advancing nuclear medicine and setting a new standard for gender diversity in healthcare leadership. Her work stands as a beacon for aspiring women in medicine, exemplifying the transformative impact of inclusive leadership and the importance of diverse representation in the most specialised areas of healthcare.
In recognising Tsabedze’s role, SMU celebrates a new chapter in its mission to empower South Africa’s top talent in fields that demand excellence and empathy. Her story, marked by resilience and leadership, reflects SMU’s dedication to promoting equity and innovation, positioning the university as a forward-looking institution committed to shaping the future of healthcare.
by Lorato | Nov 25, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a landmark achievement for South Africa’s medical landscape, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) made headlines in 2024 by performing the country’s first Trans-Oral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach (TOETVA). This revolutionary procedure, led by Specialist General Surgeon Dr Winnie Mathe and under the mentorship of Professor Zack Koto, marked a significant advancement in minimally invasive surgery and positions SMU as a premier institution in health sciences education and practice.
Dr Winnie Mathe
The TOETVA technique allows for thyroid surgery without visible scars, utilising natural orifices to access the thyroid gland. This innovative approach not only eliminates the traditional cervical scar but also offers patients a quicker recovery time and reduced postoperative pain. “Patient selection is crucial for TOETVA; we focus on those fit for anaesthesia with small, single-lobe thyroid tumours,” explains Dr Mathe, highlighting the precision and care involved in this groundbreaking procedure.
The first patient—a 29-year-old woman diagnosed with a solitary thyroid nodule—benefitted from the TOETVA surgery, which resulted in minimal blood loss and a swift recovery. “The patient was discharged the very next day with no complications,” Mathe confirms. This successful operation underscores the exceptional capabilities of SMU’s medical professionals and showcases the institution’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of surgical innovation.
As a key player in South Africa’s healthcare education, SMU has consistently championed advancements in medical practice. The TOETVA surgery exemplifies the exceptional skills of its scholars, specialists, and doctors, who are dedicated to improving patient outcomes while addressing the complexities of healthcare delivery in the nation.
In a broader context, SMU’s accomplishments in 2024 reflect a steadfast commitment to healthcare excellence. The university not only equips its graduates with the necessary skills but also fosters a culture of innovation and research that directly benefits the South African healthcare system. Koto emphasises the need for improved infrastructure at SMU, stating, “Imagine what we could achieve with a proper academic hospital. Our next project is the liver transplant programme.”
The pioneering efforts of Mathe and her team in performing the first TOETVA surgery in South Africa set a new standard in thyroid surgery and exemplify the crucial role SMU plays in shaping the future of health sciences. As the university continues to lead in surgical innovation, its scholars and specialists are at the forefront of a healthcare revolution, providing South Africans with access to advanced medical care while enhancing the nation’s health system.
SMU is not just an institution; it is a driving force in the transformation of healthcare in South Africa, setting the stage for future medical breakthroughs and inspiring a new generation of healthcare professionals committed to excellence.
