EMPOWERING WESTERN CAPE’S POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS

By Laurah Gutu, YWP (Western Cape Chapter)

The YWP (Western Cape Chapter) hosted a the first postgraduate colloquial to showcase research in wastewater treatment and sustainability. The presenters were:

• Njabulo Thela, Department of Civil Engineering, UCT: ‘Growing an Enhanced Culture of Polyphosphate Accumulating Organisms using a University of Cape Town Membrane Bioreactor (UCTMBR) System’

• Emily Nicklin, Department of Environmental and Geographical Science, UCT: ‘Using nature-based processes to clean and recycle polluted run-off from an informal settlement’

• Nosisa Zincume, CoCT and UCT: ‘Developing modelling tools for Bellville Wastewater’

• Tariro Marekwa, Future Water Institute, UCT: ‘Using a living lab approach to determine pathways towards a water sensitive campus – University of Cape Town as a case study’.

The presentations covered a broad range of topics – from wastewater modelling, growing enhanced cultures, nature-based solutions in water treatment as well as pathways to a sustainable future through a living lab approach. The presenters also came from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, which made for a truly interdisciplinary event.

The colloquium was also attended by a diverse group of professionals at all stages of their careers, including engineers, scientists, researchers and academics, who came together to share their knowledge and insights on the various topics, discussions and debates. This event further demonstrated the importance of collaborations in addressing the challenges.

We would like to extend our thanks to the Scientific Services, City of Cape Town (CoCT) for sponsoring the venue on this occasion, as well as the other professionals and students who joined us on the day. It was a great experience for all involved, as they gained valuable insights and practical knowledge that will undoubtedly be useful in their future research and work. We were impressed by the quality of the research presented and the commitment of everyone involved to creating a more sustainable future.

Six young water professionals from South Africa – from WISA and South Africa Youth Parliament for Water (RSAYPW) – attended the UN Water Conference in March. By Mendy Shozi, president of South Africa Youth Parliament for Water