On 11 February 2025, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) led a significant Citizen Science Event at Hippo Stream in Eikenhof, Johannesburg South, reinforcing its leadership in environmental research and community engagement. The initiative, funded by UJ’s GES 4.0 SI project, was a collaboration between UJ’s Process Energy and Environmental Technology Station (UJ PEETS), the Department of Geography, Environmental Management & Energy Studies (UJ GEMES), KlipWaS, and the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (WaterCAN OUTA).
UJ experts, including Prof Chris Curtis and Dr Jonathan Levin from UJ GEMES, alongside Dr Ferrial Adam from WaterCAN, provided hands-on training in water quality assessment techniques, engaging with local communities and international scholars.
UJ’s role in training future environmental leaders
The event equipped participants with essential skills in two key water quality assessment techniques: miniSASS and WaterCAN water testing kits. Attendees included students from Yellowwood Environmental School, members of the Khoisan Community and surrounding local community, Erasmus Mundus scholarship students from the University of Padova visiting UJ, and representatives from the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS).
The training covered essential skills such as:
- Proper river access safety protocols
- Kick sampling techniques for macroinvertebrate collection
- Identifying macroinvertebrates using dichotomous keys
- Calculating water quality scores based on macroinvertebrate sensitivity to pollution
- Conducting chemical water quality tests using WaterCAN kits
Data collected during the event was prepared for upload to online monitoring platforms, contributing to broader water quality mapping initiatives led by UJ.
UJ’s impact on education and community engagement
This initiative underscored UJ’s commitment to inclusive education and research excellence. Honours and MSc students from UJ-GEMES gained practical experience in environmental monitoring, while students from Yellowwood Environmental School were introduced to professional scientific methodologies. UJ also played a pivotal role in empowering the Khoisan Community and the Emaplatini Heritage Forum in Soweto with practical tools for monitoring their local water sources. The visiting Erasmus Mundus students from the University of Padova gained firsthand exposure to UJ’s community-based research approach, strengthening international academic collaboration.
Reflections from UJ participants
Students involved in the project shared their reflections on the experience:
“As a Climate Change and Environmental Management student at UJ, gaining hands-on experience with citizen science tools is invaluable. During this activity, I learned how to use the WaterCAN Citizen Science Monitoring Tool, which allows users to analyse key water quality parameters, including pH, nitrates, phosphates, total hardness, chlorine, bromine, total alkalinity, and the presence of harmful bacteria like Escherichia coli. The kit was highly user-friendly, delivering results for most parameters within two minutes. This experience reinforced the idea that environmental monitoring doesn’t have to be limited to scientists or institutions—anyone can play a role. And when people are given the right tools, they don’t just collect data; they become active participants in protecting their environment.” — Fatou Abbah, MSc Environmental Management, University of Johannesburg & University of Padova
“Participating in this UJ-led citizen science activity was both enriching and practical. In the field, we conducted simple tests like miniSASS and used WaterCAN monitoring tools to assess river water quality. What struck me the most was the direct identification of small aquatic organisms like insects and larvae, which serve as biological indicators of ecosystem health. Interacting with other participants enriched my understanding of the links between aquatic biodiversity and water quality. This activity not only helped me develop practical skills in scientific observation but also deepened my awareness of the issues related to water pollution.” — Balbine Alindekon, MSc Environmental Management, University of Johannesburg & University of Padova
Sustainable environmental solutions
The Citizen Science Event at Hippo Stream exemplifies UJ’s role as a driver of sustainable environmental solutions and community empowerment. By equipping participants with scientific knowledge and practical skills, UJ continues to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world environmental challenges. Through initiatives like these, UJ not only contributes to global environmental sustainability but also strengthens its position as a leader in citizen science and community engagement.
