by Lorato | Oct 31, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) recently held a powerful two-day mini-conference, titled “Optimisation in Practical Scenarios,” which captivated attendees and shed new light on how mathematical optimisation is transforming fields from healthcare to finance. Funded by the Centre of Excellence in Mathematical and Statistical Sciences (CoE-MaSS), this event brought together leading researchers and enthusiastic postgraduate students eager to apply advanced mathematics to real-world challenges.
Dean of the School of Science and Technology, Professor Lawrence Obi, opened the conference with a message underscoring the transformative power of optimisation. “Optimisation is at the heart of solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Conferences like these are crucial for advancing both theory and practice,” he said, encouraging staff and students to engage actively with local and international mathematical societies.
The conference featured diverse presentations from distinguished speakers and promising students. Keynote speaker Dr Chinedu Izuchukwu from the University of the Witwatersrand captivated the audience with his work on applying projection-type algorithms to lung cancer models. Dr Izuchukwu’s research presented a unique lens for examining cancer spread and treatment through mathematical modelling. He noted: “This model provides a new lens through which we can study the spread and treatment of cancer,” illustrating the practical applications of mathematical optimisation in complex biological systems.
The first day continued with notable contributions from academics, including Dr Olawale Kazeem Oyewale of Tshwane University of Technology, who discussed fixed-point techniques in variational inequalities, sparking engaging debates among attendees on the practical applications of these methods in optimisation.
PhD student presentations reinforced the conference’s focus on practical optimisation. Muhammad Shafii Abubakar presented innovative resource allocation models, and Vongani Ndlovu explored multi-objective optimisation techniques, exemplifying the department’s commitment to fostering research that addresses real-world issues. Other students, such as Rose Maluleka and Sindi Mnguni, focused on industrial and financial applications, demonstrating the far-reaching impacts of their studies.
On the second day, Department Head Professor Maggie Aphane highlighted the significance of this research, remarking: “The work we do here in mathematical optimisation has the potential to impact fields from economics to engineering.” Her words resonated with the department’s mission to push the boundaries of knowledge and broaden the applications of mathematical science.
Among the most intriguing talks was Dr Aremu Kazeem’s exploration of machine learning and graph topological indices in drug design, presenting an inspiring convergence of mathematics, computer science, and healthcare. His work underscores the role of mathematical optimisation in the medical field, with implications for developing more effective treatments. “Optimisation in drug design is critical to developing more effective treatments, and mathematics plays a key role in that process,” Kazeem stated, highlighting the potential of interdisciplinary approaches.
Further contributions included Dr Rosinah Mukhodobwane’s analysis of financial mathematics and optimisation in investment strategies, which sparked considerable interest among students. Her emphasis on the importance of understanding risk and sustainability in finance provided a valuable perspective on the real-world implications of financial optimisation.
The conference’s impact was especially felt in the presentations of young researchers like Lehlogonolo Mokaba, who discussed fixed-point theory applications, and PhD students such as Lloyd Phumudzo, who applied optimisation techniques to analyse cryptocurrency returns—a field gaining relevance in emerging industries.
Research Chairperson Dr Claude Moutsinga concluded the conference by encouraging students to pursue resilience and creativity in their academic endeavours. His mentorship left a strong impression, fostering a collaborative and vibrant research community within the department.
The Mini-Conference on Optimisation in Practical Scenarios is a testament to SMU’s dedication to advancing research that meets real-world needs. Through events like these, SMU is strengthening its position as a mathematical sciences leader and fostering a collaborative academic environment that equips students and researchers to tackle global challenges. The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics continues to exemplify SMU’s mission of shaping future leaders and innovators, reflecting the university’s commitment to impactful, interdisciplinary learning and research that extends far beyond the classroom.
by Lorato | Oct 31, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
In a significant boost to Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University’s (SMU) efforts to enhance student welfare, educational resources, and regional unity, the Institutional Advancement Office, led by Legodi Mashiane, has secured a R450,000 sponsorship from Standard Bank. This generous contribution will fund multiple initiatives aligned with SMU’s mission, including student support, digital upgrades, and academic recognition programs. This partnership reinforces SMU’s dedication to providing quality education and tangible support for students’ livelihoods.
The Institutional Advancement Office, led by Legodi Mashiane, has secured a R450,000 sponsorship from Standard Bank to support students and drive excellence.
The funded initiatives include the Harambee Fund, which directly supports financially struggling students, ensuring they have access to essentials like food parcels and sanitary products. “The Harambee Fund allows us to address basic needs, so students can focus on their studies without worrying about their next meal or other essentials,” says Mashiane. This effort reflects SMU’s commitment to the well-being of its students, reinforcing the university’s reputation as a nurturing and inclusive institution.
Another notable beneficiary of the sponsorship is the Skills Centre, where funding will be directed toward much-needed technological upgrades. “With Standard Bank’s support, we can update the centre with smart devices and digital platforms that make learning more interactive and practical,” Mashiane explains. These upgrades will equip students with relevant, in-demand skills, better preparing them for the competitive job market. By modernising its learning environments, SMU ensures that students are not only academically prepared but also technologically adept and job-ready.
The partnership also bolsters the Vice-Chancellor’s Staff-Academic Excellence Awards, an annual event that honours staff who have made outstanding contributions to academic and research excellence. The support from Standard Bank will elevate this event, allowing SMU to recognise its employees’ hard work and dedication on a grander scale. “Acknowledging our staff’s achievements motivates them to keep striving for excellence,” says Mashiane, highlighting how this recognition contributes to a culture of academic rigour and dedication at SMU.
Further underscoring SMU’s leadership in promoting regional unity, a portion of the sponsorship will be allocated to SMU Student Affairs (SMUSSA) efforts in hosting the Southern African Universities Staff Sports Association (SAUSSA) Tournament in December. The tournament will unite universities across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region to celebrate teamwork, networking, and healthy competition. “The SAUSSA Tournament allows us to strengthen our relationships with universities across the region, fostering collaboration and mutual support,” Mashiane notes.
This partnership with Standard Bank exemplifies SMU’s proactive approach to forming collaborations that drive real, long-lasting benefits for students, faculty, and the broader university community. Mashiane expresses optimism for the future: “Our goal is to build partnerships that support SMU’s growth in the long term. This sponsorship opens the door to further collaborations that will continue to enhance our students’ lives and elevate SMU’s standing.”
Through initiatives like the Harambee Fund, Skills Centre digitalisation, and academic excellence awards, SMU is showing its dedication to cultivating an environment that cares for its students’ holistic needs while investing in their future success.
by Lorato | Oct 30, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) proudly stands as a bastion of academic excellence in health sciences, led by luminaries like Professor Anna Catherina Oettlé. A Full Professor in the Anatomy and Histology Department, Oettlé has garnered significant recognition for her pioneering work in 3D imaging and forensic anthropology. Her recent C2 rating from the National Research Foundation (NRF) marks her as a leading force in medical research, underscoring SMU’s reputation as a centre for high-calibre academic and scientific contributions.
Oettlé’s career, spanning both clinical practice and academic research, has been a journey driven by a commitment to advancing anatomical knowledge. Her formative years as a medical doctor, coupled with her distinction-earning MSc in Anatomy from the University of Pretoria, established her expertise. This unique background has allowed her to approach research with a critical perspective rooted in clinical application. “Anatomy isn’t merely descriptive; understanding anatomical variations is essential for patient management and clinical accuracy,” she explains, highlighting the foundational value of her work for both academics and practitioners.
Among Oettlé’s many contributions is her work in 3D imaging, which has deepened the understanding of structural variation in the human body. From studies on dental structures and bone microstructure to detailed measurements of skeletal features like the pelvis, femur, and mandible, her research has advanced knowledge in clinical diagnostics, orthodontics, and forensic anthropology. Her age-phase classification system based on sternal rib ends, cited over 130 times, is widely used in biological profiling. Her research into the midline lingual canal has transformed dental approaches, while her findings on structural changes in the posterior mandible are making waves in both orthodontics and dentistry.
Notably, Oettlé’s work has become instrumental in forensic science, where her research aids in the reconstruction of biological profiles and facial features—tools essential for identifying unknown victims in criminal cases. “My research provides South African standards that serve as resources for clinicians in patient management and for forensic scientists in solving cases,” she notes, emphasising the societal impact of her work beyond academia.
Oettlé’s career is also marked by her dedication to collaboration, both locally and internationally. Partnering with engineers has proven essential for data acquisition, while connections with leading French researchers from institutions such as the University of Bordeaux have broadened her work’s reach. “Collaborating with engineers has been particularly rewarding,” she says, “as they bring expertise in mathematical modelling, which has enriched my research output.” Her collaborative efforts amplify not only her personal research but also SMU’s reputation as a globally connected academic institution.
Beyond her contributions to research, Oettlé is deeply invested in mentorship, guiding numerous postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows toward becoming independent researchers and educators. “The most rewarding part of mentorship is seeing people grow and develop into independent researchers and teachers,” she shares. Known for her supportive yet rigorous guidance, Oettlé’s mentorship style champions SMU’s mission to foster the next generation of scientific leaders and innovators.
Looking ahead, Oettlé remains committed to advancing her research in 3D imaging and biological profiling. With technology in the field evolving rapidly, she aims to keep SMU at the cutting edge of these advancements. She is currently applying for funding to acquire new scanning equipment and hopes to further expand her collaborations with engineers to refine 3D measurement techniques. “I hope to stay at the forefront of these developments,” she says, envisioning a future where SMU is recognised as a leader in forensic and clinical research innovations.
For students fortunate enough to work with Oettlé, the opportunity to learn under such an esteemed scholar provides a gateway to practical, high-impact research experience. Engaging with her cutting-edge projects, students gain insights into research methodologies that bridge theoretical learning with real-world applications. Oettlé’s commitment to research and academic excellence reinforces SMU’s position as a premier institution in health sciences, inspiring a culture of inquiry, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge that continues to benefit students and the broader medical community alike.
by Lorato | Oct 29, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) recently welcomed a pivotal earmarked grants oversight visit led by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). This visit signified a key assessment of the progress SMU has achieved with the Clinical Training Grant (CTG) and the Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB-DP), two major initiatives supporting SMU’s mission to develop skilled healthcare professionals and build capacity as a historically disadvantaged institution (HDI).
Dr Marcia Socikwa, Deputy Director-General of DHET, spearheaded the delegation, accompanied by SMU’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Peter Mbati, and senior officials. Their aim was to evaluate the tangible impacts of these targeted grants on SMU’s health sciences education. Socikwa remarked: “The DHET is dedicated to addressing historical inequalities in the higher education sector. By investing in targeted programmes like the CTG and SB-DP, we are empowering institutions such as SMU to enhance their capabilities and produce world-class healthcare professionals.”
Theo Bhengu from the Grants Office presented the achievements and challenges of the CTG and SB-DP. Supported by Professor Mapaseka Seheri, SMU’s Director of Research and Innovation, Bhengu highlighted how the funding has fortified critical training facilities, facilitated the recruitment of clinical staff, and modernised infrastructure. “These grants have been a lifeline for our institution,” Bhengu stated, noting: “While we celebrate our achievements, we acknowledge the hurdles we face, particularly with infrastructure development.”
A highlight of the visit included extensive site inspections, granting DHET officials a first-hand view of the outcomes of CTG and SB-DP funding. The delegation toured several state-of-the-art facilities, including:
- Midwifery Unit: Equipped with advanced mannequins, this facility allows students to gain invaluable experience in maternal and neonatal care.
- Centre for Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice (IPECP): Promoting teamwork across various health disciplines, this centre underscores the importance of collaborative patient care.
- 2,000-Bed Student Residence: Addressing the needs of a growing student body, this new residence fosters an environment conducive to academic success and community engagement.
- Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (CfERI): This initiative nurtures student entrepreneurship, aiding them in developing sustainable, innovative projects that benefit SMU and its surrounding communities.
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Laboratory: Here, students engage in advanced drug research and development, equipping them with the skills necessary for the healthcare industry.
Reflecting on the site tours, Socikwa affirmed: “Our goal is to empower institutions like SMU to provide world-class training to health professionals, achievable through sustained partnerships and strategic investments.”
Following the inspections, DHET and SMU engaged in discussions on fiscal responsibility and resource allocation. Socikwa emphasised the need for financial accountability amid ongoing budgetary constraints. “There is no room for complacency,” she cautioned. “Institutions must demonstrate a commitment to service delivery and effective expenditure, as the funds we allocate are essentially borrowed money.”
Mbati echoed this sentiment, reinforcing SMU’s commitment to transparent financial practices. “At SMU, accountability is paramount,” he asserted. “Every rand we spend must reflect our commitment to integrity and excellence, ensuring our institution’s long-term success and reputation.”
The oversight visit also celebrated SMU’s recent accomplishments, particularly its entry into global academic rankings—a significant milestone for the university. Socikwa praised SMU’s growing presence in the global academic arena, stating: “The strides made here are commendable. However, maintaining this excellence requires an ongoing commitment to research performance and global standing.”
Both DHET and SMU highlighted the necessity of continued collaboration and strategic investment to build on SMU’s successes and address emerging challenges. Mbati concluded: “This oversight visit has illuminated our progress and the challenges ahead in transforming SMU into a leader in health sciences education. Our path forward demands teamwork, transparency, and an unwavering focus on quality. Together, we can position SMU as a benchmark for healthcare training and a pillar of South Africa’s health future.”
The oversight visit reaffirmed DHET and SMU’s shared dedication to cultivating well-trained healthcare professionals and establishing a resilient health sciences education system. Through strategic investment and unwavering accountability, SMU stands poised to continue shaping the future of healthcare education in South Africa.
by Lorato | Oct 28, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
To affirm itself as a frontrunner in higher education and research, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) continues to make strides, championing intellectual excellence and global relevance in the mathematical sciences.
Recently, seven distinguished members of SMU’s Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics attended the highly-regarded 5th Analysis and Differential Equations with Applications (ADEANS) Conference, hosted at the Anew Hotel Ocean Reef in Zinikwazi, Durban. This annual gathering serves as a key intellectual hub, bringing together prominent mathematicians and researchers to explore advancements in analysis and differential equations.
SMU’s delegation took full advantage of this elite platform, showcasing research that reflects SMU’s commitment to applied, cutting-edge scholarship. Over the course of the three-day conference, SMU scholars presented innovative solutions to complex mathematical problems, with three members taking centre stage.
Dr Hammed Abass presented on the: “Two-Step Inertial Method for Solving Equilibrium Problems on Hadamard Manifolds,” unveiling a forward-thinking approach that tackles equilibrium issues in non-Euclidean spaces—a field essential to advanced scientific applications, from physics to engineering. Professor Ndlovu followed with his insights on: “A Strong Convergence Theorem for Finding a Common Solution of Convex Minimization and Fixed-Point Problems in CAT(0) Spaces,” providing rigorous solutions to optimisation problems in specialised geometric settings. Mongezi Banda presented his exploration of: “Approximating Solutions of Resolvents of Monotone Operators and Convex Functions in Hadamard Spaces,” addressing challenges in approximations within metric spaces with curvature constraints.
On the final day, Tumiso Kekana delivered a groundbreaking presentation titled “Exploring a Novel Approach for Computing Topological Descriptors of Graphene Structure Using Neighbourhood Multiple M-Polynomial,” a research piece positioned at the intersection of mathematics and materials science. His work on analysing graphene structures using innovative polynomial techniques underscored the practical applications of mathematics in new material sciences.
Also attending from SMU were Lehlogonolo Mokaba, Sindiswa Mnguni, and Molwantwa Kanyane. Their active engagement in discussions and networking highlighted SMU’s dedication to fostering a collaborative research environment within the university and extending to global academic circles.
Reflecting on the experience, Ndlovu remarked: “Being at the ADEANS Conference was transformative. It was more than academic—it was about understanding how our research contributes to a larger, dynamic field of mathematical inquiry.” His sentiment was echoed by fellow attendees, who recognised the conference as an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the latest in mathematical theory and innovation.
The ADEANS 2024 Conference fortified SMU’s reputation as a leader in advanced mathematics and empowered its students and faculty to push the boundaries of their disciplines. This experience equips SMU scholars with an expansive network and fresh insights, driving them forward in their research journey. By supporting its scholars’ presence at such prominent conferences, SMU underscores its dedication to fostering high-impact research and maintaining a competitive edge in the higher education landscape.
As SMU’s mathematicians return to campus, they bring with them enhanced knowledge and the inspiration and connections that enrich SMU’s academic environment, helping build a foundation for future advancements in South Africa’s science and technology sectors.
by Lorato | Oct 28, 2024 | All News, SMU Media, Student Media
As healthcare continues to grapple with challenges to patient safety, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is at the forefront of engaged scholarship, shaping future leaders ready to tackle real-world issues. A group of third-year Dietetics students from SMU recently marked World Patient Safety Day with a vital educational visit to the Masakhane Cook Freeze factory in Rosslyn. This initiative, a part of their Food Service Administration module, offered these future dietitians a hands-on experience with one of the most critical components of patient care—food safety.
Masakhane Cook Freeze, the largest facility of its kind in Southern Africa, supplies meals to over 22 hospitals in Gauteng. It is a critical player in the region’s healthcare system, and food safety is non-negotiable when dealing with patients who often have compromised immune systems. Any lapse in safety protocols can lead to severe health complications, and it is here that SMU’s mission to empower through education finds its full expression.
For hospitals, ensuring that every meal is prepared, stored, and delivered under the strictest safety protocols is as crucial to patient recovery as medical treatment. This visit served as a wake-up call for the students about the life-saving role dietitians play in safeguarding food from contamination and ensuring that meals meet the specific dietary needs of vulnerable patients.
Food safety: A pillar of patient care
The visit was far more than a factory tour—it was an immersive lesson on the interconnectedness of healthcare. The students were guided through the entire food service process, from receiving raw ingredients to observing how dietitians, food technologists, and kitchen staff collaborate to maintain the highest safety and nutritional standards. Dr Heather Legodi, Module Coordinator, highlights the importance of this experience: “The students witnessed how proper meal planning and safe food preparation directly impact patient outcomes. This is a real-world application of what we teach in class.”
A pivotal moment came when the students observed the freezing tunnel, where liquid nitrogen is used to rapidly freeze meals. This process extends the shelf life of meals up to twelve months, ensuring that hospitals have access to safe, nutritious food year-round. With twenty-three different therapeutic diets offered, the Masakhane Cook Freeze factory exemplifies the role of dietitians in managing diverse dietary needs that can make or break a patient’s recovery.
A collaborative effort for safe healthcare
At every step of the process, the SMU students were reminded of the collaborative nature of healthcare. Food Service Managers like Tebogo Rangwato and Meisie Maimela, who welcomed the students, play a pivotal role in maintaining strict hygiene standards, from ingredient sourcing to packaging and delivery. The students, clad in personal protective equipment, experienced firsthand the factory’s stringent safety protocols, learning that food safety is a critical aspect of patient care that cannot be overlooked.
The Masakhane facility management expressed their enthusiasm for future collaborations with SMU, recognising the importance of exposing students to the operational challenges of large-scale food production.
Engaged scholarship in action
This visit goes beyond academic learning; it is part of SMU’s broader commitment to engaged scholarship, where students apply their theoretical knowledge to solve pressing societal problems. In this case, ensuring food safety in healthcare settings is not just about nutrition—it’s about preventing harm and promoting recovery.
By participating in this experiential learning opportunity, SMU students are taking the first steps toward becoming healthcare professionals who understand that patient safety begins long before medical treatment—it starts with safe, nutritious food. World Patient Safety Day served as a powerful reminder that food safety is an integral part of the healthcare ecosystem, and SMU’s future dietitians are ready to uphold this critical standard.
Legodi aptly concludes: “Seeing the process in action reinforces the concepts we teach in class. This deepens their understanding and prepares them for their future roles as dietitians.” SMU is not just educating students but cultivating empowered professionals ready to lead with knowledge and compassion, ensuring that patient care is comprehensive, from the hospital bed to the kitchen.
In a world where healthcare challenges are growing more complex, SMU’s approach to engaged scholarship is more vital than ever, shaping the future of patient-centred, solution-driven healthcare professionals.
