Department of Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo celebrated a new partnership with the UNISA’s College of Science, Engineering and Technology. Meeting with Professor Puleng LenkaBula, the university’s Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Mahlobo emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to tackle South Africa’s pressing water challenges.
Central to this collaboration is Unisa’s Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability (iNanoWS), which focuses on research addressing water quality and scarcity. Deputy Minister Mahlobo urged the university to utilize its expertise in nanotechnology to aid municipalities in developing sustainable solutions for water quality issues.
“As part of our Blue and Green Drop programme, we’re already using technology to analyze water quality,” Mahlobo noted. “This partnership can contribute significantly to enhancing our water management efforts across the country.”
The Deputy Minister also highlighted the Department’s Learning Academy, which offers bursaries for students pursuing careers in water and sanitation. Graduates from this program will join the Department as trainees, addressing skill shortages essential for improving the water sector.
Mahlobo underscored the critical nature of this partnership, stating, “Our collaboration will play a key role in building a better future for all South Africans through enhanced water provision.” He concluded with a tour of the iNanoWS, showcasing the innovative research aimed at sustainable water solutions.
