by Lorato | Jul 2, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a momentous academic achievement, Mokgadi Machete has graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Applied Mathematics from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), earning the title of top-performing student in her programme. Born and raised in the village of Ga-Selwane in Phalaborwa, Limpopo, the 23-year-old scholar has not only reached the pinnacle of academic success but has also become a symbol of perseverance, faith, and intellectual ambition.
“I feel incredibly proud and honoured to have graduated summa cum laude,” Machete shared. “This achievement reflects consistent hard work, a strong support system, and my passion for the field.”
Now employed in a professional capacity while pursuing her master’s in applied mathematics, Machete continues to develop a range of skills, including teamwork, discipline, and leadership, which she credits as instrumental to both her academic and career development. Despite her introverted nature, she actively supports undergraduate students, often offering guidance and mentorship. “I love baking and cooking, but I also enjoy sharing my stories and tips with students I meet. It’s fulfilling to help others along their journey,” she said.
Machete’s academic interests are deeply rooted in real-world applications. Her Honour’s journey focused on understanding how mathematical theories translate into practical solutions. This desire led her to specialise in Applied Mathematics, where she explored topics like financial mathematics, hydrodynamic stability, and mathematical modelling. Her research project, titled Comparative Analysis of Finite Difference and Spectral Methods for Solving the Black-Scholes ODE in Option Pricing, examined the efficacy of different numerical approaches in financial derivative modelling. Her findings concluded that while the Finite Difference Method is widely used, the Spectral Method provided superior accuracy in certain market conditions.
Her late father, who encouraged her passion for mathematics from an early age, was a pivotal influence. “He told me not to fear maths and that with practice, it would make sense. That confidence carried me through,” she reflected. After his passing, Machete leaned on her faith in God, her mother’s support, and the mentorship of lecturer Dr Claude Moutsinga and Head of Department Professor Maggie Aphane, who helped her recognise her potential during difficult periods.
“One of my lecturers once said, ‘It’s time to unlock the gifts and potential God has placed within you.’ I feel like I’m in the process of doing just that.”
Throughout her studies, Machete utilised advanced computational tools like MATLAB and LaTeX to solve and communicate complex mathematical models. She also plans to expand her skillset by integrating Python and exploring its applications in data science and machine learning. Her ability to simulate, test, and optimise mathematical frameworks has not only strengthened her academic profile but also positioned her for success in industries like finance, technology, and health analytics.
“Applied mathematics is more than solving equations. It’s about developing logical thinking, resilience, and the ability to model uncertainty in ways that improve real-world systems,” she explained. Machete’s approach to problem-solving is meticulous and reflective, always evaluating the validity, assumptions, and practical applicability of her models.
As she continues with postgraduate studies, Machete encourages fellow SMU students to seize collaborative and cross-disciplinary opportunities. “Reach beyond your institution and network with others. It’s enriching and gives you perspectives you may not get from your immediate environment,” she advised.
Her advice to aspiring mathematicians is simple but profound: “Be curious, consistent, and always seek to understand, not just memorise. And above all, trust in God.”
With a blend of academic brilliance, personal humility, and faith-rooted strength, Machete is set to become a powerful force in the fields of mathematical modelling and data-driven innovation. Her journey is a shining example of how dedication and belief can unlock extraordinary potential.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jul 2, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
At just 30 years old, Dr Sedzani Pheladi Malovhela is already making an indelible mark in South Africa’s public health system, particularly in the field of paediatrics. Raised between Venda, Burgersfort, and finally Pretoria, Dr Malovhela’s journey is one defined by resilience, faith, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of children.
A proud alumna of the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), she credits much of her medical foundation to the institution’s robust clinical training and early exposure to real-world cases. “SMU pushed me to grow under pressure,” she reflects. “It wasn’t just about mastering the textbook but learning to treat patients as whole beings. That changed me.”
A grateful product of Princess Park College in Rosslyn, Malovhela has consistently pursued academic excellence, having matriculated with distinctions in all seven subjects. “I’ve always been committed to giving my best—not just for results, but because excellence is a habit I value,” she reflects. Now a passionate voice in paediatrics, Malovhela describes finding purpose in the field: “The more time I spent in paediatrics, the more I felt alive there. Children don’t just get better physically; they thrive when someone genuinely advocates for them. I wanted to be that person.” This conviction also underpins her caregiver-centred approach: “In paediatrics, every child should be managed as part of a team — and that team always includes the caregiver. They are our best partners on this journey.”
But her calling to paediatrics was truly cemented during her internship at Rob Ferreira Hospital in Mpumalanga amidst the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic. One night, she was called to assist a child suffering from sepsis. Despite the team’s best efforts, they lost the child. “That moment broke me—but also became my turning point,” she says. “I never wanted to find myself lacking again. I wanted to be the doctor children could rely on.”
Today, Malovhela serves as a medical officer rotating through remote clinics in Pretoria East and as far as Bronkhorstspruit, where her dedication to paediatric health has earned her the 2024 award for Best Medical Doctor in her subdistrict. Her passion lies especially in neonatology—caring for newborns in their most vulnerable hours. “It’s more than clinical,” she shares. “It’s emotional, it’s spiritual. I pray over each one. I hope they grow to fulfil their purpose.”
Her work doesn’t stop within the clinic walls. Malovhela is a fierce advocate for community outreach and education. She supports adolescents at Wozanibone High School, in Kanana, Bronkhorstspruit and educates caregivers on children’s health and development, often addressing the socio-economic factors that undermine well-being. “There’s still a significant knowledge gap,” she says. “We need to empower families, not just treat conditions.”
One of the most defining influences in her journey is fellow SMU alumna Dr Amukelani Mthombeni. “She didn’t just diagnose patients, she saw them,” Malovhela recalls. “She taught me to listen deeply—to look for the story behind the symptoms.”
Balancing this demanding career with personal wellness is no easy feat. “I’m intentional about protecting my peace,” she says. “Whether it’s solo brunches, swimming, or running—I find joy in quiet, nurturing spaces.” A lover of fitness, she proudly boasts five half-marathon medals earned in 2025 alone.
But her heart remains firmly with the children. “Paediatrics is tough, yes. But it’s purposeful. Even on the hard days, my love for this work lifts me.”
Looking ahead, Malovhela dreams of specialising in neonatology, while also integrating advocacy and public health research. She envisions creating a space where medicine, community, and education intersect—a “soft space where little ones can thrive.”
Her mentorship journey began in 2018 as a peer mentor at SMU and continues today through lived example. “You don’t need to be loud to lead,” she says. “Just walk boldly in your purpose, and others will follow the light.”
To aspiring doctors, she offers this advice: “Medicine is not a race. Be gentle with yourself. Let your purpose anchor you, and let self-care sustain you.”
In a world where children often go unheard, Malovhela has chosen to be their voice, their advocate, and their healer. In her own words: “At the centre of it all is the child. And that’s who I show up for, every time.”
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jul 2, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In the quiet rural village of Mathopestad in the North West, few would have imagined that a young boy from its dusty streets would one day contribute vital research to South Africa’s understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic. Moeletsi Kevin Ditse, now a final-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery student at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has emerged as a remarkable young scholar, shedding light on the role of forensic pathology in global health crises.
Born and raised in Mathopestad, Ditse matriculated from Lesele Secondary School in 2019 before embarking on his medical journey at SMU. Passionate about medicine and driven by curiosity, Ditse chose to explore uncharted territory for his undergraduate research: “A retrospective analysis of COVID‐19 cases seen at a medico-legal mortuary from March 2020 to February 2022.”
“When the pandemic hit, a lot of research focused on clinical aspects and hospitalised patients,” Ditse said. “But very little was being done from a forensic perspective, especially here in South Africa. I wanted to bridge that gap.”
His research was conducted at Ga-Rankuwa Forensic Pathology Services, where he meticulously analysed post-mortem reports of individuals who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. The study used a manual data collection method, with each case anonymised and transferred electronically after being reviewed over a six-month period.
One of Ditse’s most striking findings was the unexpectedly even age distribution of COVID-19 fatalities. “It was surprising,” he admitted. “Contrary to global findings that suggested older people were more susceptible, we observed equal infection rates among young and elderly individuals. That challenged existing assumptions.”
Moreover, his analysis revealed that more men than women succumbed to the virus. However, there were minimal socioeconomic disparities, as most cases came from the low-income areas surrounding Ga-Rankuwa.
“The role of medico-legal mortuaries has been severely underappreciated,” Ditse explained. “During the pandemic, forensic pathology helped distinguish COVID-19-related deaths from suicides, domestic violence, and other causes. It also contributed to protocols for safe handling of deceased patients and offered insights into organ complications caused by the virus.”
Despite the study’s limitations, such as a small sample size and the inability to conduct full-body autopsies due to safety protocols, Ditse believes the research has contributed meaningfully to the national dialogue on pandemic preparedness and forensic integration.
The experience was not without challenges. Balancing academic responsibilities with high-level research proved demanding. “Transporting myself to the mortuary, analysing data from over two years of cases, and keeping up with coursework required discipline,” he shared. “I’m grateful to my supervisors, Dr Charmaine Van Wyk and Dr Keven Hlaise, who supported me throughout.”
Beyond research skills, Ditse said he gained an appreciation for the ethics of medical inquiry. “Understanding how to seek ethical clearance, protect the identity of deceased individuals, and uphold standards of confidentiality was eye-opening.”
Looking forward, Ditse aspires to continue research in forensic pathology. “There’s so much still to uncover. I’m not sure exactly what I’ll explore next, but this journey has definitely sparked something in me.”
To fellow medical students, his message is simple but powerful: “Don’t wait. There are platforms like the South African Medical Journal for Undergraduate Students where we can publish and grow. Research is not just for professors—it’s for all of us.”
Ditse’s work stands as a testament to the critical, often invisible role that forensic medicine plays in public health. As he notes, “In times of crisis, understanding the cause of death isn’t just about science—it’s about accountability, planning, and saving lives.”
His story is not just that of a student fulfilling a requirement, but of a future doctor rising to the moment with purpose, courage, and a deep commitment to truth.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | Jul 2, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
True to Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University’s (SMU) values of excellence, care, integrity, innovation, and social responsiveness, students from the Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (SLP&A) and the Department of Nursing recently joined forces to deliver a comprehensive community outreach programme at Ga-Rankuwa Primary School. The initiative focused on health screenings and education for Grade R and Grade 1 learners, addressing the early detection of developmental and health concerns that could affect learning, communication, and overall well-being.
This outreach forms part of both departments’ commitment to community-based education and early intervention, while also advancing SMU’s broader mission to improve public health through service, teaching, and innovation.
The screening programme was spearheaded by Dr Rahab Mothapo, Clinical Supervisor and Lecturer in SLP&A, with support from Heidi Mapisa. Students from Levels 2 to 4 provided targeted assessments, including language development screening, otoscopic examinations, tympanometry, and pure tone audiometry. These tools were used to identify learners experiencing speech, language, or hearing difficulties—issues that, if undetected, can hinder academic development.
“Early detection of communication delays is vital,” said Mothapo. “Our role as health professionals is to create accessible pathways for support, especially in communities where services may be limited. This initiative allowed our students to apply their academic training in a real-world setting, while delivering a much-needed service to the community.”
Learners who presented with concerns were either supported through school-based interventions or referred for further diagnostic care. Importantly, the screening process also raised awareness among teachers and caregivers, equipping them with the knowledge to identify early warning signs in future.
Concurrently, Level 2 Nursing students, under the supervision of Clinical Facilitator Tumisho Mokwele, conducted growth monitoring and general health assessments, including measurements of weight, height, and head circumference, alongside screening of the ears, nose, throat, and eyes. The aim was to detect early signs of malnutrition or other health challenges that might impair a child’s ability to learn and engage in class.
“The reality is that many health conditions in young children go undetected until they start falling behind at school,” said Mokwele. “Our role is not only to identify these risks but also to empower the learners with knowledge about their own health and hygiene.”
Beyond physical assessments, Nursing students also conducted engaging health education sessions, featuring demonstrations on proper handwashing and activities that helped children distinguish between healthy and unhealthy snacks. The teaching materials, developed by the students themselves, were designed to be interactive, visually engaging, and suitable for young learners, making health education both informative and enjoyable.
“The excitement from the learners was encouraging,” Mokwele reflected. “It reminded us that health education can be both effective and fun. These sessions are designed to instil good habits at an early age, which is crucial in promoting long-term well-being.”
While the outreach delivered tangible benefits to the learners and staff of Ga-Rankuwa Primary School, it also provided SMU students with invaluable clinical experience. The initiative embodies SMU’s approach to integrated learning, where classroom theory is brought to life through practical engagement in the communities’ students are ultimately meant to serve.
“Our students are growing into professionals who understand the importance of service, community, and ethical responsibility,” added Mothapo. “It’s about more than technical skill—it’s about compassion and responsiveness.”
The initiative also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those relating to good health and well-being, quality education, and reduced inequalities. It reinforces SMU’s commitment to being a socially responsive institution—one that not only educates but also transforms lives and communities.
As SMU continues to shape future health professionals, outreach activities such as this stand as a powerful testament to the impact of student-led service. In the words of Mokwele:
“This is how we live out the SMU values—not in theory, but through action and impact.”
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jul 2, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The School of Science and Technology (SST) at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) recently held a meaningful donation handover event in collaboration with ABSA Bank, as part of its impactful ‘Force for Good’ initiative. The event showcased the powerful outcomes that can emerge from partnerships between higher education institutions and socially conscious corporates, united in their mission to support vulnerable student communities.
At the heart of the event was the handover of grocery parcels valued at R20,000, generously donated by ABSA. These essential supplies were distributed to SST students experiencing financial distress due to delayed National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) disbursements—delays which have placed many students’ academic progress under threat. ABSA’s contribution offered timely relief and served as a clear demonstration of the bank’s enduring commitment to youth empowerment and social inclusion.
Representing ABSA at the event, Kgomotso Madisa highlighted the importance of ensuring that students’ basic needs are met: “When students don’t have to worry about their next meal, they can focus on building their future. We’re proud to stand with SMU-SST in ensuring that no student is left behind.” This message underscored how access to essential resources directly influences academic focus and personal growth.
The initiative originated in 2023 as a student-led vision, championed by Bongisizwe Sibeko, then Chairperson of the SST Student Representative Council (SRC). Deeply moved by the challenges faced by his peers, Sibeko drafted a proposal to address the financial pressures that risked excluding vulnerable students from their studies. His commitment was guided and strengthened by Professor Maggie Aphane, Head of the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, whose strategic insight and compassion helped formalise the proposal and anchor it within the university’s academic structures.
The campaign gained institutional momentum through the leadership of Professor Larry Obi, Dean of SST, and Dr Esmey Moema, SST Operations Manager. Their support transformed the student-driven idea into a formal appeal that resonated deeply with ABSA. Thanks to the efforts of Madisa and her team, the bank responded swiftly and empathetically, mobilising support when students needed it most.
Reflecting on the impact of the initiative, Dr Moema remarked: “The ‘Force for Good’ initiative has reminded us that partnerships grounded in shared humanity can change lives. We are deeply grateful to ABSA for their timely and generous contribution. Their support has brought dignity, hope, and motivation to students during a very challenging time.”
Her words captured not only the material benefits of the donation but also the emotional and psychological uplift it brought to the student body.
This collaboration is a vivid example of ABSA’s core values: care, collaboration, and purposeful action. It also highlights the indispensable role that student leadership and academic mentorship play in catalysing social change. The partnership between SST and ABSA sets a precedent for future community-focused engagements, emphasising the need to address students’ fundamental needs as a cornerstone of academic success and well-being.
More than a one-time gesture, the initiative has cultivated a spirit of resilience, empathy, and institutional responsiveness at SMU. It is a powerful case study in how student-led advocacy, supported by engaged educators and forward-thinking corporates, can produce lasting, meaningful change in the higher education landscape.
As SMU continues to centre student wellbeing in its mission, partnerships like this illustrate the importance of working collectively to overcome challenges faced by learners. In doing so, institutions and their partners ensure that every student is equipped not only to succeed but to thrive.
In conclusion, the ‘Force for Good’ collaboration between ABSA and SMU’s SST is more than an act of charity—it is a bold affirmation of what is possible when compassion, leadership, and strategic partnership converge to empower the next generation of South African scholars, leaders, and change-makers.
By Dimakatso Modise
by Lorato | Jun 25, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, Alumni, SMU Media, Student Media
At the heart of SMU’s research strategy lies a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, knowledge generation, and technology transfer. By fostering innovation and expanding its research capacity, the university aims to play a pivotal role in addressing South Africa’s pressing healthcare challenges — from infectious diseases to mental health and non-communicable conditions.
A prime example of this ambition is the School of Pharmacy’s recent achievement: securing its second provisional patent. Dr Bwalya Witika, a senior lecturer in Pharmaceutics and his postdoctoral fellow, Dr Jean Ngilirabanga, who joined him in 2023, successfully filed a patent titled “Eutectic Compositions”, with the priority date of 9 June 2025. Their work explores novel drug delivery mechanisms by combining compounds to lower melting points, enhancing the efficacy and tolerability of treatments such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This breakthrough reaffirms the school’s growing reputation for pharmaceutical innovation and research excellence.
Eutectic compositions are mixtures of substances that, when combined, melt at a temperature lower than either of the individual components. In pharmaceutical science, this characteristic is highly valuable for improving drug solubility, stability and delivery, two critical challenges in modern medicine. Witika traced the origins of this research back to 2022, inspired by the urgent need for safer pain management alternatives during the global opioid crisis. “NSAIDs weren’t enough, and opioids came with long-term risks. I wondered—what if we enhanced NSAIDs with something like chilli?” he explained, referring to Nonivamide, a compound structurally related to capsaicin.
The research process involved formulating innovative drug combinations that provided synergistic pain relief. Despite the scientific and administrative challenges, the work culminated in a promising invention that could reshape pain treatment approaches. While the research was conducted internally at SMU, Witika confirmed that discussions with potential industry partners are already underway. “For now, it’s been in-house, but the potential for wider collaboration is significant,” he said.
Filing a provisional patent provides legal protection while allowing further refinement of the invention. Witika praised SMU’s Technology Transfer Office (TTO) for its vital support throughout the process. “TTO Liaison Officer Pontsho Mampuru is a superhero, relentless in his commitment. It’s been a pleasure working with TTO,” he added.
This development follows SMU’s historic first patent in 2024: Raloxifene Hydrochloride Hydrate Solvate, a novel compound with the potential to revolutionise treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis and breast cancer. That breakthrough was led by Emmanuel Kiyonga, a master’s graduate in the School of Pharmacy, and marked the beginning of a new era of innovation for the university.
Together, these patents underscore SMU’s transformation into a research-intensive health sciences institution committed to addressing global health challenges through science and invention. Witika and Ngilirabanga are optimistic about the future of their research. They believe their eutectic formulation could make a major impact on drug development, particularly in the field of pain management. Further patent filings and commercialisation efforts are already underway. “This is just the beginning,” said Witika. “We’re at the forefront of something meaningful. It’s vital that inventors maintain a connection to their work—we must ensure that identity is preserved in the products we create.”
For Witika, the success is both professional and deeply personal. “Even though this is my second patent, the feeling is just as incredible. You’re reminded that you’re contributing something small but significant.” His advice to fellow academics? “Go for it. Don’t hold back.”
For Ngilirabanga, this has been a great success. “I am immensely proud of this achievement, and I am excited about the future. This is my first patent, the first of many. To my fellow academics, keep pushing. Let’s make SMU proud,” said Ngilirabanga.
Looking ahead, they hope that this achievement—along with future innovations—will encourage university leadership to recognise and support the vital role of research in shaping a better world. “These are small steps,” he said, “but they’re paving the way for greater impact on science, patients, and future scholars.”
By Tumelo Moila
