Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability

Successful completion of the 2025 iNanoWS Induction and Orientation

Share

Induction and Orientation Day Success_Photo 1.png

The annual iNanoWS Induction and Orientation programme is essential for all new iNanoWS staff, MSc, PhD and PDFs, as it introduces them to important safety practices and the proper use of equipment in their research labs, ensuring they can carry out their experiments safely and effectively while following the necessary laboratory safety rules and guidelines.

At this year's event the welcoming address was given by Prof. T.T.I. Nkambule, the Head of iNanoWS, who spoke on "Responsible conduct in our laboratories." He highlighted four main points:

  • Everyone in the lab shares responsibility for safety, which helps to promote independence.
  • Staff members should focus on supporting students and fostering a caring environment.
  • Collaboration, respect, and teamwork are crucial among students and staff members.
  • Life comes with tough lessons (12 Brutal Life Lessons), and planning is essential for success in our work.

During the event, Prof. Nkambule also welcomed three new students: Karabo, Jaco, and Tapera. He encouraged all 40 students with Ethical clearance to spend time in the lab and wished them a productive year ahead.

Induction and Orientation Day Success_Photo 3.png

Beige Gray and Whate Minimalist Modern Business Marketing Expert Quote Instagram Post (2).png

The iNanoWS technical team provided insights on several important topics, such as:

  • Operating procedures in the lab.
  • Reflections on user behaviour in the lab so far this year.
  • Areas where improvements can be made based on user feedback.
  • Safety rules and how to report any incidents.
  • Guidelines for keeping the lab clean and managing waste properly.
  • The responsible use of resources like gases and protective gear.

Prof. Motsa highlighted the need for a strong and honest scientific community in the iNanoWS laboratories. The team prioritizes effective communication, values diversity, and promotes a culture where mistakes are part of learning and growth.

Induction and Orientation Day Success culture.png

Beige Gray and Whate Minimalist Modern Business Marketing Expert Quote Instagram Post (5).png

The technical team also touched on essential training and support, including:

  • How to acquire and store chemicals.
  • Changes in gas supply.
  • Proper maintenance and calibration of lab equipment.
  • Guidelines for refrigerating samples.
  • Training for using different instruments and services for analyzing samples both within and outside UNISA.
  • Proper responses to lab hazards, including fire safety and emergency evacuation procedures.
  • Each student complete a risk assessment before entering the lab.

Furthermore, "it’s important for each student to have a designated supervisor to provide specialized training tailored to their specific research projects, and also as equipment and research methods evolve, regular updates and refresher training sessions will also be vital to keep everyone informed and safe," said Prof. Motsa, the Acting Laboratory Manager of iNanoWS.

*** At the end, each student and postdoctoral researcher completed a laboratory induction assessment for entering the lab.

iNanoWS postdoctoral research fellows, doctoral, and master's students at the 2025 iNanoWS Induction and Orientation event

Home Bake Group Photo 1 (3).png

Induction and Orientation Day Success_Photo 6_NEW.png

* By iNanoWS Web Content and Marketing

Share

Publish date: 2025/02/13

Unisa Shop