College of Science, Engineering & Technology

Unisa to partner with Government to tackle water, energy and infrastructure challenges

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During a recent visit to Unisa, Sihle Zikalala, Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, highlighted the significance and roles of the institutions of higher learning such as Unisa as reservoirs of knowledge development and innovation. He highlighted this during a ministerial visit to the Unisa Science Campus on 22 November 2024, where engagements took place on how the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) intends to partner with Unisa on various projects. 

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From left: Siza Sibande (Head of Property Management and Trading Entity), Prof Ednah Onyari (Chair of Department: Civil Engineering and Building Sciences), Prof Simiso Dube (Deputy Executive Dean: College of Science, Engineering and Technology), Sihle Zikalala (Deputy Minister: Department of Public Works and Infrastructure), Prof Thenjiwe Meyiwa (Vice-Principal: Research, Postgraduate Studies, Innovation and Commercialisation), Matsiababa Motebele (Vice-Principal: Facilities and Estates), Prof Linda Linganiso (Head: Unisa Institute for Catalysis and Energy Solutions), Luyanda Kafile (DDG: Constructions), Richard Samuels (DDG for Facilities Management) and Dr Simo Lushaba (Evolut Consulting)

Identified projects include the following:

  • Water engineering (which encompasses water recycling and desalination)
  • Energy, with a focus on solar system engineering and waste-to-energy projects
  • Infrastructure development, focusing on green buildings and building materials that are resilient to harsh environmental conditions while embracing environmental preservation

Central to all strategic projects identified will be the development of young professionals. "It is high time that we, as a department, reduce our dependence on consultants and engage in strategic partnerships with skilful and capable institutions such as Unisa," said Zikalala.

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Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala addressing delegates

Aligned with Unisa’s research focus on water remediation and provision of alternative energy sources, the Deputy Minister also highlighted the DPWI’s recently introduced Integrated Renewable Energy and Resource Efficiency Programme (iREREP).

iREREP is the official national programme anchored on four pillars:

  • Energy efficiency initiatives
  • Renewable energy
  • Water efficiency
  • Alternative waste management

This was identified as a good starting point of collaboration between Unisa and the DPWI in providing much-needed solutions to the identified national challenges. Zikalala continued: "We have learned a lot also from Unisa’s presentation around construction materials delivered by Professor Ednah Onyari. We believe this is important as we navigate the environmental challenges that climate change poses to buildings and constructions. We have a lot to take back with us, and we would like to invite the Unisa team to attend one of our executive committee meetings at the DPWI so that we can begin walking the talk."

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A demonstration of the membrane distillation system for seawater desalination

The engagement meeting was officially opened by Prof Thenjiwe Meyiwa, Unisa Vice-Principal: Research, Postgraduate Studies, Innovation and Commercialisation, who affirmed Unisa’s commitment to partnering with government and industry in order to leverage on one another’s strengths while providing solutions to South Africa’s most pressing challenges.

"Our research agenda at Unisa prioritises issues that are of national importance, including sustainability, with an emphasis on energy, water security, climate change and infrastructure development," said Meyiwa. "Through this partnership with the DPWI, our collaboration will align the outputs to ensure that development goals guided by inclusivity, excellence, and transformation are met."

* By Dr Nozipho N Madzivha, Communication and Marketing Specialist (acting), College of Science, Engineering and Technology

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Publish date: 2024/12/06

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