Students in the Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences (MITS) Department will benefit from access to advanced ultrasound technology following the generous loan of a Samsung V8 ultrasound system by SSEM Mthembu.

The state-of-the-art system has been provided to the department on a six-month basis and will be used to enhance practical training for students.

The unit is equipped with multiple transducers and advanced imaging software, allowing both students and lecturers to gain hands-on experience with the technology.

According to Geordean Schwartz, Lecturer: Diagnostic Ultrasound, the Samsung V8 includes several specialised applications, such as Shear-Wave (SW) Sonoelastography, echocardiography, ultrasound nerve tracking, and Microvascular Flow Doppler, among many other advanced features.

During the loan period, the machine will be used for clinical tutorial demonstrations and simulated ultrasound examinations in the department's skills laboratory. In return, the department will provide SSEM Mthembu with feedback and a review of the system based on teaching experience.

“We are incredibly grateful and privileged to have access to this advanced technology. This opportunity will significantly enhance our teaching environment by exposing students to the latest technological advances in diagnostic ultrasound,

ensuring they graduate with experience on equipment that reflects current clinical practice,” said Schwartz.

Head of Department Dr Florence Davidson also expressed her gratitude and said the ultrasound system would be of great benefit in preparing students for the world of work.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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As part of preparing Diagnostic Ultrasound students for professional practice, the Diagnostic Ultrasound Programme continues to collaborate with clinical specialists and industry partners to enhance student learning.

Earlier this month the Diagnostic Ultrasound programme in collaboration with LOGIQ Experts Academy (LEAD), hosted a free Sonoelastography workshop in the Ultrasound Skills Laboratory in the Medical Imaging and Therapeutical Sciences Department for final-year Ultrasound students and some clinical staff.

The training was presented by LOGIQ Experts Academy (LEAD), the education platform of General Imaging Solutions, and included lectures and hands-on demonstrations for students and staff.

“I am grateful to LEAD General Imaging Solutions for their generous support and value the ongoing collaboration in advancing ultrasound education and professional development. We look forward to strengthening this partnership through future training opportunities,” said Dr Maria Hartnick, Lecturer: Diagnostic Ultrasound.

She noted that such collaborations form an important part of the programme's commitment to producing graduates who are well prepared for professional practice. By engaging with industry experts, students gain valuable insights into emerging technologies and current clinical applications that complement their academic studies.

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The Nursing Science Department recently joined hands with the Department of Wellness Sciences to arrange a special wellness day for volunteers from the CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa.

CHOC is a non-profit organisation that advocates for the health and well-being of children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer or life-threatening blood disorders and their families and the event was held at the CHOC House in Sybrand Park.

Dr Barenisse Arries from the Nursing Science Department said the event formed part of their Mandela Day programme and Oncology Nursing students helped to put the day together.

“The CHOC volunteers do so much for others, even on their weekends, so we wanted to do something for them.”

CHOC volunteers were treated to manicures and pedicures by Somatology students and blood pressure and other screenings were conducted by nursing staff and students. The Department of Nursing Science’s Natalie Copeling delivered a talk on back care while student nurse Nokubonga Hoyo gave an insightful talk on the signs and symptoms of different types of cancers.

Volunteers were also treated to delicious snacks and treats and received a gift.

CHOC regional manager Lynette Muthuray thanked the Nursing Science Department for organising the event and all CPUT staff and students who made the day special.

“As CHOC we can’t do it without our volunteers and staff. So today is all about them being spoiled and being reminded that they also have to take care of themselves. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of the CHOC staff and volunteers.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Researchers from the SAMRC/CPUT Cardiometabolic Research Unit shared their research and expertise at the 8th African Federation of Clinical Chemistry (AFCC) Regional Congress and 4th Clinical Chemistry Association of Kenya (CCAK) Congress, recently held in Nairobi, Kenya.

The theme of the event was “Bridging Precision Diagnostics, Public Health, and Patient Care”.

Dr Saarah Davids presented the work and story of the research unit since its inception. Dr Shanel Raghubeer and Dr Don Matshazi both presented and played a significant role in the young scientist forum. Adjunct Prof Rajiv Erasmus was the chair of the organising committee and spearheaded the point of care session.

The following presentations were delivered:

During the IFCC Symposium session, Raghubeer delivered a presentation titled Artificial Intelligence in Laboratory Medicine: Evidence, Bias, and Ethical Risk

Davids presented on Cardiometabolic Risk in a Mixed-Ancestry South African Population: Epidemiology to Multi-Omics Mechanisms during the NCD Symposium session.

The three researchers delivered the following presentations during the Young Scientist - NCD update session: Can a Tape Measure Predict Diabetes? Identifying Insulin Resistance in the South African Community (Davids), Perceived Body Image and Weight Management in a South African Population (Raghubeer) and Early detection of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus risk: Molecular biomarkers for glycaemic progression in sub-Saharan African populations (Matshazi)

Reflecting on the congress, Davids said one of the most valuable aspects of the experience was the opportunity to build meaningful connections with fellow researchers from across the continent.

“The greatest takeaway from the conference wasn't found on the presentation slides," she said.

“It was found in the conversations between sessions, the sharing of ideas, and the connections that were made. Real change doesn't happen in isolation. It happens when people come together with a shared purpose.”

She added: “The partnerships formed at this conference have the potential to create an impact that extends far beyond the event itself.”

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CPUT was well represented at the 2026 Southern African Association of Health Educationalists (SAAHE) Conference, which provided a platform for academics and students to engage with health professions educators, researchers, and clinicians from across Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond.

The theme of the conference, which was held in Stellenbosch, was Unravelling the Future of Health Professions Education.

Dr Wendy Solomon from the Department of Biomedical Sciences supported Master's student Malika Khan, who delivered an oral presentation titled Unpacking a Global North-South Student Exchange Programme through a Transformative Learning Lens.

Penelope Engel-Hills, Adjunct Professor at the Professional Education Research Institute (PERI), presented an electronic poster entitled What Are We Willing to Let Go in Health Professions Education?

Dr Lisa Graham and Dr Lizel Hudson served on the conference's Local Organising Committee. Hudson led the Student Task Force (STF) and chaired the second day's local keynote address, delivered by Prof Firdouza Waggie.

Fourth-year Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences (MITS) students Tholoana Kokotela and Ayanda Mokoena, represented CPUT on the conference’s Student Task Force (STF). As STF members, they played an integral role in supporting conference management while gaining invaluable exposure to the field of health professions education.

Reflecting on the experience, Tholoana described the opportunity as both professionally and personally enriching.

“Attending the SAAHE Conference as a Student Task Force member with our health educators as delegates was a rewarding experience that extended beyond our role of supporting conference management. It exposed us to the research, innovation and commitment that health educators invest in improving health professions education,” she said.

She added that the discussions encouraged students to reflect on the relationships between students, educators and clinical learning environments, while emphasising professionalism, empathy and evidence-based education.

“The conference sparked an interest in health professions education research and broadened my understanding of the impact educational research has on both student development and quality patient care. It inspired me to see myself not only as a future healthcare practitioner but also as a potential contributor to the advancement of health education."

For fellow student Ayanda Mokoena, the experience reinforced a desire to become actively involved in the field of health professions education and to create opportunities for future students.

“I have developed a strong interest in Health Professions Education and feel a responsibility to contribute to the field as someone who has recently benefited from its opportunities,” Ayanda said.

"I am particularly committed to increasing the visibility and participation of CPUT health sciences students in Health Professions Education initiatives, ensuring they have access to opportunities that foster holistic professional and personal development while promoting equitable representation in these spaces."

The students also expressed their appreciation to Hudson for her mentorship throughout the conference.

“We would love to thank Dr Lizel Hudson for her guidance and patience with us throughout the entirety of the conference and beyond. We hope our journey with SAAHE Western Cape will continue even further,” they said.

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Dr Neo Seane from the Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences recently participated in the 29th JINR Expertise for Member States and Partner countries (JEMS) training programme, which was held in Dubna, Russia.

The JEMS programme is targeted at managers and researchers of international projects in science and research in nuclear sciences and related disciplines. The main objective of JEMS is to present JINR (Joint Institute for Nuclear Research) operating principles, research and educational programmes, user policies, as well as means and formats of participating in JINR activities. Seane currently serves as the South African Radiation biology coordinator in the SA-JINR Joint collaboration committee.

The intensive training programme was attended by 18 participants from Vietnam, South Africa, Russia and Kazakhstan. The programme commenced with lectures on international intergovernmental organisation followed by lectures on multilateral research and organisation of scientific research in JINR, JINR human capacity building programmes as well as organisation of scientific research at JINR.

Participants also had an opportunity to engage and to establish professional contacts with project leaders from the different laboratories including the JINR flagship particle accelerator complex (NICA complex), the DC-280 cyclotron and super heavy element factory, Frank laboratory of neutron physics, laboratory of Nuclear problems and applied research centre, laboratory of radiation biology, laboratory of information technologies, as well as a workshop at the Virtual Laboratory for Nuclear Physics at the JINR University Centre. The programme concluded with roundtable discussions with the directorate on the main take aways from training as well as suggestions for future training programmes.

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The Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences (MITS) Department recently hosted a pledge ceremony for BSc 1 students, marking a defining moment for first-years as they embark on their clinical rotations.

Hosted by the Department’s Charne Martin and Dr Gerhardus Koch, the event carried the theme “Guided by Ethics, Grounded in Care”. Students pledged their commitment to the communities they will be serving.

They also signed their names in a special book, received identification badges, and had professional photographs taken. In a symbolic gesture, class representatives lit four candles representing the programmes of Diagnostic Radiography, Diagnostic Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine Technology, and Radiation Therapy.

‘The candles symbolise a light to guide the students as they begin their clinical rotations and further throughout their professional careers,” said Koch.

The event was attended by academic staff and clinical partners and the guest speakers were Dr Shayne Chau and Carolynn Lackay.

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Two lecturers from Odisee University in Brussels, Belgium recently visited the Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences (MITS) to build on a longstanding exchange relationship between the two institutions. The Head of Radiography programmes, Kurt van Belle and internship coordinator, Pieternel Thysebaert’s visit focused on exploring opportunities for staff and student mobility in the discipline of Radiotherapy.

The Department of MITS staff coordinated a week-long programme that included engagement with the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, representatives from the Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships directorate, the faculty research coordinator and staff within MITS. Visits to the Radiation Oncology units at Tygerberg Hospital, Groote Schuur Hospital and Life Vincent Pallotti Hospital were arranged.

The programme further featured discussions on the Radiotherapy curriculum, potential Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) projects, research collaborations and mobility opportunities for staff and students. The visiting lecturers also reported on the progress of a CPUT Diagnostic Radiography final-year student, Khethelo Dlamini, who was completing a three-month internship at Odisee University. Additionally, the visiting lecturers checked-in on four inbound Odisee diagnostic radiography students who were completing their clinical internships at Tygerberg and Groote Schuur hospitals.

Yanda Peter, the internationalisation representative in the department of MITS highlighted the value of the visit, noting that it strengthened professional networks and opened new avenues for collaboration. The Radiotherapy programme coordinator, Dr Neo Seane, remarked that the visiting lecturers praised the excellent public and private clinical training facilities that MITS students have access to. The clinical training facilities are equipped with advanced treatment machines such as the Halcyon and Truebeam linear accelerators that provide precise, high-speed radiation therapy treatments.

Beyond professional networking, the week also allowed for social connections, strengthening the personal bonds that support academic partnerships. Planning is underway to put into action the agreements reached, ensuring that the collaboration continues to grow and benefit both institutions.

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Staff and students from the Department of Nursing Science recently came together to celebrate Nurses Day under the theme: Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives.

The event, held at the Auditorium, Bellville Campus, highlighted the vital role nurses play in healthcare and recognised their ongoing commitment to caring for communities and improving lives.

Acting Head of the Department, Dr Bridgette Lockett, welcomed the attendees, and the programme included an informative workshop presented by Dr Hilda Vember, who retired from the Department a few years ago.

The workshop covered a range of important topics, including ethics in nursing, the historical development of the profession and the key characteristics that define compassionate and effective nurses.

Staff and students recited the nurses’ pledge, reaffirming their commitment to their profession.

View a photo gallery of the event here.

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The Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences is celebrating the achievements of two academics who have recently been appointed to two respective boards of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

Dr Maria Hartnick, a lecturer in the Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences, was appointed by the Minister of Health to serve on the Radiography and Clinical Technology Board of the HPCSA, representing the Radiography profession at national level.

Following her appointment to the Board, Dr Hartnick was elected to serve as Chairperson of the Professional Practice Committee.

She plays a pivotal role in strengthening the voice of Radiography and Clinical technology within South Africa’s healthcare system, ensuring that professional practice evolves in line with technological innovation and ethical excellence. Hartnick contributes to shaping National Health Policies, advancing professional standards, and safeguarding patient-centred care.

Dr Erefaan Ismail, a lecturer in the Department of Emergency Medical Sciences, was appointment by the Minister of Health as the Universities South Africa (USAf) representative on the HPCSA’s Emergency Care Board.

Ismail described the appointment as both humbling and an honour. Before entering higher education, he served as both a flight paramedic and an operational paramedic for Western Cape Government EMS, providing emergency care to patients in a wide range of critical situations.

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The Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences continues to make a meaningful impact on local education through its Life Sciences Revision Project aimed at supporting Grade 12 learners.

Launched in 2018 by Assoc Prof Kareemah Najaar, the initiative was created to help more learners meet the minimum requirements needed to qualify for programmes in the health science field.

Since its inception, the project has grown to include all departments in the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences and the Department of Medical Biosciences (MBS) at the University of the Western Cape (UWC).

Recently learners from Langa High School and Noorder Paarl High School visited the Bellville Campus for revision classes designed to strengthen their understanding of Life Sciences and improve their readiness for final examinations and future tertiary studies. The programme also continues to support female learners by providing them with feminine hygiene products.

The initiative not only supports learners academically but also creates a welcoming and encouraging environment for both learners and teachers. Teachers attending the sessions were treated to special wellness care provided by the Department of Wellness Sciences (Somatology) students. This initiative titled For the Well-being of our Teacher, is spearheaded by Mandy Thomas.

“We are very glad that we have a very strong tutor cohort today from all departments in the faculty as well as UWC, Medical Biosciences staff and postgraduate students that have come on board as well. We have approximately 140 students here today,” said Najaar.

“Today is also sad for all of us. We're hurting because of the loss of a dear friend and colleague, Dr Monique Bennett from UWC, who passed away recently. She was one of our project leaders and we remember her today.”

She thanked all stakeholders for participating, including the Service-Learning and Civic Engagement Unit.

The project leaders from CPUT are Najaar, Dr Wendy Solomon and Marnel Germishuys.

The project leaders from UWC (MBS Department) are Drs Chontrelle Willemse and Kim Lategan.

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Final-year Opticianry students recently stepped beyond the classroom to make a difference in communities and gain valuable hands-on experience during two outreach efforts

In early March a group of six students from the Department of Ophthalmic Sciences participated in the UWC IPEU outreach in Klipheuwel, outside Durbanville, supporting their South African Optometric Association (SAOA) optometry partners.

The students assisted the optometry team with vision screenings for community members.

Later in March a group of six students travelled to Robertson to join the SAOA optometry partners to support the Langeberg Start Well INReach initiative. The initiative was facilitated by Stellenbosch University in collaboration with the Western Cape Government Departments of Health and Wellness and Education, as well as several NGOs.

Over three days, the optometry team – accompanied by an ophthalmologist – screened more than 260 community members, including more than 200 learners from 11 schools in the district. Spectacles were prescribed for more than 80% of those tested and some were referred for pathology management.

Ntombi Zitha, Co-Chair of the SAOA Public Health Committee and Chairperson of the World Council for Optometry Public Health Committee, said: “During the outreaches, the students realised their understanding of optometry and their own potential in ophthalmic science. The one thing they said was that they saw the textbook coming to real life.”

Final-year student Xilaveko Khazamula said: “This experience was more than practice – it was a powerful reminder of purpose. It brought the theory to life, and in many ways, it brought life back to me.”

Angelique Walbrugh, lecturer in the Ophthalmic Sciences Department said: “It is evident that through these outreach activities, our students get to understand the value of their professional duties within the eye care team and the importance of their contribution towards eye and visual health in our communities.”

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The Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences recently rolled out the red carpet for its newest students during a vibrant first-year welcome event held at the Bellville Sports Field.

Under the theme “Step into Success,” the event brought together first-year students and staff from across the faculty for a morning of engagement, encouragement and fun.

Assistant Dean of the Faculty, Dr Lloyd Christopher, welcomed the students and encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity to study at CPUT.

“This is really the start of your journey here at CPUT. Just the fact that you are here this morning, it means that you are one of the few selected. You've been given an opportunity – an opportunity not only to change and influence your life, but the lives of those around you, those that care for you, those that love you, your family back home. Those are the people who are important, they are rooting for you, they are supporting you. So it's important that you take your studies here seriously.”

Students were also introduced to key academic and support leaders in the faculty, including Heads of Departments and Faculty Coordinators, helping to familiarise them with the individuals and services that will play an important role in supporting their academic success.

The day’s activities also included a Battle of the Departments competition for the Spirit Cup, which gave first-years from the various departments the opportunity to show their team spirit. The team from the Department of Emergency Medical Sciences made quite the impression and walked away with the winning trophy.

The event formed part of the faculty’s broader efforts to ensure that first-year students feel welcomed, supported and inspired as they begin their studies at CPUT.

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Final-year BSc Diagnostic Radiography student Khethelo Dlamini recently jetted off to Belgium as part of an exchange to Odisee University.

The Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences (MITS) has maintained a strong and valued partnership with Odisee University for more than a decade. This collaboration has enabled a few staff exchanges, academic networking and several inbound student internships facilitated under the leadership of Dr Aladdin Speelman. This year marks an exciting milestone as Odisee University has extended its support to fund the first MITS outbound student exchange to Brussels.

An excited Khethelo stated: “My exchange has been an incredibly enriching academic experience so far. The university’s personalised digital system, advanced and up to date skills labs including multiple X-ray units and a CT scanner on campus, have allowed me to receive hands-on training. The individual guidance and small group practical sessions have strengthened both my technical skills and confidence as a future radiographer. Beyond academics, this experience has helped me grow in independence, connect with people from diverse backgrounds and travel to cities I once only dreamed of like Paris and Amsterdam. This journey is truly life changing both professionally and personally”.

To ensure Khethelo remains aligned with her CPUT academic programme, she recently had a check in session with three of her lecturers, Valdiela Daries, Yanda Peter and Dr Heidi Thomas, who confirmed Dlamini’s progress.

Reflecting on this milestone, Speelman remarked, “It has always been our desire, after years of hosting numerous inbound staff exchanges and student internships, to one day see MITS students going on an outbound exchange to Europe and now it has finally happened”. The MITS Department hopes that this first outbound student exchange will open the door for many more MITS students to gain valuable international experiences, grow professionally and see firsthand how the healthcare system and medical imaging systems operate in a first world setting.

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The Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences (MITS) and the Department of Ophthalmic Sciences recently joined forces to provide vision screenings for students, ensuring they are ready to meet the visual demands of their profession from day one.

More than 60 students from the MITS Department received vision screenings, which took place during their orientation programme at the Bellville Campus.

About 40 third-year students from the Department of Ophthalmic Sciences assisted and manned five screening stations.

“One of the essential health requirements within the Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences is that students possess adequate eyesight to accurately visualise and interpret medical images which is a core component of their training and professional competency as radiographers,” said Abigail Petersen, Clinical Instructor: Diagnostic Radiography, who was the main facilitator for the MITS orientation programme.

“This marks the first collaboration of its kind and an excellent example of interdisciplinary teamwork.”

The main facilitator for the vision screening services was Angelique Walbrugh.

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Doctoral candidate and lecturer in the Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences Department, Gerhardus Koch, recently returned from an enriching international doctoral research exchange programme in Portugal.

Koch said the two-month programme at the Polytechnic Institute of Porto was “a truly unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity”.

His research is titled: Individual patient radiation dose tracking guidelines for the South African healthcare system.

“It involves tracking the cumulative ionising radiation dose received by individual patients during medical imaging examinations throughout their lifetime. The purpose of maintaining such a record is to facilitate the early identification of individuals who are presumably at risk of developing radiation-induced injuries and cancers, thereby enhancing and promoting the justification and optimisation principles associated with patient radiation safety. Based on my research, I developed a model to guide the implementation of individual patient radiation dose tracking in South Africa.”

He said the experience has seen him grow personally and professionally.

“I expanded my professional network, formed lasting connections, and had the opportunity to share my research with international colleagues. The experience further led to the conception of a brand-new research project, which we are currently working on.

“This experience reinforced the importance of international research collaboration, scholarly mentorship, and adaptability. I am truly grateful to have had this opportunity and wish to thank our Head of Department, Dr Florence Davidson, for her encouragement, continued support and motivation.”

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An impactful community engagement initiative by the Department of Biomedical Sciences, in partnership with Ikamva Youth, continues to empower matric learners in Nyanga.

The service-learning project, which is organised and run by the Department’s Anelisa Motaung and Nkosikho Sogwagwa, pairs Biomedical Sciences students with Grade 12 learners in Nyanga, with the students serving as mentors to the matric learners.

Launched in 2021, the programme aims to support the learners in planning for higher education by guiding them through the university application process. Each mentor assists their assigned mentee in exploring tertiary education options, completing three university applications, and with applying for financial aid resources.

Motaung said this year 40 CPUT students served as mentors.

Throughout the academic year, students and mentees engaged in various structured activities.

Some of this year’s highlights include:

• More than 100 university applications completed
• More than 200 hours of service invested by the CPUT mentors
• Learners received career guidance, academic and psycho-social support

The year concluded with an awards celebration for the mentors and mentees at the Bellville Campus.

Prof Glenda Davison, Head of the Biomedical Sciences Department, said: “As I listened to the reflections by both the students and matrics, I saw the future of South Africa, and it was a good feeling.”

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The Acting Head of the Wellness Sciences Department, A/Prof Kareemah Najaar, has been crowned as one of the winners in Good Hope FM’s Warrior Woman Awards.

The awards honour “South African women who are changing the game, not for applause, but because it’s who they are at their very core”.

Najaar won the Education and Research category and is being recognised for the matric Life Science Revision Project.

Launched in 2018 by Najaar, the initiative was designed to support learners in achieving the minimum entry requirements for higher education science programmes.

“I feel a heartwarming sense of gratitude as the recipient of this award. I will however also say that the recipients are who make this project possible, from the co-project leaders, tutors to the teachers and the learners. In addition, without the support of my Faculty and CPUT, this project will not be possible. Our passion and vision to re-dress education inequality within STEM is being acknowledged and that means so much to me,” she said.

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The Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences Department’s Diagnostic Ultrasound Programme recently received a generous donation of two ultrasound systems from Schnetler, Corbett and Partners (SCP) Radiology - a donation which will significantly enhance student training.

The private radiology practice has consistently shown strong support for student training and clinical education.

The donation represents a significant boost to the programme as it will enhance the ability of lecturers to train students more effectively and provide them with increased hands-on learning opportunities, according to Dr

Maria Hartnick, the programme coordinator for Diagnostic Ultrasound.

The additional equipment will also enable the department to expand its student intake, helping to address the growing demand for ultrasound training in South Africa.

The Ultrasound team, which consists of Hartnick, Geordean Schwartz and Carmen Batt expressed their gratitude to SCP Radiology for their ongoing commitment to education and their meaningful contribution to strengthening the programme.

Dean of the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, A/Prof Nicole Brooks attended the handover of the new systems and thanked SCP for their donation and contribution to student training.

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Two academics in the Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences Department recently returned from a visit to UK universities – an opportunity made possible through the Research Exchange Programme grant.

Dr Kathleen Naidoo and Dr Heidi Thomas spent seven days in the UK where they met with research partners at the University of Derby.

“This collaboration allowed us to work jointly on data from our international research project focused on person-centred care. We were also given a guided tour of the university’s simulation laboratory, where we observed a variety of advanced simulation stations. The visit provided valuable insights into their innovative methods of simulation-based teaching and learning,” said Naidoo.

“In addition, our British Academy mentor invited us to De Montfort University (DMU), where we spent the day with the Radiography team. This visit offered an excellent opportunity to learn about their academic programme, pedagogical strategies, and teaching practices.”

Thomas said the visit reinforced the many similarities shared between radiography education in the respective countries.

“A key highlight was the openness and enthusiasm of the UK colleagues in exchanging ideas and sharing best practices. The experience was both inspiring and productive, strengthening our existing partnerships and laying the groundwork for a potential new international collaboration/s in the future.”

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