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
by Lorato | May 26, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a landmark moment for Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), the institution conferred its first-ever honorary doctoral degree during the Autumn Graduation Ceremony held on 23 May 2025. The prestigious honour was bestowed upon Professor Phuti Esrom Ngoepe, a globally recognised scholar in the field of Physics, in recognition of his exceptional academic contributions to Materials Modelling and his enduring impact on the advancement of science in South Africa and beyond.
The degree was awarded by the School of Science and Technology, underscoring SMU’s deepening commitment to academic excellence and its recognition of transformative figures whose work aligns with the university’s mission to advance knowledge that serves society.
Ngoepe’s illustrious career spans more than five decades, marked by prolific research, pioneering contributions in computational modelling, and a steadfast dedication to education and mentorship. Over the years, he has supervised 61 Master’s students, 34 PhD candidates, and mentored 16 postdoctoral researchers. His scholarly influence extends to over 1,000 conference presentations, both locally and internationally, and a formidable body of peer-reviewed publications that continue to shape the global discourse in Physics and Materials Science.
Beyond academia, Ngoepe has been instrumental in shaping South Africa’s science policy landscape, having served on a number of high-level national councils and advisory panels. These include the Council for Geosciences, MINTEK, the South African Nanotechnology Initiative, and the Platinum Value Addition Initiative Steering Committee, among others.
His immense contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the Order of Mapungubwe (Silver) from the Presidency of South Africa in 2008 for his achievements in the natural sciences. In 2022, he was honoured with the Chinese Government Friendship Award, further cementing his global standing. In 2023, a Materials Science Workshop was held in his honour — a fitting tribute to his lifetime of service to science.
In his acceptance speech, Ngoepe reflected on the honour with deep humility and gratitude.
“I would like to express my sincerest thanks and appreciation to Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University for conferring this honour upon me today. I humbly accept this award on behalf of everyone who has worked tirelessly alongside me over the years.”
He also used the occasion to share a message of encouragement with the graduating class: “My message to you graduates is that only the best of yourself is good enough.”
Acknowledging the many students and colleagues who have journeyed with him, he added: “I value and appreciate the efforts and dedication of all students and co-workers over many decades. Their potential, ingenuity and talent for doing things that are the best in the world — I have learnt so much from them. They have kept me young at heart and in my mind.”
Addressing broader societal challenges, Ngoepe spoke of the need for Africa to foster independence in thought and action: “In the last two years, two weeks, two days, amazing trends in geopolitics have been unfolding. We are slowly learning that in order to survive as a country and a continent, we need to steer away from dependency. This cuts across all disciplines — whether in social matters or health matters, such as the treatment of contagious diseases — areas in which this university plays a vital role in service delivery.”
The historic conferment marks a new chapter in SMU’s journey as a leading institution in health sciences education, research, and innovation. By honouring one of South Africa’s most accomplished scientists, the university has not only recognised individual excellence but also reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing knowledge that uplifts communities, transforms lives, and inspires the next generation of changemakers.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | May 23, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is set to make institutional history as it prepares to confer its first-ever honorary doctoral degree during its Autumn Graduation Ceremony on 23 May 2025. The honour will be bestowed upon Professor Phuti Esrom Ngoepe, an internationally acclaimed scholar in the field of Physics, in recognition of his outstanding academic contributions to Materials Modelling and the advancement of science in South Africa and beyond.
The honorary doctorate will be awarded within the School of Science and Technology, underscoring SMU’s commitment to academic excellence and its growing recognition of transformative figures in science whose work aligns with the university’s mission to advance knowledge that serves society.
Ngoepe’s contribution to the scientific community spans over five decades, with a career marked by prolific research output, groundbreaking computational modelling in Materials Science, and an enduring commitment to mentorship. He has supervised 61 Master’s and 34 PhD students, mentored 16 postdoctoral researchers, and delivered over 1 000 conference presentations across local and international platforms. His academic footprint also includes a vast body of peer-reviewed publications that continue to influence emerging scholars and practitioners in Physics and allied disciplines.
Beyond the lecture halls, Ngoepe has played a strategic role in shaping science policy and research priorities in South Africa. He has served on numerous high-level councils and expert panels, including the Council for Geosciences, MINTEK, the South African Nanotechnology Initiative, and the Platinum Value Addition Initiative Steering Committee.
His accolades include some of the highest national and international honours: the Order of Mapungubwe (Silver) awarded by the Presidency of South Africa in 2008 for his contribution to the natural sciences; the Chinese Government Friendship Award (2022); and multiple recognitions from science bodies including the Council for Geosciences, the Black Science, Technology and Engineering Professionals Award, and a 2023 Materials Science Workshop held in his honour.
Speaking on the significance of this conferment, Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli, the Acting Director: Department of Communications and Marketing, remarks: “It is both fitting and symbolic that SMU’s inaugural honorary doctorate is awarded to a scholar of Prof Ngoepe’s calibre, whose work exemplifies scientific rigour, innovation, and impact.”
“ Honouring Ngoepe is not only a celebration of a towering figure in science, but a defining moment for SMU. It signals the university’s unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge that transforms society, where health sciences, technology, and innovation intersect to shape a better future for South Africa, the continent, and the world,” concludes Mphaphuli.
by Lorato | May 13, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
As graduation season unfolds at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), alumna Dr Talente Biyela reflects on her studies, four earned degrees, and an already impactful career. From the rural heart of Esikhawini Nsimbini Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, to the halls of academia and the wards of Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, Biyela’s journey has been marked by determination, passion, and an unwavering commitment to public service.
Raised by a “resilient single mother,” Biyela is one of six siblings who defied the odds. “I’ve always been curious,” she shares. “My love for problem-solving and analysis first led me to mathematics, and later to medicine.”
Her academic achievements are remarkable. She holds a BSc in Mathematics and Chemistry, a BSc Honours in Mathematics, a BSc Honours in Applied Mathematics, and an MBChB. In 2016, while pursuing her Honours degree in Applied Mathematics, she was selected among the top 30 students nationwide for a prestigious Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR) scholarship in Russia. “Presenting neutron activation for life sciences in Russia was an invaluable experience,” she recalls. “Russia is incredibly rich in nuclear research.”
Transitioning from mathematics to medicine, however, was not without challenges. “It was tough moving into medicine,” she admitts. “I was used to numbers and analysis, but the theoretical focus of the first three years of the MBChB required new study methods.” At the same time, she taught Mathematics to Grades 11 and 12 at Seageng Secondary School in Soshanguve.
Beyond academics, Biyela is passionate about education and sport. After discovering SMU lacked a women’s football team, she founded the SMU Ladies’ Football Team. “Football was my escape,” she explains. “Starting the team wasn’t just about sport—it was about creating an outlet for students to decompress and build social cohesion.”
Her leadership extended beyond the pitch. Serving three terms in the Student Representative Council (SRC), she also sat on the university council, institutional forum, exclusions committee, and chaired several student organisations. “Leadership gave me insight into policy and governance,” she reflects. “It deepened my desire to transform a health system currently on its knees.”
Determined to uplift others, she established the Bokamoso Science Centre to bridge the gap between secondary and tertiary science education for learners from disadvantaged backgrounds. “Many students arrive at university never having been inside a lab,” she laments. “We needed to change that.”
As a doctor, Biyela finds fulfilment in patient care. “Nothing beats a patient telling you how much you’ve helped them,” she shares. Yet, she acknowledges the challenges of a hierarchical medical environment. “Managing different personalities in patient care can be difficult.”
Her role as a COVID-19 compliance officer was especially formative. “Working during the pandemic forced rapid adaptation,” she explains. “I was responsible for data collection, analysis, and strategy implementation. It reinforced my belief in health education and prevention.”
Biyela is outspoken about South Africa’s healthcare inequities. “Our healthcare system is in shambles,” she asserts. “It continuously fails black, poor people who cannot afford private care. Funding models must change, and wasteful expenditure must be addressed.”
Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a Master’s in Public Health. “My background in maths and research will be invaluable for data analysis and policy development,” she notes. “I want to remain in the public sector, where I can make the most impact. I dream of a health system that doesn’t discriminate based on skin colour or income.”
Despite her many roles, Biyela remains grounded. “I value time deeply,” she says. “If I give you my time, I’ve given you the most precious part of me. My culture and spirituality keep me anchored.”
Her message to young people considering career shifts is clear: “The sky is the limit. There’s nothing unattainable. Cross over with pride—every degree shapes you into a better person.”
As she continues blazing trails in medicine, policy, and advocacy, Biyela hopes to leave a legacy of service. “I want to be remembered as someone whose life was dedicated to making others’ lives better,” she says. “Someone whose allegiance was always with black, poor people.”
For Biyela, success is not merely personal—it’s about building a healthier, more equitable South Africa for generations to come.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | May 13, 2025 | Accolades and Achievements, All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to solidify its reputation as a leader in health sciences research, with its NRF-rated researchers playing a crucial role in shaping the institution’s academic landscape. Among them is Dr Bwalya Angel Witika, a Senior Lecturer and NRF-rated researcher in Pharmaceutical Sciences, whose work in nanomedicine and drug delivery systems is making significant strides.
Witika, a Pharmacist by profession, has an extensive background in drug design, development, and delivery. With over 47 ISI-accredited publications, three book chapters, and an editorial role, his contributions to the field of pharmaceutical sciences are substantial. “My research focuses on developing advanced drug delivery systems, nanomedicines, and functional biomaterials for treating infectious, hereditary, and lifestyle diseases,” he explains.
His interest in pharmaceutical research was sparked by the urgent need for innovative healthcare solutions in Africa. Coming from an academic family, with his father a professor of chemical and mining engineering, he was introduced to the importance of scientific research at an early age. This exposure, coupled with his fascination with molecular medicine, led him to specialise in nanomedicine and drug delivery.
Witika’s research journey began at Rhodes University, where he earned his Master’s and PhD in Pharmaceutics. “One of my biggest challenges was navigating resource limitations and securing collaborations,” he recalls. However, strategic networking and perseverance helped him overcome these hurdles.
Since joining SMU in 2021, Witika has been at the forefront of pioneering nanomedicine research at the university. “The leadership at SMU has been instrumental in my success, providing access to cutting-edge research equipment and fostering a collaborative environment,” he says. His contributions have not gone unnoticed—he recently received the Best Emerging Researcher Award and a prestigious NRF Y2 rating.
Witika’s award-winning research centres on innovative drug delivery systems, including nano drug design and functional biomaterials. One of his most notable achievements is the development of SMU’s first-ever product patent aimed at improving breast cancer and osteoporosis treatment. “Our research enhances treatment efficacy while minimising side effects, ensuring better patient compliance,” he explains.
Beyond academia, Witika’s work is geared towards real-world application. “Our technologies are designed to be affordable and adaptable, particularly for underserved communities,” he notes. Although his research has yet to be translated into practical healthcare solutions, it is progressing towards implementation, with support from industry partners.
Witika’s research is highly collaborative, involving partnerships with institutions across five countries. “I have secured grants with collaborators from Northern Ireland, France, and Brazil while maintaining strong ties with local universities,” he says. His work in interdisciplinary research, particularly in nanomedicines and biomaterials, benefits from collaborations with chemists, biologists, and engineers.
Looking ahead, he envisions his research evolving towards personalised medicine and artificial intelligence-driven drug delivery. “I recently secured funding to collaborate with a world-leading researcher in microneedle technology in Northern Ireland, which will open new research avenues,” he reveals. His team is also embarking on an ambitious project for HIV prevention in women, which could revolutionise long-term, cost-effective prevention methods.
For aspiring researchers, Witika emphasises the importance of persistence and collaboration. “Building a strong network of mentors and maintaining adaptability are key to success,” he advises. He also highlights the role of funding in advancing research and calls for greater institutional support for emerging researchers.
As SMU continues to drive excellence in health sciences research, Witika’s work illustrates the university’s commitment to innovation. “I am dedicated to pushing the boundaries of pharmaceutical sciences and mentoring the next generation of researchers,” he concludes.
By Tumelo Moila
by Lorato | May 13, 2025 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), in collaboration with Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and the South African Mathematics Foundation (SAMF), celebrated Mathematics Day, known as Square Root Day, on 5 May 2025. The celebration, held at Baleseng Junior Secondary and Reitumetse Secondary Schools in Soshanguve, aimed to inspire learners to appreciate the value of mathematics and its role in solving real-world challenges.
Square Root Day is a rare mathematical event that occurs when both the day and the month are the square roots of the last two digits of the year. This year’s celebration fell on 5/5/25, since 5 × 5 = 25. The next Square Root Day will only take place on 6/6/36 (6 June 2036), making the 2025 occasion particularly special.
“This day offered a unique opportunity to engage young minds with the beauty of mathematics,” said Professor Maggie Aphane, Head of the Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at SMU. “We want to show learners that mathematics is more than numbers; it’s a way of thinking critically, solving problems, and shaping the world around them.”
The initiative formed part of SMU’s commitment to optimising the impact of community engagement. The university aspires to become a recognised cornerstone of social and economic development, contributing to the health and transformation of local communities. Through partnerships like this, SMU aims to establish mutually beneficial relationships with communities, allowing both students and staff to gain from community-based teaching, learning, and research.
“We believe that true education connects students to relevant, complex, real-world contexts,” added Aphane. “By taking mathematics beyond the lecture hall and into the community, we are preparing graduates who are not only skilled professionals but engaged citizens.”
At Baleseng Junior Secondary, where the celebration included interactive talks and maths quizzes, the enthusiasm was palpable. Gloria Khoza, principal of the school, which caters to Grade 8 and 9 learners, expressed her gratitude: “SMU and TUT’s visit to our school on this special Mathematics Day has brought motivation and zeal to love, appreciate, and pursue mathematics through our learners’ academic milestones. It has inspired our learners to also focus on peer learning.”
Over at Reitumetse Secondary School, Grade 12 learner Puseletso Manganyi shared how the event had changed her outlook. “The day helped me finally consider pursuing a career as a mathematician,” she said, beaming with pride after participating in the quiz and winning a branded SMU golf shirt.
Kholofelo Rampekwa, an educator at Reitumetse, was instrumental in inviting SMU and TUT to her school. “I invited SMU and TUT to enrich our learners with problem-solving and analytical skills,” she explained. “It’s important for them to learn that maths is not just about numbers but about the capacity to solve challenges. We needed this.”
The celebration included talks by academics from SMU and TUT, who shared their journeys in mathematics and encouraged learners to explore opportunities in the field. Learners engaged in challenging questions designed to foster critical thinking and creativity.
The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics’ vision is to contribute to South Africa and the global community through excellence in mathematics and applied mathematics education and research. Its mission includes providing an environment where students can become independent, innovative thinkers and users of mathematics; creating a conducive space for teaching, learning, and research; and promoting academic growth through undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. The university also seeks to undertake projects that provide job opportunities for students through collaborations with industry.
The event was well-received by learners, educators, and staff alike. “This celebration was a reminder that mathematics can be exciting and empowering,” reflected Dr Malesela Kekana, Section Head for Mathematics at TUT. “By connecting with schools directly, we are building bridges that will benefit both the universities and the communities for years to come.”
With the next Square Root Day more than a decade away, the 2025 celebration left a lasting impression on the learners of Soshanguve, planting seeds of curiosity, confidence, and ambition that will continue to grow.
By Tumelo Moila
