Dr Innocentia Mkhize, a lecturer within the Department of Chemical Engineering and a recipient of the DUT-GOOT for Future Professors programme, joined forces with Dr Jean-Bedel Batchamen Mougnol, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Chemical Engineering to achieve resounding success on the international stage at the recent 38th Barcelona International Conference on Chemical, Biological, and Environmental Sciences in Spain from 24 to 26 April 2024.
They received the Oral Best Paper Award at the conference, recognising their outstanding paper. Dr Mkhize and Dr Mougnol are both members of the Green Engineering Research Group, specialising in the remediation of abandoned mines, geohydrology, and industrial wastewater treatment, focusing on sustainable environmental solutions.
In reflecting on their triumph, Dr Mkhize and Dr Mougnol expressed their heartfelt appreciation to their mentors and colleagues, whose unwavering support has been pivotal throughout their academic journey. They attributed much of their success to Dr Ngema, the acting Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering at DUT, whose provision of resources and encouragement propelled their research endeavours forward.
Furthermore, they recognised the invaluable guidance of the acting Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Engineering, Prof Sudesh Rathilal, whose mentorship played a crucial role in shaping their research initiatives and fostering their academic development.
The 38th BARCELONA International Conference on “Chemical, Biological and Environmental Sciences” (BCBES-24), provided a dynamic platform for researchers, academics, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to converge and exchange insights on cutting-edge advancements in the chemical, biological, and environmental sciences.
Featuring keynote presentations, panel discussions, poster sessions, and oral presentations, the conference facilitated multidisciplinary discussions covering a wide array of topics ranging from fundamental research to practical applications. The interactive sessions not only promoted networking opportunities but also fostered collaborations and partnerships among participants, including NGOs, transcending geographical boundaries and contributing to scientific progress and global environmental stewardship.
When asked on it had felt upon hearing the news of the paper being the best oral paper at the conference. Dr Mkhize remarked that it was was truly exciting. “It was a moment of immense pride and validation for all the hard work, dedication, and innovation that went into the research. Knowing that our work stood out among such esteemed peers was incredibly gratifying and motivating,” she said.
The title of the paper is: Agro-Waste Derived Nano Photocatalysts for Effective Degradation of PAHs in Diverse Water Environments.
“Our paper explores the use of nano-photocatalysts derived from agro-waste and addresses the pressing issue of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), pervasive organic pollutants commonly encountered in industries such as petroleum and mining. PAHs have known harmful effects on both the environment and living organisms,” she said.
Dr Mkhize highlighted that the study focused on developing efficient methods to degrade PAHs into less hazardous compounds. “What sets this research apart is its emphasis on sustainability and efficiency. By repurposing readily available agro-wastes, we do not only mitigate environmental pollution but also contribute to the circular economy,” she added.
Dr Mkhize professed that this research not only showcases DUT’s commitment to innovative solutions but also highlights its role in sustainability and environmental stewardship and for paving the way for a cleaner, safer future for generations to come.
Speaking on the experience and sharing the platform with other speakers from around the world was an enriching and enlightening experience. “The calibre of the speakers was exceptionally high, reflecting diverse expertise and perspectives in the field. Engaging in discussions, exchanging ideas, and learning from the experiences of fellow researchers from different corners of the globe was invaluable. It fostered cross-cultural collaboration, broadened horizons, and reinforced the global significance of our research endeavours,” she said.
Dr Mkhize was excited to share that winning the oral best paper award at this conference marked her first international recognition. “It’s a milestone in my academic career that I will always cherish, and it motivates me to continue striving for excellence in research and scholarly endeavours,” she said proudly.
Dr Mkhize indicated that DUT, the department and the faculty had played a crucial role in equipping her as an academic staff member to speak at such conferences.
“The support, mentorship, and resources provided by the university have been instrumental in facilitating my professional development and enabling me to communicate our research findings effectively on a global stage,” she shared.
Pictured: DUT’s Dr Innocentia Mkhize and Dr Jean-Bedel Batchamen Mougnol receiving their award from the conference representative.
Waheeda Peters
