Unisa Women Researchers Shine at 2024 South African Women in Science Awards

Three brilliant women researchers from Unisa’s College of Science, Engineering and Technology have been recognised for their exceptional contributions to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). At the 2024 South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA) ceremony, held on August 15 at Anew Resort White River in Mbombela, these researchers were honoured for their pioneering work and dedication.

The theme of this year’s ceremony, “Transition towards an Innovation Economy: The Role of Women Leaders in STEM,” highlighted the crucial role women play in driving South Africa’s innovation agenda. The Department of Science and Innovation, which organises the annual event, seeks to celebrate and promote the significant strides made by women in STEMI (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation).

Recognising Excellence

Dr. Busiswa Ndaba-Vatsha, a Senior Lecturer at Unisa’s Institute for Catalysis and Energy Solutions, was recognised as the first runner-up in the “Distinguished Young Women Researchers – Natural and Engineering Sciences” category. This prestigious award came with a certificate of recognition and a cash prize of R60,000. Dr. Ndaba-Vatsha’s research is focused on enhancing energy and crop production using biological and nanotechnology methods, specifically targeting non-edible feedstock like cellulosic biomass for fuel energy production and developing agricultural fertilisers through waste valorisation. Her innovative work promotes a circular economy approach, which is vital for sustainable development. With over 25 peer-reviewed research papers, book chapters, and contributions to public domain magazines, she is a rising star in her field.

In addition to Dr. Ndaba-Vatsha, two Unisa master’s degree students, Nonkululeko Malomane and Wendy Mabhulusa, were awarded the DSI-Esther Mahlangu Fellowship (Master’s) valued at R75,000 each. This fellowship, named after the renowned Ndebele artist Dr. Esther Mahlangu, can be used to supplement existing postgraduate scholarships or support other research-related activities such as attending conferences, publishing open access papers, or registering patents.

Trailblazing Research

Nonkululeko Malomane, an MSc Chemistry student at the Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability, is conducting groundbreaking research on synthesising and applying porphyrin conjugates with nanostructured materials for water disinfection and biofilm inactivation. Her work aims to provide innovative and sustainable solutions for water treatment, particularly in resource-constrained environments. Malomane’s previous accolades include winning the Best Oral Presenter award at the 2023 Unisa Research and Innovation Festival in the Natural and Physical Science category.

Wendy Mabhulusa, also pursuing an MSc at the Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability, is focused on the synthesis of nanomaterials for fuel cells. Her research interests span electrochemistry, catalysis, nanotechnology, and materials science. Mabhulusa has presented her research at several high-profile platforms, including the 15th Green Chemistry Summer School and the Young Scientists Conference on Climate Change and the Earth System.

Empowering Women in STEM

Before the awards ceremony, this year’s finalists participated in a leadership workshop in collaboration with L’Oréal and took part in a live panel discussion on SABC TV’s Morning Live. These activities underscored the importance of leadership and visibility for women in STEM.

Professor Simiso Dube, Deputy Executive Dean at Unisa, praised the awardees, saying, “It is so refreshing to see our emerging scholars and students excelling in this manner. The Unisa flag is surely being lifted high. Congratulations to the awardees and thanks to the Catalysis and Energy Solutions and Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability at Unisa for creating an environment where staff and students strive for excellence.”

These accolades underscore Unisa’s commitment to fostering an environment where women researchers can thrive and lead the way in STEM fields. The recognition of these women not only celebrates their individual achievements but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of female scientists.