Prof. Nonhlangabezo Mabuba, a distinguished Professor in Analytical Chemistry, Materials and Processing Science, and Deputy Director of the Centre of Nanomaterial Science Research at the University of Johannesburg.

The Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences recently hosted its hybrid Prestige Research Day, themed “One Health in a Changing Global Climate.” The event showcased the faculty’s vibrant inter- and multidisciplinary research aligned with its Research, Innovation and Engagement (REI) agenda. Through these engagements, the faculty reaffirmed its commitment to fostering impactful research that addresses global challenges through innovation, collaboration, and community engagement.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Nonhlangabezo Mabuba, a distinguished Professor in Analytical Chemistry, Materials and Processing Science, and Deputy Director of the Centre of Nanomaterial Science Research at the University of Johannesburg, focused on the critical issue of continuous water quality monitoring and treatment, underscoring the global urgency of sustainable development. “As academics, we can contribute meaningfully to sustainability by building capacity and training both female and male students in tools that mitigate water pollution. We must also develop environmentally friendly methods that avoid secondary pollution and support the green economy,” she remarked.

Prof. Mabuba further highlighted the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration, emphasising that collective efforts amplify the societal impact of research. She also advocated for the use of locally available materials in developing sustainable solutions and stressed the need for strong partnerships with industry and government to accelerate the implementation of research outcomes.

“Multidisciplinary projects are implemented more efficiently than those developed in isolation,” she explained. “Industry partners possess expertise in upscaling and marketing, making them essential to transforming research into real-world solutions.”

She also reflected on the evolving role of researchers in preparing students for the future. “Today, publications alone are not enough. We must ensure that our research is translated into practice through collaboration with industry, government, and other institutions so that we can make a tangible contribution to sustainable development,” she concluded.

Attendees of the Prestige Research Day united in pursuit of knowledge, collaboration, and groundbreaking research.

Uploaded: 29 October 2025