The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) has emerged as one of Africa’s leading voices in applied public health after delivering an exceptional showcase of research, leadership, cultural engagement and innovation at the 7th Annual International Public Health Conference (AIPHP). Public health experts and institutions from across the continent converged at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, from 11 to 13 November, with TUT standing out as a key collaborating partner.
Over the three days, TUT made its institutional presence felt with scientific presentations, leadership roles, exhibitions, wellness activations and cultural performances. The University also received major recognition, including two Best Poster Awards and the induction of four staff members as Fellows of the African Institute of Public Health Professionals. The conference organisers further awarded TUT a formal Certificate of Collaboration, another visible proof of its role in strengthening public health development in Africa.
Strategic collaboration with continental impact
The AIPHP conference is one of Africa’s most important public health platforms, focusing on the 2025 theme Building a Resilient Health System for Universal Health Coverage in Africa. TUT was formally invited as a collaborating institution, joining partners such as Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, UNISA, Stellenbosch University and the Institute for Health Professionals Development in Sierra Leone.
As part of this collaboration, Dr Mercy Sepadi served as the official TUT Coordinator and chaired the Logistics Committee, a high-level role that influenced the successful delivery of the entire programme. TUT’s leadership was visible across the event, with Prof Yolanda Havenga delivering the goodwill message, Prof Lutendo Mudau chairing a scientific session, and Ms Ledile Malebana serving as a session assessor.
Strong scientific contributions and research excellence
TUT’s Faculty of Science’s contribution to the scientific programme included nine poster presentations across Environmental Health and Pharmaceutical Sciences, covering topics such as:
- Occupational safety for informal workers
- Food safety and informal food economies
- Noise exposure in the nightlife sector
- Waste management in high-density communities
- IoT-enabled environmental monitoring
- Essential oil therapies for mental well-being
PhD candidate, Ledile Malebana, delivered a well-received oral presentation on environmental health surveillance and communicable disease prevention, positioning TUT’s postgraduate research on a continental stage.
Two TUT researchers, Mapula Masilela and K Mashilo, received Best Poster Awards in Session 1, reinforcing the academic strength and innovation of the institution’s research outputs.
Exhibitions and innovations that stood out
TUT’s visibility extended far beyond the lecture halls. Exhibitions from the Environmental Health Department and the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences drew significant attention for their practical relevance and interactive demonstrations.
The Environmental Health stall served as a knowledge and recruitment hub showcasing laboratory technologies and promoting the Advanced Diploma in Health Care Administration and Management. Delegates commended the stall for its strong academic and community relevance.
The conference’s biggest wellness highlight came from TUT’s Somatic Therapy Wellness Activation, led by Dr Baatile Komane and Thobile Kaye. Their massage therapy station offered chair massages, foot therapy and aromatherapy demonstrations throughout the conference. Delegates widely acknowledged it as one of the most impactful wellness contributions in the event’s history.
During the opening ceremony, TUT also facilitated a vibrant Pedi Kiba performance by Marumo a Moshate, integrating African culture into public health discourse and reinforcing the importance of cultural identity in community well-being.
Celebrating professional growth and fellowship recognition
A moment of real pride for TUT was during the AIPHP Fellowship Induction Ceremony, where four staff members were formally inducted into the continental network of public health professionals. The 2025 inductees were:
- Prof Lutendo Mudau
- Dr Maasago Mercy Sepadi
- Ms Mapula Masilela
- Ms Ledile Malebana
Their induction signifies TUT’s expanding influence in public health leadership and its commitment to fostering excellence within the profession.
Logistics excellence driven by TUT volunteers
TUT played a central role in the logistical execution of the conference. The University provided a strong volunteer team of postgraduate students and part-time lecturers who assisted with session management, media support, poster coordination and VIP handling. Their professionalism contributed to the smooth running of the event and received positive acknowledgement from the organisers.
Brand visibility and academic promotion
TUT’s identity was highly visible throughout the venue. Branded banners, stage displays, conference T-shirts and promotional material ensured strong institutional recognition. The Environmental Health stall also helped to promote the University’s academic pathways, encouraging postgraduate enrolment and strengthening programme visibility.
A conference that delivered long-term value
The conference attracted 166 delegates from ten countries including Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Nigeria, Cameroon, Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, Bahrain and South Africa. It created new research networks, presented 26 public health abstracts and strengthened collaboration between institutions.
Emerging themes included digital health innovation, surveillance strengthening, community engagement, and the need for better translation of research into policy.
Future Opportunities for TUT
Several long-term prospects emerged for TUT:
- Joint research projects and collaborative supervision
- Potential to host a future AIPHP conference
- Expanded student presentation opportunities
- Increased professional recognition through the AIPHP fellowship
A strong step forward for Public Health leadership
TUT’s participation in the 7th Annual International Public Health Conference marked a step forward in its public health trajectory. Through strong scientific contributions, logistical leadership, cultural integration and wellness innovation, the Faculty of Science showcased excellence that resonated across the continent. The institution now moves forward with strengthened partnerships, expanded visibility and a reinforced reputation as a continental leader in applied public health and science.
