The South African Health Excellence Awards has recognised Prof. Leepile Sehularo, director of the Lifestyle Diseases research entity at the North-West University (NWU), who received the Second Runner-up Award for Scientific Excellence.
The awards ceremony was held on 8 November 2025 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Gauteng, co-hosted by the Clinix Health Group and the South African Clinician Scientists Society.
This accolade recognises individuals whose research has advanced medicine, inspired new scholars and contributed to developing future scientists through teaching and mentorship. Recipients are evaluated on their scholarly output, leadership and impact on the medical community.
Prof. Sehularo’s academic record reflects these qualities. Over the years, he has supervised 10 doctoral and 20 master’s students to completion, including candidates from countries such as Ghana, Botswana, Pakistan and Nigeria. He has also collaborated internationally with institutions such as Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University in Pakistan.
With close to 100 peer-reviewed publications, Prof. Sehularo’s research continues to influence medical education, public health policy and professional practice. His work spans lifestyle-related diseases, mental health and healthcare education, contributing to both national and international health discourse.
Reflecting on the recognition, Prof. Sehularo said the award is a reminder of the purpose behind years of dedication to research and mentorship.
“This recognition is not about personal achievement but about the collective effort of many hands and minds. It speaks to the impact of teamwork and mentorship in producing meaningful science. Research is not just about publication; it’s about improving lives, shaping policies and guiding future generations of scientists. I am honoured that my work contributes, in some way, to that broader vision,” he said.
Prof. Sehularo was in excellent company in the Scientific Excellence category, where Prof. Mike Sathekge of the University of Pretoria (UP) was the winner and Prof. Tsakane Hlongwane, also from UP, first runner-up.
Prof. Leepile Sehularo received the Second Runner-up Award for Scientific Excellence at the South African Health Excellence Awards.
